Saltzgitter–Wolfenbüttel Friendship Exchange 2026

Saltzgitter–Wolfenbüttel Friendship Exchange 2026

Thursday 14th May to Sunday 17th May 2026, our club was proud to welcome friends from our twin Rotary club in Saltzgitter Wolfenbüttel for another memorable Friendship Exchange weekend filled with fellowship, laughter, and international friendship.

With several guests arriving by air on the Wednesday evening, the celebrations began early as members warmly welcomed our German visitors into their homes. Once again, the generosity and hospitality shown by our Rotarian families created the perfect atmosphere for friendships to flourish and for lasting memories to be made.

Thursday evening provided a wonderful introduction to Somerset hospitality, with guests enjoying delicious home-cooked meals hosted by fellow Rotarians. These relaxed evenings gave everyone the opportunity to get to know one another better and set the tone for a truly enjoyable weekend.

Friday’s programme offered an exciting day trip open to all members. The group travelled to the historic city of Exeter, where guests explored the magnificent Exeter Cathedral and learned more about its remarkable history and architecture. The day then continued along the beautiful Jurassic Coast with a private charter cruise, generously funded by the club. Members and guests enjoyed spectacular coastal views while sharing a traditional fish and chip lunch onboard. The combination of sunshine, sea air, and good company made the cruise one of the highlights of the weekend.

On Friday evening, members and guests gathered together at the Bridgwater Sea Cadet Hall for a two-course dinner. The venue provided the ideal setting for an informal and relaxed evening where additional members were able to join the celebrations. Stories were exchanged, friendships strengthened, and plenty of laughter could be heard throughout the evening.

Saturday gave host families the chance to showcase more of Somerset and spend quality time with their guests before everyone reunited for the Gala Evening at Greenway Farm Restaurant. Guests enjoyed a superb three-course meal in a warm and festive atmosphere, bringing the exchange weekend to a fitting and memorable conclusion. The evening reflected the true spirit of Rotary international friendship and fellowship.

Before departing on Sunday morning, members and guests met together one final time for breakfast at The Cider Press Restaurant at Rich's Cider Farm. Over breakfast, everyone shared photographs, stories, and reflections from the weekend before saying their farewells and beginning their journeys home by car and plane.

Friendship exchanges such as these continue to play an important role in strengthening international understanding and creating lifelong friendships between our clubs. A sincere thank you goes to every member who hosted guests, organised activities, supported the arrangements, and helped make the weekend such an outstanding success.

We now look forward with great anticipation to continuing these valued friendships and future exchanges in the years ahead.