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In May we announced that Jules Hudson was bringing his very popular screen presence to the stage for a live audience. That evening came on Thursday 3 September, when Jules entertained Taunton Brewhouse, and he is exactly who you see on the television: a positive, fun, energetic man with more than one really good story to tell.
Jules was in conversation with the broadcaster Vernon Harwood, a friend of twenty years, and it showed. What could easily have been an interview felt more like being allowed to sit in on a proper catch-up between two people who enjoy each other's company. Thirty years of television, archaeology, Sandhurst, llamas, chillies and a great deal more.
The Somerset audience were devoted fans. There were Escapees, which is what you become once you have taken part in Escape to the Country, alongside wannabe Escapees and fans of archaeology and history. Some had travelled from as far as Australia, where the show is a big hit.
They have followed Jules across Escape to the Country, Countryfile and the farm series, through a broadcasting career of more than thirty years, alongside the other lovely presenters: Helen Skelton, Julia Bradbury and Adam Henson. It made for an evening with real affection in the room.
Jules's autobiography, Wild at Heart: My Journey to a Country Life, traces his path from urban Essex, and a childhood in Colchester that gave him a fascination with history, through his move to the countryside and on to where he is now, with a deep love for the healing powers of the landscape.
The book signing gave everybody the chance to talk to Jules personally, get their copy signed, and meet his wonderful son Jack, not yet back at school, who took charge of the book sales.
Our thanks to Jules and to Vernon, and to the lovely team at Taunton Brewhouse: Vickie, Mandy, James, Archie, Jackie, Liz, Mark and everyone behind the scenes, who looked after us all beautifully. A power cut earlier in the day had them on tenterhooks, but the show went on regardless, and the last few books were signed under the emergency lighting. An exciting end to the evening.
More dates for An Audience with Jules Hudson are being confirmed now. You can read more about the show on the show page, and everything else we have on sale is listed on our What's On page.
For programmers. An Audience with Jules Hudson is booking through 2026 and into 2027. The format is flexible, works from 200 to 800 seats, and travels well to an audience that books early.
