Twinning Association

Barrow upon Soar Twinning Association

Barrow Upon Soar is twinned with the French town of Marans in the Charente Maritime of southwest France.
The twinning association aims to foster relations between the two towns and regularly arranges exchange visits. In addition we have regular social events for members and guests throughout the year.

We became part of BUSCA during 2014.

Marans

Marans is the western gateway town to the 'Marais Poitevin', a beautiful, tourist canal and marshland park. In fact it is between this Marais Poitevin marshlands park and the ocean, in the heart of a large inter-regional park. It covers 82.5 square kilometres (32 square miles) and is home to 4,428 inhabitants.

The 'Sèvre Niortaise' River, which divides the town in two, is of major importance to the town. The riverside quays and the town centre port are reminders of the importance of shipping in the town's past. Now that Marans has become more of a maritime and riverboat tourist destination, the port has been developed into a 180-berth marina and the regions 100 kilometres (62 miles) of canals have made it a very popular fishing and nature vacation resort. There are many boat trips to go on and many walking trails discovering a wealth of fauna and flora along the riverbanks. The surrounding area has many cultural attractions and Marans itself has received a national award for its floral decorations.

Marans Official Town Website

The Association

The twinning association currently has about 30 families from Barrow and the surrounding areas as members. And we would welcome new members.

* There is no obligation to speak French, join the committee or even go to France to become a member.

* We have a series of social events throughout the year, and in the recent past we have organised:-

- visits to the theatre
- Summer Pimms and Pudds garden party
- regular trips to local pubs and resturants
- walks in the countryside
- 50's and 60's music concert and dance
- skittles evenings
- quiz nights

Forthcoming events

If you want more information on a social event please contact one of the names listed at the bottom of this page.

Our forthcoming events in 2025 are :-

Skittles Night - 7.00pm Saturday 8th February 2025, to be held at the Conservative Club, 14 North Street, Barrow upon Soar, tickets cost £7 and includes a meal.

Quiz Night - 7.00pm Friday 28th March 2025, to be held at the Bishop Beveridge Club, South Street, Barrow upon Soar, tickets cost £9 and includes a meal.

Annual General Meeting - 7pm Thursday 3rd April 2025, to be held at the Parish Council Office, High Street, Barrow upon Soar.

2025 Exchange Visit to Barrow by our French Friends - to take place from the 19th June through until the 24th June. Details are currently under discussion.