Charlotte Tomlinson-White has scoured the county to bring you the top events taking place this month

Beatrix Potter

In the 150th anniversary year of Beatrix Potter’s birth, Mottisfont is hosting a new exhibition that celebrates the world’s most beloved children’s illustrator and author. Beatrix Potter: Play and Childhood features a delightful collection of 30 original watercolours and drawings, alongside a small selection of vintage Beatrix Potter dolls and figurines. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to see these artworks, which, due to light sensitivity, are rarely shown outside of their permanent home in the Lake District.

• When: July 16 – September 18

• Where: Mottisfont, near Romsey, SO51 0LP, 01794 340757, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont

Indian Dance

Experience Indian dance theatre at its best at The Haymarket when Kala The Arts, a South Asian Dance and Music company, presents Sangha. Culturally rich mythological tales and creative personal stories are interpreted through stunning choreography by the finest artists in the Indian classical forms of Kathak, Odissi and Kuchipudi. With elements of dance, music, theatre, mime and improvisation, this colourful spectacle invokes beauty, compassion and powerful performance.

• When: July 2

• Where: The Haymarket, Wote Street, Basingstoke, RG21 7NE, 01256 844244, www.anvilarts.org.uk

Sunset Party

Party like the animals, in the park after hours at Marwell Zoo! Watch the animals at sunset, meet the larger than life costume characters, be amazed by the fantastic fire performers and enjoy a host of live street performances. Plus a variety of talks about the resident animals and a number of catering outlets serving a wide range of refreshments. It’s going to be a wild night!

• When: July 2

• Where: Marwell Zoo, Thompsons Lane, Winchester, SO21 1JH; 01962 777407, www.marwell.org.uk

War Women

Lee Miller was one of the most important war photographers of the 20th Century, capturing images that provide important reflections on the role of women in WW11. Join Antony Penrose for a discussion about his mother’s photographs and her life.

• When: July 7

• Where: The Spring Arts & Heritage, Havant, 02392 472700

Mod Musical

Celebrate the music of The Small Faces in this trans-generational experience and enjoy hits like ‘Whatcha Gonna Do About It’, ‘All Or Nothing’ and ‘Tin Soldier’.

• When: July 6 – 9

• Where: Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, PO5 2SH, 02292 828282

Set in Stone

Stonemasons from around the UK will be heading to Winchester for the first of what is hoped will be a regular event at the Cathedral. See the skilled craftsmen carve to a theme, try a variety of workshops and enjoy a festival atmosphere.

• When: July 8 – 10

• Where: Winchester Cathedral, The Close, SO23 9LS, 01962 857275

Vintage Summer Sounds

Enjoy a vintage summer evening at Hinton Ampner with the fabulous Spitfire Sisters. Backed by a six piece swing band, the close harmony vocal trio will be filling the air with some swing classics as well as transforming some new tunes with their classic ‘40s style. Why not make an evening of it? Bring a picnic and relax on the lawns as the sun sets over the elegant country house.

• When: July 9

• Where: Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, SO24 0LA; 01962 771305, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner

Running Festival

Don your trainers and take on a new challenge this summer. The Brutal Team, usually renowned for their tough, muddy routes, are embracing the dry summer trails and organising a running festival event. This celebration of all things running includes a 10km trail run, solo, pair and team 18-hour endurance running, canicross and a kids’ race. Take a BBQ, pitch your tent, and enjoy the festival atmosphere. With an all-night café, chip timing, and the best route marking you’ve ever seen, it is not to be missed!

• When: July 2 and 3

• Where: Minley Training Land, Camberley, GU17 9UF, www.brutalrun.co.uk/race/brutal10-enduro

A Saxon Encampment

Step back in time and join Regia Anglorum, a living history re-enactment group, for some Saxon living. With a Saxon vessel moored on the River Itchen, a sailing replica of the Gokstad Faerings and a fishing display, it’s a living history weekend not to be missed!

• When: July 16 and 17

• Where: North Walls Recreation Ground, Gordon Road, Winchester, SO23 7DD, www.regia.org

A Summer Steam Soiree

Exbury on a summer evening is a pure delight, especially when you’re offered a glass of Pimms or a fruit cocktail and have the opportunity to ride the steam railway! This month, enjoy an evening tour of the gardens in the company of a knowledgeable guide. Board the Rhododendron Line and marvel at the herbaceous and perennial plantings as the train passes through Summer Lane Garden, take in the tranquil Jubilee Pond and savour a delicious two-course meal at on the terrace at Mr Eddy’s.

• When: July 15

• Where: Exbury Gardens, Southampton, SO45 1AZ, 02380 891203, www.exbury.co.uk