Pub in the Park unveils sizzling line-up for 2026 – with tickets on sale now

Zoe Gater

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Over four days, visitors can enjoy top chefs and pop-up restaurants, live performances from big-name artists, and a mix of talks, masterclasses, and interactive experiences as Pub in the Park returns.

The ultimate food and music festival returns to Marlow this spring, when Pub in the Park hosts some of the nation’s best chefs, tasty pop-up restaurants and unmissable live performances.

Running from Thursday 14 to Sunday 17 May 2026, guests can enjoy four days of delicious food, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.

Culinary programme at Pub in the Park

Experience bold flavours, unforgettable dishes and a showcase of talent at this year’s festival.

Visitors include talented chef, author, and presenter Si King, whose approachable, hearty cooking has captivated audiences for decades. Other stars include the renowned Raymond Blanc OBE, the much-loved UK chef James Martin, and Tommy Banks, the youngest British chef to achieve a Michelin star, who will showcase his thoughtful, seasonal approach.

And don’t miss television favourite Matt Tebbutt, joined by special guest and wine expert Helen McGinn, as well as the pioneer of modern Indian cuisine in the UK and Michelin-starred chef Atul Kochhar.

Other unmissable names on the bill include Simon Rimmer, Emily English, Candice Brown, Thuy Diem Pham, Ping Coombes, Adam Purnell, Jack Blumenthal, Karan Gokani, and more.

Restaurants at Pub in the Park

With a mix of new and returning restaurants and pubs, you won’t struggle to find something delicious to tuck into this May 2026.

Expect The Oarsman and The Star Inn, bringing elevated pub classics; cult chicken brand Ginger Wings; Raymond Blanc’s The George & Dragon; and, for seafood lovers, simple coastal-inspired dishes from Rick Stein.

New for this year, Temper brings bold, fire-led cooking and tacos to the park, while Six by Nico offers a playful and immersive approach to dining. Fresh from the countryside, enjoy ingredient-led cooking straight from field to flame with Oxmoor Farm, or experience brilliant comfort food at Tommy’s Pie Shop. And burger legends The Beefy Boys will also be serving their award-winning, flavour-packed creations.

After something spicy? Sticky Mango delivers global flair and vibrant Thai flavours.

Music headliners at Pub in the Park

Don’t forget your dancing shoes – Pub in the Park has a brilliant line-up of performers to keep you entertained.

Jools Holland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra, Craig David, Gabrielle, McFly, Craig Charles, and Razorlight are among just some of the top names announced to perform live for guests this year.

Alternative entertainment at Pub in the Park

If all that wasn’t enough, the festival also introduces several exciting new additions.

For the first time, guests can dance the night away at the all-new Kitchen Disco, enjoy inspiring talks with favourite authors in the Book Club Tent, and deepen their drinks knowledge in the Drinks Masterclass Tent.

Tickets to Pub in the Park

Standard ticket prices start from £47 per person, with special VIP packages also available.

For more information or to book, visit pubintheparkuk.com.

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Joe Hicks to debut new album at special Arlington Arts homecoming gig

Zoe Gater

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Newbury singer songwriter Joe Hicks to showcase new album with Arlington Arts gig in April 2026.

Singer-songwriter Joe Hicks is set to release his new studio album Before It Gets Dark, on Friday 27 March, before playing a Newbury homecoming show on Saturday 11 April 2026.

Having steadily built his profile in the years leading up to his 2022 debut album The Best I Could Do at the Time, Joe has been praised for his solid songwriting and remarkable vocal skills, hitting falsetto notes with ease while channelling the likes of John Mayer and Paul Simon with his clean and dexterous guitar playing.

Before It Gets Dark is a cathartic set of songs written as Joe came to terms with the loss of his father and a relationship breakdown.

Joe says: “The album is about feeling beaten down by modern society, uncertainty, and by the things life can throw at you. It deals with the death of my dad, a breakup, and the darker songs are from the somewhat nihilistic ‘life is meaningless’ perspective of the world that I slipped into following those events. This record is about coming through that and looking forward; wanting to see the world before it gets dark.”

Throughout the album, Joe’s effortless musicality is front and centre as his vocals shine against the delicate layers of guitars, neither too much nor too little.

To celebrate the album’s release, Joe will return to the Arlington Arts Centre on Saturday 11 April 2026 for a homecoming Newbury show.

Tickets are on sale now at arlington-arts.com/events/joe-hicks.

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Take part in a real recording session in Guildford

Zoe Gater

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Take part in a hands-on guitar recording masterclass at Lark Studios Guildford, covering miking techniques, re-amping, signal flow and processing for acoustic and electric guitar.

Join a masterclass focusing on the art of recording guitar at Lark Studios in Guildford, on Monday 30th March 2026.

This unique opportunity is designed for music creators and enthusiasts who aspire to enhance their guitar recording skills and elevate their productions.

Led by the studio’s head engineer, this session will delve into key topics such as microphone techniques, signal flow, re-amping, hardware versus plugins and processing for both acoustic and electric guitar recordings.

Participants will get the chance to experience a real-world recording session featuring a guest artist while assisting the head engineer.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to get some hands-on studio experience, or are more experienced and want to refine your theoretical knowledge, this workshop offers a fantastic platform to learn and interact with other like-minded music creators and guitarists.

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and take the first step in expanding your recording skills!

For more information or to register, contact Lark Studios Guildford at studio@larkrecordings.com or call 01483 958511.

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Big Feastival reveals 2026 line-up

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Celebrating its 15th year in Oxfordshire, Big Feastival returns this August Bank Holiday with a diverse mix of music, food and family entertainment. From indie-rock favourites to award-winning chefs, find out what’s on the line-up in 2026.

Big Feastival is back in Oxfordshire in 2026, bringing celebrated musicians, Insta-worthy food and an abundance of family fun when it takes over Blur bassist, Alex James’ Farm from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 August 2026 – making for another cracking Bank Holiday weekend.

Who’s performing at Big Feastival 2026?

Bringing the energy, this year’s headliners include electronic music duo Basement Jaxx; The Streets, performing A Grand Don’t Come For Free in full for the first time; as well as indie pop band Bastille.

On the main stage, see drum and bass legends, RUDIM3NTAL; former Little Mix star PERRIE; alternative band, Doves, known for their soaring melodies; the powerful, piano-led pop of Freya Ridings; psychedelic rock and melodic pop outfit The Coral; as well as Ms Dynamite; comedy music trio, The Cuban Brothers; indie-rock favourites White Lies; The Ordinary Boys – and plenty more.

And it wouldn’t be Big Feastival without Barrioke, with EastEnders legend Shaun Williamson promising his trademark warmth and teasing banter.

Which chefs are at Big Feastival 2026?

And music’s not the only thing on the menu.

Award-winning chef, restaurateur and TV presenter Anna Haugh will headline the Big Kitchen stage. Chef patron of Myrtle Restaurant and The Wee Sister in London, Anna is a regular guest on Saturday Kitchen and Sunday Brunch – in 2026, Anna is due to join MasterChef as a judge, alongside acclaimed food critic Grace Dent.  

Plus, culinary talent will be leading demonstrations and workshops, including Rachel Allen of Ireland’s world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School and social media sensation Poppy Cooks, whose no-nonsense potato recipes have earned her a huge online following.

Throughout the weekend, Sally Abé, Emily English, Amber Francis, Tom Barnes, Matblak, Meera Sodha, Nokx Majozi, Jon Watts – and more – will also be sharing their brilliant recipes and advice.

Festival goers can also roll up their sleeves at The Big Feastival cookery schools and masterclasses, then sit back and watch expert chefs tame the flames in the festival’s very own BBQ area, The Smokery.

What family-friendly events are on at Big Feastival 2026?

Big Feastival’s child and family-friendly entertainment promises to delight younger festivalgoers throughout the weekend, too.

Children’s entertainer MC Hammer and Nick Cope provide high-energy, music-filled storytelling; little ones can see Gabby from Gabby’s Dollhouse, show off dance moves at the K-Pop Demon Hunters Disco, enjoy circus-antics of The Flying Seagull Project, and get creative outside in nature with Lizzie’s Way Woodland Play.

Plenty more announcements are still to come.

Tickets for 2026 are on sale now.

For more information or to book, visit Big Feastival’s website.

Images © Matt Higgs

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Rebecca Poole to sweeten Valentine’s Day at The Kenton

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Have you got plans for Valentine’s Day? Join singer-songwriter Rebecca Poole for an evening of jazz-age love songs alongside self-penned originals.

Taking place on Saturday 14 February 2026 at 7.30pm, Rebecca Poole’s Romancing the Song Valentine’s Special at The Kenton in Henley-on-Thames will feature a mix of jazz standards and original compositions.

The programme includes romantic ballads, swing, Americana and blues, delivered with a relaxed stage presence.

Rebecca has previously supported Jools Holland on tour, including performances at the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Stadium. She has also shared the stage with Jamie Cullum, Lana Del Rey and Simply Red.

She appeared in the Netflix series The Crown, performing Can’t Take My Eyes Off You. Her most recent album, Dreamers Ball, received positive reviews and was selected as Record of the Week on BBC Sounds, Jazz FM and Smooth Jazz.

Tickets cost £30 per person and include a £1 Restoration Levy, a £1.50 Booking Fee and a 25p Community Fund Levy.

For more information or to book tickets, visit The Kenton’s website.

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Greenham Common Arts Festival: 25 Years of History, Art & Magic

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Greenham Commons has gone from military base to wildlife sanctuary. Join them as they mark a special anniversary with unique performances on September 13th & 14th

Celebrate 25 Years at the Greenham Common Arts Festival

Take a journey across Greenham Common at the Greenham Common arts festival. Here, aerial circus, dance, street theatre, and music bring the site’s rich history to life. This festival marks 25 years since the common returned to public ownership. It celebrates its transformation from a military base to a wildlife sanctuary and a peace protest site. Visitors can explore the unique stories that make Greenham Common so special.

Outdoor Performances at the Greenham Common Arts Festival

During the two-day Greenham Common arts festival, enjoy captivating performances throughout the site. Highlights include Nandita Shankardass’ Roots to Rise and the Gossamer Thread Circus with Becoming FERAL. You can also see works commissioned by 101 Outdoor Arts. Furthermore, meet characters like Adderlaide, the spirit of the common, and Heath and Heather Robinson in The Common Room. Plus, experience the magical storytelling walk Common and folk songs inspired by the resilience of peace camp protesters.

These performances offer a unique blend of history, art, and community spirit, inviting everyone to engage with Greenham Common’s past and present.

D1

Arts & Crafts Celebration at Greenham Common

The festival also features the Festival of Arts & Crafts at The Base from September 13th to 27th. It begins with a two-day arts and crafts fair showcasing over 50 local stalls. Visitors can join creative workshops and explore an exhibition of local artists’ work. This is perfect for anyone wanting to bring home original art from the Greenham Common arts festival. The atmosphere is vibrant, lively, and perfect for families and art lovers alike.

Start your festival adventure at Venture West in Greenham Business Park. Enjoy a vibrant celebration of community, history, and creativity at the Greenham Common arts festival — a must-visit event this September.


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Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme: What to See

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Live arts, music icons and festive cheer are all on the bill for the new season at Newbury’s Corn Exchange

Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme: Exciting Music, Comedy, Theatre & Family Fun

The Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme is packed with world-class music tributes, laugh-out-loud comedy, family favourites, inspiring talks, and fantastic theatre. This season promises entertainment for audiences of all ages, making Newbury Theatre the place to be this autumn.

Theatre Shows in the Newbury Autumn Programme

Theatre fans can look forward to a thrilling lineup as part of the Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme. The season opens with Shamilton: The Improvised Hip Hop Musical on August 28th. Audiences choose the historical figure, and the cast improvises the plot and songs live.

On October 14th, enjoy Drum, a story by two Ghanaian creatives set in 1960s London. October 21st brings Stories from an Invisible Town, a darkly comic solo show exploring childhood myths. The programme also features Revenge, After the Levoyah on November 4th, a chaotic Jewish comedy about a kidnapping plot.

Dance Highlights in the Newbury Autumn Programme

The dance offerings in the Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme blend tradition and innovation. On September 24th, witness the Kathak performance Story of One, Story of Many. Then, on October 16th, Richard Chappell Dance presents Hot House, mixing Indian classical dance with garage beats.

Music Tributes and Live Performances This Autumn

Music lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme. Tribute acts include the UK Pik Floyd Experience (Sept 13th), Bootleg Eagles (Sept 19th), Emilio Santoro as Elvis (Sept 20th), The Doly Show starring Kelly O’Brien (Sept 25th), and Some Guys Have All the Luck: The Rod Stewart Story (Oct 18th).

Additionally, the season features the soulful Northern Live: Do I Love You (Sept 18th) and festive favourite Step into Christmas (Nov 15th).

Comedy and Talks in the Newbury Autumn Programme

For comedy lovers, the Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme offers performances by The Comedy Network (Sept 5th, Oct 17th & Nov 7th), Jenny Éclair’s Jokes, Jokes, Jokes Live (Sept 26th), and Matt Richardson’s Brash (Oct 9th). November features Milton Jones (Nov 5th) and Suzi Ruffell (Nov 8th).

Special talks include Adam Kay’s A Particularly Nasty Case (Sept 6th) and gardener Adam Frost reflecting on life on October 22nd. Clare Balding appears on September 16th, supporting the Old Library fundraising.

Family Shows and Festive Fun

Families can enjoy the Newbury Theatre Autumn Programme’s children’s shows, including The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show (Oct 10th-12th), Stick Man (Oct 28th-30th), Horrible Histories: Gorgeous Georgians and Vile Victorians (Oct 31st), and Dinosaurs Live (Nov 9th).

The season closes with the festive panto Robin Hood and Maid Marian from November 28th to January 3rd.

For more details of all shows this autumn, please visit here.

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Sun, Laughter, and Magic: Laguna Bay at Giffords Circus

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Hats off to the Giffords Circus team for delivering a joyous celebration, with plenty of 1950s sass, with their 2025 summer show

Laguna Bay: Giffords Circus’ Joyful Seaside Spectacle

Laguna Bay is this year’s glittering, seaside-themed show from Giffords Circus. Set against the backdrop of a fictional 1950s Italian holiday resort, this performance has a retro charm that’s sure to leave you grinning like a Cheshire Cat.

A World of Fun & Laughter

Giffords Circus invites you into a whimsical world where the ordinary simply doesn’t exist. From the moment you step into the big top, you’ll be immersed in a performance full of laughter, awe, and a whole lot of heart. Laguna Bay blends vintage Riviera glamour with quirky British humour, creating a spectacular atmosphere of fun and escapism. It’s exactly what we need in these times!

A Show Full of Surprises

With Laguna Bay, you’re not just watching a show—you’re part of the performance. Giffords’ intimate and eccentric theatre style brings the audience close to the action, ensuring that every moment feels personal. The show’s direction by Cal McCrystal combines physical comedy, acrobatics, and live music into a seamless blend of unpredictable delight.

The Return of Tweedy the Clown

One of the most anticipated parts of Laguna Bay is the return of Tweedy the Clown. A beloved character, Tweedy is the show’s heart and soul. His impeccable comedic timing and rapport with the audience ensure that no one leaves without a smile. Tweedy’s physical comedy makes him a national treasure, adored by both children and adults.

Dazzling Acrobats & Aerialists

While Tweedy keeps the laughs rolling, the acrobats and aerialists will leave you breathless. Their performances seem to defy physics as they twist and turn high above. Horses bring elegance and power to the ring, adding even more layers to the breathtaking spectacle.

A Mediterranean Vibe & Stunning Costumes

The Mediterranean-inspired live band provides a vibrant soundtrack that adds depth to the circus magic. And the costumes—candy-striped swimwear, vintage parasols, and sun-bleached pastels—bring a golden-age beach resort feel that immerses you completely in the performance. You’ll want to join in the fun and grab a vintage swimsuit from the dressing-up box!

Fun for Everyone

Laguna Bay has something for all ages. The humour is multi-layered, so both kids and grown-ups enjoy it equally. The slower, dreamlike moments draw you in, while the fast-paced stunts keep you on the edge of your seat. Giffords Circus is known for its focus on community and craftsmanship. You can feel the love and dedication from every performer.

A Joyous Celebration

By the end of the show, my face ached from smiling—Laguna Bay is pure joy. It’s a celebration of silliness, shared human wonder, and a much-needed reminder of the magic in life.

Catch Laguna Bay in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire between now and 28th September.

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Find out more about Giffords circus here.

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Indulge in Italy’s Best at Marlow’s Prosecco Superiore Festival

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Bucks fizz time! La Dolce Bolla in Marlow will host a two-day Fizzy Fest on 18th & 19th July, thanks to the wine bar’s owner, Prosecco pioneer Kristyna Weston

Prosecco Superiore Festival: Experience Italy’s Best Bubbles in Marlow

Did you know the UK is the third-largest consumer of Prosecco? Kristyna, who has spent years studying, working, and traveling across Italy, was already familiar with the top-quality Prosecco Superiore. However, when she returned to the UK, she couldn’t understand why Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G wasn’t easily available.

From Passion to Business: The Birth of La Dolce Bolla

Determined to change this, Kristyna set out to introduce the best Prosecco Superiore to the UK market. She founded Fizzy Happiness Ltd, and later, La Dolce Bolla, bringing some of Italy’s finest producers to the UK. Kristyna’s hard work has culminated in the launch of the UK’s first-ever Prosecco Superiore Festival in Marlow, Bucks.

What to Expect at the Prosecco Superiore Festival

On the event day, imagine a lively square in Marlow filled with Italy’s finest Prosecco and the passionate producers behind each bottle. At the festival, you’ll enjoy:

  • Live Music that will create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the day
  • Masterclasses, including an exclusive one with Sarah Abbott, Master of Wine, on Friday, 18th July
  • Tasting Sessions featuring a range of Prosecco Superiore
  • Artisan Foods paired perfectly with the wines.

This event is strictly for over-18s only, and you can choose from two types of tickets:

  • Standard Tickets: £19pp, including entry, a tulip glass, and five tastings.
  • VIP Tickets: £49pp, which includes the standard benefits plus access to the exclusive Masterclass with Sarah Abbott.

Additional Attractions and Limited Tickets Available

Moreover, on 19th July, enjoy live music at Liston Court Gardens, offering a relaxing backdrop to your Prosecco experience. Tickets are limited, so make sure you secure yours today!

For more info & to book tickets, please visit here.

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Feel Better at Lindengate Mental Health Garden

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Soak up some sun & defrazzle at the Rest & Refresh Pop-Up Café at Lindengate Gardens

Experience Peace and Purpose at Lindengate Mental Health Garden

The Lindengate mental health garden in Wendover offers a calming and restorative escape for people of all ages. Nestled beside the Blue Diamond Garden Centre, this six-acre haven is nurtured by over 130 passionate volunteers aged between 13 and 90. The garden is more than just a peaceful space — it’s a place of community, care, and connection.

Rest & Refresh: Music, Culture and Nature

From June to September, Lindengate invites you to its monthly Rest & Refresh café — an open event combining free garden access, light refreshments, and local live entertainment. On 19th July, enjoy bluegrass and folk with the Old Time Pickers. On 16th August, delight in the tradition of Cracklewick Morris Dancers, followed by the melodic Star Fluters on 20th September.

Supporting Mental Wellbeing Through Nature

Lindengate specialises in social therapeutic horticulture, helping individuals manage anxiety, stress, depression, and grief through nature-based support. Weekly group sessions are small and welcoming, offering a safe and structured setting to relax and heal.

For those living with dementia or memory loss, the Memory Pathways programme runs every Friday morning. This inclusive initiative also supports carers, giving everyone involved a gentle, grounding experience.

Whether you visit for a wellbeing programme, a community event, or a quiet walk among the trees, Lindengate mental health garden is a space for everyone. Here, nature nurtures — and visitors leave feeling restored.

For full info about these, and volunteering, please click here.

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