Events

The (almost) Complete History of Britain 

Thursday 25 June - 7pm - Postponement Update

The Castle has worked closely with the Pantaloons team to explore every possible option for rescheduling the performance before the end of the season. Despite our best efforts, it unfortunately wasn’t possible to secure an alternative date that worked for all parties due to existing scheduling commitments.

All ticket holders have now been fully refunded.

We look forward to welcoming the Pantaloons back in 2027.

As you like it- Illyria 

Thursday 23 July 7pm 

In Shakespeare’s iconic comedy four pairs of soulmates meet in the mysterious Forest of Arden. But playful flirting becomes more pain than pleasure and Love itself is pushed to the limit of its endurance. International award-winning Illyria promises a memorable night of sparkling wit, laughter and romance under the stars.

Running time: 140-minutes (approximately), including a 20-minute interval.

Suitable for all ages.

Seaside Summer Outdoor Trail

Running on selected dates from 25 July-30 August 

Set off on our outdoor adventure with our I Do Like to Be Beside the Seaside summer trail. Begin your journey by collecting your trail card from the Castle Gift Shop, then make your way around the Castle grounds, following clues and answering seaside‑themed questions as you go.

This gentle, self‑guided trail is perfect for families looking to enjoy the outdoors, learn a little, and have a lot of fun. Once completed, every participating child receives a seaside‑themed gift bag to celebrate their achievement.

• Participating Child: £3.50
• Child Castle Member: £2.00
• Adults: Free! 

 

Pop Up Sunday  

Sunday 26 July 10am-4pm

Join us this summer in the beautiful grounds of Highcliffe Castle to enjoy live music, vintage cars, local creatives and delicious food from the Castle Pantry!

• Serenade Duo 11am-12.30pm
• Bournemouth & District Concert Band 1pm-3pm
• Three Counties Classic Cars

Local Creatives and Charity

• Coast Resin Art
• Dotts Yard
• Moonflys Emporium
• Binx Holistic Shop
• Ivy & Sol
• NCI Charity
• Maritime Volunteer Service

All ‘Pop Up Sunday’ Events are free of charge but donations to the band and the development of the Castle Collection are welcomed.

Castle Admission

A special 20% discount admission to support our Pop Up Sunday event.

We are open 10am-4pm ( last admission 3pm)

South Coast Wine Festival

Friday 14-Sunday 16 August

Step into a world of wine, culture, and unforgettable experiences as Highcliffe Castle once again becomes the grand stage for the South Coast Wine Festival. From Friday 14th to Sunday 16th August 2026, join over 2,500 wine lovers for a weekend that blends history, elegance, and the very best wines from across the UK and beyond.

Luke Combs Experience 

Friday 14 August 6pm-10pm

Calling all country music fans…

Join us for a special open-air summer evening of live country music set within the stunning grounds of Highcliffe Castle.

As the sun sets over the castle, The Luke Combs Experience will take to the stage with a full two-hour live show. The evening will also feature rising UK country artist Ollie Hawkins, alongside local favourite country DJ Big T.

Guests can enjoy festival-style bars, street food, and an unforgettable night of live music in one of the South Coast’s most beautiful and historic settings.

THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT 

Please note this is a ticketed and licensed event, so no external food or drink is permitted to be brought onto the event site

Cocoloco Garden Party at Highcliffe Castle

Saturday 15 August 2pm-10pm

Set within the grounds of the historic Highcliffe Castle, with sweeping views across to the Isle of Wight, this summer garden party takes place on Saturday 15th August (2pm–10pm).

At the heart of the event is a beautiful open-air stage, bringing together a full day of music in a truly quintessential British setting.

Headlining are The George Michael Singers — Shirley Lewis, Jo Garland, and Jay Henry - the original vocalists who worked, recorded, and toured with George Michael for over three decades, and were also close friends. Now performing together, they deliver a powerful and authentic live set celebrating his greatest hits.

The day continues with an 80s vs 90s DJ battle going head-to-head, playing tribute to the eras that shaped our love for music.

They are by Djs who will be playing the very best in disco classics, keeping the dancefloor alive from afternoon into evening.

Alongside the music, guests can enjoy street food, pop-up bars, and a relaxed yet vibrant garden party crowd.

From drinks on the lawn to dancing as the sun sets behind the castle, this is a summer event designed for those who appreciate great music, a beautiful setting, and a proper day out.

Please note this is a ticketed and licensed event, so no external food or drink is permitted to be brought onto the event site

Theatre Thursdays - Peter Rabbit

Thursday 20 August 5.30pm

Peter Rabbit and his naughty cousin Benjamin know very well that they are not to go into Mr McGregor’s garden, but they cannot resist and soon they find themselves face to face Mr McGregor himself! But how will they ever escape?

Join Peter and Benjamin on their hair-raising adventures in this enchanting adaptation of the much loved Beatrix Potter classic – a treat for all the family.

 

Pop Up Sunday  

Sunday 23 August 10am-4pm

Join us this summer in the beautiful grounds of Highcliffe Castle to enjoy live music, vintage cars, local creatives and delicious food from the Castle Pantry!

• Aliyah 5 Band 11am-12.30pm

• Sound of Soul Choir 1pm-3pm

• Tibetan Monks

Local Creatives and Charities 

• Liveedge Wood

• Quay Pieces

• Beautiful Visions

• UK Wearable Crystals

• Copplestone Creations

• Coast Resin Art

• Honey by Ian

• BCP Lifeline Charity

• Lewis Manning Hospice

   

   

All ‘Pop Up Sunday’ Events are free of charge but donations to the band and the development of the Castle Collection are welcomed.

If you would like to take part, please email commercial@highcliffecastle.co.uk for more information.

Tibetan Monks from the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery

Sunday 23 August

Join us for a very special day at Highcliffe Castle with the return of the Tibetan Monks from the Tashi Lhunpo Monastery as part of our ‘Pop up Sunday’ event.

The Monks will be creating a Sand Mandala inside the Castle between 10am-4pm with the ceremonial destruction at 5pm.

• Entry to the Castle £6 - Visit the Castle and see the Sand Mandala construction
• Your admission ticket is valid for the day and you may re-enter at anytime

• Evening performance £15 - one hour performance 7pm-8pm

The Castle grounds are FREE to access where you can enjoy local creatives, charities, live music and BBQ from the Castle Pantry

Creatives at the Castle 2026

Saturday 21 & Sunday 22 November 

So many creatives are already thinking about Christmas! 

If you have attended a previous event,  an email with a link to register your interest has been sent to you. Exhibitors will be contacted in April to confirm acceptance of their application. 

If you are a new creative, register your interest by emailing events@highcliffecastle.co.uk 

 

Christmas Tree Festival 2026

28 November - 23 December 

Are you a local business, community group, or individual eager to showcase your work or services in a stunning Grade 1 listed building?

After the resounding success of our 2024/25 Christmas Tree Festivals, we're excited to bring another magical December filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer and beautifully decorated trees!

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Contact commercial@highcliffecastle.co.uk to receive updates.