Round & About Magazine

Tag: Oxfordshire

  • 3 simple things to consider when refreshing your home this spring

    3 simple things to consider when refreshing your home this spring

    Interior designer Sara Wallander-Ross, founder of Oxford’s Studio Wallander, shares three key tips to keep in mind when refreshing your home.

    “Just like people, every building has its own behaviour, and the homes that function best are the ones that work with that.

    “When thinking about a home, whether it’s a period property or a newer house that needs more character, I always start with its personality and potential”, said Sara Wallander-Ross, founder of Oxford’s Studio Wallander.

    As spring approaches, homely quirks become more visible: here are three angles to keep in mind as you prepare for the lighter days.

    Lead with personality, not trends

    Great homes show your personality as well as the character of the space and feel both comfortable and beautiful. Colour, pattern and texture are the elegant tools of timeless rooms and nothing to be nervous about.

    Use them to your advantage. Antiques and vintage pieces in real wood and natural fabrics bring character and patina, so look to your local antique and secondhand shops as well as auction houses for small side tables, lamp bases and well-made chairs. They will age well; most flat-pack won’t. In a narrow Victorian hallway or a newer semi-detached home, a few solid pieces do more for character than a car boot of ornaments.

    Look to the light

    If you constantly feel irked by the colour and mood of your room, start by finding out which way it faces. Is it a cool north-facing space that needs warmth, or does it get strong westerly evening sunlight? Pinning down how much light you get, when it is at its brightest, and the colour temperature will help you with both mood and function.

    ‘I have seen dark, north-facing rooms go from dingy and lifeless to impactful jewel boxes when the light is allowed to steer the colour palette,’ Sara says. ‘If you try to fight the light, you will lose the battle. The right colour scheme can turn the gloomiest room into something cosy and welcoming.’ The upcoming seasonal shift is perfect for comparing the cooler winter light with the warmer days ahead and choosing colours that thrive in both.

    Plan before you buy

    Before you start buying new furniture or getting the paintbrush out, make a plan: storage to keep clutter at bay, lighting so you can see to read, and a furniture layout before committing to a larger sofa.

    Shopping is often the starting point for many people, but a home that feels ’off’ rarely needs more cushions. Understanding the spatial strengths and constraints of a room cuts down on stressful returns and helps avoid a house that no longer knows who or what it is. This is exactly when working with a designer can help.

    If you want to take a fresh look at colours, furniture layouts or plans for change as spring arrives, visit studiowallander.com for consultations and concept design.

  • Explore West Oxfordshire’s vineyard and mental health recovery garden

    Explore West Oxfordshire’s vineyard and mental health recovery garden

    Wander the walled garden and vineyard at Bridewell Gardens in West Oxfordshire, enjoy homegrown produce, and discover the mental health recovery work happening behind its ancient walls during its Open Days in 2026.

    Tucked away in a peaceful corner of West Oxfordshire, behind ancient walls and rolling vineyard rows, Bridewell Gardens is preparing to welcome visitors once again for its Open Days in 2026.

    Taking place from 11am to 4pm on Sunday 19 April, 17 May, 14 June and 6 September, these special days offer a rare chance to explore a beautiful working garden and vineyard while learning about the life-changing work that happens within its walls.

    Bridewell Gardens is a mental health recovery service supporting people in West Oxfordshire who have experienced serious mental ill health. Set within a walled garden and vineyard at Wilcote, Bridewell provides a creative, compassionate environment where recovery is nurtured through gardening and working with nature.

    As one former gardener puts it, Bridewell is “a small mental-health charity with muddy paths, patient people, growing things — and absolutely no pressure to pretend everything’s fine when it isn’t.”

    Open Days invite visitors to wander freely through the walled garden, vineyard and surrounding spaces, discovering fruit, vegetables, flowers and vines grown as part of Bridewell’s day-to-day work.

    Plants propagated on site will be available to buy, alongside home-produced jams and chutneys and Bridewell’s acclaimed organic sparkling wine, made from grapes grown right there in the vineyard.

    A pop-up café will be serving tea and cake, while those keen to linger are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and relax among the vines. Families and children are welcome to explore, spot dragonflies by the pond, and count the chickens roaming the vineyard, while dogs on leads are also very welcome.

    Open Days are not just about enjoying a beautiful place. They offer an opportunity to meet Bridewell staff and volunteers, hear about the recovery service, and understand how working outdoors can help people rebuild confidence, develop skills and reconnect with their community.

    For many, Bridewell provides structure, kindness and hope at a time when it is most needed. As one participant reflects: “Bridewell has been my parachute. It got me out of the house, gave me routine, and helped me find confidence again.”

    Entrance is by suggested donation of £5 per person, with no booking required.

  • Rare water voles return to River Thame after decades

    Rare water voles return to River Thame after decades

    Rare water voles, celebrated in Wind In The Willows, have been spotted the River Thame catchment area for the first time in decades.

    For the first time in decades, water voles have been confirmed living in the River Thame catchment, offering a hopeful boost for one of Britain’s fastest-declining mammals.

    Known to generations of readers as Ratty in The Wind in the Willows – written by Henley resident Kenneth Grahame – the real-life return of this much-loved riverside character feels especially poignant locally.

    Volunteer monitors from the River Thame Conservation Trust captured video evidence of water voles at two sites – on the River Thame near Chearsley and Chalgrove Brook in Stadhampton– using motion-sensor wildlife cameras, earning a mention on Radio 4’s Today programme.

    The discovery marks a milestone in the charity’s long-running monitoring across the catchment.

    “It’s a fantastic affirmation of hard work by all the volunteers and landowners,” says Hilary Phillips of the trust. “These findings remind us how vital it is to protect and improve river and floodplain habitats, so we don’t lose any more precious wildlife.”

    One of the first clips showed a heron catching water voles, dramatic footage that, while difficult to watch, confirmed their previously undetected presence. Soon after, further video revealed a water vole swimming past a mink monitoring raft, clear evidence that at least one animal is actively using the river system.

    Water voles were once common along British waterways but have declined by more than 90% since the 1990s, largely due to habitat loss and predation by invasive American mink.

    Since 2023, the trust has been working with BBOWT as part of a landscape-scale mink control programme, funded through Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme.

    Conservation experts say the sharp drop in mink detection is encouraging and may be giving water voles the breathing space they need to recover.

    The rediscovery signals renewed hope that these charismatic mammals could once again become a familiar sight.

    Find out more at riverthame.org.

  • 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.

  • 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!”

  • Spring in Oxfordshire: Egg hunts, lambs & family fun across the county

    Spring in Oxfordshire: Egg hunts, lambs & family fun across the county

    Longer days, lighter skies and lambs in the fields can only mean one thing — spring has sprung in Oxfordshire. From steam trains and science festivals to blossom-filled gardens and egg-citing Easter trails, we’ve rounded up the very best days out to keep families entertained across the county this season.

    Spring has arrived in Oxfordshire, and the county is alive with egg hunts, lambing days, woodland trails, steam trains, hands-on museums, and more.

    Here’s our pick of the best family-friendly activities this season.

    Family trails and gardens at Kelmscott Manor

    William Morris’s historic retreat at Kelmscott Manor reopens for the season this spring. Explore family trails, blooming gardens, and enjoy a gentle stroll beside the Thames – perfect for older children and anyone looking to soak up a little arts and crafts magic.

    For more information, visit kelmscottmanor.org.uk.

    Science and discovery at ATOM Festival

    From Saturday 14 to Wednesday 25 March 2026, the ATOM Festival in Abingdon offers a mix of free and ticketed edutainment for all ages. Highlights include fossil handling sessions, geology talks, and interactive archaeology workshops led by local experts.

    For more information, visit abingdon.gov.uk or atomfestival.org.uk.

    Hands-on fun and exhibitions at Ashmolean Museum

    At the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, families can explore hands-on galleries, trails, and interactive games. Opening 19th March, the new In Bloom exhibition takes you on a journey through the history of plants from roses to camellias.

    With a café and family-friendly facilities, it’s perfect for a day out.

    For more information, visit ashmolean.org.

    Miniature steam trains at Pendon Museum

    On Saturday 18th and Sunday 19 April 2026, Pendon Museum opens its doors to showcase exquisitely detailed model landscapes with gently steaming trains.

    The special Ditchling Green 0-gauge model represents a 1950s Southern Region branch line. Entry fees apply.

    For more information, visit pendonmuseum.com.

    Steam and outdoor play at Didcot Railway Centre

    Step back into the golden age of steam at Didcot Railway Centre. Climb aboard beautifully restored Great Western Railway engines, enjoy the outdoor play area, and discover how trains shaped the region.

    For more information, visit didcotrailwaycentre.org.uk.

    Animals and Easter trails at Cogges Manor Farm

    Cogges Manor Farm offers a charming heritage experience with lambs, piglets, chicks, and hands-on Easter trails. Families can enjoy craft activities, explore the enclosed garden and orchard, and meet the friendly farm animals.

    For more information, visit cogges.org.uk.

    Nature and picnic at Letcombe Brook Walk

    Follow the brook trail through spring flowers and wildlife at Letcombe Brook. Park at the Greyhound Inn, pick up a map, and work up an appetite before returning for a children’s menu and seasonal lunch.

    For more information, visit thegreyhoundletcombe.org.uk.

    Tropical wildlife at The Living Rainforest

    The Living Rainforest is home to 850+ species of plants and animals, from rare bromeliads to colourful birds, frogs, and reptiles. Families can enjoy a tropical adventure while learning about conservation and ecology.

    For more information, visit livingrainforest.org.

    Easter trails, games and egg hunts at National Trust

    From Saturday 21st  March to Sunday 12th  April 2026, The National Trust Easter Trail offers games, trails, and hidden eggs for children aged 0–12. Enjoy a day of outdoor fun at Basildon Park or Greys Court, set in beautiful gardens and parkland.

    For more information, visit nationaltrust.org.uk.

    Adventure play and trails at Blenheim Palace

    Blenheim Palace invites families to explore over 2,000 acres of trails, games, and the Adventure Play area, all set within spectacular lakeside parkland.

    For more information, visit blenheimpalace.com.

    Animals and play zones at Fairytale Farm

    Fairytale Farm offers an inclusive farm experience with animals, imaginative play zones, and seasonal spring activities for little explorers.

    For more information, visit fairytalefarm.co.uk.

    Open lambing days at Bishop’s Court Farm

    Meet newborn lambs, alpacas, goats, and pigs during the open lambing days at Bishop’s Court Farm from Monday 23 March to Monday 6 April 2026.

    For more information, visit bishopscourtfarm.com.

    Egg hunts and farm fun at Millets Farm Centre

    Millets Farm Centre offers egg hunts, meet-the-animals experiences, and a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the Easter break.

    For more information, visit milletsfarmcentre.com.

    Nature and workshops at Earth Trust

    Explore footpaths, nature trails, and enjoy wildlife spotting and seasonal workshops across the Wittenham Clumps. Wellies recommended!

    For more information, visit earthtrust.org.uk.

    Easter adventure trail at High Lodge Farm

    Join Eddie the Egg, complete woodland challenges, climb bales, play games, and enjoy free chocolate in the Field of Fun.

    Tickets on sale soon, across the Easter break.

  • 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.

  • Best Mother’s Day experiences in the South East

    Best Mother’s Day experiences in the South East

    From sparkling river cruises and indulgent afternoon teas to hands‑on workshops and soothing spa escapes, here’s our pick of wonderful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day across Surrey, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire.

    Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 30th March in 2026, offering the perfect excuse to slow down and show your appreciation.

    Whether she loves time on the water, a decadent dining experience, hands-on creativity or pure relaxation, there are plenty of thoughtful ways to celebrate close to home this year.

    River cruises

    Treat mum to a relaxing cruise along the River Thames this Mother’s Day.

    Enjoy three hours of sailing with Hobbs of Henley, complete with afternoon tea and a ‘Sparkling Lady’ cocktail on arrival. In Bray, choose a two-course lunch or afternoon tea cruise with Windsor & Maidenhead Boat Company, while Thames Rivercruise in Caversham offers scenic trips with dining options. It’s a stylish, stress‑free way to celebrate on the water with springtime views in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.

    Afternoon tea

    For mums who prefer dry land, there are plenty of indulgent options. Enjoy heritage surroundings at Waddesdon Manor, refined riverside luxury at Cliveden House, or sweeping Thames views with delicate pastries at Danesfield House Hotel & Spa.

    Head west to Wiltshire’s Lucknam Park for a special Mother’s Day afternoon tea with spa add‑ons, or treat her to a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea experience in Surrey’s vineyards with sparkling wine. Traditional finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a glass of fizz make it a memorable celebration.

    Creative workshops

    Gift a hands-on experience with creative workshops across the region. Try a Mother’s Day Bouquet Workshop at Coppa Club Henley or Buckingham Flower Farm, or explore modern calligraphy at Farnham Maltings in Surrey.

    For something crafty, book a candle-making workshop at Bicester Candles & Crafts and family-friendly glass fusing workshops at Wokingham Countryside Centre are also great for little helpers. These shared experiences leave mum with something handmade and memorable.

    Spa days

    If relaxation tops her wish list, a spa day is always a winner. Treat mum to indulgent spa packages at Pennyhill Park, known for its extensive thermal facilities, multiple pools and wide range of high‑end treatments in a luxurious Surrey countryside setting.

    For a truly lavish retreat, enjoy the elegant wellness facilities at The Spa at Coworth Park in Sunningdale near Ascot, set in a Georgian country estate with refined spa therapies and scenic surroundings. Taplow House Hotel & Spa also offers pampering treatments in a serene setting, perfect for a full day of unwinding and celebrating Mother’s Day in style.

    Scenic walks

    For mums who love fresh air, a walk through flowering arboretums and historic forests provides a tranquil springtime escape for Mother’s Day.

    Explore the bluebell trails and diverse tree collections at Winkworth Arboretum or explore the mature woodland trails at Alice Holt Forest – both in Surrey. Meander along the peaceful paths of Harcourt Arboretum in Oxfordshire and stroll among the ancient oaks and expansive glades of Savernake Forest in Wiltshire.

    Dining out

    A classic Sunday lunch never goes out of style. Book a riverside table at The Angel on the Bridge in Henley, enjoy refined dining at The Waterside Inn, or opt for relaxed country charm at The Crown at Bray.

    For mums with a sweet tooth, check out spots like The Pot Kiln in Thatcham and The Great House in Sonning, where indulgent desserts are plentiful. Treats include chocolate custard cream cones, rhubarb sorbet with gingerbread, treacle tart with rum & raisin ice cream, and white chocolate crème brûlée with orange shortbread — all perfect for a decadent finish.

    Family-focused events

    Celebrate Mother’s Day with fun, hands-on activities across the region. Take part in the Roald Dahl Ramble: Matilda’s Mother’s Day Walk in Great Missenden on Sunday 15 March 2026 or explore spring gardens and trails at Cliveden.

    Further afield, treat mum to a gentle Alpaca Walk at Hensting Alpacas in Hampshire, spot rare breed animals at Hogshaw Farm & Wildlife Park in Buckingham – with mums going free for the weekend – or head to Rumsey’s Chocolaterie for handmade Mother’s Day lollipops.

    Local gifts: Memberships, drinks & artisan hampers

    Prefer something to wrap? Celebrate local makers with artisan hampers from independent farm shops, small-batch spirits from producers such as Henley Distillery, or a vineyard tour and tasting at Stanlake Park Wine Estate.

    For a gift that keeps giving, consider annual memberships to organisations like National Trust — opening the door to hundreds of historic houses and gardens — tickets for Blenheim Palace Flower Show and a theatre membership or gift voucher for venues such as Oxford Playhouse or Norden Farm Centre for the Arts.

  • Discover practical parenting strategies at a free event in Oxford

    Discover practical parenting strategies at a free event in Oxford

    A free evening event for parents seeking connection and conscious discipline is coming to Oxford this March 2026.

    Conscious Parenting for a Visionary Childhood takes place at Oxford Quakers on Wednesday 4th March 2026, introducing parents to upcoming workshops, classes, and retreats.

    Running from 7pm to 8.30pm, the evening offers insight into child development stages and what they really mean, supports calmness in both body and emotion, and explores a fresh approach to discipline rooted in reconnection and love. The event will also look at how to balance nurture and challenge in parenting.

    Free to attend, the evening aims to help you fill your child’s life with spirit, connection, and harmony — creating a foundation for natural joy, wonder, and artful living.

    For more information, please call 01865 200 805.

  • Oxford Literary Festival 2026: Dates, speakers and what’s on

    Oxford Literary Festival 2026: Dates, speakers and what’s on

    The Oxford Literary Festival returns for spring 2026 with a packed nine-day programme of talks, debates and family events across the city.

    Back for another spring season, the Oxford Literary Festival presents a diverse programme of discussions, conversations and workshops in 2026.

    Taking place across central Oxford — from Blackwell’s Bookshop and the Bodleian Libraries to the Sheldonian Theatre, the Weston Library and college venues — the festival brings together international authors, journalists, historians, intellectuals and poets.

    Round & About highlights include major literary names, bestselling authors, family-friendly events and thought-provoking conversations on politics, history, culture and science.

    When is Oxford Literary Festival 2026?

    Oxford Literary Festival takes place from Saturday 21st to Sunday 29th March 2026.

    Who will appear at Oxford Literary Festival 2026?

    Standout figures featured in the main festival talks include Michael Morpurgo, acclaimed author of War Horse; Simon Schama, historian and writer known for his wide-ranging works; Antony Beevor, bestselling military historian; Michael Pollan, major nonfiction author on food, science and culture; and Tim Spector, scientist and author on health and diet.

    The programme also features prominent political figures Sajid Javid, Ed Davey, Jeremy Hunt and Vince Cable, discussing current affairs and global challenges.

    Best-selling authors spanning fiction and nonfiction include Peter Frankopan, author of The Silk Roads; international bestseller Kate Mosse; crime and children’s writer Anthony Horowitz; Girl with a Pearl Earring author Tracy Chevalier; espionage and history specialist Ben Macintyre; Nigella Lawson; classicist Mary Beard; and novelist Robert Harris.

    There is also a strong programme aimed at families and young readers. Highlights include Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, offering insights into The Gruffalo and other classics; Michael Rosen with a children’s picture-book event; Hugh Bonneville, presenting his book for young readers; and Louie Stowell, discussing Loki: A Bad God’s Guide to Causing Chaos.

    The festival’s dedicated Young People’s Programme also features workshops and sessions curated especially for children and teenagers.

    What Literary Walks are available to book at Oxford Literary Festival 2026?

    Alongside its programme of talks and discussions, the festival also offers opportunities to explore the city’s rich literary heritage beyond the lecture hall.

    Visitors can enjoy guided literary walks through Oxford, tracing the footsteps of famous writers and discovering locations linked to the city’s long tradition of storytelling, scholarship and publishing.

    These walking tours and related events offer a more informal way to engage with literature, combining history, architecture and anecdote, and provide a chance to experience Oxford itself as part of the festival.

    They are a popular option for those looking to balance seated events with time outdoors, or to explore the city between talks.

    Plus, browse for your next read at Blackwell’s Festival Bookshop at Blackwell Hall. The central pop-up bookshop stocks books from featured authors, with signings and browsing available throughout the festival.

    For more information, visit Oxford Literary Festival’s website.

    Image © Ray Harrington