I Found the Perfect Day Out in Selbourne

The Olympic Games, History, Nature and Delicious Treats

30/7/24 | Weather ☀ | Sunrise 5:29 am | Sunset at 8:55 pm

I hope you’ve had a great weekend. The sun has finally made an appearance (although I might be talking too soon 🫣 ). So, grab your sunglasses, pack a picnic, and let's make the most of this sunshine while it lasts!

A PLACE TO VISIT

A Beautiful Place, a Wind in the Willows Trail and Delicious Cake

Last week I went to Gilbert White’s House and Gardens in Selbourne with my family.

If you’re into history and nature, this place is a must-visit. The house offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the 18th-century naturalist Gilbert White. We took our little one, and she enjoyed doing some of the activities around the house, like brass rubbings, puzzles and activity stations.

The gardens are stunning, with 25 acres to explore, including beautiful flowerbeds and peaceful walking paths.

We did the Wind in the Willows trail (on until Sunday 1st September). Our little one loved following the map and looking for the characters while we enjoyed walking around and enjoying the gardens.

We also enjoyed some delicious homemade treats at the café. If you're passing by, the cafe is accessible without a ticket to the museum or gardens.

I recommend the chocolate cake

If you're driving, the car park is behind Selborne Arms pub (GU34 3BN). Once you arrive, input your registration into their system, and the parking will be free.

A PLACE FOR THE FAMILY

Find Out Why This Hampshire Park Is a Family Favourite…

If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy the outdoors, I highly recommend Hogmoor Inclosure in the Whitehill & Bordon area. It’s about a 15 minute drive from Gilbert Whites House and Gardens.

Last week, we spent a few hours there exploring its vast 54 hectares of woodlands and heathland, which are perfect for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

We mainly spent our time in the adventure playground, which is suitable for children of all ages and includes a zip wire, slides, climbing frames, and sand play – our little one loved it!

There are also woodland trails, sculptures, picnic areas, a café, and a free car park.

It’s definitely worth a visit.

Address: Hogmoor Rd, Bordon GU35 9HN

SPORT

Try out these Olympic Sports in Hampshire

The torch is blazing, and the Paris 2024 Olympics Games are officially underway. If you can’t take your eyes off the competition, you may encounter a few lesser-spotted pastimes.

If you want to try your hand at some of the more niche sports on show during the Games, Hampshire has no shortage of choice.

Archery 

Unleash your inner Robin Hood at these Hampshire Archery Clubs. Classes and practice sessions are available for all levels.

Breaking 

In this new Olympic sport, athletes will use a combination of moves and freezes to wow a panel of judges. Try Integr8 Dance in Winchester or Funk Format in Portsmouth for classes tailored to all skill levels.

Fencing 

Feint, lunge, and parry your way to a beginner group class at these Hampshire Fencing Clubs.

Skateboarding 

Learn to skate with confidence at Drop In Skate School. They offer a variety of programs, from group beginner lessons to after-school sessions and holiday camps.

Sport Climbing 

Take your climbing skills to new heights at Calshot Activities Centre. With over 1200 square metres of climbing and bouldering walls, it's perfect for climbers of all levels. Day passes start at £10.50 for kids and £12.50 for adults.

Water Polo 

Dive into the action with Winchester Water Polo Club or Basingstoke Bluefins Water Polo Club. Both clubs offer training sessions across age groups, from beginners to advanced players.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Hampshire Events

Here's a selection of exciting events happening around Hampshire this summer. Mark your calendars and enjoy some fantastic local festivities!

The New Forest and Hampshire County Show - 30th July – 1st August 2024
A traditional county show with livestock, entertainment, and local crafts.

Wickham Festival - 1st to 4th August 2024
A family-friendly music and arts festival.

Trout ‘n About - 4th August 2024, 10am to 4pm
A vibrant food and craft festival in Stockbridge.

Boomtown - 7th to 11th August 2024
An immersive festival experience with music, theatre, and art installations.

New Forest Fairy Festival - 10th August 2024
A magical day in Burley Park filled with fairy-themed activities and entertainment.

Ellingham Show - 10th August 2024
An annual event at Somerley Park featuring livestock, horse, dog and donkey shows, steam engines, vintage farm machinery, horticulture show, and classic cars.

QUESTION

Help Me Shape Future Content!

Which of the following topics would you like to read about?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

I hope you found this edition of Hampshire Explorer useful! Look out for another email later this week on places to visit if you fancy doing something different.

Hannah

Reply

or to participate.