Set within 11 acres, Histon Manor offers a rich variety of subjects — from formal gardens and woodland to open meadow and historic architecture — allowing artists to explore diverse perspectives and styles throughout the day.
The atmosphere is super welcoming and collaborative, but the competition itself is judged to professional standards by a panel of five experienced judges. Winning works will be exhibited at Modo Gallery in Cambridge, alongside an online exhibition showcasing all submitted pieces. You can choose of you wish to enter the competition or not on the day.
The day also includes access to the Manor’s Kitchen offering complimentary refreshments — and concludes with a celebratory glass of fizz before heading off.
A Creative Event with a Powerful Purpose
At the heart of the event lies a strong commitment to giving back.
100% of profits from the Cambridgeshire Plein Air Artist of the Year Award support the Cambridge Acorn Project, and the day itself is made possible by a dedicated team of volunteers.
This forms part of Histon Manor’s wider commitment to charitable giving. Since 2019, the Manor has raised over £38,000 for good causes through events, donations, and community initiatives.
Histon Manor places social and corporate responsibility at the centre of everything it does. The estate operates a 10% giving pledge: for every booking — whether a wedding, meeting room hire, corporate event, party or shoot — 10% of revenue is donated directly to their chosen charity of the year.
Katherine Mann explains:
“We’ve always believed that every event at Histon Manor should create value beyond the experience itself. Supporting an annual charity each year and embedding this philosophy into the heart of the Manor, we hope every guest feels that their event is part of a wider story of generosity, community, and lasting impact.”
Categories & Entry
The competition is open to artists across the UK in three categories:
- Professional Artists
- Amateur Artists
- Young Artists (aged 16–22)
While the event welcomes participants nationwide, 60% of places are reserved specifically for Cambridgeshire-based artists, ensuring strong local representation within this growing creative community.
With 100 places available and over 50% of tickets already sold, early booking is strongly advised.
Tickets are available now:
https://www.histonmanor.com/cambridgeshire-plein-air-artist-of-the-year-award
Secure your place and be part of one of the UK’s most inspiring outdoor painting events.
The award is proudly sponsored by Cheffins and Modo.
“For the second year running, Cheffins is delighted to support Cambridgeshire Plein Air Artist of the Year at Histon Manor. Last year’s event was tremendously successful, showcasing the artistic talent and passion for working en plein air that exists across the county. East Anglia has a rich heritage in plein air painting, from John Constable to Edward Seago, and last year it was brilliant to see artists of all ages have a fresh take on this tradition in a wide variety of styles and media. Histon Manor, with its diverse and beautiful grounds, is a perfect location for the event and we can’t wait to witness the creative efforts of this year’s participants.”
Luke Bodalbhai, Cheffins
“MODO is proud to support the Cambridgeshire Plein Air Artist of the Year Award by exhibiting the winning works. As a gallery rooted in both innovation and accessibility, we see this as an opportunity to spotlight new talent while encouraging fresh ways of engaging with art. Through this collaboration, we hope to help reframe what a gallery can be: not just a place to look at or buy art, but a place to belong, for everyone.”
Sally Clarke, Owner
