New Forest & Hampshire County Show with Midi & Netty

 New Forest & Hampshire County Show

The New Forest and Hampshire County Show holiday was a truly special week, blending countryside charm, wildlife encounters, coastal scenery, and the lively spirit of one of the region’s biggest rural events. From the moment the group set off together, there was a shared sense of excitement and anticipation.

The heart of the holiday lay in the New Forest and Hampshire County Show, enjoyed over two vibrant and varied days. The showground buzzed with energy, colour, and sound. 

Highlights included carriage driving displays, breathtaking falconry with birds soaring just overhead, thrilling relay races, and the proud Grand Parade of livestock led by young farmers. 

From craft tents and countryside skills to tractors, live music, and endless ice creams, there was something to delight everyone. 

The livestock sheds offered close-up encounters with prize cattle and sheep, while the show jumping finals delivered edge-of-the-seat excitement. 

Unexpected highlights, like climbing aboard an Army Reserve helicopter or watching sheepdogs expertly herd ducks, added fun surprises along the way. Wandering through the Flower Tent at the end of the show, surrounded by colour, fragrance, and creativity, felt like a perfect celebration of summer.

Wildlife and nature featured heavily throughout the holiday, beginning with an exciting visit to Marwell Zoo. From the moment the majestic snow leopards were spotted lounging in the shade, the group was captivated. Each person had their own animal highlights, from giraffes and big cats to monkeys, penguins, and even dinosaurs on the life-sized trail. Rain briefly interrupted the day, but spirits remained high as everyone sheltered together, chatting and laughing until the skies cleared. Seeing the giraffes feeding close to the fence was a magical moment, and the Amur tiger’s powerful feeding display left a lasting impression.

Quieter moments balanced the busier days. Time spent around Shorefield Country Park brought laughter in the arcade, relaxed lunches, and a magical visit to Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. Walking through sun-dappled woodland and watching wild deer graze peacefully in the clearing was a serene and unforgettable experience.

Coastal Hampshire provided a change of pace with a relaxed morning exploring Milford on Sea, wandering through charming streets and shops before heading down to Highcliffe Beach. A picnic overlooking the Solent, gentle paddling in the sea, and the simple pleasure of watching waves roll in made for a peaceful and joyful afternoon.

History and heritage came to life on a visit to Buckler’s Hard, a beautifully preserved shipbuilding village on the Beaulieu River. Strolling along cobbled paths between Georgian cottages felt like stepping back in time. The group explored restored homes, historic boatbuilding sheds, and learned about the astonishing effort involved in building Britain’s naval fleet.

 A picnic by the river, followed by a scenic cruise aboard the Swift Shore, was a highlight of calm and reflection, with herons overhead and sunshine shimmering on the water.