From Deer Sanctuaries to Art Trails in Hampshire

A PLACE TO VISIT

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

Last week, I had a lovely time at Bolderwood in the New Forest - it's one of the best places to see deer. Just a short walk from the car park is a purpose-built platform that overlooks a large meadow.

There are three circular walks, all signposted and suitable for wheelchair and buggy users. The tracks are compact gravel, similar to off-road cycle paths.

Each walk starts from the car park and is either 1/2 mile, 1 mile, or 2 miles long.

I wish I had brought a good camera, as there were many great photo opportunities. We even spotted a couple of bucks (zoom in on a couple of the photos).

There's also a large grassy area by the car park, perfect for games and picnics.

Postcode: SO43 7GQ

ART TRAIL

Light the South

Have you seen the Light the South art trail in Southampton and Cowes, which features stunning lighthouses? This fantastic event supports Southampton Hospitals Charity.

Running until 1 September 2024, the trail showcases unique lighthouse sculptures designed by some of the UK's most talented artists, schools, and community groups. Each piece is sponsored by a local business or individual, adding a lovely community touch to this outdoor exhibition.

With 40 eight-foot-high lighthouses and 40 mini lighthouses to discover, this family-friendly trail is perfect for everyone to explore and enjoy.

To get started, download the free Light the South app. The app provides an interactive map showing all the sculpture locations.

Each lighthouse has a plaque with a 4-digit code, allowing you to collect digital versions of the sculptures, unlock rewards, and hit special milestones. Some even offer exclusive discounts at local businesses!

Here’s one I saw in Westquay.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Romsey’s Quirky Woolly Bollard Covers Will Make You Smile!

I shared these on Facebook, and people loved them. If you’re ever in Romsey, make sure to take a look. The talent behind these creations is incredible, and they bring smiles to so many faces.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Portsmouth International Kite Festival This Weekend!

Don't miss the 31st Portsmouth International Kite Festival happening this weekend on the 27th and 28th of July at Southsea Common.

From 10am to 5:30pm, enjoy spectacular kite displays, workshops, and family-friendly activities. Supported by Portsmouth City Council, this event promises a colourful and exciting experience for all ages.

We went last year and had a great time!

For more details, visit the Portsmouth International Kite Festival website.

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

Kids eat 'free' or for '£1'

The summer holidays can be expensive, so I’ve put together a list of chain restaurants where you can enjoy a meal without breaking the bank. These places offer fantastic deals where kids can eat 'free' or for just '£1', and there are plenty of locations around Hampshire. Be sure to check with the restaurant before you go, as terms and availability may vary.

Pizza Express - Kids eat 'free' when an adult buys a main.

Brewers Fayre - Feed a family of four for under £20, weekdays during summer holidays, 12pm-6pm. 'Free' kids' breakfast when an adult buys a cooked breakfast. Valid every day.

Asda Cafés - Kids eat for £1, no minimum spend required.

Beefeater - 'Free' kids' breakfast when an adult buys a cooked breakfast. Valid every day.

Bella Italia - Kids eat for 'free' on Thursdays, Kids eat for '£1' on Sun-Wed, 4pm-6pm. When an adult buys a main meal.

Bill's - Kids eat 'free' when an adult buys a main meal. Weekdays only.

Dobbies - Kids eat for ‘free’ when an adult buys a main meal.

Dunelm Pausa Café - Kids eat 'free' when an adult spends £4 in café.

Fridays - Kids eat 'free' via Stripes Rewards app, when an adult buys a main.

Hungry Horse - Kids eat from £1 when an adult buys a main meal. Mondays only.

Ikea - Kids eat for 95p or £1.50, no minimum spend. Excludes Fridays.

John Lewis - Kids eat 'free' when an adult spends £10 in the café.

Marco Pierre White - Kids eat 'free' when an adult buys a main meal.

Morrisons Café - Kids eat 'free' when an adult buys a main meal. Valid every day. FREE bowl of cereal. Valid every day until café closing time.

Prezzo - Kids eat 'free' via email code and when an adult buys a main.

Sainsbury's Café - Kids eat for £1 when an adult buys a main meal.

Sizzling Pubs - Kids eat for '£1' when an adult buys a main meal.

Table Table - 'Free' kids' breakfast when an adult buys a cooked breakfast. Valid every day.

Tesco Café - Kids eat 'free' when an adult makes a purchase. Clubcard members only.

The Real Greek - Kids eat 'free' on Sundays when an adult spends £10.

TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Private Walking Tour of Winchester!

Think you know Winchester? Think again! Even if you live locally, there's always something new to discover. I'm always amazed at how little I know about our local history.

This Private Walking Tour offers a personalised journey through the city's historic sites, guided by an expert who tailors the tour to your interests. Unearth hidden gems, hear captivating stories and see Winchester from a fresh perspective.

Ready to explore? Book your tour now at the Winchester Private Walking Tour page.