Round & About Magazine

Tag: event

  • Fleet Lions celebrates its 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours in 2026

    Fleet Lions celebrates its 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours in 2026

    Join Fleet Lions for the 39th Classic Motorcycle Run and Concours on Monday 4 May 2026 – and boost local charities.

    “Get the bike out of the garage, change the oil, check the plugs and give it a polish – unless it is in wonderful ‘as original’ condition, then please don’t show it the polishing rag, it will have a heart attack!”

    Wise words from Fleet Lions who are revving up for this year’s Motorcycle Run and Concours on Monday 4 May 2026.

    Polished or not, it’s time to register your bike and be part of this fantastic day of classic bikes, a great ride and good company all while supporting Fleet Lions for the early May bank holiday.

    Starting in The Key car park at Elvetham Heath on the A323 Fleet to Hartley Wintney Road (///wallet.twinkling.bonkers), the event normally attracts well over 200 entrants with bikes ranging from the early 1900s to the later classics, with conditions varying from untouched original to gleaming concours restoration.

    Riders come from far and wide around the South East to take part, with it becoming a well-established event in the enthusiasts’ calendar.

    If you’ve not been recently or are a virgin in the classic bike world, join Fleet Lions for the 39th run from the car park around the Hampshire and Berkshire countryside and returning for the Concours in the afternoon.

    The route will be the tried, tested and much-loved route that has been ridden on for many years (subject to change), which if you have not been before uses good country roads, not one-track lanes with loose gravel in the middle.

    Start the day with a hearty breakfast between 9.30am and 10.30am courtesy of the Lions catering team, washed down with a tea or coffee at half price if you bring your own re-usable cup.

    Enjoy catching up with riders and visitors, old and new, have a chat, compare notes and then you’ll be ‘fuelled up and ready for the off at 11am.

    The road run is approximately 46 miles (subject to change). Route cards, numbers, and badges, etc., will be issued on registration at the start in the car park.

    There will be no time checks or observed sections. Riders will be despatched at suitable intervals in order to avoid congestion.

    The route is marked at junctions where a turn is required by arrows on the road signs.

    The Calleva Arms in Silchester, roughly half way round the route, has kindly agreed to host any riders who wish to stop there for any refreshments.

    Pre-registration costs £11 or £14 on the day.

    All riders receive an enamel commemorative badge.

    To take part, register here: fleetlions.org.uk/booking35 and for more information, including the Concours Classes, visit fleetlions.org.uk/fundraising/motorcycle.

  • Relive your childhood hits with James B Partridge at Reading Hexagon

    Relive your childhood hits with James B Partridge at Reading Hexagon

    Sing along to childhood hits with Britain’s favourite schoolteacher at the Reading Hexagon this April.

    Viral sensation James B Partridge returns with his biggest Primary School Bangers tour yet, bringing classic singalongs and nostalgia to the Reading Hexagon on 26 April 2026.

    This brand-new nationwide run will bring the songs that defined our childhoods to life across some of the UK’s most iconic theatres and concert halls across February, March and April.

    Fans can expect singalongs, feel-good nostalgia, and the infectious energy that has turned James into a national phenomenon.

    Following the sell-out success of The Big Christmas Assembly, which played to tens of thousands across the UK, demand for James continues to soar.

    What began as playful classroom performances has exploded into one for the country’s most joyful live music successes – from viral social media fame to afield-closing Glastonbury set featured on the BBC.

    James has also charmed audiences on Chris Evan’s Virgin Radio Breakfast Show, BBC Radio 2, The One Show, Sunday Brunch, and Songs of Praise: The Big School Assembly Singalong, proving that his unique blend of humour and harmony delights every generation.

    For more information or to book, visit Reading Hexagon’s website.

  • Basingstoke Canal Society celebrates 60 years in 2026 with an exciting programme of events

    Basingstoke Canal Society celebrates 60 years in 2026 with an exciting programme of events

    Charlotte Rogers from the Basingstoke Canal Society invites you to join its 60th anniversary celebrations – from boat trips and exhibitions to family-friendly entertainment.

    2026 is a celebratory year for the Basingstoke Canal Society as it reminisces and reflects on the past 60 years and looks ahead to the next 60, of course!

    Celebrations began in January with a special talk about work, memories and what the Canal Society and the anniversary mean to them – with input from members and supporters.

    The society also welcomed ideas on what the coming year’s celebrations should include.

    Later this spring, a commemorative booklet will also be released for sale; themed boat trips will run throughout the summer season in Odiham, Hampshire and Woking; a list of 60 things to do on the Basingstoke Canal will be published; and much more.

    Perhaps most excitingly, taking place alongside the Canal and only a few minutes’ walk from the town centre, the society will host a special event in Woking on Saturday 18 April 2026.

    Expect family-friendly entertainment, refreshments, Kitty II on the Canal and exhibitions spanning the last 60 years.

    For more information on becoming a member, how to donate and volunteering opportunities, visit basingstoke-canal.org.uk.

    Keep an eye on the Facebook page for more details on the April event and more to come during the year at facebook.com/basingstokecs.

  • Historic beam engines return to life with Easter fun and family-friendly festivities

    Historic beam engines return to life with Easter fun and family-friendly festivities

    Experience Crofton Beam Engines’ Easter Steam Up this April, with working engines, duck races and family fun.

    There is something quietly thrilling about standing beside a working steam engine — the heat, the rhythm, the sense of history moving beneath your feet. That magic returns as Crofton Beam Engines launches its steaming season with a joyful Great Easter Steam Up on Sunday 5 and Monday 6 April 2026.

    One of the most extraordinary industrial heritage sites in the country, Crofton is home to the world’s oldest working beam engine still in its original location, faithfully lifting water to the summit of the Kennet and Avon Canal just as it has done since 1812.

    During the Easter weekend, both mighty engines will be in steam, rising and falling in near-silence as visitors watch this feat of Georgian engineering up close.

    The Easter Steam Up is designed to delight all ages. Families can enjoy the ever-popular duck races, watching brightly coloured ducks emerge from the pump and race towards the canal, with prizes for both first and last place.

    There’s also an Easter egg trail around the grounds, a hands-on crafting area, and plenty of space to picnic while taking in the glorious Vale of Pewsey countryside.

    With expert volunteers on hand to explain how everything works, and the welcoming Smithy Tea Room serving refreshments, it’s a perfect spring outing — equal parts education, entertainment and wonder.

    Whether you’re a steam enthusiast or simply curious, Crofton’s Easter Steam Up is a powerful reminder of Britain’s engineering past brought vividly to life.

  • Joe Hicks to debut new album at special Arlington Arts homecoming gig

    Joe Hicks to debut new album at special Arlington Arts homecoming gig

    Newbury singer songwriter Joe Hicks to showcase new album with Arlington Arts gig in April 2026.

    Singer-songwriter Joe Hicks is set to release his new studio album Before It Gets Dark, on Friday 27 March, before playing a Newbury homecoming show on Saturday 11 April 2026.

    Having steadily built his profile in the years leading up to his 2022 debut album The Best I Could Do at the Time, Joe has been praised for his solid songwriting and remarkable vocal skills, hitting falsetto notes with ease while channelling the likes of John Mayer and Paul Simon with his clean and dexterous guitar playing.

    Before It Gets Dark is a cathartic set of songs written as Joe came to terms with the loss of his father and a relationship breakdown.

    Joe says: “The album is about feeling beaten down by modern society, uncertainty, and by the things life can throw at you. It deals with the death of my dad, a breakup, and the darker songs are from the somewhat nihilistic ‘life is meaningless’ perspective of the world that I slipped into following those events. This record is about coming through that and looking forward; wanting to see the world before it gets dark.”

    Throughout the album, Joe’s effortless musicality is front and centre as his vocals shine against the delicate layers of guitars, neither too much nor too little.

    To celebrate the album’s release, Joe will return to the Arlington Arts Centre on Saturday 11 April 2026 for a homecoming Newbury show.

    Tickets are on sale now at arlington-arts.com/events/joe-hicks.

  • See the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition in Berkshire

    See the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition in Berkshire

    The world’s finest nature images are revealed as Wildlife Photographer of the Year returns to The Base Greenham this spring.

    Stories and species from around the world are in focus at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition when it comes to The Base in Greenham from Sunday 27 February 2026.

    Now in its 61st year and on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, it features some of the most exceptional nature photography taken today from across the globe.

    The exhibition shines a light on powerful and fascinating images that capture hidden animal behaviour, spectacular species, and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.

    This year’s competition attracted over 60,000 entries from photographers of all ages and experience levels from 113 countries and territories. Entries were judged on their creativity, originality, and technical excellence by an international panel of industry experts.

    Kathy Moran, Chair of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year Jury, says: “This preview presents just a small insight into the 100 awe-inspiring, impactful and moving images in store for visitors to our exhibition in October.

    As an advocate for the power of photography, there is nothing more rewarding or moving than seeing our relationship to the natural world, in all its complexity and splendour, shared on the world’s biggest platform for wildlife photography.”

    Families are invited to get involved through an engaging programme of workshops designed to inspire creativity and curiosity – sing, move and explore together at Songs and Stories in The Gallery on Saturday 7 and Thursday 19 March, Thursday 2 Saturday 11 April, while budding young makers can sculpt imaginative creatures in Wildlife Clay Animals on Saturday 21 March with ceramicist Susie Oates.

    For adults looking to get creative or enjoy inspiring evenings out, The Base offers a rich programme of talks, workshops and Gallery Lates.

    Photographer Hannah Gamble leads Master the Art of iPhone Photography on Saturday 14 March and Saturday 18 April, blending exhibition-based learning with guided outdoor practice on Greenham Common.

    Those interested in ideas, discussion and contemporary culture can enjoy evening events including Poetry Open Mic Night on Thursday 19 March, alongside expert-led talks such as WPY61 in Focus on Thursday 5 March and Strictly Nature on Thursday 23 April, with photographer Simon Booker.

    Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition tickets are free to Base Pass holders. Full price tickets cost £11.20pp; £9.50 concession; £9pp in groups of 10+; £7 under-16s; and free for under-5s.

    To find out more about the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition at The Base Greenham, or any of the exhibition themed workshops and events, visit thebasegreenham.co.uk.

    Image © Amit Eshel, Bence Mate, Kesshav Vikram, Parham Pourahman, Simone Baumeister and Tinnapat Netcharussaeng.

  • See Professor Brian Cox and Dr Eleanor Schofield at ATOM Festival of Science and Technology 2026

    See Professor Brian Cox and Dr Eleanor Schofield at ATOM Festival of Science and Technology 2026

    ATOM Festival reveals its 2026 programme – featuring English physicist Brian Cox, FameLab Academy Oxfordshire, and plenty of inspiring activities.

    ATOM Festival 2026 is back for its 11th year, with a full 12-day programme of science and technology-based events and activities.

    Taking place across multiple venues in the historic market town of Abingdon-on-Thames from Saturday 14th to Wednesday 25th March 2026, discover world-class science and technology and the companies, organisations and scientists who make it happen.

    Highlights include an insightful talk from internationally renowned physicist Professor Brian Cox; Dr Eleanor Schofield reveals the science and engineering disciplines that ensure Henry VIII’s ship – the Mary Rose – remains safe for future generations to enjoy; and hear from Professor Frank Close, one of ATOM’s key founders.

    Families can also take part in an imaginative assortment of events, including a showcase of the worldwide fossil collection from the Oxfordshire Geology Trust; the opportunity to explore Barton Fields wildlife site; and harness the interactive power of Lego, learning the principles of physics as you build.

    ATOM partners with schools to engage young people in developing a passion for science and its potential to change the world – and returning in 2026 is FameLab Academy Oxfordshire, part of the internationally recognised FameLab initiative that began with the Cheltenham Science Festival.

    This exciting opportunity offers Year 9 students the chance to develop their science communication skills and confidence through a hands-on competition, discovering some of the most innovative new voices in science and technology.

    For more information or to book tickets, visit ATOM Festival of Science and Technology 2026’s website.

  • The Shawshank Redemption comes to Wycombe Swan Theatre in March 2026

    The Shawshank Redemption comes to Wycombe Swan Theatre in March 2026

    The stage adaptation of Stephen King’s much-loved novella, The Shawshank Redemption, lands at Wycombe Swan Theatre in March 2026.

    Step inside the walls of Stephen King’s legendary maximum-security prison and experience the acclaimed stage adaptation of the much-loved novella, as The Shawshank Redemption arrives at the Wycombe Swan Theatre.

    On stage from Tuesday 10th to Saturday 14th March 2026, the story centres on Andy Dufresne, who is sentenced to two consecutive life terms for murders he insists he did not commit. Behind bars, he forms an unexpected friendship with fellow inmate and prison fixer, Red.

    Exploring themes of injustice, desperation, friendship and hope, the production captures the emotional power of the original story while delivering a gripping and deeply moving performance that lays bare the harsh and dehumanising realities of prison life.

    Joe McFadden stars as Andy Dufresne, the softly spoken banker wrongly convicted of murdering his wife and her lover. Calm, clever and quietly resilient, Andy’s survival depends on connection – particularly with Ellis “Red” Redding, played by the outstanding Ben Onwukwe, who reprises his critically acclaimed performance from the show’s earlier tour.

    Their friendship forms the production’s emotional backbone, wry and tender.

    Completing the central trio is Bill Ward as the chillingly corrupt Warden Stammas, a performance that simmers with menace and control. As Andy’s talents for accountancy are exploited behind bars, a dangerous game unfolds – and a daring plan is set in motion, hidden in plain sight.

    Fans of the original 1994 film will appreciate the respectful nods to a cultural classic (nominated for seven Academy Awards and now considered one of the greatest films of all time), while newcomers will see why this story continues to resonate decades later.

    As The Shawshank Redemption itself reminds us: get busy living, or get busy dying… This production firmly chooses the former.

    For more information or to book tickets, visit Wycombe Swan’s website or call 0343 310 0060.

    Production photography © Jack Merriman

  • 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.

  • An iconic 90s psychological thriller heads to New Victoria Theatre

    An iconic 90s psychological thriller heads to New Victoria Theatre

    Sharing your home can be murder… Discover how, when Single White Female comes to Woking’s New Victoria Theatre in March 2026.

    Based on the iconic 90s psychological thriller, the world premiere stage production of Single White Female comes to Woking’s New Victoria Theatre – for a limited time.

    Running from Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th March 2026, the new adaptation promises a bold and modern reimagining of the best-selling book and hit movie, which coined a phrase and led a generation to fear a stiletto heel.

    Starring Coronation Street and Waterloo Road‘s multi-talented Kym Marsh and actress and presenter Lisa Faulkner, Single White Female invites us into a world where trust is fragile, friendships are tested, and secrets lurk behind every closed door.

    Full of dark humour and stiletto-sharp suspense, this brand new adaptation by well-known author, journalist and broadcaster, Rebecca Reid, updates the original story to the age of social media and all that it brings, in a gripping tale of ambition, obsession, and the desperate need for belonging in an isolating world.

    Allie is a recently divorced mum, balancing being a single parent with the launch of her tech start-up.

    When she decides to advertise for a lodger to help make ends meet, the delightful Hedy offers her a lifeline. But as their lives intertwine, boundaries blur, and a seemingly perfect arrangement begins to unravel.

    From the producer of the hit stage adaptation of The Girl on the Train, Single White Female will captivate, shock, and keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

    Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience that explores just how far we’ll go to find – and keep – a family together.

    For more information or to book tickets, visit ATG Tickets website.

    Check out interviews with Kym Marsh and Lisa Faulkner.

    Image © Chris Bishop