Open-air theatre near Winchester

Open-Air Theatre at The Hospital of St Cross, Winchester

25 May, 18 July and 22 August 2026
The Hospital of St Cross is putting on a brilliant programme of outdoor theatre on their medieval site. And where better to be immersed in the Arthurian adventures of King Arthur & The Holy Fail, promising an evening of daring quests, dashing knights, and plenty of laughs on 25 May. On 18 July, Oddsocks Theatre returns with their new take on Shakespearean classic, Romeo & Juliet. Cap off the summer with Gilbert & Sullivan's beloved operetta, HMS Pinafore, setting sail on 22 August.

Open-Air Theatre at The Vyne, Basingstoke

6 June, 20 June, and 12 July 2026
Nestled in the heart of the Hampshire countryside, National Trust's The Vyne is an idyllic spot to enjoy a season of outdoor theatre. On 6 June, star-crossed lovers take the stage in a bold reimagining of Romeo & Juliet. 20 June will see the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons Theatre take on The (Almost) Complete History of Britain, a show that tells the entire story of Britain in under 2 hours. Then return for some more Shakespeare on 12 June as the north lawn is transformed into As You Like It's infamous Forest of Arden.

Sherlock Holmes & The Hound of the Baskervilles at The Barn at Avington

3 June 2026
In this family-friendly production of Sherlock Holmes & The Hound of the Baskervilles, detective duo Holmes and Watson discover the deadly secret of the Baskerville family curse. Sit back, dig into your picnic, and get ready for live music, audience interaction and a marvellous mystery.

Outdoor cinema near Winchester

Outdoor Cinema at The Vyne, Basingstoke

16 - 19 July 2026
Visit the sweeping lawns of National Trust's The Vyne to watch your favourite movies on the big screen. Enjoy the 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice at the house Jane Austen herself visited; step into the adventures of the Gruffalo and Stick Man; sing along to the spellbinding soundtrack of Wicked; dance the night away to Mamma Mia!; and Experience Andrea Bocelli's incredible celebration concert. Prepare for a summer night you won't forget!

Outdoor Cinema Nights at Lainston House, near Winchester

6 - 29 August 2026
Settle in for a sunset screening of your favourite family classics, romantic throwbacks and marvellous musicals at Lainston House's Outdoor Cinema Nights. Snuggle up with your blanket, a picnic or a delicious woodfired pizza from the Wellhouse, Lainston House's onsite woodfire kitchen. Make it a sleepover by booking a room or suite at Lainston House. As a cinema goer, you’ll get 10% off your stay! Get in touch with the hotel team to redeem the offer.

Outdoor music and festivals near Winchester

Wild Arts: An Evening of Opera at Winchester College

22 May 2026
Bask in a summer evening of opera on the grounds of historic Winchester College. Operatic favourites from by Handel, Mozart, Rossini, and Britten, to the songs of Richard Rodgers and Stephen Sondheim have been woven into a new narrative. Performed by four opera singers and a string quintet, this is an evening that can't be missed!

Wickham Festival, Near Fareham

30 July to 2 August 2026
Wickham Festival is a 4-day music and arts festival held on a country farm near the historic village of Wickham. With live music on four stages plus a host of other entertainment, Wickham is rated by many as one of the safest, most relaxed and family-friendly festivals in the UK. This year’s lineup is a vibrant mix of folk, rock, and world music, featuring legends like The Saw Doctors, The Proclaimers and Curtis Stigers.

Jazz & Fizz at Hambledon Wine Estate

1 August and 8 August 2026
For two consecutive weekends, come to the Vineyard for a relaxed afternoon filled with music, food, and fizz, with the sensational Amy Baker (1st August) and the dynamic Brass Breakout Jazz Orchestra (8th August). A selection of food stalls and local produce will be on hand to perfectly pair with your complimentary glass of Hambledon's Finest English Sparkling Wine.

Wickham Festival, Near Fareham

12 August to 16 August 2026
Boomtown returns to Winchester this year for another spectacular year of music, theatre, and creativity. You can expect a lineup that dances across musical genres, including reggae, punk, electronic, folk, and more. Enjoy thousands of performers and over 500 musical acts including Scissor Sisters, Skrillex and Shaggy.