Your Weekend Bucket List

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

This stunning photograph, captured by a talented young photographer, shows a deer gracefully moving through a sunlit field. The image was taken in a picturesque farmer's field behind Portsdown Hill, perfectly capturing the area's natural beauty.

Sidenote: This was shared on Facebook. Take a look at all the other photos. There were so many great photos!

A PLACE TO VISIT

A Quaint Town With a Royal Past

Bishop's Waltham is such a nice town! The high street is lined with independent shops, inviting cafes, and traditional pubs, making it a delightful place to explore and relax.

It's also rich in history - a 3-minute walk from the town centre is Bishops Waltham Palace. It is an interesting place and a lovely place to relax.

It was a residence for the Bishops of Winchester from the 12th century until the Civil War in the 1640s! It is open daily from 1st April to 30th September, 10am to 6pm, and from 1st October to 31st March, 10am to 4pm.

The farmhouse and museum are open from 1st May to 30th September on Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 4pm.

There is also a picnic area and dogs on leads are welcome.

Why not meet up with a friend for a coffee on the high street, enjoy a wander, and then take a short stroll to the palace ruins?

MY RECOMMENDATION

A Must-Visit Shop for History Buffs and Vintage Lovers!

A few days ago, I had a lovely walk around Chesapeake Mill in Wickham. This spot offers a wide range of traditional antique and vintage lifestyle accessories.

After browsing the unique products, I took a break at Crumbs Traditional Tearooms, enjoying a treat while the river Meon flowed by.

The history of Chesapeake Mill is also quite interesting... The mill at Wickham was owned and operated by the Prior family for several generations. The current building, constructed in 1820, was considered very modern for its time.

It housed two water wheels that drove five pairs of millstones, providing employment for eight to ten people at peak production. The mill continued to operate for around 150 years, with the original water wheels eventually replaced by a water turbine in the twentieth century. The last miller, Bruce Tappenden, worked the mill until it closed in the 1970s.

If you're looking for a day out that includes history and unique shopping, Chesapeake Mill is worth a visit.

WHAT’S ON THIS WEEKEND

Your Weekend Line-Up

Wickham Festival - 1st to 4th August 2024

A family-friendly music and arts festival, offering an eclectic mix of live performances, workshops, and fun activities for all ages.

Carlton Place Market - 3rd August 2024

A bustling market featuring a variety of stalls with local produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. Ideal for a leisurely Saturday stroll.

Trout ‘n About - 4th August 2024, 10am to 4pm

A vibrant food and craft festival set in the picturesque town of Stockbridge, with delicious local produce, live music, and family-friendly activities.

Beach Dubbin - 4th August 2024, 10am to 4pm

The ULTIMATE VW Show by the Sea. A must-visit for car enthusiasts, this event at Southsea Common showcases a stunning array of VW vehicles by the sea, along with food stalls and entertainment for the whole family.

LOCAL OLYMPIANS

Hampshire Sailors Set Sail for Olympic Glory in Marseille

Three athletes from Hampshire are embarking on their Olympic journeys over the next few days. Hannah Snellgrove, Vita Heathcote, and Chris Grube are all set to showcase their talents in the Sailing competition off the coast of Marseille.

Hannah Snellgrove, originally from Southampton and now residing in Lymington, will be the first to compete. Her event is the women's ILCA 6 dinghy competition.

Born into a family of sailors, Snellgrove began sailing at the age of seven at Salterns Sailing Club in Lymington.

Next in line are Vita Heathcote and Chris Grube, competing in the mixed dinghy. Their event starts at 11.05am today. Heathcote, also from Southampton now living in Lymington, took to the water with her family at the tender age of five.

Heathcote’s sailing partner, Chris Grube, originally from Chester but now residing in Hamble, brings a wealth of experience at 39 years old. He competed at the Rio and Tokyo Olympics, finishing in 5th place both times.

The Sailing events they’ll be participating in will feature ten races. Points will be awarded based on each boat’s finishing position, with the crew that accumulates the lowest score winning the gold medal.

We wish them all good luck in their events! 🫶