With aviation heritage, engineering flair and a distinctly British approach to luxury timekeeping, Henley’s Bremont’s British style represents a moment in time.
In the rarefied world of luxury watches – one where Swiss mountains loom large over the industry – one British brand has quietly been proving that impeccable timekeeping doesn’t always need an Alpine accent. Step forward, Bremont, the Henley watch company that has become one of the UK’s proudest horological exports.
Founded in 2002 by brothers Nick and Giles English, Bremont began with a simple, ambitious mission: to bring serious mechanical watchmaking back to Britain. Inspired by their late father, an RAF pilot and aeronautical engineer, the brothers fused their love of aviation, engineering and adventure into a brand built for those who prefer their watches rugged, reliable and good-looking.
Fast forward two decades and Bremont is firmly on the global watch map. Its striking manufacturing headquarters, “The Wing”, just outside Henley, is where many of the brand’s precision components are crafted and assembled. Think of it as a temple to gears, springs and craftsmanship – with slightly more polish than your average garage workshop.
Bremont’s timepieces are often called “tool watches”, which is watch-world speak for pieces designed to handle real life. These are watches made to survive altitude, ocean depths and the occasional clumsy knock against a table after one too many espressos.
Equally important, aviation remains at the heart of the brand’s design DNA, with pilot-inspired chronometers sitting alongside rugged dive watches and elegant everyday models.
And if the watch world has a red-carpet moment, it’s undoubtedly Watches and Wonders Geneva. Held each spring in Switzerland, the event is the horological equivalent of fashion week – where collectors, journalists and watch obsessives gather to admire the latest creations from the world’s biggest brands.
For companies such as Bremont, it’s a chance to show that British watchmaking is not only alive and well, but ticking along very nicely indeed. Amid the centuries-old Swiss maisons, Bremont represents a younger, adventurous voice – one that pairs engineering precision with a quietly confident British aesthetic.
While luxury watches may be about precision timing, they’re also about personality. And Bremont’s personality is refreshingly straightforward: robust engineering, timeless design and just enough aviation swagger to make you feel like you should probably be piloting something. Or at the very least arriving fashionably on time – which, as any watch lover will tell you, is half the point.
Discover the joy of veg & company with Twyford Growers, as the group invites over-50s to get involved this spring.
Do you have green fingers? Would you like to, but don’t know where to start? Join Twyford Growers – a local gardening group that brings people together to enjoy gardening in the great outdoors.
Twyford Growers meets weekly to grow fruit, flowers and vegetables in a friendly, sociable setting. Whether you already love gardening or want to try it for the first time, the group welcomes you.
The group meets on Thursday mornings at Hurst Road Allotments in Twyford. You’ll find the site near the train station, with parking, seating and toilets available.
At the end of each session, everyone comes together for a well-deserved tea break. The group welcomes older people from the local area, supports those living with dementia, and encourages carers to join in too. To find out more, email twyfordgrowers@gmail.com or call 07718 882792.
Twyford Growers forms part of the wide range of activities that Age UK Berkshire runs to help older people stay socially connected. Developing interests matters at any age, especially as we grow older.
If you’re over 50 and live locally, you can enjoy a full calendar of events through Age UK Berkshire. The organisation runs social groups, seated yoga classes, choirs and much more.
Emily Lowson says: “Alongside activities, Age UK Berkshire delivers a range of support services. We provide free information and advice, a home help plus service, a handyperson service, and Home from Hospital, which helps you settle back at home after a hospital stay. We also offer a fully qualified one-to-one dementia support service, giving care to people living with dementia and vital respite to their carers and loved ones.”
A vibrant new space for arts, classes, performances and community connection has now opened its doors in Newbury.
After nearly a decade in the making, Newbury Old Library has officially reopened its doors, transformed into a vibrant, flexible arts hub in the heart of the town.
The newly opened Old Library Café Bar, launched on Monday 23 March 2026, is now welcoming visitors on weekdays, offering a relaxed space to enjoy a coffee or bite to eat while taking in the character of the redeveloped building.
Alongside this, courses and classes began across the upstairs and downstairs spaces from Monday 20 April, with a programme of intimate performances in the studio theatre set to follow as part of the autumn season.
Delivered by Corn Exchange Newbury, the project has been years in the planning. Initial development work began in late 2022, followed by extensive consultation and design stages, before construction commenced in early 2025.
The building has since been carefully taken back to its bare structure and reimagined as a modern, multi-purpose venue designed to serve a wide range of community and creative needs.
More than half of the funding for the redevelopment was secured through trusts, foundations and public donations, with the generosity of supporters playing a vital role in bringing the vision to life.
The finished space now includes two flexible activity and performance areas, a studio theatre with seating for up to 94 people, and a welcoming café bar at its centre.
The project aims to create a space that feels calm, friendly, adaptable and inspiring – a place where people of all ages can feel at home and return to time and again. That ethos builds on a strong foundation of community engagement developed over the past 15 years.
In the past year alone, more than 30,000 community engagements have taken place through a range of inclusive and accessible initiatives.
These include ‘Touch to See’, an arts programme supporting people with visual impairments; ‘Contactless Creativity’, which connected participants during the pandemic through delivered activity packs and radio broadcasts; and ‘Becoming Us’, designed to support new parents and their babies as they reconnect socially and reach early developmental milestones.
The organisation’s Youth Theatre has also grown significantly, now engaging over 140 members and providing opportunities for young people to build confidence, develop skills and form lasting friendships.
The Old Library is now fully open, and provides a central base from which this work can continue to grow.
Miroslava Flimelova invites you to the Reading Sailing Club open day on 9 May 2026 to experience the joy of being on the open water.
Sailing offers a unique way to enjoy the freedom of the outdoors, fresh air, and wide-open spaces. It allows people to cross oceans – or simply a lake – using wind power alone.
It offers something for everyone. As a competitive sport, it demands technical skill and athletic ability, and as a leisure activity, it provides calm and relaxation. The independence of being on a boat with only the wind and the waves brings a distinctive thrill.
Reading Sailing Club is a hidden gem for anyone who loves the water, set on a beautiful, secluded lake in Sonning, just minutes from Reading town centre (postcode RG4 6TT).
The club provides a friendly, welcoming environment with facilities for dinghy sailing, model yachting, windsurfing, and paddle sports. A full programme of racing, adult and junior training, and social events runs throughout the year.
The membership spans novices to competitive racers, thrill-seekers who enjoy challenging conditions, and those who prefer peaceful time on the water with family and friends – or watching sunsets over the lake.
The club celebrates its 72nd anniversary this year and has occupied the current site since 1967. The current clubhouse, completed in 2004, offers excellent facilities, including an outdoor deck with views across the lake. A large boat park supports member-owned craft, alongside a range of dinghies available for hire.
Members run the club entirely, volunteering as instructors, race officials, safety boat crew, and maintenance teams. The club operates as a recognised Royal Yachting Association sailing centre, offering structured training and qualifications.
The club aims to encourage more people to take up sailing and will host an open day on Saturday 9 May 2026, from 11am to 3pm.
The event welcomes everyone and offers a chance to try sailing in sessions led by experienced sailors. Visitors can meet members and learn about training and membership options. Windsurfing, canoeing, and model yachting displays will take place, with refreshments available.
Anyone interested can register in advance by contacting enquiries@readingsc.org.uk or attend on the day. A warm welcome awaits. Find out more at readingsc.org.uk
The UK’s first-ever National Triathlon Day launches in Surrey this May, with a free, beginner-friendly event featuring pro athletes, coaching sessions and hands-on activities.
The UK’s very first National Triathlon Day is set to launch on Wednesday 7 May 2026 – and everyone is invited to give it a ‘tri’ at a free, action-packed event in Surrey.
Taking place at Divers Cove from 4pm to 8pm, the inaugural celebration aims to introduce more people to the world of triathlon, regardless of experience or fitness level.
Organised by leading triathlon brand Zone3, the event promises a welcoming, hands-on environment where visitors can discover what the sport is all about.
Guests will have the chance to try out kit, take part in coached sessions led by top professionals and hear directly from elite athletes during a live Q&A.
Among the special guests is Kieran Lindars, who recently made headlines by setting a new British Ironman record at the 2026 Memorial Hermann IRONMAN Texas North American Championship in April.
He’ll be joined by respected coach Scott Hill, a British Triathlon high-performance coach and former Performance Director and Head Coach for the Royal Air Force Triathlon team.
Designed to be as inclusive as possible, the event will feature a range of accessible activities.
Visitors can enjoy free open water swimming sessions, test out equipment, hop onto turbo trainers for a cycling workout or explore the scenic surroundings on foot or at a run.
While attendance is free, donations will be welcomed for Level Water, a charity dedicated to providing swimming opportunities for children with disabilities.
The day will also mark Zone3’s commitment to donate £1 from every pair of goggles sold throughout the season to support the charity’s work.
The partnership marks a significant opportunity for AHAG to expand its reach and impact at a time when demand for homelessness support continues to grow locally.
Aylesbury Homeless Action Group (AHAG) has been awarded the Rothschild Foundation Charity of the Year for 2026, following a vote by staff and volunteers at Waddesdon Manor.
The local homelessness charity, which has supported people in north Buckinghamshire since 1992, provides advice and practical assistance to individuals and families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
In the past 12 months alone, AHAG has helped more than 700 people – double the figure recorded in 2022 – reflecting rising demand for its services amid ongoing financial pressures in the region.
Its work includes housing and financial guidance, as well as access to legal and mental health support, with a focus on helping people move from crises into stable accommodation and longer-term independence.
As part of the 2026 partnership, AHAG will receive a £20,000 grant from the Rothschild Foundation, alongside support aimed at increasing awareness, volunteer engagement and fundraising capacity.
A calendar of community fundraising events is also planned, including a Solidarity Sleepout, Bake Off mornings, pub quizzes and bingo nights.
Sir Roger Wright, CEO of the Rothschild Foundation, said the decision reflected strong internal support for AHAG’s work and highlighted the importance of local charities making a difference across Buckinghamshire.
AHAG CEO James Boultbee welcomed the recognition, noting the growing number of people seeking help in recent years. He praised the dedication of the charity’s staff and volunteers, who support individuals “from crisis to being housed, settled and confident in their future,” and emphasised the vital role of community backing.
Make the most of May half term with a packed programme of family-friendly days out across the region, from outdoor adventures and animal encounters to creative workshops and live entertainment.
Longer days and a welcome hint of summer make May half term the perfect excuse to get out and explore. Whether your children love getting close to nature, diving into hands-on activities or simply burning off energy in the great outdoors, there’s no shortage of inspiration.
Across Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire and Surrey, you’ll find a brilliant mix of festivals, trails, shows and immersive experiences designed to keep all ages entertained.
Berkshire
This year’s Reading Children’s Festival celebrates its 37th anniversary from May 9th to 31st with events and activities for children all over the borough, starting with Forbury Fiesta on 9th, where there will be something for everyone to get involved with on the day. Expect plenty of fun, mayhem and madness from sport and music workshops to fun with art and craft sessions – take your pick from the exciting events at venues across Reading. Visit whatsonreading.com for more.
Get ready for a week of animal talks and interactive farm-themed activities at Wellington Country Park, May 25th to 29th. Meet the Farmer Q&A, step into the shoes of a vet with roleplay workshops and get stuck in with a mucking out activity. Explore tractors and ride-on mowers and discover how they are used. Get creative by chalk painting wooden barn animals, explore the corn sensory box and make memories at some of the farm-themed photo points. Book tickets at wellingtoncountrypark.co.uk.
Follow the Sonning Scarecrow Trail in and around the beautiful Thameside village to find the themed scarecrows amongst the gardens and hedgerows on May 24th & 25th.
Boom, Boom! The Basil Brush Family Magic Show comes to South Hill Park Wilde Theatre on Friday, 29th May. What tricks will the cunning fox be up to? Tickets at southhillpark.org.uk/shp-events/basil-brush-family-magic-show/.
Football Mania is set to hit Windsor Racecourse on Monday, 25th May when the pitch comes to the turf. Under 18s go free and there’s free entertainment for all the family all day alongside racing including fun fair rides, Shetland Pony races, bouncy castles, circus performers, stilt footballers, penalty shoot-out and football darts—all getting you ready for the World Cup in June. windsor-racecourse.co.uk
The National Trust always serves up family fun days to enjoy. Take the woodland walk in Basildon Park to find the wild play trail in the parkland. Get adventurous on the balance beam, jump on the hopscotch and play with the ball run. Enjoy playing in nature at Greys Court, look out for trees to climb and piles of logs to jump over on your very own adventure.
Go Ape in Swinley Forest offers high ropes for treetop adventures—take on the forest trails with a Segway, tackle the tree-to-tree crossings, Tarzan swings and epic zip lines. Book at goape.co.uk/locations/bracknell.
Get your hands dirty with Create & Grow at Squire’s Garden Centres this half term—plant a tasty veg pot, decorate it, add a plant label and take it home to watch your veggies grow (£8 booking a must, squiresgardencentres.co.uk).
Buckinghamshire
Waddesdon Manor is always a great day out. Between 23rd & 31st May, Art in Nature (free with entry) invites you to get hands-on with large-scale community collaborations, take part in workshops, masterclasses and talks, or simply wander the art trails; visit waddesdon.org.uk.
Chinnor & Princess Risborough Railway offers timeless family-friendly adventures. Why not book a ride on a lovingly restored heritage train? Visit chinnorrailway.co.uk.
Kew Little Pigs in Old Amersham is a small, friendly farm offering pre-booked piggy petting and grooming experiences that will have you smitten… Also check out the May Half-Term Colouring Competition! kewlittlepigs.com.
Step back in time at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont St Giles. Events include family trails, traditional games and costumed interpreters bringing historic buildings to life, with plenty of space to roam; coam.org.uk.
Fancy a National Trust day? Exciting plans are afoot at Hughenden Manor, the former home of Benjamin Disraeli, with a children’s trail and hands-on craft workshops. The gardens and orchards will be buzzing with life. Nearby, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt lands at Cliveden, with a series of interactive installations. Get ready to swish, splash and squelch your way to the bear this half term! nationaltrust.org.uk.
Enjoy time on the water with Cookham Reach Sailing Club, a friendly, family-focused club on a beautiful stretch of the Thames. Open to all ages and abilities, it offers everything from relaxed social sailing and paddle boarding to competitive racing and coaching sessions; cookhamreachsc.org.
Over in Beaconsfield, Bekonscot Model Village is a timeless treat. Kids love spotting the tiny trains, buildings and hidden details, and it’s just the right size for a relaxed half-day outing; bekonscot.co.uk.
A family trip to Peterley Manor Farm in Prestwood is always a feast for all the senses. Check out Cherry’s Nature Crafting Sessions for little ones aged three to seven, 26th to 29th May; peterleymanorfarm.co.uk.
Norden Farm Centre for the Arts near Maidenhead hosts family theatre, workshops and drop-in craft sessions perfect for the school holidays; norden.farm.
Bookworms shouldn’t miss the Roald Dahl Museum and Story Centre in Great Missenden, with interactive exhibits, storytelling and creative fun; roalddahlmuseum.org.
And Go Ape Wendover delivers treetop adventures, zip wires and forest fun high above the ground, set in beautiful woodland; goape.co.uk.
Oxfordshire
Starting with a seasonal favourite, Waterperry Gardens is bursting into bloom. Follow Family Trails through the ornamental gardens, with clues to solve along the way, then refuel at the tearoom or browse the garden shop; waterperrygardens.co.uk.
For hands-on countryside fun, Big Bale Play at High Lodge Farm in Culham is a winner. Think giant straw bale mazes, climbing towers and space to roam; highlodgefarm.com.
For a brilliant mix of history and play, Cogges Manor Farm near Witney offers 17 acres of adventure. Meet the animals and enjoy seasonal crafts, trails and storytelling; cogges.org.uk.
Nature lovers will adore Earth Trust for outdoor discovery. Climb Wittenham Clumps for stunning views or explore meadows, ponds and woodlands; earthtrust.org.uk.
In Oxford, the Oxford University Museum of Natural History hosts interactive events such as Meet the Scientists (27th & 28th May), while The Story Museum brings tales to life through play; storymuseum.org.uk. The Ashmolean Museum offers fantastic free family activities; ashmolean.org, while Oxford Castle and Prison often runs interactive workshops; oxfordcastleandprison.co.uk.
Transport fans will love the Oxford Bus Museum, where heritage rides await; oxfordbusmuseum.org.
History fans can enjoy themed fun at the Soldiers of Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock (sofo.org.uk), while the Pendon Museum offers a glimpse of rural life for all generations; pendonmuseum.com.
For a grand day out, Blenheim Palace is always a showstopper, with parkland, play areas and Half-Term Trails; blenheimpalace.com.
Nearby, the inclusive Fairytale Farm brings magic to life; fairytalefarm.co.uk. And Roves Farm near Swindon offers animal encounters and family fun; rovesfarm.co.uk.
If you fancy a touch of arts and crafts heritage, Kelmscott Manor, once home to William Morris, is open for the season. Wander through the enchanting gardens, explore the historic interiors and enjoy homemade treats in the tearoom; kelmscottmanor.org.uk
Fancy a National Trust day out? Hughenden Manor is always a winner, with woodland trails, open parkland and family-friendly activities.
Cliveden is another showstopper, with its parterre gardens, riverside walks and Storybook Play Den, perfect for outdoor fun; nationaltrust.org.uk
Hampshire
The Shed is your go-to spot for family fun, laughter, and community vibes! With Free Toddler Tuesdays, lively Saturday Events, and something happening every week, there’s fun for all ages. Sing your heart out at family karaoke, get crafty with Daisy, or enjoy music, games, and more. From dog walks to wine strolls, it’s all about bringing people together and making great memories.
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Nature Day at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne, on May 10th. This perfect and affordable family day out invites visitors to connect with nature through guided walks, hands-on crafts and activities from conservation groups, while exploring the historic house and beautiful gardens in a fun, engaging setting for all ages. Children go free!
Farncombe Boat House is open from late March until the end of October for self-drive day boats and holiday boats. Enjoy a day out on the River Wey with friends and family, or a weekend exploring further downstream and onto the River Thames. Available for days, weekends, midweek breaks and weekly holidays on the river.
Enjoy a great day out by steam with Railway Touring Company to destinations including historic towns and cities, trips to the seaside, as well as journeys through mountains and valleys across land often not seen from roads. Most trains allow time to visit the destination and discover its attractions. To find out where your next journey could take you, visit railwaytouring.net/uk-day-trips.
To celebrate the launch of the new book I Spot a Cow by Kay Vincent, published by Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust, join Hinton Ampner for this fun-filled family trail and explore the gardens to find all of the farm animals. They’ve also left lots of fun games for you to do along the way!
Day Out With Thomas™: Let’s Rock, Let’s Roll Tour is hitting the tracks and bringing the beat to The Watercress Line from 23rd to 31st. Hop on board a train ride with Thomas, watch exciting live shows with Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty, join the Thomas & Friends™ character hunt, enjoy garden games and more! There are also two new Rusty & Dusty outdoor entertainment shows with Sir Topham Hatt, Percy, Diesel and Toad.
Screen On The Lawn returns to Aviator Hotel in Farnborough this month, bringing a unique outdoor cinema experience—where else can you watch an iconic film while private jets take off behind the screen? The 2026 line-up includes Pretty Woman (22nd May), Zootropolis 2 (23rd 4pm), F1: The Movie (23rd 8pm) and Grease (24th 8pm). More info & booking at aviatorhampshire.com/experiences/screen-on-the-lawn.
Surrey
May half term is time for the Great Garden Game-a-thon at RHS Garden Wisley. Explore the maze and play giant garden games. Meet Zoolab’s animals in Scales and Tails Challenge and climb through leaves and branches to reach the top. Details & booking at rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley/whats-on/may-half-term-at-wisley.
Hatchlands Park invites you to take a magical wander inspired by Moominvalley this spring, with a family trail around the garden, meeting characters from the stories.
Be a Meadow Explorer and step into the wild beauty of the meadow with relaxed, family-friendly outdoor adventure at Painshill. Discover the incredible plants, insects and wildlife that thrive in this vibrant habitat.
Farncombe Boat House is open from late March until the end of October for self-drive day boats and holiday boats. Enjoy a day out on the River Wey with friends and family, or a weekend exploring further downstream and onto the River Thames. Available for days, weekends, midweek breaks and weekly holidays on the river Wey.
The Shed is your go-to spot for family fun, laughter, and community vibes! With Free Toddler Tuesdays, lively Saturday Events, and something happening every week, there’s fun for all ages. Sing your heart out at family karaoke, get crafty with Daisy, or enjoy music, games and more. From dog walks to wine strolls, it’s all about bringing people together and making great memories.
Celebrate the 10th anniversary of Nature Day at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens in Selborne on May 10th. This affordable family day out invites you to connect with nature through guided walks, hands-on crafts and activities from conservation groups, while exploring the historic house and beautiful gardens. Children go free!
Say Hello Again as you follow Neil Diamond’s story from his early songwriting days to international stardom, through six decades of hits including Sweet Caroline. Hello Again – The Neil Diamond Story is at Camberley Theatre on Saturday, 2nd May. Get the Party Started with award-winning P!nk impersonator Stacy Green on 11th July, packed with pop hits and energy.
Enjoy a great day out by steam with Railway Touring Company to destinations including historic towns and cities, seaside trips, and journeys through mountains and valleys across countryside often not seen from roads. Most trains allow time to explore the destination. Visit railwaytouring.net/uk-day-trips.
Get your hands dirty with Create & Grow at Squire’s Garden Centres this half term—plant a tasty veg pot, decorate it, add a plant label and take it home to watch your veggies grow (£8 booking required, squiresgardencentres.co.uk).
Which school is right for your child? You’ll find the answers at an open day.
Q. What should you ask at a school open day?
A. As much as you can to find out the information you need to help you make the right choice. Here are a few suggestions to help:
Academic & educational philosophy
What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
How does the school challenge high achievers and support those with special needs or learning difficulties such as dyslexia?
How is academic progress measured and reported to parents?
How are pupils prepared for key transitions such as from primary to secondary and to university
Does the school focus largely on academic achievement or is their approach more holistic?
How frequent are parents’ evenings and what format do they take?
Atmosphere & pastoral care
How do you handle bullying and ensure pupil mental health and wellbeing?
How do you help new students settle in?
What is the school’s philosophy regarding homework?
What is your approach to discipline and behaviour management?
How is the pastoral welfare of the pupils monitored and how are parents kept informed?
Is there a House system and are children offered the opportunity to take on responsibility?
What career advice is given and how is this delivered?
Are children assisted to plan and secure work experience?
Logistics & facilities
Logistics & facilities
What is the average class size?
What extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports are available?
Is there before-and-after school care?
What are the facilities like for arts, technology, and sports?
Are there trips and events to develop and widen interest and knowledge outside the classroom curriculum?
What provision is there for extra lessons in musical instruments? Is there a choir or orchestra?
Does the school offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award?
Do sixth form pupils participate in Young Enterprise?
What transport options are available for to and from school?
Key tips
Key tips for the day include paying attention to how teachers interact with students and the general atmosphere. Most open days will include an address from the headteacher, which will often give you a good overall impression.
Visit everyday areas: Don’t just see the library and gym; check the toilets and dining area for maintenance and cleanliness too.
We all need space, sometimes personal and sometimes in our homes – but there are ways you can create both.
Fed up of picking clothes up from the floordrobe and trying to force things into spaces they’re just not meant to go? Perhaps it’s time to declutter and make more of the space in your home.
Ruthlessly decluttering is the perfect place to start and when you can see the wood for the trees, you’ll have a much clearer way of maximising the space available.
Vertical storage such as ladder shelves and multifunctional furniture such as sofa beds and storage ottomans often offer quick wins. Use mirrors to increase light, and adopt a neutral colour palette to make rooms feel larger.
Look around your home with a critical eye to assess where you could make space or at least create the illusion of it.
For example, could you add a slimline cabinet or wall-mounted hooks in the hall rather than the free-standing coat stand? What about the under-the-stairs space – is there room for corner shelving or drawers for extra storage? A few simple tricks can make all the difference there without the need for the assistance of a boy wizard.
Install a media wall with shelving and drawers for additional storage, it will create a focal point in the living room drawing eyes to that and away from a lack of space.
Letting more light in will instantly create the impression of space, skylights, bi-fold doors and even just simple spotlights or stand out light fittings will help brighten up a room. If space is a squeeze in your home, how about swapping traditional opening doors with sliding ones.
Look upwards, perhaps a loft conversion is the answer, specialists can talk you through your options and carry out the work. Putting boards down and simply using the area for storage will at the least keep your clutter out of sight but could your loft become another room, perhaps a play room or den for teenagers? A properly insulated loft will also help keep your energy costs down.
Is there room to expand with an extension? Always check whether planning permission is needed first, and you may need to consult an architect to confirm your scheme is actually viable. Could you knock two smaller rooms into one to create a large living/dining room? Be prepared for some upheaval along the way, but with the help of a reliable local builder, you can make space for your place to grow.
Liz Nicholls invites you to get stuck into our festivals guide, packed with local highlights, powered by people power for real feel-good vibes.
MAY
Surrey Hills International Music Festival (6th–17th May) offers performances from VOCES8, Alim Beisembayev & more in picturesque local venues; shimf.co.uk
Check out the buzzing grassroots line-up for Are You Listening? on 9th & 10th May across Reading venues at areyoulistening.org.uk
Back to food (again!). We’re hungry for Pub in the Park Marlow, 14th–17th May, serving up a fresh feast of celebrity chefs and live music. From McFly to Razorlight, Craig David to Gabrielle, enjoy foodie stars including our cover star Raymond Blanc, Matt Tebutt, Atul Kochhar, James Martin & more. A new ingredient for 2026 is the The Author’s Table, featuring Michelin-starred storytellers. pubintheparkuk.com
Green & gorgeous Wood returns to Braziers Park, 15th-17th May, with The Dreaming Spires, Falle Nioke & more; woodhq.org
RamsFest returns to Ramsbury Brewery & Distillery in Wiltshire on 15th & 16th May, with beer and live music from the likes of RPJ Band (fronted by Rick Parfitt Jnr) & The Zoots; ramsbury.com
Also tuck into the wonderful Witney Festival of Food & Drink on 16th May with treats galore for charity; wfofad.co.uk. And don’t miss the delightful Dorchester Festival at Dorchester Abbey near Abingdon, 1st-10th May; dorchesterfestival.com
Shindig Festival, set in the arboretum at Charlton Park Estate (former home of WOMAD, more of which in a mo…) has been dubbed a “pint-sized Glastonbury” by Emily Eavis, and for good reason. Now in its 12th year, this independent favourite, 21st- 24th May, blends music, art & family-friendly fun with late nights, creative corners and plenty of space to explore. Leading the 2026 Shindig line-up are Bob Vylan, Fat Dog, WAR and Chali 2NA; visit shindigfestival.co.uk
Chesham Fringe Festival returns 22nd–24th May with theatre, comedy and music across 14 venues. From intimate spoken word to soaring vocals and kids’ fun, a third of shows are free, the rest pay-as-you-go. This year’s highlight supports Chesham Youth Centre, The Hospice of St Francis, and Creative Bucks. The Fringe Makers volunteers help make the magic happen; cheshamfringe.com
The 53rd edition of Chippenham Folk Festival, 22nd-25th May, will offer folk, dance, workshops and more across 13 stages throughout the town; chippfolk.co.uk
For a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with glamping options, Shynefest, 29th & 30th May, has just been announced as a finalist in the Muddy Stilettos Awards The line-up includes Abba tribute Mania, Mardy Bums, The Fanzines, The Upbeat Beatles, The Mustard, The Sound of ACDC, Miss America (a tribute to Taylor Swift), Dick Mavis, Doubting Thomas and Coco La Funk. Visit shynefest.uk
Imagine a summer music festival – but designed entirely for dogs. That’s exactly what Dogstival delivers, promising to be the greatest party for dogs. Returning to the New Forest on 30th & 31st May, it features the UK’s original dog-only beach, a giant foam party, pup-tails at the Pop & Bark Bar, Lady & The Tramp styled doggy afternoon tea, doggy skateboarding, sausage making, The Muddy Paws Tavern, the Pup Art Cafe and lots more; dogstival.co.uk
JUNE
Find more family fun (including circus skills and music) at ffennell Festival in Cumnor, Oxford, on 6th June; hill-end.org
Forest Live at Westonbirt Arboretum has various bobby dazzlers in June, including Becky Hill, Billy Ocean, Fatboy Slim & the Kooks; forestlive.com/westonbirtarboretum
Jazz lovers, book in for stellar performances on Saturday, 6th June, for Wycombe Jazz Festival; wycombejazzfestival.com
Marlow Town Regatta returns on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th June. Expect exciting side-by-side rowing, food stalls, live music and a lively, social atmosphere. Community favourite Marlow Rock Bottom Festival returns on 20th June; marlowrockbottom.com
Raising cheer, and funds for Hampshire Medical Fund, Good Festival at Dummer Down Farm on Sunday, 14th June, offers live music, family fun and wellness; goodfestival.co.uk
With its ancient woodland and wild meadows, Wasing near Aldermaston is the most wonderful place to relax. Prue Leith & more will star at the Well Read literary festival on 14th June, plus On The Mount at Wasing, 26th June to 4th July, will star MIKA, Self Esteem, Pixies, Belle & Sebastian & more; wasing.co.uk
The iconic Isle of Wight Festival, 18th–21st June, stars Calvin Harris, The Cure, Lewis Capaldi, Rita Ora and more over the Solent; isleofwightfestival.com. And TOTFest at Kempton Park on 20th June promises lots of fun including Bounceland! totfestfestival.com
Don’t miss the fifth Iford Manor Jazz Festival, 18th-21st June near Bath, curated by legendary jazz singer Claire Martin OBE; ifordmanor.co.uk
The elegant Tilford Bach Festival near Farnham, 19th–21st June, now in its 74th year, celebrates the timeless music of JS Bach in an intimate and atmospheric setting; tilfordbachfestival.com
At the other end of the spectrum, Southampton Summer Sessions brings a stellar line-up to the south coast, including Paul Weller, The Beach Boys, Skunk Anansie and more; smmrsessions.com
The mighty Sigala will hit the decks at Electric Hills (formerly Rowachella) at Aston Rowant Cricket Club on 20th June, plus Kelli-Leigh, Bloc Off The Wall & more; electrichills.co.uk
Mindset Unlimited Festival on 21st June in Wokingham offers wellness, talks, movement and music; mindsetunlimited.co.uk
There’s no Glastonbury this year, folks… But who cares when you’ve got Astonbury?! The family-friendly beauty at Astons Rec near Didcot offers live music 2-11.30pm on 27th June, including fabulous five-piece covers band Big Cheese; tickettailor.com (search for “Astonbury”). And cheers to Charlbury Beer Festival on 27th June; charlburybeerfestival.org while the new Blenheim Palace Festival, 27th June to 4th July, stars (wait for it) Alanis Morissette, Katy Perry, Skin, Pete Tong, Michael Bublé and more; blenheimpalace.com
JULY
Loyle Carner, De La Soul, Sister Sledge and The Temptations & The Four Tops (yes, really!) will star at Love Supreme Jazz Festival, 3rd–5th July, at Glynde Place in East Sussex; lovesupremefestival.com.
Sophie Ellis-Bextor is bringing her pure disco joy to award-winning Guilfest (4th & 5th July). Expect glittering anthems and sing-along moments, plus she’s sharing the bill with The Proclaimers and a Rudimental DJ set; guilfest.co.uk. You can also catch Sophie at Hampton Court Palace Festival in June, as well as David Gray, Pete Tong and Nile Rodgers; hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com
Enjoy music, sensory spaces, comedy, animals, inclusive sport, street food & more at Parallel Windsor on 5th July; parallellifestyle.com
FiFest on 10th & 11th July near Maidenhead promises great vibes and Liberty X, The Fratellis, Pixie Lott, Woody Cook, Ministry of Youth & more;fifest.co.uk
The wellness-focused gem Oh Shala Festival returns to Penn in Buckinghamshire, 10th–12th July, with music, workshops, healing & oodles of community spirit; ohshalafestival.com
Families will find street food, children’s fun, community bands and more in Flackwell Heath with Heath Fest on Saturday, 11th July; fhra.co.uk/heath-fest
On various dates in July, Heritage Live at Englefield offers Faithless, Richard Ashcroft, Ministry of Sound & more; heritagelive.net and we’re excited to don our glad rags for the bouji riverside Henley Festival, 8th to 12th July, starring acts including Boy George, Lulu, Björn Again, Ezra Collective & more plus Julian Clary & other comedy greats; henley-festival.co.uk
Classic Ibiza at Bowood House near Calne in Wiltshire on 17th & 18th July is an open-air celebration of Ibiza-inspired house music, reinvented by a 45-piece orchestra, headline DJs and live vocalists; classicibiza.co.uk
The Party in the Paddock race days at Newbury offer Gipsy Kings on 17th July, Ronan Keating on 19th July, Tinie Tempah on 14th August and Jessie J on 15th August; newburyracecourse.co.uk.
With 14 incredible tribute acts including Typically Tina, two stages, a silent disco and fun fair, Marvellous Festival is back to rock Wokingham on 18th & 19th July; marvellousfestivals.com. And the free Charlbury Riverside Festival returns to west Oxfordshire on 18th & 19th July; charlburyriverside.org
WOMAD, AKA “the world’s festival” lands at Neston Park near Corsham, 23rd-26th July. Leading the NTS-curated charge are a hand-picked selection of DJs whose sets traverse continents and genres. Enjoy music from the likes Cami Layé Oyún, Cheb Mimo, Coco María, Ruby Khaira, Shannen SP and more. One of the world’s most colourful celebrations of music, culture and community, expect an irresistible mix of global artists, family fun, food, workshops and wellbeing where every corner brings a new sound, flavour or experience; womad.co.uk
“The UK’s most warped village fête”, Truck Festival returns to Steventon, 23rd-26th July, with a banging line-up including Cmat, The Libertines, Primal Scream, Kaiser Chiefs & more; truckfestival.com
We love Camp Bestival in Dorset, 30th July–2nd August, with Slomo Wellbeing, family fun and a line-up including Fatboy Slim & Friends, Self Esteem & Leftfield; dorset.campbestival.net
Stowaway Festival returns to the wondrous Stowe woodland (where that glitterball will shine), 31st July–2nd August. This year’s line-up includes cutting-edge electronic and drum’n’bass acts including Nightmares on Wax, Say She She, London Elektricity, and DJ Zinc; stowawayfestival.co.uk
AUGUST
Are you, like our cover star Raymond Blanc OBE, hungry for a sunny summer of connection, live entertainment and delicious food? Over at Blenheim Palace Food Festival, 23rd -25th May, foodies are in for a treat with top chefs including our cover star Raymond Blanc & Matt Tebbutt; blenheimpalace.com
Ready for a blast from the past? Retro Festival celebrates six decades of music at Newbury Showground, 7th–9th August. Enjoy vintage vehicles, fashion and timeless hits across three stages. You can go for the day or camp for four nights; dressing up is fun! retrofestival.co.uk
Boomtown Festival will transform Matterley Estate near Winchester into a radically redesigned world of music, theatre & storytelling, 12th-16th August; boomtownfair.co.uk
Royal Windsor Live, 13th-15th August, stars ska legends Madness after the racing (watch this space for my interview with Suggs), Five and more; yoursummerlive.co.uk/windsor
Check out Raver Tots at Reading’s Prospect Park on 16th August; ravertots.co.uk, great local bands at Wokingham Festival, 22nd-24th August; wokinghamfestival.co.uk and Rock the Rec in Windsor on 30th August; rocktherec.co.uk.
There’s no Glasto this year so the mighty Reading Festival will hit even harder, 27th-30th August, with Charli XCX, Chase & Status, Dave, RAYE and more; readingfestival.com
Ibiza vibes in Windsor? Summertime Live on Saturday, 15th August will shine bright with MistaJam, Wilkinson, Ms Dynamite and more, a silent disco & shisha bar and much more; summertimelive.co.uk
Rewind Festival in Henley, 21st-23rd August, will help you party like the good old days, starring The Proclaimers, Peter Andre, Louise, Soul II Soul & many more; rewindfestival.com
From huge headline DJ sets to dazzling light shows and immersive stages, Creamfields is the ultimate pilgrimage for dance music fans. The iconic August bank holiday festival transforms the Cheshire countryside into a high-energy playground of electronic beats and unforgettable experiences. The legendary Shy FX & MC Rage, Koven and Swedish House Mafia are among this year’s headliners. creamfields.com
The Big Feastival returns to Alex James’ farm in Kingham (watch this space for our chat), 28th–30th August. This popular family-friendly shindig serves up chef demos and top food with an equally tasty line-up including one of the most exciting bookings of the year, The Streets. Also enjoy music from Basement Jaxx, Bastille, Rudimental, Fabio & Grooverider & others, food stars including Anna Haugh and comedy from Joel Dommett, Suzi Rufell & more; thebigfeastival.com
The UK’s largest family fundraising festival CarFest at Silverstone, 28th–30th August, stars Jessie J, Tom Jones, Rick Astley, Nile Rodgers, Sophie Ellis-Bextor & more; carfest.org
A delightful micro-festival blending music, wellness, creativity and joy, Found Festival on the Claydon Estate in Buckingham, 28th–30th August, offers intimate performances, local artisans and feelgood vibes; foundfestival.uk
The Wake is an intimate one-day festival on Saturday, 29th August, in the beautiful West Sussex woodlands & meadows. For the third year, Badly Drawn Boy will headline and DJ Justin Robertson and more will star, with talks, a children’s area, great food and bars. £40pp, £15pp for seven to 14-year-olds and under-7s free, with free car parking. Camping is available & breakfast the next morning! thewake.uk
SEPTEMBER
Everyone lovesBunkfest don’t they?! The free-access family-friendly community fave returns to Wallingford, 4th-6th September, bunkfest.co.uk.
I’m ending on a high, with my favourite, Mucky Weekender in Micheldever near Winchester. The perfect last hurrah to the end of the season, this year’s adults-only funfest, 10th-12th September has a Circus Freaks-theme (dressing up is so much fun). Headliners for 2026 include Goldie (Live), David Rodigan, Gentleman’s Dub Club, Dutty Moonshine Big Band, Roni Size, Leftfield (DJ Set), Pop Will Eat Itself, Goldie Lookin Chain, Children of Zeus, Norman Jay MBE, and special guests The Sabres of Paradise (Live) hosted by Dub Pistols, raising spirits & funds for charity; mucky-weekender.co.uk
