Round & About Magazine

Author: Zoe Gater

  • Free compost giveaway this March for South and Vale residents

    Free compost giveaway this March for South and Vale residents

    Spring is nearly here, and what better way to get your garden ready than with free, nutrient-packed compost?

    South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse councils are giving residents the chance to scoop up this green gold at two special March events.

    On Saturday 7 March 2026, head to Howbery Business Park in Wallingford from 9am to 11am, or pop along to the White Horse Leisure and Tennis Centre overflow car park in Abingdon on Sunday 8 March at the same time.

    Bring your own bags and spade, and you can take home up to three bags per household, while supplies last.

    The councils’ Waste and Recycling Team will be on hand to answer questions, share clever composting tips, and help you make the most of your garden waste. It’s all part of the Rethinking Waste – Waste Resources and Street Cleansing Strategy 2024, which encourages reducing, reusing, recycling, and recovering resources wherever possible.

    “Composting is a simple, sustainable way to give back to the earth,” said Councillor Sue Cooper, Cabinet Member for Environment at South Oxfordshire District Council.

    “We’re delighted to offer residents free compost to help their gardens thrive while cutting down waste.”

    Cllr Robert Clegg, Vale of White Horse’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, adds, “This is a brilliant way for communities to get involved, make the most of local resources, and grow a greener future. Grab your bags, come along, and dig in!”

  • Hop into Easter: best fun-filled activities across the South East

    Hop into Easter: best fun-filled activities across the South East

    Easter’s almost here, and the South East is bursting with seasonal fun! From egg-citing hunts and crafty workshops to family-friendly days out, there’s plenty to make this spring holiday extra special.

    Whether you’re looking for adventure, creativity, or simply a day out with the kids, we’ve rounded up some of the best activities across the region.

    Explore Easter activities by county:

    Berkshire
    Buckinghamshire
    Hampshire
    Oxfordshire
    Surrey
    Wiltshire

    Tried any of these activities? Tag us on Instagram at @roundandaboutmag and share your Easter moments with the community!

  • Best family Easter days out in Hampshire & West Sussex – 2026 guide

    Best family Easter days out in Hampshire & West Sussex – 2026 guide

    From National Trust egg hunts and heritage steam railways to dinosaur adventures and spring festivals, discover the best family-friendly events across Hampshire and West Sussex this Easter holiday.

    Spring has arrived in Hampshire and West Sussex, bringing blossom-filled gardens, longer days and a packed calendar of Easter adventures.

    Whether you’re hunting for chocolate treats in historic parkland, hopping aboard a heritage train, meeting authors and wildlife experts, or enjoying toe-tapping theatre with the kids, there’s something to delight every age group. Here’s your guide to the standout family events and experiences to book now.

    Easter Adventures at National Trust: Hinton Ampner & The Vyne

    Our much-loved National Trust national treasures are always a good starting point for Easter egg hunts. Hop into the challenges the Easter bunny has left at Hinton Ampner and The Vyne as you make your way along the trail and take part in 10 games and activities for the whole family to enjoy, March 21st to April 12th.

    £3.50 per trail which includes an Easter trail sheet, bunny ears and dairy or vegan and Free From chocolate egg to tuck into.

    A Topsy-Turvy Tea Party at Mottisfont

    Head slightly further afield to Mottisfont for a Topsy-Turvy tea party, March 21st to April 12th, compete in the scone and spoon race, try giant sandwich jenga, plate spinning, toss the teabag, a biscuit rolling station, and a spinning wheel where you can design your own sandwich. Slug and cress anyone? Little ones can also then draw their sandwiches for display in the stableyard. The all-important choccy egg awaits at the end.

    Spring Festival at Petworth House and Park

    Petworth welcomes you to its Spring Festival from April 4th to 19th with talks, demonstrations, a community art installation, art and craft workshops and family fun. Pick up a Tilly Plants a Tree trail map from March 28th to April 12th and shop at the Makers Market, April 11th & 12th and much more.

    Full details of all events at nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth/events.

    Nature Writing at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens

    Hear from seven of Britain’s leading nature writers at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens (the former home of Britain’s first ecologist) on Saturday, 21st March, 10am–5pm.

    The line-up includes natural navigator and author Tristan Gooley, and novelist, nature writer, podcaster and children’s author Melissa Harrison. The day concludes with photographer Anne-Katrin Purkiss discussing her exhibition South Downs Portraits: Lives in a Landscape, on display in the museum’s Discovery Room.

    For more information, visit gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk.

    Animal Antics at Farnham Maltings & Museum of Farnham

    Get wild with an animal-filled Easter at Farnham Maltings and the Museum of Farnham, with family theatre from The Zoo That Comes to You, hands-on crafts like soap making and cupcake decorating, plus animal drama parties and puppet workshops.

    Visit real farm animals at the Museum for a holiday packed with creativity and furry fun for all ages.

    For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com.

    All Aboard the Easter Bunny Train at Watercress Line

    The Easter Bunny will be visiting The Watercress Line this Easter. Enjoy travelling on the heritage trains with themed sing-along songs and jokes and much more Easter related fun, April 2nd – 6th.

    Bring your own furry friends along for a photo with the Easter Bunny, and get a little memento of your day.

    Book at watercressline.co.uk/special-days/easter-bunny-train.

    Riverside Escapes with Farncombe Boat House

    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. Available for weekends, midweek breaks and weekly holidays on the River Wey.

    Book at farncombeboats.co.uk.

    Family Shows at Camberley Theatre

    Monsters, K-POP, science and gruff goats all feature in Camberley Theatre’s family fun holiday shows. There’s a Monster in your Show – March 31st & April 1st – sees Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures leaping from page to stage in a new musical show. Watch a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim with a smoke blaster in Exciting Science, April 6th.

    Get ready to sing, dance, and party like never before at K-Pop Party – the live concert experience on April 7th and join The Three Billy Goats Gruff on April 8th with catchy songs, funky dances and a rapping troll in this fun family show.

    To book call 01276 707600 or visit camberleytheatre.co.uk.

    Classic Steam Adventures with The Railway Touring Company

    Step aboard for a day trip to remember, where the journey is just as exciting as the destination. The Railway Touring Company offers unforgettable days out aboard classic steam trains, travelling through picturesque countryside, dramatic coastlines and historic towns.

    Relax in heritage carriages, with the option of Premier Dining, featuring freshly prepared onboard meals served with silver at your seat. Each tour captures the elegance, magic and nostalgic charm of steam travel.

    Discover more at railwaytouring.net.

    Dinosaurs & Dr Seuss at Theatre Royal Winchester

    Forget cute fluffy chicks and bunnies for Easter, how about an Easter dinosaur? For the first time since 1881, the home of dinosaurs, London’s Natural History Museum, is going on tour.

    Go on a pre-historic journey to the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods and watch the life-like dinosaurs come alive right on stage at Theatre Royal Winchester on April 10th. There’s mischief and mayhem with stage adaptation of Dr Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat on April 7th & 8th. With the trickiest of tricks and craziest of ideas, he turns a rainy afternoon into an amazing adventure.

    Book at theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk.

  • Egg-cellent Easter adventures across Surrey

    Egg-cellent Easter adventures across Surrey

    From chocolate trails and crafty workshops to steam train journeys and Regency revels, Surrey is packed with family-friendly fun this spring. Here’s your guide to the best days out over the holidays.

    Spring has arrived in Surrey, bringing blossom-filled gardens, longer days and a calendar packed with family-friendly adventures. From egg hunts in historic estates and hands-on museum workshops to live theatre, steam train journeys and riverside escapes, something is happening in every corner of the county this Easter.

    Whether you’re planning a big day out or looking for simple holiday inspiration, here’s your guide to making the most of the break.

    Easter egg hunts with the National Trust

    As the countryside bursts into life, it’s a wonderful time to explore the great outdoors on an Easter egg hunt with the National Trust. From nature-inspired fun at Box Hill, Hindhead Commons and Winkworth Arboretum to eggy fun at Hatchlands, circus themed activities at Claremont and griffin challenges at Polesden Lacey, there’s something for all the family to enjoy throughout the holidays. Trails cost £3.50 including bunny ears and a dairy, vegan or Free From choccy egg.

    For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/surrey.

    Easter Sleuthing at RHS Garden Wisley

    Who framed the Easter Bunny? A question for young detectives visiting RHS Garden Wisley this Easter, from March 28th – April 12th. Find the clues, solve the crime, and rescue the Easter Bunny to get a small chocolate reward.

    No need to book, just go along, buy the trail pack (£3) and start sleuthing. Normal garden admission applies.

    Regency Revels at West Horsley Place

    West Horsley Place invites you to immerse yourself in history and heritage this month where you can mingle with costumed re-enactors, enjoy music and dancing, talks, crafts and family-friendly activities bringing the early 19th century to life with Regency Revels, April 18th & 19th.

    Put your dancing shoes on for a Regency Ball (10th), try the escape room experience on 2nd and with tours, talks, BBC Ghosts and workshops too, there’s plenty to enjoy.

    For more information, visit westhorsleyplace.org.

    Creative Easter at Farnham Maltings & Museum of Farnham

    Get wild with an animal-filled Easter at Farnham Maltings and the Museum of Farnham, with family theatre from The Zoo That Comes to You, hands-on crafts like soap making and cupcake decorating, plus animal drama parties and puppet workshops.

    Visit real farm animals at the Museum for a holiday packed with creativity and furry fun for all.

    For more information, visit farnhammaltings.com.

    Nature Writing at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens

    Hear from seven of Britain’s leading nature writers at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens (the former home of Britain’s first ecologist) on Saturday, 21st March, 10am–5pm.

    The line-up includes natural navigator and author Tristan Gooley, and novelist, nature writer, podcaster and children’s author Melissa Harrison. The day concludes with photographer Anne-Katrin Purkiss discussing her exhibition South Downs Portraits: Lives in a Landscape, on display in the museum’s Discovery Room.

    For more information, visit gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk.

    Racing into Easter at Brooklands Museum

    Join Brooklands Museum this Easter from March 28th – April 12th for centenary celebration family fun as it marks the 100th anniversary of Britain’s 1st Grand Prix, held at Brooklands race circuit, throughout 2026. Build your own racers in the Mini Mechanics family workshop or take on the new Scavenger Hunt to find the racing flags around the Museum!

    Find the racing themed eggs in the Easter trail, enjoy car rides, take a Concorde family tour or hop on a vintage bus for a ride around the local area. Plus don’t miss the popular Easter Classic Gathering on Saturday, 4th April.

    Spa Days at Brooklands Hotel

    How about a bit of pampering? Brooklands Hotel has launched new BFit & BSpa memberships, offering members an exclusive opportunity to enjoy premium fitness and spa facilities.

    For more information, visit brooklandshotelsurrey.com.

    Family Shows at Camberley Theatre

    Monsters, K-POP, science and gruff goats all feature in Camberley Theatre’s family fun holiday shows. There’s a Monster in your Show – March 31st & April 1st – sees Tom Fletcher’s interactive adventures leaping from page to stage.

    Watch a volcanic eruption; turn a vacuum cleaner into a missile launcher or take aim with a smoke blaster in Exciting Science, April 6th. Get ready to sing, dance, and party like never before at K-Pop Party – the live concert on April 7th and join The Three Billy Goats Gruff on April 8th with catchy songs, funky dances and a rapping troll in this fun family show.

    To book call 01276 707600 or online at camberleytheatre.co.uk.

    Easter Egg-citement at Haslemere Museum

    Haslemere Museum will hold a family Easter Egg-citement event on March 31st, 10.30am-1pm. After Easter themed arts and crafts, children can join in an Easter garden trail and be rewarded with a chocolate treat when they find the characters hidden throughout the gardens. The event is divided into time slots to prevent it becoming too crowded, but you are welcome to stay longer if you wish.

    Book in advance via haslemeremuseum.co.uk/whatson.

    Riverside Adventures with Farncombe Boat House

    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. Available for weekends, midweek breaks and weekly holidays on the River Wey.

    Book at farncombeboats.co.uk.

    Classic Steam Journeys with The Railway Touring Company

    Step aboard for a day trip to remember, where the journey is just as exciting as the destination. The Railway Touring Company offers unforgettable days out aboard classic steam trains, travelling through picturesque countryside, dramatic coastlines and historic towns.

    Relax in heritage carriages, with the option of Premier Dining, featuring freshly prepared onboard meals served with silver at your seat. Each tour captures the elegance, magic and nostalgic charm of steam travel.

    For more information, visit railwaytouring.net.

  • Spring into Easter: Family days out across Buckinghamshire

    Spring into Easter: Family days out across Buckinghamshire

    The school holidays are the perfect excuse to step outside and explore. Whether your little ones love baby animals, creative crafts, historic houses or miniature railways, Buckinghamshire is bursting with family-friendly events and gentle outdoor adventures to fill the Easter break.

    Spring arrives softly but surely… the blossom-frothed branches, lighter mornings and the unmistakable sight of baby animals finding their feet. As winter finally fades, this beautiful corner of the world invites us outside again.

    Now is the perfect moment to explore at a slower pace, whether that means egg hunts, steam trains or hands-on animal encounters. Here’s our pick of the best family-friendly activities this season.

    Little Farmers Returns to Peterley Manor Farm

    Loved by little ones, raved about by parents, Little Farmers returns to wonderful Peterley Manor Farm this Easter. Running from 26th March to 12th April, children can enjoy natural messy play, planting and crafts designed to spark imagination and creativity on a working farm that’s also a joyful wellbeing haven and foodie hub in Prestwood.

    For tickets and more info, visit peterleymanorfarm.co.uk.

    Easter Eggstravaganza at Kew Little Pigs

    For tiny trotters, twitchy snouts and a whole lot of “aww”, head to Kew Little Pigs in Old Amersham. Their Easter Eggstravaganza runs from Saturday 28th March to Sunday 12th April, inviting families to follow a fun Easter trail around the farm, hunt down hidden clues and collect tasty treats at the end.

    Along the way, little ones can meet the farm’s famously adorable pigs and friendly goats, get creative with a colouring competition (with a silver adoption up for grabs), and browse the gift shop for piggy-themed souvenirs. A delight for animal lovers of all ages.

    Find out more at kewlittlepigs.com.

    Spring Discoveries at Amersham Museum

    Just up the road, Amersham Museum is always a lovely pit stop for curious minds and little hands. During the school holidays, families can enjoy an Easter trail, creative craft workshops, botanical activities for children and a relaxed quiet morning for SEND families, plus a beautiful garden and the Destination Amersham exhibition to explore.

    For more information, visit amershammuseum.org.

    Easter Trails at Cliveden

    A firm favourite every year is the National Trust Easter Trail, and Bucks boasts some of the very best! At Cliveden, families can follow an Easter trail through one of the country’s most iconic landscapes between 28th March & 12th April.

    Children receive bunny ears, tackle fun along the route and finish with a well-earned chocolate egg.

    Springtime Fun at Hughenden

    Hughenden in West Wycombe offers a similarly joyful experience from 21st March to 13th April, with inclusive treats and space for picnics and play among the spring flowers.

    For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk.

    Rainy-Day Adventures at Discover Bucks Museum

    Discover Bucks Museum in Aylesbury is great for rainy days! The Easter programme is packed with hands-on fun, egg trails, crafts, puppet shows, science and biscuit decorating.

    For more information, visit discoverbucksmuseum.org.

    Meet the Goats at Bucks Goat Centre

    Enjoy animal encounters galore at Bucks Goat Centre as well as egg hunts, crafts and take the kids to meet the goats with their Minecrafty eyes!

    For more information, visit bucksgoatcentre.co.uk.

    Traditional Farm Fun at Widmer Farm Park

    Widmer Farm Park in Princes Risborough is another cracker, offering a traditional farm experience with animals, outdoor play and fun for toddlers right through to grandparents.

    For more information, visit widmerfarmpark.co.uk.

    Springtime Adventures at Odds Farm Park

    Odds Farm Park in Wooburn Green is also home to adorable baby animals, with outdoor adventure play, tractor rides, spring fun & farm café.

    For more information, visit oddsfarm.co.uk.

    Easter Steaming Days at Buckinghamshire Railway Centre

    Quainton’s quirky and cute Buckinghamshire Railway Centre is a great place to slow down with Easter Steaming Days, themed activities and more.

    For more information, visit buckinghamshirailwaycentre.org.

    Miniature Magic at Bekonscot Model Village

    Little ones with big imaginations will love timeless Bekonscot Model Village in Beaconsfield. Wander its miniature streets, watch tiny trains chug past and spot new details around every corner.

    For more information, visit bekonscot.co.uk.

    Storytelling Spring at Roald Dahl Museum

    Spring into stories at the Roald Dahl Museum in Great Missenden where families can explore interactive galleries, enjoy holiday workshops and let imaginations run wild, inspired by much-loved characters.

    For more information, visit roalddahlmuseum.org.

    Step Back in Time at Chiltern Open Air Museum

    History comes alive at Chiltern Open Air Museum in Chalfont, where ye olde worlde buildings are set within acres of open countryside. Spring events, trails and demonstrations make it a relaxed but fascinating day out.

    For more information, visit visitcoam.org.uk.

    Blossom Walks at Waddesdon Manor

    Waddesdon Manor bursts into life this spring. Join free volunteer-led winter walking tours to spot daffodils, blossom and the Elephant Family, explore snowdrops and flowering shrubs on Eythrope Parkland, perhaps ending with lavish cream tea.

    For more information, visit waddesdon.org.uk.

  • Spring days out in Wiltshire: Easter trails, timeless treasures & family adventures

    Spring days out in Wiltshire: Easter trails, timeless treasures & family adventures

    Blossom drifts across ancient landscapes, steam engines roar back to life and safari stories unfold — spring invites families to slow down and savour adventure across Wiltshire and beyond.

    Spring arrives softly but surely… in blossom-frothed branches, lighter mornings and the unmistakable sight of lambs and ducklings finding their feet. As winter finally fades, this beautiful corner of the world calls us outdoors once more.

    Now is the perfect time to explore at a gentler pace — whether that means egg hunts in historic gardens, steam trains puffing into action or hands-on encounters with animals great and small. Here’s our pick of the best family-friendly activities this season.

    Steam & Stories at Crofton Beam Engines

    Step back in time at Crofton Beam Engines in Marlborough. Over the Easter weekend, the world’s oldest working beam engines will be in steam, pumping water as they have for over 200 years.

    There’s a fun Easter egg trail, traditional duck races along the leat and a craft area where you’ll find materials for little ones to decorate bonnets, eggs and more. Friendly volunteers will be on hand to share fascinating stories, while the Smithy Tea Room offers refreshments and the scenic grounds are perfect for picnics and canal walks.

    For more information, visit croftonbeamengines.org

    Spring Trails at Avebury & Stourhead

    Explore the ancient wonders of Avebury, where the National Trust treasure’s classic gardens and vast prehistoric surroundings are perfect for spring family walks and Easter trail from 27th March to 12th April.

    Children can complete activities full of springtime joy dotted around the garden and collect a chocolate prize. And head south to the stunning Stourhead estate near Mere, where the family Easter trail runs between 21st March and 19th April.

    For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

    Arts & Crafts Charm at Kelmscott Manor

    William Morris’s much-loved retreat Kelmscott Manor reopens for the season, looking particularly lush.

    Set beside the Thames and surrounded by orchards and meadows, it’s a peaceful place for older children to stretch their legs and soak up a little Arts & Crafts magic. Expect thoughtful family trails, beautiful gardens coming into bloom and a step back into a slower, storybook England.

    For more information, visit kelmscottmanor.org.uk

    Wildlife Wonders at Nature Discovery Centre

    Join the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham for fresh air and wildlife discoveries as you help mother fox find her missing cubs and discover the other baby animals in a fun family trail for Easter, 7th-9th April

    Book your place at bbowt.org.uk/events

    Timeless Treasures at Lacock Abbey

    Lacock near Chippenham is always a charming day out.

    Enjoy the picturesque village and Abbey gardens with family-friendly Easter adventures and trails around the grounds, where little ones can solve activities and claim a chocolate egg.

    For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk

    Music in Bloom at Newbury Spring Festival

    Newbury Spring Festival brings two weeks of world-class music to the town and its surrounding villages, with more than 45 events across 20 local venues, featuring leading international artists alongside outstanding emerging talent.

    The events span many different genres including jazz, musical theatre, cabaret, world music, folk music, choral music, ballet, chamber music, solo recitals, brass bands and gospel choirs.

    Find out what’s on at newburyspringfestival.org.uk

    Play & Produce at Cobbs Farm Shop

    Foodies’ fave Cobbs Farm Shop in Hungerford hosts lovely Mother’s Day treats and has a great Play Barn and outdoor spaces, perfect for spring family days out with imaginative play, sandpits and the seasonal café open for snacks and lunches.

    Spring craft sessions and kids’ play barn activities have run in recent years, and the farm shop is brimming with seasonal goodies – ideal for a visit with little ones over the holidays.

    For more information, visit cobbsfarmshops.co.uk.

    Rare Breeds & Alpaca Walks at Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm

    Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm towards Salisbury is the perfect day out for families. Get up close with friendly rare-breed animals, book an alpaca walk, enjoy hands-on encounters and let the kids run wild in the outdoor play areas.

    Tuck into delicious food and drink from the on-site café, plenty of picnic spots and exciting seasonal fun.

    For more information, visit choldertonrarebreedsfarm.com

    Safari Adventures at Longleat Safari Park

    A scenic drive away, Longleat Safari Park is in full spring spirit with its Once Upon an Easter programme running from 28th March to 19th April.

    Follow an eggs-traordinary story trail inspired by beloved tales, where classic characters and imaginative scenes come to life across the estate, leading to a chocolate treat at the end – all included with your day ticket.

    Alongside seasonal storytelling and craft, there’s plenty to discover: meet curious wildlife from lions and tigers to koalas, try the UK’s longest hedge maze, enjoy the Jungle Cruise, or explore historic Longleat House.

    Longleat is also celebrating the 60th anniversary of its safari park, with an anniversary garden party weekend on 11th & 12th April.

    For more information, visit longleat.co.uk.

  • Waddesdon Manor unveils vibrant programme of spring events for 2026

    Waddesdon Manor unveils vibrant programme of spring events for 2026

    Hosting everything from winter walking tours and Easter adventures to Pudding Clubs and Mother’s Day afternoon teas, Waddesdon Manor has plenty to offer this spring.

    Waddesdon Manor has announced an exciting selection of springtime activities throughout March and April 2026, with a programme spanning indulgent Pudding Clubs and afternoon teas to beautiful tours both inside and outdoors at the Manor.

    Upcoming highlights include Winter Walking Tours. Taking place on Wednesdays and Sundays from 18 February to 22 March 2026, visitors can admire the beauty of the gardens in wintertime – and keep an eye out for aconites and hellebores, along with rarely visible views across Aylesbury Vale.

    Showcasing three fabulous desserts created in-house by the Head Patissier, satisfy your sweet toth at the Pudding Club at the Manor Restaurant on Saturday 14 March, from 7pm.

    Starting with canapés and sparkling wine in the Wine Cellars, the four-course menu celebrates the rich tradition of British desserts.

    Light artist Bruno Munro returns to Waddesdon for the first UK collaboration with his daughter Tink Munro, from 27 March 2026 with the Four Seasons exhibition, exploring time, place, and the natural environment through light, sound, and sustainable materials.

    It will be shown in the Coach House Gallery and includes a piece that translates the music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons into dynamic light.

    Little ones can take part in an Easter Adventure Trail on various dates throughout March and April. Packed with games, creative activities, and, of course, chocolate eggs, simply pick up your trail sheet on arrival at the Welcome Pavilion or Visitor Information.

    Running throughout the year, visitors can discover the stories of the rare, precious objects on display and learn about the tradition of treasure rooms as part of A Rothschild Treasure: Tours.

    The Rothschild Treasury houses more than 300 objects made from rare and precious materials – from a 1st-century cameo of Augustus Caesar’s grandson to jewellery gifted by Queen Victoria, gold boxes, and more.

    For the full programme or to book, visit Waddesdon Manor’s website.

    Easter Trail © Waddesdon Manor Image Library, Chris Lacey

  • Guildford Shakespeare Company marks 20 years by expanding life-changing knife crime awareness work

    Guildford Shakespeare Company marks 20 years by expanding life-changing knife crime awareness work

    Not only celebrating its 20th year in 2026, Guildford Shakespeare Company’s pioneering knife crime awareness programme has reached over 2,000 young people in its first term.

    Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, Guildford Shakespeare Company (GSC) is not only reflecting on two decades of bold, accessible theatre but also reaffirming its commitment to young people across Surrey through a pioneering knife crime awareness initiative.

    And at the centre of this work is its eight-week awareness programme for Year 9 students – Put Up Your Swords.

    Using Romeo and Juliet as a framework to explore the realities of knife crime, the scheme encourages young people to examine choices, consequences and safer alternatives within a supportive environment.

    Delivered in partnership with the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Surrey, the University of Surrey, Fearless, the Kiyan Prince Foundation and Charlie’s Promise, the project combines drama workshops, professional stage combat training, guest speakers with lived experience, and a mock court case hosted at the University of Surrey – where Romeo himself stands trial.

    Since its launch, Put Up Your Swords has reached more than 2,000 students across six Surrey schools, and an independent evaluation shows a marked shift in knowledge and attitudes.

    By the end of the programme, 83% of participants understood that carrying a knife does not make them safer – up from 50% at the outset – while 74% knew where to access support, compared with 35% before taking part.

    Teachers have described the initiative as both worthwhile and transformative, highlighting its ability to engage students who may struggle in more traditional classroom settings.

    Kerrie Driscoll, GSC’s Creative Learning Producer, said: “Too many young people face life-changing consequences because they didn’t believe they had safer choices. That’s why working hand-in-hand with partner organisations, schools, local authorities, and our wider community is vital.

    “Together, we can provide the guidance and real alternatives that help young people step away from danger and reduce the devastating impact of knife-related violence.”

    The company plans to expand Put Up Your Swords to reach more schools across Surrey and beyond.

    For more information or to get involved, contact Kerrie Driscoll at kerrie@guildford-shakespeare-company.co.uk.

  • See legendary British sports broadcaster John Inverdale at Cranleigh Arts

    See legendary British sports broadcaster John Inverdale at Cranleigh Arts

    From Wimbledon and the Olympic Games to the Rugby and Football World Cups and more, don’t miss renowned sports broadcaster John Inverdale when he sits down with racing journalist Brough Scott at Cranleigh Arts this spring.

    Celebrating the world of sport and broadcasting, Surrey’s Cranleigh Arts hosts a special evening with a voice familiar to millions, as legendary sports presenter John Inverdale sits down in conversation with Trustee and racing journalist Brough Scott.

    Taking place on Thursday 5 March 2026 from 7.30pm, the live event explores John’s illustrious career, which spans more than four decades, exploring the moments that have shaped him into one of the most recognisable voices in British sports broadcasting.

    Over the years, John has guided audiences through iconic sporting occasions across radio and television – from the Olympic Games and FIFA World Cups to Wimbledon, the Five and Six Nations Championships, the Ryder Cup, the Grand National, Cheltenham Festival, and even the World’s Strongest Man competition.

    Offering rare behind-the-scenes insight into the magic of live broadcasting – along with the pressures, triumphs and unforgettable moments – audiences can expect anecdotes from John’s early days reading the news on BBC Radio Lincolnshire to interviewing some of the most prestigious figures in the sporting world.

    The evening’s proceeds will be shared equally between Cranleigh Arts and The John Hunt Family Foundation, supporting the continued work of both organisations.

    For more information or to book tickets, email sophie@cranleigharts.org or operations@cranleigharts.org.

  • A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings arcane antics to Oxford

    A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings arcane antics to Oxford

    Enter a world of magic and mischief when Oxford Playhouse presents a bold, darker take on Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream this spring 2026.

    Shining candlelight on the shadowy underbelly of one of Shakespeare’s most-loved plays, Oxford Playhouse offers an imaginative retelling of the classic, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, this spring.

    Running from Tuesday 24th to Saturday 28th March 2026, audiences are invited into an enchanted forest where the natural world is upside down, the Fairy Queen Titania and King Oberon quarrel with dangerous intensity, and four young lovers fleeing the city become caught in a night of chaos. .

    Following its run at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse in London, this new production – by Headlong in partnership with Shakespeare’s Globe – brings a striking, contemporary vision to the classic tale.

    Audiences can expect live music, inventive set and costume design, and engaging moments as the familiar comedy is reimagined through a darker, unsettling lens.

    Directed by Holly Race Roughan and co-directed by Naeem Hayat, the cast — including Hedydd Dylan, Dannie Harris, Jack Humphrey, Lou Jackson, Pria Kalsi, Danny Kirrane, and Tiwa Lade — draws on experience from the Royal Shakespeare Company, Shakespeare’s Globe, and beyond to bring the forest’s lovers, mechanicals, and magical creatures to life.

    Holly Race Roughan, said: “The world of A Midsummer Night’s Dream is a turbulent one, the natural environment is upside down and unpredictable, and the political and social landscape is on edge, creating a sense of tension that we are all experiencing today.

    This new staging will explore some of the darker elements of Shakespeare’s well-known comedy, turning it on its head and asking us to reexamine its themes and subject matter.

    Following a highly successful collaboration on Henry V, it is a joy to be partnering once again with Shakespeare’s Globe and our committed national partners to allow audiences to meet this play in the moment we are in.”

    For more information or to book, visit Oxford Playhouse’s website.