Strangers In Our Own Land? - An evening of film & conversation

Two films, one shared question: Who gets to belong to the land in England? The Last English Poacher' and 'Folk Who Roam' are two short documentaries exploring our changing relationship with the English countryside, from the perspective of a poacher living outside the law, to a travelling violin created as an instrument for connection, community and land access. The films tell very different stories, but share a common thread: what happens when our connection to the land is lost - and what might it take to find it again?

At a time of climate crisis, rural decline and growing debate around access to the countryside, this feels like an increasingly important question. With the vast majority of England's land privately owned, many of us have become strangers to the landscapes that shape our culture, food, history and identity.

Together, these films offer an intimate, thought-provoking and ultimately hopeful exploration of land, belonging, rural heritage and the possibility of reconnecting with place.

The evening will be hosted by Matt Pycroft, founder of The Adventure Podcast and Coldhouse Collective. After the screenings he will be in conversation with award-winning director Emma Crome, cinematographer and co-director of 'The Last English Poacher' Peter Emery, and co-producer of 'Folk Who Roam' and luthier Emma Hardy.

Runtime: 120 minutes Director: Emma Crome

Country: UK Year: 2026

Rating: (12A)

Documentaries

Director: Emma Crome