What’s on this November in Hampshire

November is knocking on Hampshire’s door, and guess what? It’s not here to disappoint! Get ready to dive into an exciting lineup of family-friendly events and activities that’ll make your November pop with fun. From stargazing escapades to festive workshops, Hampshire’s got the scoop on what’s hot this month. So, grab your tiny explorers and your sense of wonder, because we’re about to unravel the best of what’s on this November in Hampshire!

Events and Activities

Look out for winter wildlife in the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens with the Winter Garden Bird Explorer.  Their Light Up Trail returns in November, immerse yourself in a truly unforgettable, magical light trail experience like no other, for the whole family! Limited capacity applies, booking is essential.

Follow letters to Father Christmas on a magical journey to the North Pole at Mottisfont from 25 November. Discover decorated bedrooms, a polar bear’s ball, and experience the wonder of the northern lights. Help deliver Christmas wishes on an outdoor activity trail, and step inside the Elves’ Sorting Office.

Head off on a family astro adventure at Night Sky Live at Winchester Science Centre. Sit back and relax in the Planetarium where you’ll learn the skills needed to identify what’s above us. Then head outside with your stargazing host to marvel at the stars, constellations and planets in the November night sky.  

Steam Illuminations returns to The Watercress Line (November to January). Experience an incredible light show on and in a steam train, consisting of thousands of coloured lights and LED wristbands, creating a kaleidoscope of different colours and flashing patterns. New for 2023 ‘Canopy of Lights’ a sound to light show inside every carriage. 

In November, visitors to Cyclexperience (main image) can savor the serene winter ambiance of the New Forest. With peaceful woodlands, grazing ponies, and cozy pubs offering hearty meals, it’s an idyllic backdrop for a cycling adventure. Explore the forest anew, then check out the expansive showroom, featuring huge winter discounts, making it an ideal spot to kickstart your Christmas shopping!

Enthusiastic about model making or interested in taking up a new hobby? Don’t miss the Army Flying Museum’s Aircraft Enthusiasts’ Fair & Model Show on Sunday 26th November. Enjoy stalls buying, selling, and exchanging aviation and modelling related items and have a go model making with Models for Heroes.

Chawton House is back with their Midweek Roasts for the month of November! Join us on Wednesdays at 12pm or 1.30pm for a relaxing afternoon indulging in our midweek roasts in the Old Kitchen Tearoom, placed in a traditional and cosy environment.

Christmas Shopping and workshops

Coming to Gilbert White’s House & Gardens is a Festive Rush Weaving Workshop on 12th November and Festive Wreath Making Workshops on 25th-26th November. Learn how to create folded reindeer with bells and angels from soft, supple rushes, or discover how to wind natural materials into a centrepiece Christmas wreath.

The Brickworks Museum is holding their annual Christmas Festival on November 26th. See the Museum glittering with fairy lights and make a start on your Christmas shopping at the craft market. For an extra special treat, pre-book your ticket to meet Father Christmas.

Enjoy the run-up to Christmas with a delightful, festive shopping experience at the Hawk Conservancy Trust! Discover unique gifts while supporting local craftspeople and the Trust. With over 60 local businesses attending, you can find personalised presents, Christmas decorations, handcrafted treats, beautiful homeware, and much more.                              

Showtime

From West End musicals to exquisite opera and from sumptuous dance to exciting music and comedy. There’s something for everyone at Mayflower Theatre this November. Bare all with The Full Monty, rocket launch into your favourite space films with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra’s Symphonic Space concert or indulge in flamenco meeting opera with Welsh National Opera’s Ainadamar.

Singer turned writer Tom Fletcher’s beloved children’s book, There’s A Monster in Your Show, leaps from page to stage at Theatre Royal Winchester in an exciting new musical show about a group of performers preparing for their show when they learn they are not alone. Little Monster wants to join in! Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 November

Magic is in the air at New Theatre Royal Portsmouth this November with 3 showings of The House with Chicken Legs 2nd-3rd. Based on Sophie Anderson’s much-loved novel, the story comes to life with puppets, live music and magic. November is also your chance to get on stage with 4 nights of The Importance of Being…Earnest? From 9th-12th.You may think you know this classic Oscar Wilde play but when actors begin disappearing audience members are asked to step in. The show must go on after all!

What’s on this November in Hampshire has shown us that this month isn’t just about colder days. It’s about making unforgettable memories with your crew. From gazing at the stars to winter gardens and festive workshops. Hampshire’s Top Attractions have kept the excitement level high.

Planning ahead to see Santa this Christmas? Get some inspiration on where to see the big man this festive season.

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