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…
Festival
Edenbridge
The Festival Theatre events run throughout the year in our gorgeous locations at: Hever Castle – including our flagship stunning theatre re-built in 2024, Chiddingstone Castle and Penshurst Place & Gardens.
Health & Wellbeing
Little Horwood, Milton Keynes
Designed to pamper you from head to toe, come and experience the Instant Radiance Spa Day at Horwood House Hotel near Milton Keynes.
Childrens Events
Guildford
Make your summer Unforgettable at AirHop Guildford!
Looking for the perfect way to keep the kids active and entertained? Head to AirHop Adventure & Trampoline Park Guildford for a summer packed with BIG jumps, epic weekends and unforgettable…
Walking
Town Quay, Southampton
Explore Southampton’s big sights and hidden corners, uncover quirky stories, and enjoy 1–2 hours of fresh‑air exploring on each fully wheelchair and buggy‑friendly route. Fun, affordable and perfect for all ages.
Childrens Events
Oxford
Join City Sightseeing Oxford to set off on an Oxford adventure!
Collect stamps from six exciting locations across the city, with fun child‑friendly activities to complete at each stop and earn an Oxford Explorer's Certificate to claim as your…
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,…
Walking
Reading
To celebrate 100 years of University of Reading campus history in 2026 a series of free guided walks will be running inviting visitors to discover the stories behind the University's rich history.
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.
Water Based Activities
Dengemarsh Road, Lydd
Do you want to try paddleboarding with your dog? Looking for a fun, dog-friendly day out in Kent?
Head along to Action Watersports in Lydd, Romney Marsh, for Pups on SUPs, a brilliant stand up paddleboarding experience where you and your…
Food
Milton Keynes
Experience a delicious afternoon tea, where every bite celebrates the season's bounty amidst the relaxing ambience of Horwood House, Buckinghamshire.
Outdoor Event / Activities
Crawley
Stop scrolling Go Ape! Searching for things to do in West Sussex this summer holiday? Head to Go Ape Crawley for an unforgettable outdoor adventure that's perfect for reconnecting with nature and each other.
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.
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…
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…
Tour
Oxford
Explore the best of Oxford with a combined ticket from City Sightseeing Oxford, including a hop-on hop-off bus tour and entry to some of the city’s top attractions. Perfect for a day out in Oxford, this bundle offers a convenient way to discover…
Outdoor Event / Activities
Cranbrook
Stop scrolling Go Ape! On a staycation in Kent and searching for nearby activities? We've got you covered, right in the heart of the stunning Bedgebury National Pinetum. Go Ape is one of the best outdoor activities in the area.
Music
Maidenhead
The true Americana bluesman Lightnin' Willie: seasoned, original, and completely at home on stage, will be appearing at Norden Farm Centre for Arts this September. His music honors the tradition without turning it into a museum piece. It is alive,…
Arts
Chichester
Follow your curiosity and try something new at West Dean Gardens, Chichester.
As part of A Summer of Imagination at West Dean, our Creative Taster Sessions offer two unhurried hours around the Gardens Gatehouse craft table to follow your curiosity,…
Indoor
Turners Hill, Crawley
Escape to the multi award-wining Utopia Spa at Alexander House in the West Sussex countryside.
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