Easter is just around the corner and Basingstoke and Deane is blooming with exciting activities for the whole family. Whether you're hunting for eggs, exploring historical wonders, or simply enjoying the spring sunshine, there's something to make this Easter holiday truly special.

Arts, culture and heritage

For a touch of culture, Whitchurch Silk Mill is hosting "Ribbons to Riches”, a fascinating exhibition exploring the history of silk ribbon weaving, complete with connections to Jane Austen's era. It's a chance to step back in time and discover the artistry behind these beautiful creations. If you are in Whitchurch and looking to grab a bite to eat, the Silk Mill Café is well worth a visit, or pop into Kudos Coffee. Milestones Museum offers a world of history and fun for all ages. Explore the charming cobbled streets, browse the historic shops, and admire the vintage vehicles – a perfect way to spend a family day out.

If you are in Basingstoke town centre, don't miss the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards at The Willis Museum. This free exhibition is guaranteed to bring smiles with its hilarious snapshots of the animal kingdom.

Easter themed fun!

The National Trust's The Vyne offers a delightful day out with Regency-themed activities this Easter. Picture yourself enjoying Bunny Hoopla, giant chess, and croquet on the lawn before embarking on an Easter trail that leads to a well-deserved chocolatey prize. Whitchurch Silk Mill will have an Easter Egg hunt on Wednesday 16 April (most suitable for two to eight year-olds). Collect a bag on arrival, or take your Easter basket and hunt high and low around the mill grounds to find the Easter eggs. Join Hattie and the Bunny Brigade on an exciting treasure hunt through the historic grounds of Basing House! Solve puzzles, crack codes and complete challenges at each station to unlock pieces of a hidden map leading to a long-lost Easter treasure!

Embrace the beauty of spring at Ewhurst Park's Spring Festival. This celebration of nature offers a range of activities, from bluebell walks and nature crafts to an egg hunt competition and delicious local food. For more outdoor adventures, 4 Kingdoms Adventure Park is hosting an Easter Eggstravaganza, complete with egg hunts, character meet-and-greets and cuddles with adorable lambs and bunnies.

Enjoy Easter Farm Fun at Popley Fields Community Centre on Saturday 5 April. Entry is £5 per child (adults and babies are free of charge but will need to book a ticket) and includes a hands-on farm experience, crafts and a goody bag.

Head to Sycamore Halls in Winklebury for the Forever Smiling Easter Fair on Sunday 13 April. Enjoy free entry, take part in their Easter egg hunt, enjoy a variety of stalls and, weather permitting, there will be a car boot.

Viables Community Centre have a number of activities on throughout the holidays including Easter brick builders on Thursday 10 April, arts and crafts on Friday 11 April and young artists on Thursday 17 April.

Celebrate Easter with a fun family activity at The Yard - decorating biscuits on Thursday 10 April or decorating eggs on Thursday 17 April, at £3 per person.

Live Entertainment

Looking for some live entertainment? The Amazing Bubble Man is bringing his captivating show to The Haymarket on Tuesday 8 April. Prepare to be mesmerized by his incredible bubble creations – a truly magical experience for kids and adults alike. Fans of the Dinosaur that Pooped books will love the show at The Haymarket Theatre on Saturday 12 April. And panto’s are not just for Christmas… The Wizard of Oz Easter Panto will be at The Anvil on Tuesday 15 April. Or follow the enchanting story of Rapunzel, the princess with magical golden hair with Pumpkin Pantos at Central Studio on Sunday 13 April.

Active fun

If you're looking to burn off some energy, Basingstoke has plenty of options. Flip Out, Active Nation Trampoline Park and Basingstoke Aquadrome offer active fun for all ages. Not forgetting all the play parks located around the borough, why not find a new one to explore?! Try your hand at adventure golf at Knights Realm.

Perhaps give the Winklebury bench trail a go? Winklebury Legends have been busy installing 10 benches around Winklebury that have been painted by local artist Fatima Pantoja. During the Easter holidays visit all of the benches and complete an entry form to claim a chocolate egg.

Indoor fun

For those who prefer indoor adventures, several escape rooms, including Trapped in Fiction, Exciting Escapes, and Escape Hunt, provide a thrilling challenge. Catch the latest blockbuster at the Odeon or Vue cinemas or for a creative outlet, visit Pots 2 Paint at Viables Craft Centre. The Dice Tower is well worth a visit for those looking to pass the time with a board game or two.

Yummy food

Hop into the Easter spirit from Saturday 5 to Sunday 20 April with a delightful Easter Afternoon Tea at Audleys Wood Hotel. Enjoy a selection of freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and delicious pastries, all served with your choice of premium Camelia’s teas. What's more during these dates a child can eat free (from the Afternoon Tea menu) with every paying adult, making it the perfect treat for the whole family. 

Enjoy an Easter Bunny Breakfast at The Wellington Arms on Wednesday 16 April. After a scrumptious breakfast you'll get to take part in a scavenger hunt throughout the pub grounds.

The Holiday Inn Basingstoke are serving a carvery on Sunday 20 April. There will be an easter egg hunt too to keep the kids entertained! For more information contact the team there on events@hibasingstoke.com.

Or enjoy the Easter menu at The Stag and Hounds or Miller and Carter if you don't fancy cooking!

For the grown ups

You'll find a number of different shows on at Proteus Theatre including James Rowland dies at the End and Phoenix. At The Anvil, you'll find a variety of shows from dance to music.

No matter what your family's interests, Basingstoke and Deane has something to make this Easter holiday unforgettable. So, hop into some fun and create lasting memories!

Have we left anything out?  Please let us know at hello@LoveBasingstoke.co.uk if you know of any other events in the borough and we’d be happy to help promote it on our channels. 

Please note the inclusion of any business within this listing should not be seen as an endorsement of their services. Whilst the information is considered to be true and correct at the date of publication, changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.   

Updated April 2025