Unmissable events
Exhibition March 31–June 27 ‘Gerald Scarfe: Stage and Screen’ (right), The Gallery, Winchester Discovery Centre, Hampshire. Exploration of the The Sunday Times’ political cartoonist’s extensive work in film, opera and ballet design, from Pink Floyd’s The Wall to English National Ballet’s The Nutcracker. Free admission, suggested donation £3 (01962 873603; www.hampshireculturaltrust.org.uk)
March 30–September 30 Outdoor Sculpture and Indoor Art Exhibitions at The Walled Gardens, Croome Court, near High Green, Worcestershire. A series of exhibitions showcasing the works of various artists, including sculpture, landscapes, wildlife paintings, glasswork and embroidery. All pieces will be offered for sale. Standard admission applies (www.croome walledgardens.com)
Easter festival March 30–April 15 A Big Day Out With Peter Rabbit, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Richmond, Surrey. Discover the illustrated world of Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit against a backdrop of crocuses, daffodils and magnolias, with activities and workshops including the chance to plant seeds and create monster vegetables. General admission prices apply (020–8332 5655; www.kew.org)
Talk April 10 So houseplants are back —now what?, Garden Museum, Lambeth Palace Road, London SE1. Jane Perrone, of houseplant podcast On the Ledge, and Catherine Horwood, author of Potted History, discuss the trends to come in the great indoor-plant revival. Tickets £10, 7pm–8.30pm (020–7401 8865; www.gardenmuseum. org.uk) Garden April 10–May 23 Fife Spring Trail, various locations. Twelve privately owned gardens will open for charity as part of Scotland’s Gardens Scheme, with bluebell and daffodil woodlands, natural plantings of rhododendrons and spring-flowering shrubs and formal plantings. Tickets £25 (scotlandsgardens.org; 0131–226 3714)
Book now May 16 Buxton International Festival Spring Recital, Haddon Hall, Bakewell, Derbyshire. Recital by a string quintet from the Northern Chamber Orchestra, with drinks and canapés, plus an opportunity to explore the Rose Garden and grounds. Tickets £50 (01298 70395; www.buxtonfestival.co.uk)
July 28–August 25 Dartington International Summer School and Festival concerts and events, Dartington Hall, Totnes, Devon. Bumper celebration of the Summer School’s 70th anniversary with a different theme each week: The Heavens, Moon and Stars; Bach’s St Matthew Passion; powerful women; and the history of Dartington and Dorothy Elmhirst’s influence. Visit website for programme and prices (01803 847080; www.dartington.org) Haldon Grange, Dunchideock, Devon EX6 7YE. March 31– April 2, 1pm–5pm. Admission £4.50, children free There’s a host of gardens open over Easter, but this is one of the best. Through 12 acres, there’s a wonderful array of plants and the magnolias and camellias will be in full flower. The woodland setting of mature oaks offsets the flowering trees and shrubs; add to this luxuriant ponds and cascades and you’re guaranteed a memorable afternoon.