What’s on and where to go this September in Hampshire

As the sun-drenched days of summer give way to the golden hues of autumn, you might think the season for adventure is winding down. Not a chance! September is bursting with excitement across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, offering the perfect opportunity to squeeze in a few more unforgettable days out. To help you plan, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide on exactly what’s on and where to go this September in Hampshire. From thrilling supercar experiences and unique heritage events to captivating theatre and fruitful apple festivals, there’s a fantastic array of activities to keep the fun going all month long! Plus don’t forget September is also a month of Open Heritage Days – find out what heritage sites you can visit for free in our dedicated Heritage Open Days blog(opens in new tab).

September events

On Saturday 5th to Sunday 6th September, Butser Ancient Farm(opens in new tab) welcomes BjarnarFolk for a Viking Reenactment Weekend. Explore a Viking encampment, discover early medieval life, watch warriors in combat, and experience living history demonstrations. Try traditional crafts, including spinning and chalk carving for a glimpse into life in the Viking Age.

Experience Winchester Cathedral in full bloom(opens in new tab) in WILD! The flower festival runs from 15th until 19th September, discover breathtaking floral displays and installations inspired by the natural world, created by talented designers, community groups and volunteers.

Step into the Curator’s Cellar for a unique wine tasting experience on 10th September 2026. Enjoy a curated selection of wines from around the world, presented by a wine expert, while the Royal Logistic Corps Museum(opens in new tab) share fascinating stories of extraordinary military medals from the same regions. Featuring the Victoria Cross won by Dalton at Rorke’s Drift. 

Discover a fascinating part of Gilbert White’s House & Gardens that few visitors get to experience with their Hop to glass brewery experience(opens in new tab) o  on 10th September. As one of only two heritage sites in the UK with an on-site brewery, this exclusive tour explores the history of brewing from garden to glass. The tour includes the gardens, the brewery and tastings.  

Make the most of a family day out with Marwell Zoo’s(opens in new tab) Summer Special Offer. Visitors can enjoy one half-price child ticket with every full-paying adult ticket, plus 15% off kids’ meals when booking online. Available on selected dates until 30 September. Terms and conditions apply. 

The Watercress Line’s(opens in new tab) Heritage Open Weekend on 12th and 13th September, offers behind‑the‑scenes access to restoration work, unlimited travel across four historic stations and engaging family activities. Explore engineering spaces, meet volunteers and enjoy heritage in action. See their Merchant Navy Class 35005 Canadian Pacific marking 18 months back in service.

There’s always something exciting happening at the Hawk Conservancy Trust(opens in new tab). This September (Saturday 5), they celebrate International Vulture Awareness Day with beloved vulture flying displays, and on Saturday 26 join us for their magical Owls by Moonlight evening, where you can experience the beauty of their owls and their near-silent flight after dark.

Don’t miss a ‘Tea and a Tour’ experience at the Army Flying Museum(opens in new tab) on Thursday 17 September. Discover fascinating stories and unique insights on a special guided tour beginning at 10.30am. Enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee and a delicious slice of cake in the Apache Café, either before or after the tour.

Join Jane Austen’s House(opens in new tab) from 17-20 September for their autumnal Persuasion Festival, celebrating Jane Austen’s last published novel. Across the long weekend there will be tours, talks, music and workshops with once-in-a-lifetime atmospheric events thrown in for good measure. Full day passes, free events and virtual events also available!

England Cricket returns to Utilita Bowl(opens in new tab) on 15th September, as England face Sri Lanka in a thrilling Vitality IT20 on 15 September at 6:30pm. Following July’s sold-out clash against India, another electric atmosphere is expected. Limited tickets remain, making this one of Hampshire’s must-see sporting events before the summer ends.

At The Vyne, visitors can discover the legacy of its Georgian owner, style connoisseur John Chute, through a house-wide exhibition(opens in new tab) highlighting his influential vision, cultivated taste, and personal expression (open daily from 11 am to 3 pm). To explore his story further, guests can join an hour-long biweekly tour(opens in new tab) with first-come, first-served tickets available at Visitor Reception on the day for a suggested donation of £5 per person, in addition to normal admission charges.

Hampshire days out this September

Go beyond a traditional concert with Classical Skies: James Bond at Winchester Science Centre(opens in new tab). This extraordinary planetarium experience on 26th September 2026 pairs a live quartet performing iconic Bond themes with a mesmerising voyage through galaxies and constellations, creating a cinematic journey through space that’s unlike any other.

Animal experiences at Staunton Farm(opens in new tab) make the perfect gift or day out for animal lovers this September. Get up close and personal with an animal of your choice with exclusive behind the scenes access.

Get your autumn adventures off to a flying start with Go Ape(opens in new tab) this September. Whether you’re a thrill seeker or prefer to stay closer to the ground, there’s outdoor fun for everyone. From thrilling high ropes and epic zip lines to Forest Segway tours, axe throwing and bouncy net adventures. Make the most of Hampshire’s great outdoors with Go Ape. 

September is a SUPER time to visit Paultons Park(opens in new tab) with your little ones! The park is quieter, the temperatures are cooler and there’s over 70 exciting rides and attractions to explore! Peppa Pig World is open for you to make incredible memories and children under 1 metre tall are free.

To celebrate September’s new beginnings book into one of the many workshops on offer in Southampton’s SeaCity Museum(opens in new tab) and Tudor House and Garden(opens in new tab). There is everything from art workshops for kids to Watercolours for Wellbeing for adults. Or do you dare to spend an evening in the most haunted house in Southampton?

Head to Manor Farm(opens in new tab) where children can enjoy the new ride-on tractor circuit, plus the digger and tractor play area beside Goat Mountain! Adults can relax on nearby benches and picnic tables, or use the undercover seating area, conveniently located next to the playbarn, ride-on toys and outdoor play space.

Visit Calshot(opens in new tab) this September! Whether it’s scaling a climbing wall, zipping along a zip wire or zooming down a ski slope in a rubber ring, we have lots of indoor activities – so the weather can’t stop the fun! Make it a coastal getaway weekend with accommodation and camping for families!

Make the most of the water before the autumn chill creeps in! Join New Forest Activities(opens in new tab) for a River Explorer, a scenic 2 hour guided paddle of the Beaulieu River. With exclusive use of the river, you will explore and learn about the history of the river and the local area. 

Launching in the X-Cube at Riverside Activity Zone(opens in new tab), The Traitors Experience, based on the hit BBC TV show, challenges guests to think like the Faithful, uncover deception and expose The Traitor before banishment awaits. Packed with suspense, teamwork and unexpected twists, every decision could determine who survives until the end! 

Make the most of summer at River Hamble Country Park(opens in new tab) with a relaxing barbecue or picnic by the water. Gather friends and family, enjoy beautiful riverside views, and unwind in a scenic outdoor setting. With dedicated BBQ areas, woodland trails and plenty of open space, it’s the perfect spot for a memorable day out. 

Adventure awaits at Kingsclere Estate this September! Explore woodland trails, muddy tracks, farm paths and breathtaking Hampshire views on an electric scooter with Baboon Adventures(opens in new tab). Want more thrills? Add axe throwing and save 25% when booked with your scooter adventure. 

Enjoy an action‑packed September at Tile Barn(opens in new tab) with archery, climbing, bushcraft adventures and more. Make the most of your time in the New Forest with a short weekend break in a cosy camping pod – a perfect escape combining outdoor fun, fresh air and unforgettable experiences.

Enjoy an exciting weekend break at Runway’s End(opens in new tab) with guided canoe tours and half‑day adventure activities, including archery, fire lighting, caving and more! Extend the fun with an overnight stay in woodland yurts, perfect for families and groups. A great getaway filled with outdoor adventure and unforgettable memories.

Hampshire Gardens & country parks to visit in September

Embrace the beauty of autumn at Sir Harold Hillier Gardens(opens in new tab). Young adventurers can discover bushcraft skills, enjoy campfire treats and explore the woodland during Foraging, Fire & Fun, Bushcraft on 12 September. Families can also enjoy the self-guided Autumn Family Spotter trail, while Home Education Classes run throughout term time on Mondays.

This Autumn, see Furzey Gardens(opens in new tab) through a different lens. Visit an inclusive photography exhibition from 12th September – 2nd November; ‘Nature through my eyes’ to see 20 photos taken by neurodisabled people who nurture Furzey Gardens. Explore the gardens transition into autumn and submit your own photograph into our competition. 

Get ready for a fantastic autumn at Hinton Ampner! Celebrate Apple Weekend(opens in new tab) on 19th and 20th September alongside fruit-growing experts from Sparsholt College as we dive into all things appley, delicious, and orchard-inspired—exploring everything from soil ecology to incredible local varieties. Plus, from 12th September to 18th October, step behind the scenes during Hinton Ampner Unseen(opens in new tab) to uncover hidden treasures usually kept in storage, fascinating conservation secrets, and the captivating stories that make this one of Hampshire’s most beloved historic houses.

Bring your four-legged friends to Bark at Staunton Country Park(opens in new tab) on 6th September for a fantastic day of family fun. Enjoy dog shows, demonstrations, shopping stalls, tasty treats, and plenty of wagging tails. It’s the perfect event for dog lovers and their canine companions.

Take in the breathtaking views of the South Downs on a Guided Downland Walk at Queen Elizabeth Country Park(opens in new tab). This gentle stroll across the top of Butser Hill is perfect for all abilities, offering fresh air, beautiful scenery and a chance to connect with nature in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

September theatre & shows

Portsmouth Guildhall is bringing the ultimate live entertainment to the city this September with an unmissable lineup! Dance the night away as Rhythm of the 90s(opens in new tab) returns on Saturday 5th September with a euphoric live set packed with iconic dance anthems, before Coldplay tribute Sky Full of Stars(opens in new tab) delivers a dazzling, visual-packed concert featuring hits like Clocks, Yellow, and Paradise. To round off the month on 27th September, comedian Jonathan Pie(opens in new tab) takes the stage with his hilariously scathing guide to surviving our modern political and global apocalypse.

At Theatre Royal Winchester in September, enjoy shows direct from London’s West End, Ministry of Science Live: Science Saved the World(opens in new tab) explores how science shapes our planet with 20ft liquid nitrogen clouds, exploding balloons, fire tornadoes, and bottle rockets on 13th September. Younger space explorers aged 3 to 7 can join three intrepid astronaut friends on a musical sci-fi adventure in Groove Onto The Moon(opens in new tab), packed with mesmerising animation, interactive theatre, and live funk, jazz, and rock music on 20th September 2026

On 4 September, The Three Inch Fools return to Stansted Park(opens in new tab) with their latest show King Arthur and the Holy Fail. In a land of daring quests, there lived a would-be hero: Arthur. When a tragic incident occurs in Camelot, will Arthur be able to save his beloved realm? 

At Mayflower Theatre(opens in new tab), The Ballad of Johnny and June is a brand-new musical that brings the remarkable true story of country music’s most iconic couple to the stage (8th – 12th September). Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man (16 – 19 September) comes to Mayflower Theatre for the first time! Pop the champagne and prepare for the spectacular spectacular as Moulin Rouge! The Musical arrives in town from 24th September until 24th October.

Mayflower Studios(opens in new tab) present the world stage premiere of The Pianist (9th – 12th September). Laugh out loud with Paul Merton & Suki Webster’s Improv Show on 23rd September. An Evening Without Kate Bush (24th September) explores their stories through her music, celebrating one of the most influential voices in British pop culture. Max Fulham is bringing his brand new show to Southampton, More Ham on 25th and 26th September.

Visit the Isle of Wight this September

September is the perfect time to visit the Isle of Wight with Wightlink(opens in new tab). As summer crowds ease and temperatures cool, visitors can explore more at their own pace while enjoying events such as the Classic Motor Show, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway Cider & Cheese Festival and Isle of Wight Jazz Weekend. 

September is the perfect time to visit the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary(opens in new tab). Free to enter, say hello to over 100 donkeys and equines in the relaxed countryside setting. Don’t miss the fun dog show on 27 September – a wonderful afternoon out for pooches and their families!

Don’t forget to check out our blogs(opens in new tab), news(opens in new tab), vouchers(opens in new tab) and events(opens in new tab). Planning your fun family days out in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight has never been easier!

Please note: Attraction features, facilities and offers or pricing are subject to change. Please always check their individual websites before visiting.