ART: Life on Watership Down, now until Sun 23 June, Sandham Memorial Chapel, Burghclere

Watership Down painting Aldo Galli exhibition at the National Trust's Sandham Memorial Chapel Hampshire — PIC: Aldo Galli

A new exhibition at the National Trust’s Sandham Memorial Chapel, on the edge of the actual Watership Down, this collection of artworks by Hampshire-based artist Aldo Galli was commissioned by author Richard Adams to illustrate the 40th anniversary edition of his 1972 novel. The fresh works might not move you to uncontrollable tears in quite the same way as the classic film but they’re undeniably evocative. Well worth a visit, especially if followed by a walk in the beautiful countryside and a pint in the nearby Watership Down Inn.

CRAFT: Easter Egg Hunt and Fairy Craft, now until Thurs 25 April, Furzey Gardens, Minstead

Delightfully away with the fairies, the New Forest’s Furzey Gardens are known for their hidden trail of magical doors dotted the gorgeous grounds. This April, there are giant eggs for kids to find too on the Furzey’s Arty Egg Hunt (until Sun 14 April). And for crafty older kids (9+) and adults, make a door for one for the fairies at the bottom of your own garden at special full and half-day fairy craft workshops in the activity barn.

DAYS OUT: Easter at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, now until Sun 14 April, Wroxall

Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary Wroxall things to do with the kids

Lots to do at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary this Easter holidays. Take the fun Easter trail and meet furry stars here with donkey experiences, grooming and free daily guided tours where you can get to know the gorgeous donkeys.

KIDS: Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book, Tue 2 – Wed 3 April, Theatre Royal Winchester

Charlie Cook's Favourite Book theatre production New Theatre Royal Winchester — Pic: Ellie Kurttz

Take a good look – it’s Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book! There’s plenty on for young theatre goers in Winchester this month, starting with this colourful adaptation of the Julia Donaldson classic. It’s followed by a special adaptation of the Rod Campbell classic Dear Zoo (Sat 6 – Sun 7 April). And The Singing Mermaid (Sat 13 – Sun 14 April), adapted for the stage with enchanting puppets. Can she escape the dastardly circus master and get back to the sea?

KIDS: Pond dipping at Harold Hillier Gardens, Tues 2, Thurs 4, Tues 9 and Thursday 11 April, Romsey

Have a poke in the pond at Harold Hillier Gardens in Romsey. Can you find diving beetles, nimble pond skaters and slimy snails? Nature-loving kids will love these outdoorsy sessions from 10.30am – last session at 2.30pm (age 3+).

SCIENCE: Discovering Diatoms – the Art of Scientific Drawing, Thurs 4 April, The National Museum of the Royal Navy, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Diatoms. The National Museum of the Royal Navy at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

They’re small – but mighty. Head to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard for this special World Beneath the Waves STEM event. Visitors can meet Dr. Mariem Saavedra-Pellitero, from the University of Portsmouth, view and learn about teeny tiny diatom samples under microscopes and have a go at sketching their intricate shapes.

MUSIC: Solent Soul with Retro Grooves, Friday 5 April, Hanger Farm Arts Centre, New Forest

Do I love you? Indeed I do! Spinning Northern Soul, Motown, Disco and more, DJ duo Solent Soul will play tunes made for vinyl, while music lovers groove on the venue’s made-for-dancing wooden dance floor.

DANCE: Johannes Radebe: House of Jojo, Sun 7 April, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Loved by fans and celeb’s alike, Strictly‘s Johannes Radebe (or Jojo) brings a host of eclectic characters to Southampton for his brand-new theatrical celebration. Expect roof-raising music, dazzling costumes and outrageously excellent dance.

KIDS: Spot’s Birthday Party, Weds 10 April, Portsmouth Guildhall

Spot the dog Theatre Show Tour Portsmouth Guildhall April 2024

Happy Birthday, Spot! The fun interactive family theatre tour (based on the much-loved Spot the Dog stories), comes to Portsmouth Guildhall. Woof to that! The show, which promises songs and dance, is being produced by the guys behind David Walliam’s Mr Stink, so it bodes well. For children 2+.

MUSIC: Classical Guitarist Zoe Barnett, Friday 12 April, The Yard, Chilton Candover, near Alresford

Classical Guitarist Zoe Barnet, Friday 12 April, The Yard, Chilton Candover, near Alresford Whats on Hampshire April 2024

The Nigel Kennedy of classical guitar, Zoe Barnett is an acclaimed concerto soloist and has collaborated with orchestras around the UK. See her play and enjoy a drink at the same time at this intimate gig at The Yard.

KIDS: Back to the 90s, Sat 13 April, Petersfield Museum

Party like it’s 1999 in Petersfield at this special Back to the 90s Family Fun Day. Dial up the nostalgia with 90s disco hits, throwback activities and crafts for the whole family to enjoy together. Geared towards kids aged 5-8, if you’ve younger ravers, bring them to the Back to the 90s Toddler Takeover on Monday 15 April.

ART: Sip & Paint Experience, Sat 13 April, The Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Whitchurch

Now this is my kind of art class! Starting with a quick mixology session, learn how to craft the perfect Tom Collins cocktail at the iconic Bombay Sapphire Distillery. Take pictures of the living botanicals and architecture of the beautiful Glasshouses and sniff your way around the Botanical Dry Room. Then, have another cocktail before returning to the Gallery where you’ll start painting. An expert will be on hand to guide on different techniques and compositions.

THEATRE: The Museum of Marvellous Things, Sat 13 April, The Point Theatre, Eastleigh

Fuelling an imaginative adventure, this interactive show with puppets is set in a magical museum. Find stars in jars, catch moons like balloons, dance with Doo-Dahs in cages and sing with Noo-Nahs on stages. Fun.

KIDS: Brickstravaganza 2024, Sat 13 – Sun 14 April, SeaCity Museum, Southampton

Brickstravaganza 2024, Sat 13 - Sun 14 April, SeaCity Museum, Southampton

A cool LEGO-themed construction event at Southampton’s SeaCity Museum, home of the fantastic Titanic Story. Admire displays in the Grand Hall, get creative in the free build room, join in the brick built ‘Robot Battles’ and search for clues to the anagram trail throughout the museum.

CELEBRITY: In Conversation with Shirley Ballas, Monday 15 April, Chewton Glen Hotel, New Milton

In Conversation with Shirley Ballas, Monday 15 April, Chewton Glen Hotel, New Milton what's on Hampshire

She’s a champion ballroom dancer, world-renowned dance teacher and adjudicator, a best-selling author and of course, the head judge of BBC1’s flagship show Strictly Come Dancing. This special event at the luxe Chewton Glen Hotel includes an arrival coffee and talk by Shirley Ballas, followed by a three-course lunch with coffee and a glass of wine.

OUTDOORS: Spring Blossom Guided Tour, Thurs 18 April, Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, Romsey

A real spring treat, join expert horticulturists for an early (9am) start to learn more about some of your favourite spring flowers in the beautiful gardens, from magnolias to camellias, rhododendrons and more.

CARS: Lexus LBX launch, Thursday 18 April, Hedge End

Lexus LBX event Hedge End Muddy Stilettos Hampshire

The stylish new LEXUS LBX has arrived in Hampshire! RSVP here and celebrate with Muddy at our free VIP Ladies Night on Thursday 18 April at Lexus Hedge End showroom. Check out the luxe hybrid LBX with local fizz and canapes, get a Charlotte Tilbury makeover, see live hair demonstrations by celebrity stylist Guy Kremer and mooch around brilliant local fashion, beauty and lifestyle pop ups. But go quick – spaces are limited.

LITERATURE: Winchester Books Festival, Fri 19 – Sun 21 April, Winchester

Back for a second year, this celebration of books and reading brings plenty of interesting speakers, from BBC Security Correspondent Frank Gardner to Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist Dr Soham Das and bestselling author Daisy Goodwin. There’s also a brilliant lineup of children’s authors too, including Children’s Laureate and Clarice Bean author, Lauren Child.

MUSIC: The Big Speakeasy, Sat 20 April, Palais des Vaches, Exbury

New Orleans comes to the New Forest this April with New Forest Event’s Big Speakeasy. See burleque dancing and soak up the sounds of live jazz from Nick Ward and the Jelly Rolls Band, with a cocktail and two-course meal including a traditional southern American jambalaya.

CRAFT: Laura Fisher candle-making workshop, Sat 20 April, The Viables, Basingstoke

Laura Fisher candle-making workshop, Sat 20 April, The Viables, Basingstoke

A luxury experience at Laura Fisher’s Basingstoke shop and workshop in The Viables. Learn about the craftsmanship of candle making including fragrance and materials before hand-pouring and crafting a luxury candle set to take home. While your candle is setting, use the time indulgently with a tasty cream tea from the nearby Parlour Tearoom.

CARS: Sandown Sprint, Sat 20 – Sun 21 April, Sandown, Isle of Wight

And they’re off! The nostalgic Isle of Wight Sandown Sprint Speed Trials return to Culver Parade this April. Harking back to the days before the national speed limit, it’s a must visit for enthusiasts and a fun day out on the Island for all.

ART: Spring Painting Workshop, Tues 23 April, Hinton Ampner, near Alresford

Tulips at Hinton Ampner Hampshire National Trust

Budding artist? The National Trust’s Hinton Ampner is known for it’s beautiful spring tulips. In this two-and-half-hour class, artist Linda Turner will demonstrate the techniques and skills to draw the bright spring flowers, from planning a composition to adding shade to create depth and realism.

COMEDY: Julian Clary: A Fistful of Clary, Friday 26 April, The Anvil, Basingstoke

Julian Clary: A Fistful of Clary, Friday 26 April, The Anvil, Basingstoke what's on April Hampshire

‘Renowned homosexual and national trinket’ Julian Clary is saddling up and heading for Hampshire. His new Western-themed show is filled with trademark camp and hilarious double entendre. Tickets for Winchester this April have already sold out, so go quick to catch the Basingstoke show. Failing that, book ahead and see him on Weds 12 June at the New Theatre Royal in Portsmouth.

DAYS OUT: Spring Steam Gala, The Watercress Line, Fri 26 – Sun 28 April, Ropley/Alresford/Alton

Spring is a lovely time of year to take a ride on the nostalgic Watercress Line. Whether you’re loco about the visiting trains (or just fancy a chuffing good day out), see and ride along the 10-mile track pulled by special guest engines and home-fleet locomotives.

OPERA: Carmen, Tues 30 April, Kings Theatre, Southsea, Portsmouth

Opera International’s award-winning Ellen Kent production of the classic opera Carmen features the Ukrainian Opera & Ballet Theatre Kyiv with international soloists, chorus and full orchestra. Gorgeous.

FURTHER AFIELD

DAYS OUT: Royal Mews, open now, City of Westminster, London

*The Gold State Coach. Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2024*

Love the pomp and ceremony of royal events? Head for the Royal Mews – a working royal stables responsible for the King’s road travel. A stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, you can get up close to the fairytale-like Gold State Coach used in coronations since 1821 and the Rolls Royce Phantom VI used in royal weddings. You can even climb aboard a reproduction landau for that essential photo op, tack up a (wooden) pony, and ‘ooh and aah’ over the other carriages and shiny bits of kit. A great day out for all ages.

BOOK AHEAD: Racing Green hospitality at Silverstone, Fri 5 – Sun 7 July, Towcester, Northamptonshire

Match Hospitality Silverstone Grand Prix

Planning to join the petrolheads, A list and Netflix film crews at this year’s Formula 1® Qatar Airways British Grand Prix 2024 at Silverstone? We’ve got an exclusive Muddy ticket offer where you only need to book the Sunday (the all-action day!) rather than the whole weekend.

COMING UP IN MAY

COMEDY: Ruby Wax: I’m not as well as I thought I was, Weds 1 May, The Haymarket, Basingstoke

Her first tour in four years, this comedic reflection and Q&A from Ruby Wax is akin to a one-woman play, filled with funny and heart-warming anecdotes. Book soon, this is sure to sell out fast.

THEATRE: Six Chick Flicks, Sat 18 May, The Berry Theatre, Hedge End

Six Chick Flicks comedy tour The Berry Theatre Hedge End May 2024

For a hilarious, feminist send-up of all your favourite girls’ night movies –Titanic, Pretty Woman, Beaches, Legally Blonde, The Notebook and Dirty Dancing, don’t miss Six Chick Flicks – a night of biting wit, fun montages, dance breaks, original songs and improvised moments performed by Kerry Ipema and KK Apple. Book now to catch it at The Berry Theatre, Hedge End on Sat 18 May and The Haymarket, Basingstoke on Thurs 30 May.

What’s on this April in Hampshire & the Isle of Wight

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