Book a holiday in the New Forest National Park this summer and enjoy the beauty of wild heathlands, dappled woods and the famous free-roaming ponies. But don’t forget the region also has an amazing coastline and bucolic countryside, a string of soft, sandy beaches, gastro pubs and lots of New Forest attractions for all the family. Plus, there is also a hot list of fun-tastic events and wonderful festivals!
Here are seven New Forest events taking place in summer 2021…
Sculpture at Beaulieu
Kicking off the summer season on June 19th is an eclectic mix of works from over 50 celebrated British and international sculptors at Beaulieu. Bring your pocket money as the sculptures are also for sale. Prices range from a very modest £85 up to a whopping £100,000 for an inspiring wow statement. You can view the sculptures in and around the grounds and parklands surrounding the National Motor Museum, Palace House and ancient Abbey as part of a day trip ticket. Click here for more info
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Steamship Shieldhall
Starting June 26th, this steam-fuelled beauty is sailing from nearby Southampton throughout the summer. Choose from half or full-day tours and events in and around The Solent and the Isle of Wight, whose waters are frequented by dolphins and seals.
It’s an unusual and fun day out, passing busy shipping lanes of ocean liners and huge cargo ships frequenting Southampton Waters. You’ll be able to take a look at the steam room puffing away in all its glory, speak to the captain and crew, walk the ships sleek teak decks and tuck into a light lunch or afternoon tea. Click here for more info
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The Importance of Being Earnest at Rockbourne Roman Villa
This unusual, quirky take on Oscar Wilde’s epic story takes place on the evening of June 30th in the grounds of Rockbourne Villa. Bring your picnic, a blanket or some collapsible chairs and sit back ready to be entertained! Click here for more info
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Ritual Feast
Foodie lovers of culinary capers will love Ritual Feast. There’s something quite magical about being in the middle of the New Forest, learning how to cook and feasting on a fire-cooked banquet. Each pop-up location is released to ticket holders a few days before. The Ritual Feast ticket provides an almost theatrical event where you’ll learn the principles of open-air cooking and feasting before tucking into a deliciously imaginative menu. It’s not cheap, but as a special treat! There are dates throughout the summer. Find out more info
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Lymington Seafood Festival
16th – 18th July. Surrounded by sailing boats and adjacent to one of Lymington’s big marinas, the location for celebrating the amazing fish and seafood produce this region has to offer couldn’t be better. This 3-day festival features a pop-up brasserie, countless stalls selling a wondrous collection of seafood dishes (plus some meaty/veggie options for those not keen on fishy fare), live cookery demonstration, crafts, bars and lots of live music. It’s so good, New Forest Cottages are one of the main sponsors! Find out more
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Christchurch Food Festival
The Christchurch Food Festival takes place from 28th – 30th August. A popular, free annual event that attracts thousands (60,000 to be precise) of visitors. This year the festival will take place on Christchurch Quay, a beautiful riverside location crowned by the magnificent prominence of the ancient Priory. Go to buy artisan delicacies, homemade goodies, demos, music, bars and plentiful entertainment. Find out more
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Park Proms, Romsey
This August bank holiday weekend brings a two-day event of joyous music from two completely different genres at Broadlands Estate. Tickets can be purchased for single or both days where you’re invited to bring picnics and fling your best gingham across the grass and settle in for late afternoon and evenings of music.
Friday includes a display by the Red Arrows and performances by the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra playing pieces from Harry Potter, James Bond, Star Wars & Superman, alongside stars Aled Jones & Laura Wright. Saturday is a night of Pop-tastic fun with headliners James Morrison, Pixie Lott, Scouting for Girls and Eliza & the Bear belting out favourite hits and bop-worthy tunes. Find out more
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