FOOD & DRINK: A Taste of Street Food at The Mutton at Hazeley Heath, 4 September, Hook

The Mutton at Hazeley Heath Hook Hampshire Head Chef Rob Boer

Whistle-stop culinary world tour, anyone? The Muddy Award Winning Mutton at Hazeley Heath is back with its sell-out Taste Of series. This time, Head Chef Rob Boer is bringing the buzz of street food to Hampshire. Think fiery Korean wings, zingy chaat masala, oozy pizza, Baja-style fish tacos and fairground doughnuts to finish. Hungry? These nights sell out faster than you can say “extra hot sauce.”

MUSIC: London Concertante: A Night at the Opera, 5 September, Winchester Cathedral, Winchester

Oh, the acoustics! A magical evening of music as London Concertante brings A Night at the Opera to Winchester Cathedral by candlelight. Enjoy a programme of beloved arias and overtures from Puccini, Verdi, Mozart, Rossini and more, including Nessun Dorma, The Flower Duet, La donna è mobile and Habanera. With stunning vocals, rich orchestration and the cathedral’s atmospheric setting, this 2 hour+ concert promises drama, romance and unforgettable melodies.

COUNTRYSIDE: Alresford Show, 6 September, Tichborne Park, Alresford

Celebrating rural life and communities, this traditional countryside show makes a grand day out. See prize-winning animals and modern and vintage machinery, tuck into local food and drink, enter your dog in the dog show and make the most of free children’s entertainment.

KIDS: 999 Day, 6 September, Port Solent, Portsmouth

RNLI lifeboat 999 Day Port Solent — Image: RNLI, *Nathan Williams*.

Blue lights, sirens and a whole lot of hero worship – Port Solent’s 999 Day is back, giving kids (and big kids) the chance to clamber inside fire engines, police cars, ambulances and more. From testing out a fire hose to meeting the bomb squad, RNLI lifeboat team and even ten shiny American cop cars, it’s a hands-on, family day out celebrating the South’s real-life superheroes.

RS: Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show, 6-7 September, Ryde

Isle of Wight Classic Motor Show September things to do

A free-to-attend charity event, see cool classic vehicles from all over the UK and Europe including 1,000+ vintage, custom, retro and rare vehicles. Find them on the Quay, Newport on Saturday 6 September and the Esplanade & North Walk, Ryde on Sunday 7 September.

FOOD & DRINK: Romsey Food Fair, 7 September, Romsey

One for the foodies! The pretty town of Romsey will be loaded up with tasty produce for this annual market with stalls along The Hundred and Latimer Street including artisan food stalls, street food, tastings, demos and brewers and distillers. If you’re coming from out of town, make the most of free Sunday parking in the local car parks. (And be sure to bring a bag or two).

FESTIVAL: Dub Pistols Mucky Weekender, 11-13 September, Vicarage Farm, Hampshire

Dub Pistols Mucky Weekender, Fri 8 - Sat 9 September, Vicarage Farm, Hampshire

Not had your music festival fix yet this year? This year’s boutique Mucky Weekender Winchester farm event has an awesome lineup featuring Groove Armada, Fabio & Grooverider and of course, hosts the Dub Pistols.

MOTOR: Goodwood Revival, 12-14 September, Goodwood Motor Circuit, near Petersfield & Chichester

The much-loved nostalgic celebration of motorsport and fashion’s hey-day, Goodwood Revival is filled with rare and priceless cars driven by champions past and present. And oh my goodness – the fashion! Get kitted out or beware the Fashion Police.

VISIT: Heritage Open Days, 12-21 September, various locations, Hampshire

Hurst Castle Heritage Open Days September 2025 — Image: Aerial view of Hurst Castle

Heritage Open Days are back and Hampshire is brimming with places to explore – for free! Step into the past in Southampton at Canute’s Palace and the medieval wine vaults. See history meet tech with the striking Storm Cone AR installation in Portsmouth’s Victoria Park. In Winchester, peek behind the curtain on a backstage tour of the Theatre Royal. Garden lovers can wander the elegance of the National Trust’s Hinton Ampner, while Austen fans lace up for a Jane Austen 250 guided walk. And don’t miss Hurst Castle’s free Open Day with family trails, kids’ crafts, wildlife fun and more.

JANE AUSTEN 250: Persuasion & Poetry Festival, 12-21 September, Jane Austen’s House, Chawton

Lovers of lit, lace and longing, rejoice! The Persuasion & Poetry Festival arrives at Jane Austen’s House with a dreamy line-up of talks, tours, workshops and performances inspired by Austen’s last novel. From poetry nights and mindful painting to Regency fashion, garden walks and dramatic readings, it’s a feast of words and creativity steeped in autumnal charm.

FAMILY: Taste of Wickham Festival, 14 September, Wickham

A full day of free family fun in the village square. Expect over 75 stalls brimming with artisan food, handmade crafts and street eats, plus craft cider, ales and cocktails. Kids will love the dedicated zone with bubbles, circus skills, arts & crafts, rides and face painting, while live music and entertainment fill the streets.

COMEDY: Donald Trump presents the funniest show on the Planet, 16 September, Hanger Farm, Totton

Get ready for laughs as comedy impressionist Mike Osman brings his spot-on Donald Trump act to the heritage Hanger Farm arts venue near Southampton. With over 16 million TikTok views, Osman nails the voice, mannerisms and even the custom wig in a brilliantly funny take on the two-time US President. Love him or loathe him, this sharp, satirical show promises big laughs and a night of comedy you won’t forget.

FOOD & DRINK: Nathan Outlaw at the Lime Wood Book Club, 18 September, Lyndhurst

Chef Nathan Outlaw at the Lime Wood Book Club New Forest Hampshire September 2025

Clear your diary, foodies and bookworms – Lime Wood launches its brand-new Book Club this September with none other than seafood maestro Nathan Outlaw. Set in the cosy glow of The Scullery, the evening blends storytelling, feasting and conversation, with a welcome cocktail, nibbles and a two-course supper cooked by Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder, inspired by Nathan’s latest book celebrating Britain’s waters. Expect a relaxed Q&A, seasonal flavours and the chance to rub shoulders with one of the UK’s most celebrated chefs.

ON THE WATER: Southampton International Boat Show, 19-28 September, Southampton

Southampton International Boat Show September 2025 Hampshire events — Image: Southampton International Boat Show

The UK’s biggest annual watersports and boating spectacular takes over Mayflower Park with a new look for 2025. Once again, the vast marina and shoreside will be packed with everything from paddleboards to superyachts, thrilling jet ski stunts, free “Try a Boat” sessions, live music in The Shipyard, and even a Dive Tank to dip into. With new zones like the Powerhub, Angler’s Alley, and a luxe Waterside Lounge, it’s ten days of all things nautical – whether you’re a bonafide salty sea dog or just fancy a family outing.

THEATRE: Noël & Gertie, 19-27 September, Mayflower Studios, Southampton

Theatre production of Noël & Gertie, 19-27 September, Mayflower Studios, Southampton Hampshire 2025

Step into the golden age of theatre as Noël & Gertie opens at Mayflower Studios, Southampton. This brand-new production celebrates the dazzling friendship between Noël Coward and Gertrude Lawrence, blending wit, warmth and West End glamour. Expect sparkling performances, classic Coward numbers and a stylish trip down memory lane with one of theatre’s most iconic double acts.

COMEDY: Hal Cruttenden: Can Dish It Out But Can’t Take It, 20 September, The Berry Theatre, Hedge End

Hal Cruttenden: Can Dish It Out But Can't Take It, 20 September, The Berry Theatre, Hedge End Hampshire tour comedy — Image: Hal Cruttenden

Comedy favourite Hal Cruttenden brings his brand-new tour to town, promising sharp gags, middle-aged musings and a good dose of self-deprecation. From politics to parenting (and his daughters’ total lack of respect), nothing’s off limits as Hal serves up his trademark wit. A guaranteed night of big laughs from a comic at the top of his game.

COUNTRYSIDE: The Breamore Country Fair, 20-21 September, Breamore House, near Fordingbridge

Autumn adventures await as the Breamore Country Fair returns to the rolling fields of Breamore House, Hampshire. Expect artisan food, vintage tractors, heavy horses, gun dogs, axe throwing (new for 2025!), plus fun for the kids from hobby horse racing to fairground rides. With a dog show, countryside displays and plenty of foodie treats, it’s the perfect wholesome weekend in the Hampshire fields.

OUTDOORS: Red Squirrel Ride for the RSPCA Isle of Wight, 20 September, Godshill or Fishbourne

Red-Squirrel-at-Quarr-Abbey-Isle-of-Wight RSCPA cycle ride September 2025

Squeak! Saddle up for the Red Squirrel Ride, a scenic cycle across the Isle of Wight in support of the Island’s most vulnerable animals. Choose between a leisurely 16-mile family-friendly loop or a more challenging 34-mile route, both largely traffic-free and winding along disused railway lines, coast paths and countryside trails. With checkpoints, cake stops, and medal glory at the finish, it’s the perfect way to explore the Island on two wheels while helping the RSPCA Isle of Wight.

THEATRE: Austen’s Women – Lady Susan, 23 September, The Haymarket, Basingstoke

Step into the world of Jane Austen like never before. This brand-new solo comedy introduces the charmingly ruthless Lady Susan alongside a cast of vividly drawn characters in a wickedly witty tale of love, power, and manipulation. Performed by Rebecca Vaughan and directed by Andrew Margerison, it’s a sharp, funny and captivating take on Austen’s very first work.

WELLNESS: Eat Nourish Love Fair, 23-24 September, Tedworth Park, Tidworth

Millie Mackintosh Eat Nourish Love Autumn Fair — Image: Millie Mackintosh, Eat Nourish Love Autumn Fair

Hop over the Wilts border and indulge in a little self-care and shopping heaven at the Eat Nourish Love Fair, coming to Tedworth Park this September. With over 120 stalls packed with beautiful gifts and wellness must-haves, plus inspiring talks from Millie Mackintosh, nutrition guru Lucinda Miller and menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson, it’s the perfect feel-good day out.

COMEDY: Ardal O’Hanlon: Not Himself, 28 September, New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth

Ardal O'Hanlon comedian tour September 2025 at The New Theatre Royal Portsmouth Hampshire — Image: Ardal O’Hanlon, *Matt Crockett*

Get ready to laugh yourself silly – comedy legend Ardal O’Hanlon (yes, him from Father Ted, Death in Paradise and Taskmaster) is back on tour with his brand-new show Not Himself. Expect razor-sharp observations, surreal tangents and a good poke at modern life’s absurdities – from AI and towel animals to chair yoga and cauliflower steaks. No solutions to the world’s chaos, just pure, healing humour from one of the sharpest comedy minds around.

FOOD & DRINK: Apple Day at Houghton Lodge Gardens, 28 September, Stockbridge

Time to get your crunch on at Houghton Lodge Gardens’ Apple Day, a juicy celebration in the heart of the Test Valley. With over 32 apple varieties to discover (plus the record-breaking espaliered pear tree!), expect tastings, traditions, and plenty of fruity fun in the prettiest of country garden settings.

SHOPPING: Michaelmas Fayre at Whitchurch Silk Mill, 28 September, Whitchurch

Cosy up to autumn at the Michaelmas Fayre at Whitchurch Silk Mill, a free family day out brimming with seasonal charm. Think artisan stalls (hello Longdog Brewery, Tadley Honey Bees & more), autumnal crafts and early festive shopping, plus competitions galore – from a pumpkin-growing contest to an Autumn-themed Victoria Sponge bake-off. Add in kids’ activities and riverside heritage vibes and you’ve got yourself the perfect autumn Saturday.

EXHIBITION: Where the Light Falls: Winifred Joseph’s Rural Archive, 30 September – 20 December, Petersfield Museum, Petersfield

Where the Light Falls exhibition. Winifred Joseph, Cottage interior with Pocock, 1917. Image courtesy of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery — Image: Winifred Joseph, Cottage interior with Pocock, 1917. *Courtesy of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery*.

Step back in time at Petersfield Museum & Art Gallery with Where the Light Falls: Winifred Joseph’s Rural Archive 1917–1939. This evocative new exhibition unveils never-before-seen photographs capturing everyday rural life, friendships, and travels in the early 20th century. From playful countryside scenes in Hampshire to European walking trips, Joseph’s images offer a rare, intimate glimpse into a bygone world – part history, part art and wholly captivating.

Super September! What’s on around Hampshire and the Isle of Wight

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