Arts & Culture
Discover the best news and stories about art, music, theatre, film, entertainment, and cultural events in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.
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The MERL celebrates Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with new displays
The Museum of English Rural Life is marking Jane Austen’s 250th birthday with new exhibits, including a rare surviving letter, a first edition, and a countryside trail, alongside heritage workshops and town-wide events celebrating the author’s Reading connections.
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Heather Ferrier to perform with her trio in Faringdon this October
Heather Ferrier, the Stockport-born accordionist, clog dancer and composer, is redefining alt-folk with bold compositions and magnetic performances, bringing her trio to Faringdon’s St. Nicholas Church this October.
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Frilford Heath to host the R&A Women’s and Men’s Senior Amateur Championships in 2026
Frilford Heath Golf Club has been selected to host The R&A Women’s and Men’s Senior Amateur Championships in 2026, with the prestigious tournaments set to be played on its acclaimed Red Course in Oxfordshire.
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Halloween fun for children at Hughenden’s We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt™ trail
This Halloween, Hughenden invites families on a magical ghost hunt – We’re Going on a Ghost Hunt™ – inspired by The Bunny Adventures books. From broomstick races to ghost spotting in the gardens, little ones can enjoy a playful trail before joining the celebration party.
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Found Festival to return in 2026 after successful debut at Claydon Estate
Found Festival has confirmed its return to Claydon Estate in August 2026 after a successful debut. Early bird tickets are available at frozen 2025 prices, with a new tiered system introduced to ensure accessibility for all festivalgoers.
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Oxfordshire libraries announce annual short story competition for 2025
Oxfordshire libraries have launched their eleventh annual short story competition, encouraging writers of all ages to share original stories. Winners will have their work published digitally as ebooks and audiobooks.
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Wilderness Festival confirms 2026 dates with a return to Cornbury Park
Wilderness Festival has confirmed its 2026 dates, returning to Cornbury Park from 30 July to 02 August. With its mix of world-class music, woodland adventures, and indulgent food, Wilderness remains one of the UK’s most distinctive festivals.
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Big Feastival confirms 2026 return to Alex James’ Cotswolds farm
Big Feastival has confirmed its 2026 return to Alex James’ Cotswolds farm, running from 28 to 30 August. Following the huge success of the 2025 edition, early bird tickets are now available for a weekend of live music, top chefs, and family entertainment.
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BBOWT launches public vote for people’s choice wildlife photo award
BBOWT has opened voting for its People’s Choice Award in the annual photo contest, with eight wildlife shots competing for a spot on the 2026 calendar. The winner will be announced at the Trust’s 2025 Celebration on 25 October.
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Free entry to National Trust places across Bucks, Berks and Oxfordshire with Heritage Open Days
This September, explore National Trust treasures in Bucks, Berks and Oxfordshire for free during Heritage Open Days. From Jacobean gems to grand estates, gardens and secret wartime history, it’s the perfect chance to discover the region’s heritage.
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Ocean Film Festival World Tour 2025 Brings Ocean Adventures to Abingdon
The Ocean Film Festival World Tour is returning this autumn with a stunning lineup of ocean adventures on the big screen. From big-wave surfing and freediving to breathtaking cave dives, the films celebrate the wonder of our seas while inspiring audiences to protect them.
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New Oxfordshire Museum exhibition celebrates six decades of artistic collaboration
The Oxfordshire Museum is set to open a free exhibition on 06 September, showcasing the works of artists David Lockett and Peter Ross. The display celebrates their six-decade creative partnership and runs until 21 September.
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Basildon Park and Claydon star in Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale
Basildon Park and Claydon provide the stately backdrops for Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. Visitors can see costumes at Basildon Park from 6–14 September and walk in the Crawleys’ footsteps through historic rooms featured in the film.
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Oxford art fair DEPOT announces 2025 edition with top galleries and special highlights
DEPOT returns to Oxford from 25–28 September 2025, bringing together leading galleries, artists, and cultural partners in its innovative exhibition–fair format, with highlights including Stanley Donwood & Thom Yorke, independent publishing showcases, and a dynamic talks programme.
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Stowe House launches new Stowe-Tots sessions for little adventurers
Stowe House is opening its doors to the tiniest explorers with the launch of Stowe-Tots – a new term of toddler sessions filled with storytelling, play, and discovery. Families can enjoy themed mornings, creative fun, and a special booking offer.
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Stowe House completes North Hall restoration with nine new classical busts
Stowe House has completed the final phase of its six-year, £75k North Hall restoration with the installation of nine newly commissioned classical busts. Designed to restore the grandeur of William Kent’s 18th-century reception room, the project was funded by donations from former pupils.