Perfect summer weekends at The Shed

Karen Neville

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Hampshire

Enjoy a classic car show and an evening of live music with an 80s twist

This summer at The Shed is a time to enjoy a festival atmosphere of music, classic car shows and much more.

Featuring a first weekend with a Classic Car Show, an outdoor market and a car boot sale, followed by the SHEDFEST in the first weekend of August, there’s so many opportunities to join in, celebrate and have a great time this month at The Shed.

Car and motorbike enthusiasts will be in their elements on 27th July when The Shed will host a spectacular Classic Car Show with some stunning vintage, sports and super cars rolling up including classic Aston Martins, Porche and MGs as well as some superbikes Bring along your own classic vehicle or simply come and admire the beauty and joy of these timeless vehicles. Find out more at https://www.thedrivenlife.co.uk/whitehill-and-bordon/

Head to The Shed to shop local on 27th July starting with the return of the popular Car Boot Sale, run from 10am-1pm, and on the same day from 10am-3pm shoppers can hop over to the Shed’s Saturday Market that is run monthly, which offers a whole host of local food and drink, homeware and craft businesses ready to share their wares.

Friends and family are invited to gather for an unforgettable night of live music with an 80s twist at SHEDFEST on Saturday, 3rd August at The Shed. Headlining the event is the incredible WHAM! DURAN, a WHAM and Duran Duran tribute act that will have you dancing all night long.

Also performing at SHEDFEST is the dynamic ULTIMATE PARTY BAND, known for their explosive sets and non-stop medleys of floor fillers from the 80s to the current day. Local groups Backbeat Collective and Kitt Trigg will also be taking the stage to showcase their talents, making SHEDFEST an unmissable event for music lovers of all ages. Delicious food will be available throughout the evening and best of all, entry is free!

Throughout 2024 The Shed is the place for a treat, to eat, create and meet, and you can find the full listing and details of all upcoming events at The Shed and much more at https://theshedwb.com/shed-events/

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Body talk at Winchester Science Centre

Karen Neville

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Join in the Olympics themed fun at Winchester Science Centre this summer, take part in the Bug Olympics and find out more about how your body works

There’s a festival of curiosity to enjoy at Winchester Science Centre this summer where you can immerse yourself in interactive activities and channel your inner Olympian.

Perfect for children aged three to 12 and their families, it’s free with general admission and this year it’s all about the Olympics and Paralympics. Families are invited to adventure outside and compete in the fun and friendly Bug Olympics – are you as fast as a dragonfly or as strong as an ant?

Children can also perform their very own opening ceremony inspired by nature’s sounds on the mini stage. Inside, mini scientists can discover the science of us in an interactive zone and during brand new live science show, What Happens: Our Body and Exercise.

Join forces and beat the bugs of the South Downs and beyond in the Bug Olympics! Dragonflies have a maximum speed of 34mph, ants can lift up to 100 times their own weight. But how about humans? Mini entomologists (bug enthusiasts) and their families can take on the bugs in activities inspired by the Olympic and Paralympic Games. Run, jump and throw as a team to see who will come out victorious, humans or bugs.

It wouldn’t be the Olympics without an epic opening ceremony. Using musical instruments, their own bodies and natural objects, children can recreate the sounds of nature on The Star mini stage set in the shadows of the Planetarium.

What does it take to be a superstar athlete at the Olympics and Paralympics? Athletes listen to their bodies to help improve their performance and in the Science of Us area families can find out how to listen to their own bodies and see firsthand how exercise changes the way it works. Get hands-on with finding your heart rate, have a go at the pedometer challenge and explore the way medical technology has evolved to enable even more people to take part in sport.

In the Science Theatre find out What Happens: Our Body and Exercise. Join the Science Inspirers as they limber up and discover the science behind how our body works during sport and exercise. Exciting experiments and inspiring demos will bring this energetic topic to life in a 20-minute live show. Discover how and why our heart rate increases in order to push blood around our body. An exciting audience participation demo shows how strong our bones are and there’ll be an explosive fiery food finale as the Inspirers explore the nature of the foods we need to fuel and energise our bodies for exercise.

For more information and to book tickets visit Winchester Science Centre

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GUTS-y challenge

Karen Neville

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Hampshire

Image by: Phil Kemp

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This year marks the 21st anniversary of the GUTS Motor Tour with veteran, vintage, historic, classic and modern classic cars taking to the roads of Surrey, Hampshire and Sussex on September 15th to raise vital fund for GUTS – Fighting Bowel Cancer

Classic cars, beautiful country roads and stunning scenery all make for a wonderful day of motoring and camaraderie while helping to save lives.

The GUTS Motor Tour is a relaxing and leisurely 60-mile drive on picturesque country roads around the three counties. There’s no element of driving competition and no special qualifications are needed to take part.

The route, secret until the day, is defined by easy-to-follow tulip diagrams and a picture quiz along the way adds to the fun of the Tour. This year’s route will take the participants from Haskins Forest Lodge Garden Centre, Holt Pound, Farnham, where you’ll enjoy a breakfast snack before embarking on the 50-60 mile tour on an attractive route with a mid-morning coffee halt at an unusual and interesting location. Back on the scenic route, this year’s destination is Hollycombe Working Steam Museum in the South Downs National Park, near Liphook in Hampshire, home to Britain’s largest collection of working steam, the largest traditional fairground, as well as steam railways and a steam farm. Aside from a fascinating dive into history, rides are available on authentic steam-driven Victorian and Edwardian fairground attractions and the narrow-gauge quarry railway.

The entry fee for the 2024 GUTS Motor Tour remains at £99 for a car, driver and one passenger. Extra passengers are £15 per person. This includes tea/coffee and breakfast snack at the start, a souvenir car plate, event pack and free entry to Hollycombe with attraction rides included. Among the awards on the day are the Car of the Tour – as voted by the participants – the Spirit of the Tour, which is awarded to the crew epitomising the values of the GUTS Motor Tour, and the winners of the Picture Quiz.

For more information and a booking form, please email [email protected] to secure your place by 31st July. You and your car can make a difference to this life-saving charity. And if you’re not taking part, look out for the cars en route or greet as they reach Hollycombe Steam at the end.

GUTS (Guildford Undetected Tumour Screening), established in 1983 at the Royal Surrey County Hospital, is a registered charity supporting the early detection, treatment and research into bowel cancer. It relies solely on donations to help fund equipment and training to improve care, and its annual Motor Tour helps to raise funds that enable the charity to continue its work. These stories tell how it helps:

Martin’s story

Martin was recently treated for bowel cancer at the Royal Surrey, He and his wife were so grateful for the excellent care and treatment he received – thanks in no small part to equipment and facilities funded by GUTS – that he used a special celebration to fundraise for the charity, asking for donations in lieu of gifts.

He says: “I was diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer three and a half years ago. It was a very scary time and I found it hard to accept how my life might change. However, with the medical skills and technology available, I have recovered well and am able to enjoy life to the full once again. I will always be thankful for the treatment and care I received. Our party was a celebration of 40 years marriage, an opportunity to say thank you to al our friends and family that supported us and the chance to raise funds for such a personal cause.”

Doris’s story

When she was in her mid-60s, Doris was diagnosed with bowel cancer. She was swiftly diagnosed and successfully underwent surgery under the care of GUTS founder Professor Chris Marks. From that day onwards says Hayley Gallagher of the charity, both my grandmother and mother were forever grateful and did as much as they could to champion the work of GUTs. “To say the path of Doris’s life changed immeasurably is an understatement; she lived to be a happy, glamourous and active 105-year-old!”

Marie’s story

Marie became a GUTS supporter when her mother was diagnosed and successfully treated by GUTS founder Professor Chris Marks. At that time, GUTS ran its own pioneering screening programme for bowel cancer, providing screening for thousands of patients in Surrey and surrounding counties. Then – as now – early diagnosis offered the best chance of successful treatment for bowl cancer. The GUTS screening programme was later absorbed into the National Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, which started in 2006.

Marie’s mum was diagnosed with bowel cancer 24 years ago at the age of 68. She would need a colostomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. She says: “I was 38 and it was the first time cancer had touched my family and I was devastated. I didn’t even know you could get cancer in your bottom. Mum survived her bowel cancer.

“I then channelled my energies into raising money for GUTs. We’ve had a lot of fun with barn dances, line dances, a raft race, cycle rides, point to point, rattling tins outside stores etc etc. I’m now 62 and mum, who still lives independently at home, is 92.”

Marie received her screening kit at home and sent it back. She takes up her story: “Results ‘abnormal’ and the second test also came back abnormal. Within a week I was invited to speak with a specialist nurse about going forward with a colonoscopy. A sinister mass was picked up and biopsies taken, CT scan booked and the appointment to discuss my results.

“I am delighted to say that because of the screening programme my tumour, although cancerous, was caught early and contained. I am booked to have a bowel resection by keyhole surgery and feel like the luckiest woman in the world.”

Marie’s story illustrates the importance of taking part in the screening programme. Information about bowel cancer screening, symptoms and treatment can be found at Bowel Cancer Charity | GUTS FBC

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Unearth Tudor secrets at Petworth

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Image by: James Dobson

This summer archaeologists are tracing the footsteps of Henry VIII as they search for evidence of a lost Tudor wing of the National Trust’s magnificent Petworth House and Park, July 19th to 31st

The two-week dig at Petworth is part of ‘Henry VIII’, a landmark research project led by Historic Royal Palaces (HRP) in partnership with the University of York.

For the first time, they plan to map every venue occupied by the legendary Tudor king on his ‘royal progress’, a tour consolidating his rule over the country. The project aims to enhance historians’ understanding of the purpose of royal progresses and their impact on 16th-century political culture.

Image by: DigVentures

Image by: DigVentures

The excavation coincides with the International Festival of Archaeology and there will be opportunities for the public to take part, including guided tours of the dig site, bookable half day sessions as well as family-friendly sessions to help with the dig itself or handle any finds that may be uncovered. Other free Tudor-themed activities will be available with no booking required. Normal admission to Petworth House applies.

The archaeologists will be searching for the footprint of the lost North Wing which was built when Henry acquired the house in 1536. The wing included a chapel, fortified tower and large hall, and was located on what is now the north west lawn in the park.

Image by: John Miller

Image by: DigVentures

There is also the tantalising possibility of discovering a lost ‘mystery building’ in the park which is indicated in several historical documents and was believed to be a banqueting house or hunting lodge where the king would have entertained his guests.

Visitor Experience Manager at Petworth Sue Rhodes said: “It’s extraordinary to think that Henry VIII once owned Petworth House, and we can’t wait to finally understand more about these lost buildings he may once have stood in. We’re also very keen for our visitors to get involved in the dig.”

Professor Anthony Musson, Head of Research at Historic Royal Palaces, said: “We’re really excited to be partnering with Petworth as part of the Historic Royal Palaces-led ‘Henry VIII on Tour’ research project. Our ambitious three-year venture is charting all of Henry’s royal progresses and exploring the properties he stayed at, particularly the less well-known venues and those now ‘lost’ Tudor palaces and landscapes. It is very much part of our commitment to help communities discover their local heritage, which we’re facilitating through digital visualisations, Tudor festivals, archaeological digs and musical performances. We’re especially looking forward to seeing what we uncover in this dig.”

For further information including booking details, please visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/sussex/petworth/archaeological-dig-at-petworth

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West Green House Opera

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Wicked or wondrous? Feast your senses at West Green House Opera

Opera may be the most emotional of all art forms, combining glorious music, engrossing plots, soaring arias, tragic heroines, dastardly heroes.

As if to prove the point, within a week at West Green House Opera we offer one of the most exuberant cads in all literature followed by one of the most pious and pure heroines.

Falstaff is known to many as the joival knight of Shakespeare plays, enthusiastic in his desires, brimming with life, mighty of girth and never without a drink. Verdi’s opera is based on The Merry Wives of Windsor, where the unruly Falstaff is challenged by feisty women to wonderfully comic effect. Embraced by soaring Verdi melodies and presented in a colourful, witty new staging by Richard Studer, why not treat yourself to some Sunday indulgence in the company of this fabulously wicked knight and his cast of comic characters?

Falstaff is on Sunday, 21st July.

And by complete contrast, just five days later, the ethereal and complex Suor Angelica takes centre stage, wrestling with her desire for earthly pleasures while remaining firm in her religious beliefs. With music by Puccini (Madam Butterfly, La Boheme), Angelica’s story draws audiences into its short one act format, perfect for a Friday evening which might include a West Green House picnic, some fizz at the Lakefield Bar and maybe a wander round the illuminated Gardens after dark?

Enjoy Suor Angelica on Friday, 26th July.

Sinner or saint? Naughty or novice? Bounder or blessed? Indulge all your senses at West Green House this July, Thackhams Lane, Hartley Wintney RG27 8JB.

Images show Simon Thorpe who plays Falstaff and Jenny Stafford who plays Suor Angelica at West Green House Opera July 2024

www.westgreenhouseopera.co.uk

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Planet friendly living in Petersfield

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Head to Petersfield Heath on July 14th for ideas, advice and fun ways to celebrate earth-friendly living for the whole family

Find out more ways to enjoy earth friendly living at this year’s Petersfield Eco Fair on Sunday, 14th July when along with day-long live music, food and drink, it will be a celebratory occasion.

There will be more than 30 stalls themed around various aspects of eco living and plenty of activities for children, such as face painting, storytelling, the Woodland Theatre Company and a children’s activity marquee – all adding up to a fun day out for all the family at Petersfield Heath.

Find out about our local bees, bats, birds and more and what you can do encourage nature in your garden with ideas and inspiration at the Nature stalls: Petersfield Community Garden, Friends of Petersfield Heath, Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Hampshire Bat Group, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and RSPB.

From solar panels to insulation and heat pumps, there’s advice on how to make your home more energy efficient and learn about plans for community energy in our local area.

Travel more sustainably advice on bikes and electric vehicles. There will be bicycle repairs on offer, bikes for sale and EV owners to chat to, courtesy of Petersfield Bicycle Buddies and JPAC Electrical.

Pick up some great ideas on low waste living from recycled products to plastic-free alternatives, with ways to help you consume less and recycle more. Among those offering low-cost living advice will be Petersfield Men’s Shed, Coffee Pod Creations and Green Boutique.

Discover the wide range of local community groups doing their bit to respond to the climate crisis, and join them in making a pledge to protect our planet.

There’s a brilliant line-up of live music to keep you entertained, plus woodland theatre, storytelling, face painting and other children’s activities, delicious food and refreshing drinks local suppliers with Crepe Britain, Dylan’s Ice Cream, Langhams Brewery, Roots and My Little Coffee Co at the Eco Fair. A cup deposit scheme will operate at the bar, so bring an extra £1 for your drink which will be refunded when the cup is returned.

And there’s the chance to showcase your skills with a photography competition where you can be in with the chance of winning a hamper of eco goodies and a young writers competition – can you write a short piece of fiction or non-fiction that has a nature or eco theme? You can win a book token prize.

For more details about the day and the two competitions, visit petersfieldcan.org/projects/eco-fair-2024 

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Hambledon Outdoor Theatre

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Would you like to experience the delight of outdoor theatre in one of the most beautiful Arts and Crafts settings in the South East of England?

Troubador Theatre presents William Shakespeare’s comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Friday, 12th July, at 6pm, and Saturday, 13th July, at 1pm & 6pm at the beautiful Vann in Hambledon, GU8 4EF.

Four young lovers, five amateur players, and a warring fairy host descend on the same forest in one evening. What could possibly go wrong?! As the lines between reality and illusion begin to blur, no one but the mischievous Puck knows what is true and what is magic…

Troubadour’s take on Shakespeare’s classic comedy will transport you from your local forest, field, hall or dell to a truly magical midsummer dream. It is a production both epic and intimate, designed to be enjoyed by all the family. It is packed with original songs and plenty of wonder.

Gates will open half an hour before the performance or you can go early and enjoy the garden and picnic. Come rain, come shine, the show WILL go on!

Adult/Bards: £24, children/Troupers: £22. Early access and picnicking: £10pp

Purchase tickets.

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Arts for all in Alton

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Alton is gearing up for the first Alton Arts Festival, July 5th to 14th, a celebration of the arts, community and creativity

Excitement is building for the first Alton Arts Festival – a 10-day, multi-arts, multi-venue festival the likes of which Alton has never seen before!

There are still some hot tickets to get your hands on across the ambitious programme.

World-famous names like Cara Dillion, Simon Armitage, Laura Bates and Richard Herring, and the best local talent Alton has to offer; with world-premières and festival exclusives, compelling conversation and incredible intimate settings; hands-on workshops, kids’ comedy, free concerts, parties in the park and of course, a sprinkling of Jane Austen – all celebrating and showcasing the heritage, talent and creative spirit of this corner of East Hampshire.

Annie Lancaster, Alton Arts Festival Co-creator and Chair, said: “When we first considered putting on arts festival, I really had no idea if we could pull it off. We set ourselves some pretty high goals and wanted to be ambitious for the town. I needn’t have worried – the brilliant team of dedicated, inspiring volunteers who make up the committee have put together an exciting, diverse and honestly world-class line up.

“There are some highlights in the mix. I’m particularly looking forward to the family-friendly, interactive show with Testament, a world-record holding beatboxer, MC and poet, Holybourne Theatre on 10th July, and Austen & Friends, featuring the world première of some of Jane Austen’s lesser-known poems set to music. And the literary programme is just fantastic. I can’t wait to see Bridget Collins, a #1 bestselling author whose new book, The Silence Factory, has just been released to critical acclaim, taking part in our speculative fiction games night: “Worldbuilding… Live!”

“It has always been my hope that the festival will have benefits beyond the 10 days it runs – to audiences, to creatives, to local businesses, and to the whole community. That’s why we’ve worked so hard to put together a programme that really does have something for everyone, including our schools programme which offers arts experiences and workshops to almost 3,000 local children, free of charge. Now the festival is just around the corner, we can’t wait for all these plans to come to life!”

Among the highlights are a free community choral festival at St Lawrence Church on 7th, Arts in the Park which opens the weekend with a celebration of local community groups on 6th, culminating in Party in the Park winding up the festival with one big party with live music, dancing, local food and drink on 14th.

Full information and individual event booking information can be found at Alton Arts Festival

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Fresh & fabulous farm shops

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Summer is the perfect season to sample the fare and flavours at your local farm shop, not only are you shopping local and supporting homegrown growers but you’ll be helping the environment too

Farm shops are a feast for the senses from the fashion show of fruit and veg, succulent juicy meat, richly flavoured cheese and bread so fresh you can smell it as you walk through the door, what’s not to love! 

Add in the high-quality fare is locally produced, often right on the doorstep, and you’re helping to protect the environment, boast personal service and by shopping there you are supporting local small businesses and everyone’s a winner. 

Farm shops help produce a strong sense of community with many offering pick your own options, delis and cafes to enjoy on site and with produce available at local farmers’ markets shopping for healthy and nutritious food has never been easier. 

The family-run business at Dunnocks Farm Shop & Deli, Whipley Manor Farm, Palmers Cross, Bramley GU5 0LL, goes out of its way to support small, independent producers. The array of British made products even includes Good Taste award crisps! Find organic and vegan produce, local meats, cheeses, gift hampers, condiments, ready-to-bake pastries, pasta, rice and eco-friendly bio cleaning products. And they’ll deliver locally too. 

Fresh free range eggs and local honey, homemade jams, chutneys and pickles are just some of the produce to tempt you into Elm Nursery, Sutton Green Road, Guildford GU4 7QD, where you’ll also enjoy a wide range of gifts, treats, children’s presents, foodie treats, cards and more! Where else could you pick up produce from The Garlic Farm in the Isle of Wight and luxury wool alpaca socks as well as a selection of cakes, snacks and delicious Marshfields ice cream? 

If the thought of taking home freshly cooked bread while it’s still warm has you salivating, then drop into Frensham Garden Centre Farm Shop, The Reeds Road, Frensham GU10 3BP, where you’ll also find locally sourced jams and preserves to spread lavishly on top. There are more than 20 flavours of delicious pie which along with Scotch eggs, sausage rolls, samosas, and much more should ensure something for every palate. Need a drink to go with it? Try one of the many wines and ales. It doesn’t get more local than the award-winning Hogs Back T.E.A Ale. All you need for the perfect picnic. 

“Our fruit and vegetables are carefully selected from the most local quality growers we can find. Our meat, fish, eggs and dairy meet strict sustainability and animal welfare standards. Our breads, pies, quiches and cakes are locally baked and are absolutely delicious,” says Noel of Noel’s Farm Shop, Sutton Green, Woking GU4 7QB. The shop also offers an increased range of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free options and you can take along your own containers for sustainable refills too. Order online and collect or take advantage of delivery. 

Ripley Farm Shop in Portsmouth Road GU23 6EY offers products from local businesses, fresh seasonal vegetables and fruit, handmade traditional pasties and quiches from their West Sussex farm, dairy products such as cottage cheese, and other locally-sourced products. Pop into the garden centre for plants while visiting. 

‘One of the best gourmet food destinations in the region’ is an accolade held by Secretts of Milford at Hurst Farm, Chapel Lane, Milford GU8 5HU for its gourmet and everyday foods and ingredients, many locally sourced. They are known as one of the leading vegetable and salad crop growers in Surrey and supply many of the area’s leading restaurants. Choose from more than 300 cheeses (heaven) and the craft gin and beer selection are also a hit. With an onsite butchers, tea room, English wine merchant and ethical clothing and gift shop, extensive grounds perfect for summer picnics and leisurely strolls as well as pick your own, it’s a fabulous day out. 

Pop in for one thing at Applegarth Farm, Headley Road, Grayshott, GU26 6JL and you’ll leave with a shopping bag full of delights from the deli – there’s charcuterie, sausage rolls, antipasto, salads and a range of other tasty treats ready for you to enjoy at home. An ‘extended family’ of artisan suppliers and producers brings some of the freshest produce with cheeses from independent makers, home-made cakes, sweets, artisan breads, chutneys, jams and more. 

Healthy fresh produce is grown on the 200-acre family-owned farm in Kingsley, Bordon GU35 0QP, where at the Country Market, Malthouse & Osborne Farms you’ll be surrounded by specialist fine foods and eco essentials. The multiple award-winning Owtons Butchery, freshly baked handmade breads and cakes from the artisan Good Taste Bakery, the best independent wines from The General Wine Company and of course, local produce, all make up the fine fare to shop. 

The shop at Durleighmarsh is at the heart of the farm providing seasonal freshly picked fruit and vegetables direct from their crops in Petersfield GU31 5AX alongside a wide range of delicious goods from local producers. Fresh bread and pastries, meat and fish, alcoholic beverages, fruit juices and so much more are stocked and at this time of year look out for hand-picked seasonal produce, in particular the extremely popular asparagus and strawberries. 

If Luff’s Farm Shop don’t grow the fruit and vegetables themselves at Headley, Bordon GU35 0PB, they buy from carefully chosen suppliers to ensure they can offer everything from potatoes and parsnips to carrots, cabbages and more, all fresh and full of flavour. Crisp apples, juicy peaches, sweet berries and zesty citrus fruits line the shelves. 

Fill your own milk bottles from the milk vending machine at Sky Park Farm, West Harting, Petersfield GU31 5PT, where you can even add your own milkshake flavour. The milk comes from a dairy herd grazing across the road so you can’t get much fresher. Many of their suppliers are located within a 30-mile radius so why not take home some deli meats, cheeses and dishes freshly prepared in the kitchen. Frozen meals are also available, all ‘made in our kitchen’.  

Just over 90 per cent of sales at West Lea Farm Shop, Ladycroft, Alresford SO24 0QS are sourced from producers within a few miles of the family run shop, from the smallest grower of runner beans to much larger local businesses squishing apples into a whole range of juices. In addition to watercress beds, there are veg, flowers, freshly baked bread, candles, chocolates and trout to enjoy too. West Lea Farm Shop has recently been crowned Champion in the regional Countryside Alliance Awards in the South East of England, thanks to customers’ votes. As we went to press they were awaiting their fate in the grand final.  

Find more shops near you and if you’re elsewhere on holiday this summer check out those locally at fabulousfarmshops.co.uk 

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Summer daze

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Holidays are on the horizon so let’s get out and have a good time whatever the weather. There’s fun for all ages to enjoy!

July heralds the start of the school summer hols, weeks of long lazy days lie ahead but there’s plenty to do from trails to follow, games to play, open air entertainment, delve into history, make a splash or go for full on adventure!

Discover family fun at a National Trust place near you this summer. Enjoy games, sports and free family theatre at Hindhead Commons and Frensham Little Pond and garden games and musical fun at Leith Hill Place, take a picnic and enjoy the day. Explore the pirate-themed activities at Hatchlands Park or book your tickets for evening outdoor theatre on the lawn.

Box Hill is also the place to get involved in games, sports and free family theatre. Check the National Trust website for full details and to book if required.

Enjoy a Summer of Play at Polesden Lacey from July 13th to September 8th and on July 19th there’s a display of vintage Rolls Royce cars and children’s pop-up theatre to entertain you.

Back by popular demand, the Pavilion Play will host active games for the whole family at Winkworth Arboretum from July 20th to September 4th and Winkworth Wild Crafts are returning every Wednesday during the summer holidays too.

There’s a jam-packed programme of summer holiday workshops for 5-to 18-year-olds at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre from July 24th to August 9th. Budding performers can get involved in musical theatre, circus and dance workshops, or a bumper three-day drama camp. There are also workshops in directing and lighting design, and a robotics workshop for creative minds! You can find out more: yvonne-arnaud.co.uk/whats-on/by-genre/workshop

From tasting the King’s feast, to Tudor music, falconry and jousting displays you’ll have a day out to remember as you travel back to 1533 when Henry & Gertrude Courtenay invited King Henry VIII for a visit to West Horsley Place. There’s the chance to meet Henry VIII from July 29th to August 1st and quiz him on anything you like in a unique experience. Booking essential for the ‘meet & greet’. Find out more and book at Meet Henry VIII | West Horsley Place

Boutique music festival Weyfest is made more special than any other festivals by the setting. This is not a music festival in a muddy field, this is a music festival at the Rural Life Museum in Farnham. What other festival can boast historic buildings, an arboretum, four stages of live music over four days, August 15th-18th, and you can ride round the festival on the railway! Full details and tickets at weyfest.co.uk

Get into the woods and go wild with amazing outdoor experiences for children aged eight to 11 at Painshill Park on selected dates from July 23rd to August 22nd. Full details and booking at Painshill also has a wealth of outdoor theatre for you to enjoy through the summer with Shakespeare and Gilbert & Sullivan on the programme. Find out more and book at Events at Painshill.

‘A truly royal way to travel! For an exceptional day out, head into Windsor town centre and jump on the French Brothers Riverboat. Take in the picturesque River Thames, before enjoying an evening at Royal Windsor Racecourse. Book via windsor-racecourse.co.uk for admission, return riverboat, and two drinks, all from £49.50.

Ahoy! Mermaids & Pirates are coming to The Square, Camberley, from July 24th to August 31st. There’ll be children’s shows, pirate and mermaid themed crafts and land lubbers can follow a treasure trail with prizes. Shiver me timbers it’s all free! A play pirate ship will amuse the children in between visiting big brand stores and unique independents. Visit thesqcamberley.co.uk for more information. 

The British Motor Show returns August 15th to 18th, offering a weekend of family fun and amazing experiences in Farnborough. Keep the whole family entertained with an amazing mix of driving experiences, supercars, live arena shows, fairground rides, celebrities and of course, cars. It’s more than just a motor show, it’s family fun redefined! More details and booking at thebritishmotorshow.live/ 

With new areas and luxurious experiences, BSpa at Brooklands Hotel has everything you need to unwind, relax and refresh your mind and body. Prepare to be truly pampered with a variety of state-of-the-art facilities to restore health and wellbeing and treatments offering the perfect balance between innovative and classical therapies. You will leave with your mind and body feeling relaxed, rejuvenated, and energised. More at brooklandshotelsurrey.com/bspa/ 

Three Peaks Barfield is known for its action-packed activity parties and are launching the ultimate combat laser tag experience. Get adrenaline-pumping action like never before! The brand-new laser tag parties offer combat laser tag with top-of-the-line equipment for an unforgettable experience. Gear up, strategise, and unleash your inner warrior in the most immersive laser tag arena around. Are you ready to dominate the battlefield? Visit barfieldpst.org/birthday-parties for more information. 

Join The Phoenix, Bordon, for a spectacular weekend of music, dancing, craft workshops and fun in the summer sun on July 6th & 7th. Whether you’re looking for free eco-friendly activities for the kids, a relaxing evening of al fresco classical music or a Sunday session fuelled by a gang of rowdy sailors, The Phoenix Arts Festival has it all, phoenixarts.co.uk 

Grab your picnic gear and enjoy the glorious grounds of South Hill Park this summer for relaxed, outdoor theatre fun. There is something for all ages this summer with The Gondoliers on Friday, 26th July. The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck, Friday, 2nd August and The Railway Children on Friday, 16th August. More details & to book visit southhillpark.org.uk/whats-on/shows-events/ 

Become a heritage trail explorer at The Vyne for the day. Everywhere you look there’s archaeological evidence to be found. See what you can find using a free spotter sheet available at reception, July 13th to 28th.  

Illyria perform the much-loved family story The Adventures of Dr Doolittle on July 12th when Dr Dolittle learns how to talk to animals. He embarks on a thrilling quest to cure illness, spread kindness, and better understand animals. Booking essential, visit ticketsource.co.uk/illyria 

The Festival of Archaeology returns this year to coincide with the 80th anniversary of The Council of British Archaeology and this year’s theme is community. Go along to Hinton Ampner for finds handling, excavation activities, tours, geophysics demos and much more, July 13th to 28th. 

Mottisfont has a charming exhibition and activity trail running from July 20th to September 29th of John Burningham’s Bedtime Stories. Discover over 60 original illustrations including favourite stories and characters such as Mr Gumpy, Avocado Baby, and Oi! Get Off Our Train! There are comfy reading zones for kids to snuggle into with a book, colourful blown-up scenes for family photos, and dressing up inspiration. Look out for the life-size ‘magic’ bed that transports young imaginations to far away worlds, inspired by Burningham’s classic story The Magic Bed. An energetic activity trail weaves through Mottisfont’s gardens, introducing families to more characters, with games and challenges to complete. £3 per trail. 

Roll up, roll up and have fun at Hinton Ampner’s summer of circus from July 20th to September 1st. Have a go at circus yoga and show off your flexibility, wander down Circus Street and guess who lives behind each door and test your skills on the South Lawn where you will find juggling, balancing and hooping challenges to test your big top talents! 

For an energetic day out, all ages can enjoy bean bag shot put, an obstacle course, long jump, high jump, triple jump, relay race, hurdles and ribbon gymnastics in the gardens at The Vyne throughout the summer holidays, July 24th to September 1st. 

Pack up your picnic rug or camping chair and find your spot to enjoy outdoor cinema at The Vyne. Choose from Pretty Woman, August 1st; join the Grease sing-a-long on 2nd; The Greatest Showman sing-a-along on 3rd and Top Gun on 4th. Booking essential for these, details at nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/the-vyne/events 

Get your tickets for The South Downs Show at Queen Elizabeth Country Park for awesome arena acts, entertaining attractions, dog shows, animal petting zoo, children’s rides and fun zone, country life stalls, beer tent and catering with live music and much much more… on  August 10th – 11th. More details and tickets at southdownsshow.com/ 

Enjoy a day out with Thomas & Friends on The Watercress Line in Alresford, August 21st to 25th. Take a ride behind Thomas, meet some of your favourite characters, and join Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty for a trainload of excitement! New this year are two Rusty & Dusty outdoor entertainment shows with Sir Topham Hatt, Percy, Diesel and Toad. Terence the Tractor will be visiting too. Book at watercressline.co.uk/special-days/day-out-with-thomas/ 

This summer at The Shed expect loads of free kids’ activities, a free family friendly music festival, a beer festival with live music and a whole host of delicious treats to keep everyone happy. With free parking for two hours during the day (and after 6pm) as well as a lovely park for picnics and a play area for the kids, The Shed always has something on offer for those ‘what shall we do days?’ More at theshedwb.com  

The mini children’s festival of curiosity, Fiesta, is back between 13th July and 2nd September at Winchester Science Centre and this time Olympic and Paralympic fever has hit. Outside, join the fun family Bug Olympics activity that will see families and groups of friends take on the bugs of the South Downs and beyond by competing in some Olympic and Paralympic inspired events. There will also be a chance for children to create their own opening and closing ceremony inspired by the stunning natural environment of the South Downs. Back inside, families will be able to delve into the curious world of our bodies in The Science of Us zone and during a brand new live science show, What Happens: Our Body and Exercise. 

Start the summer holidays off at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens. The Selborne attraction will be celebrating Gilbert White’s 304th birthday with free admission for one day only on the 20th July between 10.30am and 5pm. The museum becomes a festival that evening with UK Fleetwood Mac, a polished band of experienced and accomplished musicians who come together to create the perfect homage to everyone’s favourite 70s rock band. With a remarkable sound, authentic look, and set-list jam packed with hits from Dreams to The Chain you’ll be singing Don’t Stop before you know it! Join family and friends, picnic in picturesque surroundings before grabbing your dancing shoes and get ready for the party of a lifetime at Gilbert White’s House and Gardens. Tickets and further details at gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk 

Enjoy your summer however you spend it! 

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