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What’s on in Oxford & Oxfordshire this April

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What’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this April

Hello and welcome to your invaluable guide to the best events, exhibitions, theatre and things to do throughout April in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.

Winter is finally over, and we’re all starting to emerge from hibernation. With the sun putting in a few appearances, the city is coming alive with a sense of excitement and all the possibilities of summer – without the sweltering heat or sunburn.

Easter weekend is just around the corner too – bringing with it a double bank holiday filled with fun, from family-friendly days out to lively club nights. Get ready for an unforgettable month with our top picks of events and things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.

Speaking of mild and sunny days, be sure to check out some of the best parks, open spaces and nature reserves in this neck of the woods as the flowers and trees start to bloom. We’ve even put together a list of some of the best places to enjoy the sun in Oxfordshire – because we’re good like that!

As you very well know, this is a curated list of things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this April. Do take a look at the ‘What’s on’ section of the website, where you’ll find a full list of events in Oxford and across Oxfordshire, as well as unmissable events beyond the county that would make for a great day out.

Got an event that should be on the list? List your event on The Oxford Magazine website and reach our growing audience of people who live, work or place in Oxfordshire. Once again, welcome to your invaluable guide to what’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this April.

The North Wall Arts Centre

YouthLab: Monologues & Music Masterclass explores actor-musicianship, combining drama and music to bring monologues to life. This three-day workshop at The North Wall ends with a sharing of work and welcomes participants of all experience levels.

NW Inventors: Make a Musical

The North Wall Arts Centre

NW Inventors: Make a Musical is a three-day creative course where participants explore music-making and storytelling, working together to create an original mini-musical in The North Wall’s Dance Studio with experienced, fully supervised facilitators.

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical / What’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this March

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical is a hit musical that tells the true story of a secret British operation during World War II, a fast-paced, hilarious, and unbelievable true story of the twisted secret mission that won us World War II.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Musical Youth Company of Oxford presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Oxford Playhouse — a fantasmagorical family musical packed with unforgettable songs, magical adventure and high-flying fun.

Stevie Martin: Clout

The North Wall Arts Centre

Stevie Martin returns to the stage with Clout after selling out her first tour leg, bringing her sharp, high-energy comedy back to live audiences following 45 million online views and promising a show packed with rapid-fire jokes.

UK Pink Floyd Experience

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

The UK Pink Floyd Experience brings ‘The Songs from every Album Tour’ to 2026, performing music from all 15 Pink Floyd studio albums with stunning accuracy, a spectacular light show and classic hits from every era.

Tudor Flower Painting Workshop

Be inspired by the natural pigments and flowers you can see in the Painted Wall on display at the Museum of Oxford, a legacy of Tudor Oxford.

Kendal Mountain Tour 2026: Adventure Night

The North Wall Arts Centre

Kendal Mountain Tour 2026: Adventure Night brings award-winning adventure films and live guest speaker Jude Kriwald to the stage, delivering an inspiring evening of exploration, resilience and powerful storytelling from across the globe.

The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged)

The Complete Works of Jane Austen (Abridged) is a fast, funny 80-minute romp as three actors tackle Austen’s entire canon, bringing her beloved heroines, romances and sharp social satire to life in a big-hearted comedy.

Seven Drunken Nights - The Story of the Dubliners

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Seven Drunken Nights: The Story of The Dubliners, the world’s No.1 celebration of Ireland’s most iconic band, will return to UK theatres in 2026 for its 10th Anniversary. With breathtaking performances and authentic Irish spirit, the show spans over 50 years, the 2026 UK tour of Seven Drunken Nights will feature an all-new production, boasting the show’s most lavish set to-date.

Museum of Oxford Walks: Oxford’s Queer History

Led by city guide Hannah Field, meet a host of fascinating characters including a ‘lesbian, Indian princess, suffragette, refugee smuggler’, a flamboyant bus conductor, a Catholic Saint, and many more. Learn about local characters, pubs and clubs of Oxford, University societies, Oxford Pride, and future events.

The Boat Race 2026

The Boat Race, the annual world-famous rowing contest between crews from Oxford and Cambridge University Boat Clubs, will take place on Sunday, 04 April, at its celebrated Championship Course on the River Thames in London. Not quite in Oxfordshire, but you can catch all of the action on television at your favourite local sports bar. This year will see the 17st Men’s Boat Race and the 80th Women’s Boat Race.

The UK Bee Gees

The UK Bee Gees deliver an astonishingly authentic tribute, recreating the harmonies, style and stage presence of the Gibb brothers in a hit-filled show featuring You Should Be Dancing, How Deep Is Your Love, Night Fever and Stayin’ Alive.

Bridget Christie - Jacket Potato Pizza

Little Wander in association with PBJ Management presents Bridget Christie’s brand new comedy show – Jacket Potato Pizza.

Adventures in Science

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Join The Magical Mr West for Adventures in Science, a fun-filled family show blending magic, experiments and mayhem as he and his wisecracking crow explore scientific enquiry, supersonic speed and the power of logic.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

Featuring the classical reimaginings of a 13-piece Chamber Orchestra, ‘The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight’ is an evening that brings the soul-stirring sounds of orchestral instruments fused with the vivacious energy and distorted tones of Rock and Metal – performed live in stunning, candlelit surroundings. Expect a glorious mashup of head-banging hits, including the likes of Metallica, Led Zeppelin, Rage Against the Machine, Linkin Park and more.

Honeycomb Festival

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Honeycomb brings together the best youth dancers and performers from Aylesbury Vale, Bucks, and the wider South East area to showcase their talent across four exciting nights. Tuesday and Wednesday bring musical theatre, drama, and dance extravaganzas, while Thursday and Friday are brimming with the best dance our area has to offer. Why not come along and see these amazing groups for yourself?

Blue - 25th Anniversary Tour

Pop icons Blue return for their 25th Anniversary Tour with special guests 911, celebrating their chart-topping hits and new album Reflections, out January 2026, the first taste of which comes with new single ‘One Last Time’.

Tales from Acorn Wood

Step into the enchanting world of Tales from Acorn Wood as Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s beloved characters come to life through songs, puppetry and interactive storytelling. A joyful family show perfect for young theatre-goers.

Terrible Tales & Dreadful Decisions: Write Your Own Wicked Cautionary Tale

Join authors Lizzie Shannon-Little and Gerard Lewis for a playful, creative writing workshop inspired by classic cautionary tales

The Magic Of The Beatles

The Magic of The Beatles recreates the energy, humour and unforgettable hits of the Fab Four in a spectacular live concert experience touring the nation featuring She Loves You, A Hard Day’s Night, Help!, I Feel Fine, Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, Hey Jude, Here Comes the Sun, Get Back and so many more non-stop chart toppers.

Tom Davis: Spudgun

Tom Davis presents his fully loaded show – Spudgun, firing out his freshly cooked observations on life’s hot topics.

Simon Mayor/Hilary James & Moonrakers

St Michael at the North Gate

Oxford Folk Festival presents an exciting double bill with mandolin maestro Simon Mayor partnered by singer/guitarist Hilary James, plus renowned 4-piece Moonrakers (cello, fretted instruments, harp, vocals). Expect jokes, choruses and superb musicianship.

Yourythmics

Yourythmics delivers a vibrant live tribute to the Eurythmics, featuring iconic 80s hits and Annie Lennox solo classics, performed with energetic musicianship, striking costumes and a show-stopping performance from acclaimed tribute artist Stacy Green.

Strong Enough: Ultimate Tribute Concert to Cher

Strong Enough: Ultimate Tribute Concert to Cher is a dazzling live spectacular celebrating six decades of hits, iconic fashion and unforgettable performances from the queen of pop and rock.

Queen of the Night - A Tribute to Whitney Houston

Queen of the Night – A Tribute to Whitney Houston is a show that honours Whitney’s timeless songs with sensational vocalists and a live band. Prepare to be captivated by an extraordinary journey through three decades of all-time hits such as I Wanna Dance With Somebody, One Moment In Time, I’m Every Woman, I Will Always Love You, My Love Is Your Love, So Emotional, Run To You, Saving All My Love, How Will I Know, Million Dollar Bill, The Greatest Love Of All, and many more.

A Woodland Wonder

A Woodland Wonder is a playful theatre adventure for ages 2 to 6, featuring Ratty and friends in a fun-filled mix of storytelling, music, puppetry and games — ending with a stay-and-play session for families.

Museum of Oxford Walks: Beer, Sausages and Marmalade

Join a Beer, Sausages and Marmalade walking tour to see Oxford through the eyes of Liz Woolley and discover Oxford’s unique food and drink heritage.

Wonders of Our Universe

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Join the show as it delves into the mysteries of stars, planets, galaxies, and black holes, and embark on the quest to find life beyond Earth. Experience the profound ‘Power of Smallness’ and a truly inspirational segment for our younger audience, ‘Destiny’.

Massaoke - Sing The Musicals

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Massaoke – Sing The Musicals is a musical tour by a sensational live band, character singers and a giant screen with sing-along lyrics. Get ready to belt out iconic hits from MAMMA MIA!, The Greatest Showman, Grease, Dirty Dancing, Les Misérables, The Phantom of the Opera, The Rocky Horror Show, Mary Poppins, Oliver!, We Will Rock You, and plenty more favourites.

NEIL BRAND’s Centenary Laurel & Hardy Show

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Neil Brand’s Centenary Laurel & Hardy Show celebrates 100 years of the legendary comedy duo with restored silent film clips, live improvised piano accompaniment and engaging insights into the life and legacy of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy.

Suzi Quatro

Suzi Quatro brings her 2026 UK tour, celebrating an incredible 62 years in the music industry. Fans can expect all their favourite hits. Fans can expect all their favourite hits: ‘Can The Can’, ‘48 Crash’, ‘If You Can’t Give Me Love’, ‘Stumblin’ In’, ‘The Wild One’, ‘Devil Gate Drive’, ‘She’s In Love With You’ – and many more.

Jim Henson's Labyrinth in Concert

Jim Henson’s Labyrinth in Concert brings the beloved 80s cult classic to the big screen with a live band performing David Bowie’s iconic soundtrack in sync with his original vocals for an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Glorious!

Glorious! tells the hilarious and heartwarming true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, starring Wendi Peters and Matthew James Morrison in a sparkling 20th anniversary production of Peter Quilter’s Olivier-nominated comedy.

Carlos Acosta's Carmen

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Carlos Acosta’s Carmen is a bold, high-energy reimagining of the classic opera, blending flamenco, Cuban dance and contemporary ballet in a powerful production set to Rodion Shchedrin’s vibrant orchestration of Bizet’s score.

An Evening with Kate Humble

Kate Humble joins Kenton Theatre for a special fundraising evening, sharing stories from her acclaimed TV series, bestselling books and adventurous life.

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Nicola Benedetti

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra welcomes Nicola Benedetti for Elgar’s epic Violin Concerto alongside the brilliant Enigma Variations, conducted by Marios Papadopoulos in a powerful celebration of orchestral emotion and virtuosity.

Sounds Of The 60s Live - Hosted By Tony Blackburn OBE

Every week, listeners across the UK tune into BBC Radio 2 to hear the legendary Tony Blackburn play the greatest songs of the 60’s. Now, the legendary DJ will be taking his Sounds of the 60’s show on the road for a UK tour celebrating the music of this much-loved decade.

Russell Howard - Don't Tell The Algorithm

Russell Howard, “one of the world’s top comedians” (Sunday Times) is back for a brand new live tour of the UK in 2026. As we reel from one global crisis to the next, join Russell, ‘the uplifting Comedy King’, as he puts the world to rights in his own uniquely hilarious way.

Alan Johnson: The Beatles, Harold Wilson and Me

The Beatles, Harold Wilson & Me sees Alan Johnson reflect on his journey from orphaned childhood in West London to senior government roles, revealing how The Beatles and Harold Wilson shaped his life in this nostalgic look at post-war Britain.

The Noise Next Door

The Noise Next Door are award-winning UK improvisers, turning audience suggestions into hilarious comedy on the spot, making you laugh like nobody’s business.

Club Mistero

Club Mistero is a thrilling 1920s New York murder mystery set in a glittering speakeasy, where secrets, betrayal and revenge collide in an immersive theatre experience packed with sharp dialogue and unexpected twists.

Radiohead Reimagined By Candlelight

Radiohead Reimagined By Candlelight returns to Oxford Town Hall as London Concertante transforms era-defining songs from The Bends to In Rainbows into a stunning orchestral experience illuminated by candlelight.

An Audience with Bob Champion: Sporting Legend & Grand National Jockey

An Audience with Bob Champion is an inspiring evening celebrating the Grand National legend’s remarkable 1981 victory, courageous battle with cancer and lasting legacy, featuring live music from Gaelic Gold and conversation with host Andi Mac.

Nirvana UK

Nirvana UK is one of the world’s premier tribute bands to Nirvana, who strive to be as close to the real deal as possible. From the sound to the style, their live sets cover a whole spectrum of Nirvana’s back catalogue and deliver the ultimate 90s throwback.

An Evening With Johns' Boys Welsh Male Voice Choir

Join Johns’ Boys Welsh Male Voice Choir in Oxford as they celebrate 10 years of world-class choral music. Choir of the World winners and Britain’s Got Talent favourites, they bring powerful voices, modern arrangements and the unmistakable sound of Wales.

Bear Grylls: Never Give Up

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Bear Grylls: Never Give Up is an inspiring live show packed with survival stories, unseen footage and behind-the-scenes adventures, as the world-famous explorer shares powerful lessons on courage, resilience and determination for families and young adventurers.

Revision on Tour: Macbeth

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Dickens Theatre Company presents the Bard’s bloodiest tragedy! With the infamous Porter acting as narrator, an ensemble of 6 actors creates a cauldron of characters, as Macbeth and Lady Macbeth make their perilous descent toward Hell. Set against a backdrop of wars, witchery, and treasonous plotting, Shakespeare’s ambitious Macbeth remains ominously relevant in the 21st Century.

Sweet Charity

Maidenhead Musical Comedy Society presents Sweet Charity, the Tony Award-winning musical following hopeful romantic Charity Hope Valentine as she dreams of true love beyond the Fan-Dango Ballroom, featuring hits like ‘Big Spender’ and ‘If My Friends Could See Me Now.’

Revision On Tour: Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Calling all English GCSE students and literature lovers! 1888. Victorian London is under attack. Within the thick Fitzrovia fog and dimly lamp-lit streets lurks an evil predator. Unprovoked, a young child is attacked and beaten by a mystery man. Who is this “sneering Satan”? 6 actors take on all the roles in DTC’s exciting new stage adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Victorian gothic masterpiece.

The Man Who Was Magic

The Man Who Was Magic returns with a brand-new production from award-winning illusionist James Phelan. Expect jaw-dropping tricks, big laughs and impossible moments in the five-star show that has sold out worldwide and stunned audiences everywhere.

The Bluetones (Acoustic)

The Bluetones Acoustic show is two members of Brit Pop legends The Bluetones featuring 2 hours of music interspersed with the banter and story telling of two musicians who have been working together successfully for over 30 years.

80s Night with Sledgehammer!

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Sledgehammer, the best 80s tribute band around bring 3 hours of non-stop 80s hits with a huge lightshow and highly entertaining stage show.

Queen of the Night - A Tribute to Whitney Houston

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Queen of the Night – A Tribute to Whitney Houston returns in 2026 with another show-stopping celebration of the music, legacy, and once-in-a-generation talent of Whitney Houston. Prepare to be swept away by three decades of timeless classics, including ‘I Wanna Dance with Somebody,’ ‘One Moment in Time,’ ‘I’m Every Woman,’ ‘I Will Always Love You,’ ‘My Love Is Your Love,’ ‘So Emotional,’ ‘Run to You,’ ‘Saving All My Love,’ ‘How Will I Know,’ ‘Million Dollar Bill,’ ‘The Greatest Love of All,’ and many more audience favourites.

Josh Widdicombe: Not My Cup of Tea

Come along to experience Not My Cup of Tea show with Josh Widdicombe – a funny stand-up with much references to tea. Expect it to be shorter and with lower production values than Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, but funnier and with more references to tea.

Bicester Heritage April 2026 Scramble

The second Scramble of the year will celebrate 100 years of the Technical Site of Bicester Motion, honouring the rich history of the former RAF Bicester that first began to take shape in 1926, a time when Bentley ruled Le Mans and the marques such as Sunbeam chased Land Speed Records, and Bugatti was the team to beat in Grand Prix racing.

Schola Cantorum of Oxford

Schola Cantorum of Oxford will present a programme of Shakespeare settings featuring contemporary and classical composers, concluding with Vaughan Williams’ Serenade to Music in a concert celebrating the University of Oxford chamber choir’s internationally recognised repertoire.

St John's International Piano Series: Alexander Gavrylyuk

Alexander Gavrylyuk performs works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt and Modest Mussorgsky in the latest St John’s International Piano Series recital.

Mike Wozniak: The Bench

Mike Wozniak returns to Oxford with The Bench, a new live show featuring his distinctive storytelling style, following appearances on Taskmaster and the Three Bean Salad podcast.

Gardens In Bloom: Tours of Trinity College

Gardens In Bloom: Tours of Trinity College offers visitors an informal walk through Trinity College Oxford gardens, highlighting restoration work, sustainable planting and recent developments led by Head Gardener Kate Burtonwood.

The State of the Union

The State of the Union brings together leading election analysts, journalists and politicians to examine what the 2026 campaigns reveal about political change and the future unity of the United Kingdom.

Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger's Drift

Murder comes to the countryside in the stage premiere of Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift. Join DCI Barnaby and Sergeant Troy as they unravel secrets and rivalries in a gripping new theatrical whodunnit packed with twists, suspense, and charm.

Organ Recital with Ian Hockley

Join Organ Recital with Richard Moore at Oxford Town Hall in the stunning Main Hall for some beautiful music performed on the famous Father Willis Organ. 

Antiques Expert on the Road

Mark Smith brings military history to the stage with stories behind the Victoria Cross, exploring its origins, myths and remarkable recipients.

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra: Mozart Requiem

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra presents an all-Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart programme featuring Piano Concerto No. 23 and the Requiem, alongside the live premiere of Agnus Dei.

Simon and Garfunkel: Through the Years

Simon and Garfunkel: Through the Years recreates the sound of Simon & Garfunkel, with Bookends performing classic songs including The Sound of Silence and Bridge Over Troubled Water.

Pat Suet-Bik Hui & the Three Perfections

Pat Suet-Bik Hui & the Three Perfections showcases the Hong Kong-born artist’s mastery of painting, calligraphy, and poetry, presented alongside works by her teacher Lui Shou-Kwan and other historical examples. The exhibition highlights Hui’s contemporary approach, blending abstract ink and colour washes with poetic inscriptions exploring love, loss, and life’s quiet joys.

In Bloom: How Plants Changed Our World

In Bloom: How Plants Changed Our World at the Ashmolean Museum uncovers the hidden histories behind Britain’s most beloved blooms. Explore over 100 artworks and objects that reveal how plant exploration and trade shaped landscapes, cultures, and economies – from roses and tulips to camellias and peonies.



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Oxford Events

What’s on in Oxfordshire this September

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What’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September

Hello and welcome to your invaluable guide to the best events, exhibitions and things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire throughout September.

September in Oxfordshire may be ‘back to school’ time, but it’s also when the county comes alive with a lot of the cultural scene that goes into semi-hibernation mode over the summer, returning to life in the autumn.

From comedy to concerts, funfairs to country fairs, there’s something in stock for everyone in Oxfordshire this September. And if you fancy venturing further afield, consider a cultural day trip to London’s west end for a weekend matinee in one of London’s theatres (the capital city is relatively calmer then).

And while it may officially be the end of summer, the British Autumn may yet surprise us with some spectacular sunny spells. If that be the case, make the best of it with brunch at one of Oxfordshire’s best restaurants with outdoor seating or afternoon tea in a country house that’s within easy reach.

Needless to say, this is a curated list of things to do in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September. Take a look at the “What’s on” section, where you’ll find a growing array of events in Oxford and across Oxfordshire, plus unmissable ones beyond the county that would make for a great day out.

Got an event that should be on the list? List your event on The Oxford Magazine website and reach our growing audience of people who live, work or play in Oxfordshire. Once again, welcome to your invaluable guide to what’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September.

Blenheim Palace is delighted to be hosting a series of exclusive watercolour workshops led by acclaimed Woodstock artist Rod Craig.

The Choir of Man

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Welcome to The Choir of Man, the best pub in the world. Come ready to drink in the excitement. Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry and many more.

Salon Privé 2025 at Blenheim Palace

Salon Privé returns to Blenheim Palace with their most sensational line-up to date. For four days, the South Lawn will be overcome with the finest super and classic cars in the world, accompanied by luxury brands and exquisite hospitality to form the UK’s Most Exclusive Motor Show.

Jack Rooke’s Good Grief

The North Wall Arts Centre

BAFTA-winning writer and recovering spoken-word artist Jack Rooke brings back his debut comedy-theatre show ‘Good Grief’ featuring the original show, some present day musings and a decade retrospective of Jack Rook capitalising on his dead dad to varied levels of failure and success.

Ruby Wax: Absolutely Famous

Ruby Wax and Clive Tulloh review clips from Ruby’s extraordinary shows, tell scandalous stories never before heard, and take the audience along for the ride.

Wallingford BunkFest

On the banks of the Thames in South Oxfordshire, Wallingford BunkFest is a free-access community festival providing a unique, family-friendly celebration with something for everyone. From a small marquee in a pub car park to filling the KineCroft and providing entertainment throughout Wallingford, on the River Thames and the Bunk Railway line.

Festival lineup includes: The Delicate Sound of Pink Floyd / Dr Feelgood / The Blue Water Giants

The Archers: Live at 75

The Archers: Live at 75 tours the UK with cast performances, music and nostalgic moments celebrating the iconic BBC show. Experience Ambridge as you’ve never seen – or heard – it before!

Michael Spicer - Hope All's Well

Michael Spicer, the online sensation who brought you the award-winning viral hit The Room Next Door, brings another hilarious and brilliantly entertaining satirical stage show – Hope All’s Well.

Enter THE CASTLE with Jon Ronson - Mystery, Crime & Unmoored Men

Jon Ronson brings his latest book to life on stage, exploring mystery, crime and human behaviour in a gripping live show. You’ll also get a first look at what’s coming in the next season of Things Fell Apart, and the chance to put your questions directly to Jon.

Rare Plant Fair at Adwell House

The Rare Plant Fair at Adwell House near Thame brings together specialist nurseries and plant enthusiasts in a historic Chilterns garden setting. Visitors can explore rare and unusual plants, enjoy food stalls, and experience the estate’s celebrated walled garden and water features.

St Giles’ Fair at Oxford City Centre

St Giles’ Fair is one of the most prestigious and long-standing fairs in the country, dating back to 1625 as a parish festival celebrating the feast of St Giles – it is held on the Monday and Tuesday following the first Sunday after St Giles’ Day (01 September).

Over the centuries, it has evolved from a toy and children’s fair to a large-scale funfair, with rides and attractions expanding during the Victorian era. Today, the fair is run by Oxford City Council, drawing huge crowds for two days of traditional rides, games, and festivities each September.

Discover more: All the fun of the fairs

Holy Holy: The Final Tour

Holy Holy recreate the authentic sound of David Bowie with drummer Woody Woodmansey and producer Tony Visconti leading an all-star band through Bowie classics from the 1970s to Blackstar. Featuring Heaven 17’s Glenn Gregory on vocals, the acclaimed live show celebrates one of music’s most influential catalogues with stunning performances and musicianship.

My Royal Life: An Audience with Lucy Worsley

Lucy Worsley shares stories from Britain’s royal past in an engaging live event exploring palaces, monarchs and history. Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and thoroughly charmed.

The Sustainable Fashion Show

The Sustainable Fashion Show returns to Blenheim Palace as part of Sustainable Fashion Week 2026. Showcasing innovative local and emerging designers, the runway features more than 70 sustainable looks created from rescued, upcycled and pre-loved materials in the stunning Orangery setting.

Cornbury House Horse Trials

Cornbury House Horse Trials is a new original eventing experience that promises to be a stylish, fun, and innovative experience for competitors and spectators from all around the world. Enjoy locally sourced and sustainable food and drink, retail with luxurious local brands, plus access to the otherwise private Deer Park and the wider historic parkland.

Víkingur Ólafsson: Piano Recital

Experience an extraordinary piano recital from Grammy Award-winning Icelandic pianist Víkingur Ólafsson as he explores the timeless musical connections between Bach, Beethoven and Schubert. Featuring expressive performances and the introduction of the Schwarzman Centre’s new Steinway D grand piano, this captivating programme celebrates beauty, lyricism and emotional depth.

Paul Merton and Suki Webster's Improv Show

Paul Merton and Suki Webster’s Improv Show is an evening of sensational improvised comedy featuring fast, fabulously funny improvised games, scenes, stories and laugh out loud surrealism.

A Night of Laughs for Lawrence Nurses

Join A Night of Laughs for a fantastic evening of comedy in aid of the Oxfordshire charity, Lawrence Nurses. Don’t miss Miles Jupp, Adam Kay, Lucy Porter, Arthur Smith, and Ria Lina for a night of sharp wit and big laughs – all for an incredible cause.

Toxic MasculiniTEASE

The team behind OxPHWOARd brings Toxic MasculiniTEASE, boylesque at its best – a racy romp of bodacious boys and satirical striptease, starring performers of all shapes, sizes, and genders, pushing boundaries and showing there’s more than one way to be sexy and masc!

Jon Anderson & The Band Geeks – YES Epics, Classics & More

Jon Anderson performs YES classics live with The Band Geeks in a tour celebrating iconic progressive rock hits.

Lucy Porter: Let Yourself Go!

The Theatre Chipping Norton

Lucy Porter returns to Chippy with a brand new show about the power of letting yourself go – in every sense and using your midlife crisis to pursue new goals and reinvent yourself.

Thompson Twins' Tom Bailey

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Tom Bailey opens his 2026 UK tour with a Friars Aylesbury performance celebrating the biggest Thompson Twins hits, joined by special guests Blancmange for an evening of iconic Eighties synth-pop classics.

Adventure Cinema at Stonor Park

The UK’s No.1 outdoor cinema shows come to the beautiful Stonor Park & Gardens near Henley-on-Thames. Get ready for an experience like no other in this incredible setting.

Miriam's Full English LIVE

Join Miriam in conversation for stories from the new book, naughty confessions, and a no-holds-barred Q&A where no question is off-limits. Expect memories & mammaries, Arsenal, politics, filth, and absolutely everything in between.

Oxford Open Doors 2023 / What’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this September

Oxford Open Doors is a weekend that celebrates Oxford’s heritage and culture by giving everyone the chance to explore the colleges, university buildings and green spaces together with a range of heritage sites across the city – many of which are not usually open to members of the public.

Read more: Oxford Open Doors: nine properties to see inside

The Henley Farm & Country Show

Henley Farm & Country Show is a fun, family day visited by thousands every year and this year features the spectacular Bolddog Motorcycle Display Team, Shetland Pony Racing, Scurry Racing, Grand Parades of Animals, Heavy Horse Parade, Farm Machinery, Classic Cars and Vintage Tractors in the main ring.

Sam Campbell: Kid Giblet

Sam Campbell brings his surreal comedy show Kid Giblet live, blending absurd humour with sharp observational wit.

Witney Feast, The Leys, Witney, Oxfordshire

Witney Feast 2026 brings the community together for a lively celebration of local food, drink, entertainment and family-friendly fun in the heart of Witney.

Lord of the Dance: 30th Anniversary

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Lord of the Dance presents their 30th Anniversary, a combination of precision dance, powerful music, pyrotechnics, and emotional storytelling featuring over 150,000 taps per performance, with the dancers’ energy and passion promising an electrifying experience.

Masters Events: Oxford 2025

Transform Trauma Oxford 2026 by Masters Events presents Science, Spirit and the Body: The Synthesis of Healing, exploring how modern science, embodied practice and spiritual understanding come together to create a more integrated vision of healing. Join thousands of people from around the world who are advancing the future of trauma and mental health care.

Lineup of speakers includes: Gabor Maté / Bessel van der Kolk / Licia Sky / Tara Swart and many more.

MAN WOMAN

Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities

MAN WOMAN, a visually striking dance performance by New York choreographer Vangeline that reimagines the world of Butoh for contemporary audiences. Inspired by Eikoh Hosoe’s iconic photographs, the production blends expressive movement, visionary costumes and an immersive electro-acoustic score to explore identity, transformation and female agency through a bold feminist lens.

Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials

The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials is a must for any eventing enthusiast. It’s four days of eventing action, including Dressage, Cross Country and Showjumping, all taking place in the breathtaking grounds of one of Britain’s most beautiful and historic venues – Blenheim Palace, home of the Duke of Marlborough.

Thame Fun Fair

Get ready for three days of rides, thrills, treats and family fun as the annual Thame September Fair lands on the High Street. From dodgems and waltzers to hot dogs and candy floss, there’s something for everyone.

Butoh: Workshop "The Art of Receiving"

Learn to move with ease, fluidity and total control with internationally acclaimed choreographer, dancer and teacher Vangeline. Whether you’re a dancer, performer, or simply a complete beginner who is curious about movement and creativity, this workshop welcomes all. 

Fin Taylor: The Pre-emptive Comeback Special

Fin Taylor, the King of the Internet Jungle, is back with his Pre-emptive Comeback Special live, delivering sharp, fearless stand-up on his biggest tour yet.

Medieval Jousting – The Ultimate medieval rematch awaits at Tumblestone Hollow

The Knights of Royal England return to Stonor Park for an action-packed weekend of medieval jousting, thrilling full-contact tournaments and family entertainment. Enjoy archery, falconry, axe throwing, street food and adventures at Tumblestone Hollow in a spectacular historic setting.

An Evening with Racing Icons David Coulthard & Mika Häkkinen

Experience the electrifying reunion of Formula One’s most captivating driver partnership, as former team-mates, fierce rivals and companions David Coulthard and Mika Häkkinen are back on the road for a live evening of stories, insight and humour.

When the Blackbird Sings

23 September to 11 October

Step aboard When the Blackbird Sings, an immersive promenade production that takes audiences on a remarkable journey through Oxford’s past and present. Following Paulette’s inspiring story from 1966, this powerful new production combines live performance, travel by bus and historic locations to explore identity, community, resilience and the people who have shaped the city’s history.

The Lemonheads

The Lemonheads head out on their 2026 tour, representing a significant new chapter for the band rooted in a commitment to their music and the community that surrounds it.

Tosca

The award-winning Oxford Opera Company is back at The Playhouse with Puccini’s iconic Tosca. New Zealand-born Samoan soprano, Marlena Devoe returns following critically acclaimed performances as Mimi in La Bohème and Pamina in The Magic Flute. Be swept away by the majesty of Puccini’s music as Oxford Opera Orchestra brings this epic human story of love, lust, loyalty, corruption, jealousy, and revenge to life.

Phase | Pattern | Pulse

25 September to 11 October

Phase | Pattern | Pulse features three audio programmes of Steve Reich’s compositions: Music for 18 Musicians, Drumming and The Sextets, offering an exploded 360° insider’s view of some of Reich’s most admired compositions, revealing the inner structures of each piece in fresh and startling detail. 

The Lark Ascending

University Church of St Mary the Virgin

Experience an enchanting candlelit evening with the English Chamber Orchestra and acclaimed violinist Harriet Mackenzie, featuring Vivaldi’s exhilarating Winter from The Four Seasons, Vaughan Williams’ soaring The Lark Ascending and John Eccles’ beautiful Aire from The Mad Lover’s Suite.

Ania Magliano: Peach Fuzz

The North Wall Arts Centre

Fresh from starring in the latest series of Taskmaster, Ania Magliano brings Peach Fuzz, a brand-new show full of jokes, confessions, and occasionally unhinged observations.

The Amazons

Explosive indie-rock favourites return to the stage with their signature blend of huge riffs, anthemic choruses and raw, high-energy performance. Expect powerful guitar-driven tracks, soaring vocals and the kind of urgency that has made them a standout force in modern British rock.

The Jeff Beck Experience

The Jeff Beck Experience is a celebration of the extraordinary sound, style and legacy of one of the most influential guitarists of all time, Jeff Beck. This is your opportunity to hear some of the most iconic instrumental rock work performed live, with a focus on authenticity, atmosphere and respect for a truly unique musical legacy.

Al Murray: All You Need Is Guv

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Al Murray brings his brand new stand up show – All You Need Is Guv, with hot-takes for the masses and offering a much-needed truth tonic. With a fresh and frothing pint to hand, a barrel of laughs to pour from, and a flower in his heart, Guv is all you need.

The Night Sky Show

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Bringing his successful sellout and highly praised show on a UK tour, Astronomer and author Adrian West (aka VirtualAstro) presents a glorious visual and thought-provoking experience for everyone who looks up and wonders. Using amazing visual effects, The Night Sky Show will take you on a fantastic and epic journey across the cosmos from our celestial backyard.

Love Hurts - Rock Anthems & Power Ballads

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Get ready for a night of raw emotion, powerhouse vocals and thunderous guitars as Love Hurts – Rock Anthems and Power Ballads storms across the UK in 2026.

Tom Davis: Spudgun

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Tom Davis is back on the road with his fully loaded show Spudgun, firing out his freshly cooked observations on life’s hot topics.

David Essex

David Essex returns to the stage with his ‘Thanks for the Memories’ tour in September 2026, celebrating decades of music, theatre and performance in a must-see live show for fans old and new.

Urzila Carlson

Comedy star Urzila Carlson heads to the UK in 2026 with her new show Fatty on a Yacht, blending deadpan humour and sharp observations on identity, belonging and life’s awkward moments.

Out of the Deep

Every Saturday (Except 26 December)

Out of the Deep is a family-friendly specimen handling and exploration of the underwater world of marine reptiles.

Family-Friendly Sundays

Oxford University Museum of Natural History

Join Family-Friendly Sundays for free sessions including nature-themed activities, creative crafts, family-friendly trails and more, all provided by the museum’s volunteers.

Didcot Railway Centre in Didcot, Oxfordshire

Step back into the golden age of the Great Western Railway at this 21-acre living museum, where trains from Victorian times to the 1960s bring railway history to life. Explore historic engine sheds, restored locomotives, interactive signalling displays and wartime exhibits, with the rare chance to see steam-era engineering up close in a quieter, immersive setting.

Marlborough Mini Farm at Blenheim Palace

Meet the four-legged and feathered summer guests this summer as the Walled Garden comes alive with the sights, sounds and snuffles of the Marlborough Mini Farm.

Camp Tumblestone

Camp Tumblestone arrives at Tumblestone Hollow with a brand-new outdoor adventure included in every summer holiday ticket. Families can enjoy giant garden games, an agility trail, imaginative play in the teepee camp area and even more exciting activities alongside the popular adventure playground.

Appau Jnr Boakye-Yiadom: Modular Merger

Developed through research into the Bate Collection of Musical Instruments at the University of Oxford, the exhibition brings together sound, video and photography to consider what is revealed and concealed through the collection, preservation and display of musical instruments. At its centre is a new sound work created using recordings of historic instruments from the collection.

Life Through a Royal Lens Exhibition at Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace presents Life Through a Royal Lens, a major photography exhibition tracing the Royals’ enduring relationship with the camera, from the reign of Queen Victoria to the present day.

Wonder of Birds

The Bodleian Libraries’ Wonder of Birds exhibition explores art, science and culture through the lens of avian life. Featuring rare archives, manuscripts and immersive sound, it invites visitors to reflect on both the beauty of birds and their decline.

Pip & Posy's Treehouse Trail

Join Pip & Posy’s Treehouse Trail in Adventure Play on an adventure to solve the mystery of the missing toy Piggy!



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13 remarkable cars to look out for at this year’s Salon Privé Concours

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There are car shows, and then there are gatherings where the car becomes something closer to an artefact: a record of ambition, craftsmanship and the particular obsessions of the people who built it.

This year’s Concours by Aviva Private Clients at Blenheim Palace brings together machinery from across the history of the automobile, from pre-war racers and hand-built grand tourers to prototypes and modern hypercars. Some are celebrated names; others are rarities whose stories are almost as compelling as their engineering.

Set against the architecture and parkland of Blenheim Palace on 2 and 3 September, the event offers a chance to see cars that rarely share the same piece of ground. Here are some of the entries worth seeking out.

What makes a concours compelling is not simply rarity. It is the opportunity to see, gathered in one place, the different ideas that have shaped the automobile: speed and elegance, experimentation and excess, engineering discipline and sheer imagination.

At Blenheim Palace, those ideas span almost a century, from the craftsmanship of pre-war luxury cars to the uncompromising technology of today’s hypercars. Together, they offer something more interesting than a parade of valuable machinery. They tell the story of what happens when designers, engineers and manufacturers decide that a car can be more than a means of getting from one place to another.

For anyone with even a passing interest in cars, it should make for quite a spectacle.

Armstrong-Siddeley Special Six

Class: The Golden Age of Motoring

Built during one of Britain’s great periods of automotive innovation, this elegant 1933 Armstrong-Siddeley Special Six captures the craftsmanship and engineering excellence that defined luxury motoring before the Second World War.

Maserati 8C 3000

Class: Sports Racers

One of the rarest Maseratis ever built, the 8C 3000 represented the marque’s ambition to dominate international motorsport. Combining formidable performance with unmistakable Italian styling, it remains one of the most coveted pre-war sports cars in existence.

Arnolt Bristol Deluxe

Class: Celebrating 80 Years of Bristol Motoring

Marking eight decades of Bristol, this beautifully proportioned Arnolt Bristol Deluxe is one of the Anglo-American collaboration’s most distinctive creations, combining British engineering with elegant Italian coachwork.

Alfa Romeo Sprint Berlinetta

Class: Celebrating 100 Years of Touring Design

Created by legendary coachbuilder Touring, this Alfa Romeo Sprint Berlinetta celebrates a century of one of Italy’s most influential design houses. Its lightweight construction and timeless styling helped shape sports-car design for generations.

Maserati 3500GT Spyder Prototipo by Vignale

Class: La Dolce Vita – Italian Glamour of the ’50s & ’60s

A one-off prototype, the Maserati 3500GT Spyder Prototipo embodies the glamour and sophistication of post-war Italy. Penned by Vignale, it represents the golden age of open-top grand touring and remains one of Maserati’s most striking creations.

Porsche 901

Class: Early Air-cooled Porsche Icons

Before it became the legendary 911, it was the Porsche 901. Produced before Porsche changed the name following a trademark dispute with Peugeot, surviving examples are exceptionally rare and hugely significant in the marque’s history.

Ferrari 166MM by Touring

Class: Sports Racers

One of Ferrari’s earliest competition cars, the 166MM helped establish the marque on the world stage, with victories in endurance racing including the Mille Miglia and Le Mans. Today, it remains one of the most historically significant Ferraris ever built.

Lamborghini Miura P400S

Class: 60 Years of the Lamborghini Miura

Widely regarded as the world’s first true supercar, the Miura changed automotive history with its mid-engined layout and dramatic Marcello Gandini styling. Sixty years after its debut, the P400S remains one of the most influential and captivating cars ever produced.

Ferrari 328 GTS

Class: Never Mind the Weather – Cabriolets & Convertibles

One of Ferrari’s most recognisable and usable classics, the 328 GTS captures the spirit of open-top motoring in the late 1980s. With its removable targa roof and timeless Pininfarina design, it remains a firm favourite among collectors.

Ferrari 250 GT Series 1 Cabriolet

Class: Passione Ferrari

Elegant, rare and effortlessly desirable, the Ferrari 250 GT Series 1 Cabriolet is regarded as one of Maranello’s finest grand tourers. Combining V12 performance with beautiful coachwork, it represents Ferrari at its most refined.

Bugatti EB110 Prototype

Class: Supercar Icons

A pioneering supercar ahead of its time, the Bugatti EB110 showcased advanced engineering, including four-wheel drive and a quad-turbocharged V12. As a prototype, this example offers a fascinating glimpse into Bugatti’s ambitious revival during the 1990s.

Aston Martin Valiant Prototype

Class: Limited Production Supercars

One of Aston Martin’s most extreme road cars, the Valiant was developed with an emphasis on driver engagement. This prototype offers a rare opportunity to see the engineering behind one of the world’s most exclusive modern supercars.

Bugatti Bolide

Class: Hypercar Heaven (2006–2026)

Designed with virtually no compromises, the Bugatti Bolide pushes automotive engineering to extraordinary limits. Built around uncompromising, track-focused performance, it represents the extreme end of modern hypercar design and is among the most anticipated cars at this year’s Concours.



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Supercar invasion: Salon Privé 2026 to bring a slew of UK automotive debuts

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For five days in September, Blenheim Palace will become a particularly improbable backdrop for the future of the automobile. The lawns and formal gardens of one of England’s grandest country houses will host machines designed not for the school run, the commute or even particularly sensible journeys, but for speed, rarity and spectacle.

Salon Privé 2026 returns to Oxfordshire next week with what organisers describe as the largest collection of supercar and hypercar debuts in the event’s 21-year history. Among them will be cars being shown in Britain for the first time. And it is a line-up that says something about the peculiar state of the modern collector car.

The internal-combustion engine may be facing its most profound transformation in generations, but at the top end of the market there remains an extraordinary appetite for cars that are faster, rarer and more elaborate than anything that came before.


Lamborghini’s latest V12 arrives in Oxfordshire

Taking centre stage in the Automotive Gallery will be the Lamborghini Revuelto SV, making its UK debut at Blenheim Palace shortly after its global unveiling at The Quail in California.

The SV name carries considerable weight at Lamborghini. Meaning Super Veloce, or “Super Fast”, it can be traced back to the Miura SV of 1971 and has subsequently appeared on some of the marque’s most extreme V12s, including the Diablo SV, Murciélago LP 670-4 Super Veloce and Aventador SV.

The Revuelto SV continues that lineage — with numbers that would have seemed absurd even by Lamborghini’s standards a generation ago. Its V12 hybrid powertrain produces 1,065 CV and 1,425 Nm of system torque, sending the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.4 seconds and to 200 km/h in 6.7 seconds. Top speed is in excess of 345 km/h.

Lamborghini describes it as the most powerful and fastest production car it has ever built at Sant’Agata Bolognese. Only 1,963 examples will be produced, a reference to the year Automobili Lamborghini was founded, with the car reserved for the marque’s most loyal customers and collectors.

For Salon Privé visitors, though, the attraction is rather simpler: this will be the first opportunity to see the Revuelto SV in the UK. It will be joined at Blenheim by Lamborghini’s Urus SE Performante, making its own debut at the palace.


BRABUS brings two very different monsters

If Lamborghini’s approach is to push its established V12 formula further, BRABUS has opted for something more eccentric. The German coachbuilder will unveil the BRABUS BODO, a 2+2 Gran Turismo standing just 130 centimetres tall and limited to 77 examples.

The car is named in tribute to BRABUS founder Bodo Buschmann and draws on the proportions and character of the grand coupes of the automobile’s so-called golden age.

Under its carbon-fibre body is a hand-built 5.2-litre V12 biturbo engine. The result is a 0-to-100 km/h time of three seconds and a claimed top speed of 223 mph. It is an unapologetically old-fashioned idea executed with modern engineering: a large engine, a low roof and very little interest in restraint.

BRABUS will also use Salon Privé for the UK debut of the 800 Cabrio, based on the latest Mercedes-AMG G 63.

The transformation from familiar boxy off-roader to open-top luxury machine required more than 500 newly developed components, including a complex soft-top system. There is an 800hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 beneath the bonnet, while production is limited to 50 cars worldwide.

The two BRABUS cars could hardly be more different in appearance, but they share the same philosophy: if something can be made more extravagant, it probably should be.


Meet Giamaro’s Krafla

Among the more intriguing names making its UK debut at Blenheim will be Giamaro Automobili, an emerging Italian marque presenting the Krafla in its GC livery.

The company describes the car as an expression of extreme engineering, Italian craftsmanship and driver-focused design.

The GC specification combines Azzurro Giamaro, Bianco Infinito and Grigio Cenere with exposed carbon-fibre elements, giving the car a finish intended to emphasise its aerodynamic forms.

Inside, the emphasis shifts from visual drama to the driver. The cockpit has been designed around ergonomics, materials and technology, with Giamaro presenting the Krafla as a hypercar in which the person behind the wheel remains central to the experience.

For a relatively new manufacturer, Salon Privé offers an audience that few other events could provide: collectors, enthusiasts and buyers accustomed to seeing the newest and rarest cars before they reach the wider public.


The headline cars are only part of the story.

Electrogenic and Theon Design will also stage debuts and unveilings, while Petroyle and Talos will make their first large public displays.

The Automotive Gallery will additionally feature Bristol Motors, Delage Automobiles, Koenigsegg and Elektron Motors.

The resulting collection reflects a changing automotive landscape.

The traditional supercar manufacturer now shares the stage with electric specialists, restomod companies, independent coachbuilders and start-up hypercar marques.

Some are preserving old ideas; others are attempting to reinvent them. All are competing for the attention of a clientele increasingly interested in rarity and individuality as much as outright performance.

Salon Privé has become a particularly effective stage for that competition because the cars are not presented in isolation.

They are displayed in the gardens of Blenheim Palace, among concours cars, fashion, hospitality and the rituals of a traditional English social occasion.

Five days of automotive theatre

The spectacle returns to Blenheim

Salon Privé runs from 02 to 06 September, beginning with the Salon Privé Concours by Aviva Private Clients and continuing through Ladies’ Day by Boodles, Supercar Saturday and Club Trophy Day presented by Lockton, before concluding with Supercar Sunday and Lifestyle Club Day.

But the cars are the reason to pay attention this year.

Salon Privé’s 20th anniversary in 2025 set a high bar for an event already accustomed to excess. This year’s answer is not subtle: more debuts, more hypercars and a collection of machines that exist at the outer limits of what a road-going automobile can be.

For Oxfordshire, it means that one of the county’s most familiar landmarks is about to become an unlikely meeting point for some of the most exclusive cars in the world.

The Revuelto SV will arrive carrying more than 1,000 horsepower. BRABUS will bring a V12 coupe and an open-air G-Class. Giamaro will introduce a new Italian hypercar.

And for a few days, the roads around Blenheim will lead not merely to a palace, but to another kind of fantasy — one measured in horsepower, carbon fibre and the increasingly rare sound of a V12.



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