Portsmouth, 13th July - 13th Sept 26 (Free)
Discover what's on this summer holiday in South East England, from family-friendly events and outdoor adventures to festivals, shows and interactive experiences across Kent, Sussex, Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and the Isle of Wight. Whether you're planning days out with the kids, looking for what's on this weekend or exploring something new throughout the school holidays, you'll find plenty of events to keep everyone entertained. Browse highlights across the summer and start planning memorable family days out.
The South East has a packed calendar of summer events, from dramatic firework displays and spectacular airshows to colourful carnivals and classic car shows. Alongside these, you'll find a host of free activities taking place throughout the summer holidays in 2026. With schools out for the summer, new events are being added all the time - so keep checking back and make the most of the holidays with an eventful summer across South East England.
Scroll down to explore a selection of family-friendly events taking place across South East England, or use the search filters to find something near you. Our featured events list is full of value-added experiences, from live music at the bandstand and outdoor adventure trails to living history events bringing the past to life.
With events taking place right across the summer holidays, there’s always a new way to enjoy family days out in the South East. You can also explore events pages for each county across the region, or scroll to the bottom of the page for a full listing of events taking place across all nine counties this summer.
If you're planning a trip to South East England this summer holiday to enjoy some of the many events on offer, you'll find answers to some common questions below. You can also head over to the travel information page full of useful tips and information on different ways to visit.
There are events taking place every day during the summer holidays, including weekends. Use the search filters above to explore what’s on by date and location.
Head over to our free things to do page or enter 'Free' into the keyword search box above to find some of the free events available. You'll find free museums, airshows, art trails and music events which you can mix with other paid for events to make your budget go further this summer.
If you are travelling from outside the region, there are plenty of great value accommodation choices to suit your needs for a summer getaway. You can also search by destinations to link up with the local official tourism websites across the region.
Running from 22 July to 1 September 2026, the summer school holidays bring weeks of family-friendly events across South East England. Dates may vary slightly between counties, with Isle of Wight schools typically breaking up a few days later from 27 July. The summer holidays also include the August Bank Holiday on Monday 31 August 2026, which always sees a host of events, family activities and music festivals running across the destination. There is plenty to be excited about this summer, and with the weather forecast looking good too, plan your school summer holiday adventures right here.
Looking for events nearby? Use the map view and search filters to explore what’s on across each county, or discover events happening close to where you’re staying
Number of results: 116
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Gardens
Windsor
The Venus Garden at Windsor Castle opens to visitors for a limited time, offering a rare opportunity to explore a newly redesigned royal garden within the historic castle grounds. Inspired by The King’s vision and patterns in nature, this unique…
Childrens Events
New Forest
Some of the world's most loved stars from the Disney and Pixar Cars franchise cruise into the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu from 29th June 26 including Lightning McQueen, Jackson Storm and Finn McMissile.
Free Event
Dover
Head along to the Market Square this summer holidays for free entertainment in the heart of Dover town.
Taking place on selected dates, this is a great way to enjoy the summer vibes.
Tour
Oxford
The perfect walking tour choice for those who want to explore the main sites of Oxford City Centre and learn about their fascinating history in a short period of time. This 60 minute tour, offers a condensed yet comprehensive overview of the city.
Special Events
Woking
Treat yourself to a delightful two-night getaway with our dinner, bed, and breakfast package, complete with a complimentary bottle of house wine in your room upon arrival. Experience the cosy comfort of our accommodations as you relax and unwind…
Performance
Bexhill
From May to September 2026, the terrace at the De La Warr Pavilion will come alive with our vibrant programme of outdoor events celebrating music, movement, creativity and community. Outside On The Terrace brings together experiences for all ages,…
Portsmouth 100
Portsmouth
In 2026, Portsmouth celebrates its 100th anniversary of becoming a city with a wide round program of events and activities for both visitors and residents to enjoy. Visit the city, join the events and discover more of Portsmouth's fascinating…
Free Event
Maidenhead
One of our most popular summer attractions is back! The Maidenhead beach at Norden Farm is back for another year
Free for children and families to play on in the daytime and for adults to relax on in the evening.
Tour
Marlow on Thames
Enjoy an informative tour of Danesfield House Hotel magnificent 65 acres, see the numerous unique plantings, the Italian garden, rare c1900 Pulham Stone monuments and the Danesfield Iron Age Hillfort – ending with a talk about the hotel's history as…
Childrens Events
Whiteley, Fareham
Make your Sundays better with
KIDS EAT FREE at The Parsons Collar
With on paying adult
A great wat to finish of your busy week. On Sunday's eat FREE with a paying adult. Not to be used in conjunction wiht any other offer or discount.
To book…
Indoor
Winchester
Get away this summer with a two-night stay away at the Royal Winchester Hotel. Located in the heart of Winchester, this historic hotel full of modern comforts is a fantastic base not only to discover the ancient capital of England, but also the…
General event
Reading
Enjoy a luxurious night away with that special someone. The Roseate Reading is just 25 minutes from London and is the perfect place to relax and get away from the everyday stresses of life.
Arts
Aylesbury
An exhibition of light works exploring time and place, and the influence of nature, landscape and the environment by Bruce and Tink Munro.
Bruce's work has long been rooted in the emotional and physical inspiration of place and memory, while Tink is…
Childrens Events
Gillott's Lane, Henley-on-Thames
Active Reality delivers immersive, adventure-driven VR experiences for all ages, designed to bring people together through fun, memorable, and engaging gameplay. With a focus on social connection and light physical activity, Active Reality…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Bracknell
Stop scrolling Go Ape! Searching for things to do in Berkshire and Surrey this summer holiday? Head to Go Ape Bracknell for an unforgettable outdoor adventure that's perfect for reconnecting with nature and each other. A fun family day out, with…
Exhibitions
Lymington
Elmer and Mr Benn: the Magic of David McKee
11 July – 6 September
St Barbe Museum + Art Gallery is delighted to announce Elmer, Mr Benn… the magic of David McKee, a vibrant new exhibition celebrating one of Britain's most beloved and influential…
Indoor
Tonbridge
Balfour Winery knowledgeable tour guides will lead you in a fun and relaxed tasting of six, where you can learn the technique of wine tasting without the bravado.
Walking
The Hard, Portsmouth
Get ready to explore Portsmouth like a real‑life detective! With two treasure‑hunt walks, you’ll spot clues, solve puzzles, and discover amazing things you’ve never noticed before. It’s fun, it’s outdoors, and it’s perfect for curious kids (and…
Workshop
Sandown
Step into the world of wildlife photography right here at the Sanctuary with our new Bear Photography Workshops — enjoy a half-day experience designed especially for beginners and keen amateurs.
Arts
Henley-on-Thames
Join contemporary artist Ann Generlich from 2-8 September at The Old Fire Station Gallery in Henley-on-Thames to explore the fusion of emotion, energy and structural form through richly layered mixed-media works that shift between abstraction and…
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