DAYS OUT: Watercress Line Autumn Steam Gala, 3-5 October, Ropley, Alresford and Alton

Watercress-Line-Canadian-Pacific-departs-Ropley-1A54-1300-Alresford-to-Alton-002.jpg

What better way to see the autumn leaves than chuffing through the countryside on one of The Watercress Line’s steam trains? Visiting stars 60007 Sir Nigel Gresley and 34059 Sir Archibald Sinclair join flagship 35005 Canadian Pacific and the home-fleet locomotives for three days of scenic nostalgia. With unlimited rides, an enhanced timetable and the chance to hop on and off at four heritage stations along the scenic 10-mile line, you can explore special exhibits or soak up the whole journey from Alresford Station.

THEATRE: The Smeds and The Smoos, 3-5 October, Theatre Royal Winchester

The-Smeds-and-The Smoos theatre royal winchester hampshire October 2025 Julia Donaldson

Blast off on an intergalactic adventure as Tall Stories brings Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s The Smeds and The Smoos to the stage. Packed with music, laughs and out-of-this-world fun, this Olivier Award-nominated show tells the story of two star-crossed aliens who defy their families to zoom off into space together – a joyful treat for little ones (and their grown-ups) aged 3+.

CINEMA: Scream, Hocus Pocus & The Nightmare Before Christmas, 3-5 October, The Vyne, Basingstoke

Early Halloween treats aplenty at The Vyne this October. Bringing a trio of spooky movies to the magnificent National Trust gardens, wrap up and bring a blanket to one of these after-dark Adventure Cinema showings of classic movies Scream, Hocus Pocus and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

COMEDY: Jenny Éclair: Jokes, Jokes, Jokes Live!, 4 October, Theatre Royal Winchester

Jenny Eclair tour Hampshire October 2025

Comedy legend Jenny Eclair hits the road and heads to Hampshire this October with her riotous new autobiographical show, celebrating the release of her memoir. Expect outrageous tales from cider-fuelled drama school days to Perrier glory, motherhood, podcasting and beyond – all served with her trademark wit and a dash of punk poetry.

WELLBEING: Mind Retreat at Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, 4 October, New Forest

Take a deep breath and slip into serenity at Chewton Glen Spa Hotel with naturopath and nutritionist Rhi Heppel’s Mind Retreat. This soul-soothing day blends herbal teas, nutrition and natural tools to calm the nervous system with a compassion circle, self-care rituals and a hands-on session creating your own organic tea blend. After a nourishing lunch, unwind completely with a sound bath led by Melissa Lomas, before rounding off with spa time – the perfect reset for body and mind (£180).

FAMILY: Pumpkin Time at Sunnyfields, 4-31 October, Totton, Southampton

The biggest patch for miles, Sunnyfields’ annual pumpkin extravaganza is big, bold and a barrowload of fun. Marvel at the towering pyramid display and unbelievably gigantic, record-breaking pumpkins. This year, Pumpkin Time is open for 17 days, with 13 of them open late into the evening, complete with a DJ from 6:30pm. The Glow Trail returns for 2025 alongside six brand new immersive rooms to explore.

OUTDOORS: Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival, 4-12 October, Isle of Wight

Walkers on the Isle of Wight looking out over countryside Autumn Walking Festival October 2023

Taking in the glorious Isle of Wight countryside, this seasonal event for Islanders and visitors is a brilliant opportunity to get out there in the great outdoors. Graded by pace, from easy to strenuous, there are still spaces left on lots of themed walks, from history to wildlife, long-distance and scenic strolls, led by a knowledgeable volunteer guide.

ART: Anthony Lawrence Retrospective at Palais des Vaches, 4-31 October, Exbury

Anthony Lawrence Retrospective exhibition at Palais des Vaches, 4-31 October, Exbury new forest Hampshire — Image: Anthony Lawrence *Still Life with Figures – part 2, 1984.* Oil on canvas.

Calling all art buffs – The New Forest’s Palais des Vaches hosts the first major UK retrospective of celebrated Hampshire post-modern artist Anthony Lawrence (1951–2022). Showcasing more than 150 works (including never-before-seen pieces), this free exhibition charts five decades of his extraordinary creative journey.

TALK: Lara Lewington: Hacking Humanity, 8 October, The Yard, Alresford

Another thought-provoking event at the rustic countryside café. This time, tech broadcaster Lara Lewington dives into her new book Hacking Humanity, exploring how AI and innovation could transform our health – from wearables and weight-loss drugs to lab-grown organs and menopause breakthroughs – revealing how science might not only extend our lives but keep us feeling good for longer.

FOOD & DRINK: Mid-week Mussels at The Briny, every Wednesday from 8 October – 28 November, Portsmouth

Smack bang on Southsea seafront, Muddy Award-winning restaurant The Briny is all about laid-back, beachy vibes and top-notch seafood – and their Mid-week Mussels deal is the perfect excuse to dive in. Every Wednesday, feast on unlimited bowls of Moules Marinière or Mussels of the Day, complete with bread and fries, all for £25 per person. A proper midweek treat at one of Portsmouth’s favourite foodie spots.

LITERATURE: The Isle of Wight Literary Festival, 9-12 October, Northwood House, Cowes

Bookworms rejoice – the Isle of Wight Literary Festival is back at Northwood House, Cowes with big names like Sue Barker, Prue Leith, Joanne Harris and Gyles Brandreth on the bill. Expect talks, panels, workshops, Write on Wight showcases and family storytelling – plus the Secret Seven authors spilling the beans on everything from crime to royalty.

BALLET: Giselle, 9 October, Theatre Royal Winchester

Image: Ballet Cymru’s *Giselle, Sian Trenberth Photography*

Award-winning Ballet Cymru brings a fresh twist to the hauntingly romantic classic Giselle, reimagined through innovative choreography, striking costumes and immersive video projection. Set to Adolphe Adam’s iconic score, this ghostly tale of love, betrayal and forgiveness is performed by a brilliantly diverse company who are redefining what ballet looks like today. A powerful night at the theatre not to be missed.

THEATRE: Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show, 10-11 October, Fareham Live, Fareham

Peppa Pig is back, and she’s got a big job on her hooves! Join Peppa, George and the whole Pig family as they scramble to get the house ready for baby Evie in Peppa Pig’s Big Family Show – full of music, laughs, oinktastic fun and enough chaos to keep little ones (and grown-ups) thoroughly entertained.

MUSIC: A Coldplay Candlelight Experience, 11 October, St Peter’s Church, Petersfield

A new way to experience hit music with atmospheric concert experiences paying homage to world famous artists. Enjoy all the Coldplay hits performed in a beautiful classical style (no crowd cams in sight) at East Hampshire’s magnificent St. Petersfield Church in this candle-lit concert from Lumos Live.

FOOD & DRINK: Blackmoor Estate Apple Tasting, 12 October, Blackmoor, Liss

Morris dancers at the Blackmoor Apple Day October Hampshire — Image: Morris dancers at Blackmoor Estate

Think you know your Norfolk Royal Russet from your Reubens? No, neither do we – but it’s fabulous fun munching your way around regardless. Look out too for fantastic Morris Dancers, crafts, cakes, cider and horse-and-cart rides at this annual apple-themed family extravaganza.

FOOD & DRINK: Wine & Cheese Night at The Bell Inn, 17 October, New Forest

Ahh, the quintessential combo. Pull up a chair at The Bell Inn in the New Forest for a cosy evening of wine and cheese indulgence. Sample a specially curated cheese board with a flight of perfectly paired wines, sip, nibble and soak up the friendly tips from the team – a simple yet delicious night out from £30 a head.

COMEDY: Sara Pascoe, 17 October, Kings Theatre Portsmouth

sara-pascoe on tour in Portsmouth Hampshire October 2025 — Sara Pascoe, I am a Strange Gloop

Smart, surreal and brilliantly relatable, Sara Pascoe’s latest show I Am A Strange Gloop dives into the odd thoughts that strike in the middle of the night – the ones that feel genius at the time but don’t always make sense in the morning. Expect sharp stand-up, hilarious reflections on family life and Sara’s trademark mix of wit and weirdness, fresh from appearances on Taskmaster, QI, Live at the Apollo and more.

FOOD & DRINK: Seven-course Tasting Experience at The Garlic Farm Restaurant, 17 October, Newchurch, Isle of Wight

A foodie must-visit on the Island, The Garlic Farm restaurant is celebrating the season with a showstopping seven-course menu that heroes the very best Isle of Wight produce (with a generous hit of their famous garlic, of course). Expect inventive plates from their brilliant head chef – think truffled ravioli, jerk goat Wellington, treacle-cured beef and a baked Alaska with a boozy Wight whisky twist.

FAMILY: Rogate Pumpkin Patch, 17-31 October, Petersfield

Pumpkin patch Hampshire Rogate Petersfield October 2025

Just over the East Hants–Sussex border, Rogate Pumpkin Patch is back this October with all the autumn vibes – from pumpkin carving and face painting to a Skittles Alley, Pumpkin Shy and the ever-popular barrel train. Little ones (and Instagrammers) will love the spooky cornfield trail, quirky Halloween installations and giant bubbles with Wanda the Witch. Round off the season in gloriously messy style with the legendary Pumpkin Smash weekend.

CRAFT: Autumn Wreath Workshop, 18 October, Stansted Park, Rowlands Castle

If you can’t wait to create a Christmas showstopper, get into the autumn spirit and dress your door early with Jane from Hartley Food & Flowers in a hands-on workshop at Stansted House. Perfect for beginners and seasoned florists alike, you’ll spend a couple of hours crafting a stunning seasonal wreath to take home, all while enjoying the beautiful Blue Drawing Room setting, materials and refreshments included.

ACTIVE: Great South Run, 18-19 October, Portsmouth

The Great South Run Portsmouth Hampshire October — Image: AJ Bell Great South Run

Cheer, sponsor or limber-up for this famous and popular event. Starting at the Southsea seafront, it takes in views of Clarence Pier, Horatio Nelson’s Statue, Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth Harbour, passing HMS Victory (above) and culminates in a final two mile stretch along the beach and the famous seafront finish line. The 10k is sold out but you can still register for the AJ Bell Great South 5k and Junior & Mini Great South Run events a day earlier on Sat 19 October.

SPOOKY: Basing House Ghost Walks, 23-30 October, Old Basing

The historic ruins of Basing House have many a wicked story to tell. Bring a torch and hear them after dark on one of these spooky guided walks, then (weather permitting) venture into the deep and dark Tudor tunnel. Wooooh!

COMEDY: Henning Wehn: Acid Wehn, 24 October, The Anvil, Basingstoke

Germany’s self-styled comedy ambassador Henning Wehn is back with his latest show Acid Wehn, taking a typically wry, no-nonsense look at climate change. Expect sharp gags, tongue-in-cheek insights and Henning’s trademark deadpan delivery — because if anyone can make the weather funny, it’s him.

FAMILY: Fiesta of the Dead at Blackgang Chine, 24-25 & 28-30 October, Ventnor, Isle of Wight

Fiesta of the Dead at Blackgang Chine Isle of Wight October 2025 — Image: Fiesta of the Dead at Blackgang Chine

Step into the Land of the Dead as Blackgang Chine transforms for its spectacular Fiesta of the Dead extravaganza, a family-friendly celebration inspired by Día de los Muertos. Expect dazzling light displays, giant inflatable sculptures, roaming spirits, Mexican street food and jaw-dropping fire and aerial shows plus marshmallow toasting by the fire. With rides open after dark, this award-winning extravaganza is a riot of colour, flavour and fun for all ages.

FOOD & DRINK: Oktoberfest Southampton, 25–26 Oct, Guildhall Square, Southampton

Swap your sauvignon glass for a stein – Oktoberfest is back at Southampton’s Guildhall Square, with plenty of wurst, pretzels and an Oompah Band to dance the night away to.

KIDS: Halloween at Exbury Gardens, 25-31 October, New Forest

All aboaaard! Exbury Garden’s gruesomely good Halloween trail returns to the usually tranquil New Forest spot this October. Little (and not-so-little) ghouls can creep past witches, gravestones and spine-tingling surprises while crafty types get stuck into pumpkin carving and creepy makes. And because no Exbury Halloween is complete without it, the much-loved steam railway is back in its annual spooky disguise – expect ghostly guards, a bone-rattling ride and plenty of shrieks along the way.

What’s on this October around Hampshire & the Isle of Wight

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