What’s On – Conversations at MOTE
At MOTE, we believe that meaningful change begins with conversation. Our talks programme brings together leading voices from across environmental science, conservation, art, history and culture to share ideas, challenge perspectives and inspire action.
Whether you’re a lifelong environmentalist, an artist seeking inspiration, or simply curious about the world around you, our talks are designed to be accessible, thought-provoking and open to everyone.
Join us as we explore the biggest environmental questions of our time through the people helping us understand them.
The Broomhill Pool Trust
“a pictorial history of Broomhill Pool and the 23 year campaign to save it”
Part of The Shape of Change Programme
Date: 2 September 2026
Date: Wednesday 2nd September, 6pm MOTE is delighted to welcome the Broomhill Pool Trust for a special pictorial talk exploring the remarkable history of one of Ipswich’s most loved landmarks.
The Broomhill Pool Trust is a community-led charity dedicated to restoring and celebrating the historic Broomhill Lido. Through research, heritage projects and public engagement, the Trust works to preserve the story of the pool while supporting its future as an important community space.
During this talk, the Trust will guide visitors through the history of Broomhill Pool using a fascinating collection of historic photographs, plans and archival material. From its opening and golden years through to its closure and ongoing restoration efforts, the talk will reveal how the site has evolved over time and why it continues to hold such an important place in Ipswich’s heritage.
Whether you have memories of visiting the pool, an interest in local history, or simply enjoy discovering the stories behind historic places, this promises to be an engaging and insightful afternoon.
What to Expect
- A pictorial journey through the history of Broomhill Pool
- Historic photographs and archive material
- Stories of the pool’s development, decline and restoration
- An opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the Trust’s work
As organisations passionate about preserving heritage and connecting communities with their local environment, MOTE is proud to welcome the Broomhill Pool Trust and looks forward to sharing this fascinating chapter of Ipswich’s history with our visitors.
The Art of Seeing Nature
An Evening with Mark Cocker
Part of The Shape of Change Programme
Author: Mark Cocker
Date: 14 October 2026
Date: Wednesday 14th October, 7pm
Join us and multi-award-winning naturalist and author Mark Cocker as he discusses his remarkable new book, The Nature of Seeing.
In this captivating talk, Mark explores one of the simplest yet most profound human abilities: our capacity to truly see.
Check out more of Mark Cocker’s work Here
He argues that seeing is far more than simply looking. It is the foundation of understanding, creativity, empathy and our relationship with the natural world. Drawing upon a lifetime spent observing wildlife and landscapes, Mark demonstrates how learning to pay closer attention can transform not only our appreciation of nature, but also the way we live.
Inspired by thinkers such as Leonardo da Vinci, Mark suggests that learning to see deeply is an act of care—one that reconnects us with wonder, beauty and the living world around us.
Whether you’re an experienced naturalist or simply someone wanting to reconnect with nature, this talk will leave you looking at the world through entirely new eyes.
About the book
The Nature of Seeing explores why paying attention matters and how careful observation can enrich our lives. Through personal stories, encounters with wildlife and reflections gathered over decades, Mark reveals that the art of seeing is an active, creative practice available to everyone.
Praise for The Nature of Seeing
The Nature of Seeing will transform how you view the world around us.”
Martha Kearney
“A treasure trove of a book, packed with jewelled descriptions and piercing insights.”
Ben Rawlence
“There’s no one better than Mark Cocker to reveal what it is to be a naturalist.”
Peter Marren
“Everyone tuned into nature knows about ‘wow!’ Only Mark Cocker would think to ask ‘why?'”
Simon Barnes
(Additional reviews will be available during the even
Want to join us?
Grab a Ticket HERE
Emergency Climate Briefing
Speakers: TBC
Date: TBC
Climate change is one of the defining challenges of our time, yet it can often feel overwhelming or difficult to understand.
MOTE will be screening the Emergency Climate Briefing in order to present a clear, evidence-based overview of the climate crisis that we are facing, exploring where we are today, what the latest science tells us, and what actions individuals, communities and organisations can take.
The Briefing is designed to be accessible to everyone, and will separate fact from fiction, answer common questions and provide practical insight into one of the most important issues facing our planet.
Whether you’re completely new to climate science or looking to deepen your understanding, this event will offer an engaging and informative introduction to the challenges—and opportunities—that lie ahead.
Date and speakers will be announced soon!