As winter unfolds into its final act, February offers occasions to warm the soul and spark the imagination. From the unforgettable Henley Festival 2025 to thought-provoking art exhibitions, laugh-out-loud comedy and immersive nostalgia, this month’s agenda is brimming with experiences designed to delight.
Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a gripping mystery, the beauty of serene winter gardens, or a magical blend of art and performance, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let us guide you through the must-see events, shows, and exhibitions happening this month—your perfect cultural itinerary awaits.
Things to Do in Buckinghamshire and Berkshire in February 2025
Murder on the Orient Express
Dates: 25 February-1 March
Venue: MK Theatre
Murder on The Orient Express is one of Agatha Christie’s greatest literary achievements, with a final twist that is amongst her very best. Gripping, tense and masterfully cryptic, this brand-new production is a deliciously thrilling ride and an ingenious murder mystery, guaranteed to keep you guessing until the end of the line.
Find your tickets at MK Theatre
Larry Dean
Dates: 22 February
Venue: The Stables
Dodger sees Larry Dean contemplate his heroes and his identity. His hero was Elvis, but this year his thoughts have been all shook up. Stemming from his granny’s dementia diagnosis, a few things have been put into perspective regarding the people who deserve our respect and why. Dodger is a hilarious show about finding out our heroes weren’t necessarily who we expected, and neither were we.
Winter Walking Tour
Dates: 2 February-23 March
Venue: Waddesdon Manor
With winter shrubs, early spring-flowering bulbs and views that are only visible before the trees come into leaf, Waddesdon’s gardens offer a serene outdoor experience at this time of year. Highlights include blankets of snowdrops in bloom around the grounds and over 100,000 daffodils across Daffodil Valley.
Get tickets at Waddesdon Manor
Picture You Dead
Dates: 6-8 February
Venue: Swan Theatre
Picture You Dead was inspired by author Peter James’s meeting with real life art forger and
now acclaimed copyist, David Henty. Set in Brighton, DSI Roy Grace investigates a cold case that leads him to the rarified air of fine art, but beneath the respectable veneer lurks a dark underworld of greed, deception and murder. When an unsuspecting couple unwittingly buy a potentially long-lost masterpiece in a car boot sale, they discover that their dream find is about to turn into their worst nightmare and only Grace can stop them from paying the ultimate price.
Book your tickets at Trafalgar Tickets
Back In The Day
Dates: 26 February
Venue: The Hexagon
From the creators of the infamous selling-out phenomenon That’ll Be The Day comes its younger successor: Back In The Day. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the electrifying energy of the past with the ultimate nostalgia party. This brand-new show takes audiences on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant sounds of the 80s, 90s and 00s, all brought to life by exceptional vocalists and a sensational live band.
Get your tickets at What’s On Reading
Art Stories
Dates: Until 22 February
Venue: Reading Museum
Every picture tells a story. Some the artist leaves for you to find. Some you can make up for yourself. Art Stories includes many exciting contemporary paintings, photographs, prints and sculptures such as pieces by Pablo Picasso and Cornelia Parker. Others tell older stories of Reading people and places. Some of them have inspired writers to slip their own mini-stories into the gallery to delight you and you are invited to do the same.
Editor’s Top Pick for This Month’s Must-See
Why Gandini Juggling is something you haven’t seen before
Gandini Juggling, the world-renowned and much-loved contemporary circus ensemble, brings to the UK its first new show for three years, heading to the Corn Exchange Newbury on 25 February. Heka – named after the Egyptian goddess of magic – marks a departure for director Sean Gandini as he revisits the fascination with magic which began during his childhood in Havana. Using magic as a source of creativity and a choreographic language, he deconstructs the movements we associate with magic to create new and unexpected juggling tricks.
Infused with a captivating blend of humour and philosophy, Heka draws inspiration from 20th-century magic tricks, mind games, and sleights of hand. Embracing elements of contemporary choreography, it reimagines magic using repetition, counterpoint and misdirection and explores the dynamics of group magic, probing the possibilities of multiple hands and gestures and delving into the nuances of delay and anticipation. The result is a mesmerising choreography of juggling where everything is definitely not as it seems…
By reinterpreting magic tricks through a choreographic language, the female jugglers of Heka emerge as the true protagonists, channelling the Egyptian goddess and challenging the gender stereotypes that have long persisted in the field of magic.
Gandini Juggling will be running a workshop programme alongside the Heka tour. A range of two-hour workshops, both in person and online, aimed at professional jugglers and performers and those that are new to the art form will be available.
View Tours and Shows at Gandini Juggling
Events To Book Now
Henley Festival 2025
Dates: 9-13 July
Tickets: General sale opens 6 February
Venue: Henley-on-Thames
The Henley Festival 2025 Line-up
Henley Festival returns for another five unforgettable nights of world-class music, comedy, visual arts, and fine dining. The only black-tie music and arts festival in the UK, set against the majestic riverside backdrop of Henley-on-Thames. The headliners for this year are Diana Ross, McFly, Rick Astley, Hacienda Classical, Matteo Bocelli, and Jamie Cullum.
Diana Ross opens the festival with A Symphonic Celebration alongside the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. McFly brings their beloved pop-rock anthems, while Rick Astley charms with soulful vocals and a big swing band. Saturday night pulses with Hacienda Classical, blending iconic dance anthems with live orchestration. The festival closes in grand style with Matteo Bocelli and Jamie Cullum, delivering an unforgettable finale.
Beyond the Music
Expect side-splitting comedy from Ed Byrne, Ivo Graham, Matt Forde, and Rob Auton. Admire stunning art installations, sculpture gardens, and curated galleries. The RISE Programme showcases emerging talent like Hetta Falzon and Naima Adams, while Pure Heaven keeps the party going with Jo Whiley’s Festival Anthems, YolanDa Brown’s Bob Marley Songbook, and Ellie Sax. Jazz, world music, cabaret, and street theatre ensure entertainment at every turn.
Good to Know
- Dress Code: Strictly black-tie
- Dining: Fine dining experiences and gourmet street food
- Getting There: Easily accessible by train from London Paddington or by road, with nearby parking and boat access for a grand entrance.
An unmissable event for music lovers and culture enthusiasts, the Henley Festival 2025 is the pinnacle of summer sophistication.
Find your tickets at Henley Festival
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
