From Hampshire Trails, Axe Throwing and a Visit to a Country Park

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

A beautiful photo looking across Portsmouth Harbour, as the sun sets.

DAYS OUT

Challenge Your Friends to Axe Throwing in Southampton

I love trying new things, especially those that ignite a spark of competition. It's incredible to think that axe throwing, now a global craze, started as a way for a few Canadians to pass the time in a cabin. 

From these humble, woodsy beginnings, it's become an international sport, proving that it’s just moose and maple syrup that can make it big outside of Canada. Now, this pastime has made its way into the UK, landing with a thud in Southampton at Axeology. 

It's a place to unleash your inner lumberjack and settle scores while having fun.

The experience begins with a bit of practice to get everyone comfortable with their axes. It’s not every day you get a sharp object with full force, so the initial throws are all about getting a feel for the weight and balance of the axe as it spins through the air, ideally ending with a satisfying thud as it embeds itself in the wooden target.

Once everyone has had a chance to warm up and shake off the jitters, the real fun begins with scoring and competition. Scores are tallied based on where your axe lands on the target, and let's say the competitive spirit quickly ramps up. 

To top off the session, the staff at Axeology decided to dial up the challenge: an apple was added to the middle of the target, evoking scenes straight out of a William Tell legend. While I didn’t hit the apple directly (although my husband did), I did chop the string, holding it in half!

I highly recommend it - Find out more here.

MY RECOMMENDATION

Discover 1,151 Trails to Follow in Hampshire

Longer days mean more time to explore the beauty of Hampshire. Discover the perfect trail for you from over 1,151 local trails, each tried and tested by Hampshire locals.

Make the most of your summer with AllTraills+:

• Offline Maps ensure you stay on course, whether you're in the woods or on a hilltop.

• Trail Previews provide detailed insights into terrain and elevation, helping you plan your outings more effectively.

• Local Guides offer valuable tips and details for your Hampshire adventures, from hidden gems to popular favourites.

• Advanced Conditions alerts help you find shaded trails and avoid unexpected showers.

• Filter by difficulty, length, and suitability - whether you need a path that accommodates pushchairs or one perfect for mountain biking.

I’m looking forward to using this. To start with, I’ve marked the Otter Trail and Hawksley Memorial Garden via Itchen Trail.

👉️ Try a 7-day free trial of AllTrails+ Here

A PLACE TO VISIT

From Playgrounds to Paddleboarding at River Hamble Country Park

I recently had a lovely time with my little one at River Hamble Country Park.

We started with a play at the park and then took a nice walk down to the river. Lots of people were with their dogs, and the dogs loved the water.

We walked along the jetty, where people were relaxing, crabbing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Finished off with a quick drink at the barn. With 400 acres of woodland, riverside, and open space, plus some dedicated trails, River Hamble Country Park has something for everyone.

Postcode: SO31 1BH (for parking)

BEAUTIFUL VILLAGE

Village of Chimneys 🤩 

I absolutely love Hursley Village!

The King's Head and the Dolphin Inn both serve amazing food, and they're to a lovely park for the kids

You can also stroll over to the IBM grounds, where you'll find a great cafe perfect for a coffee break.

The village is noted for its numerous Tudor-style chimney pots, which date from the 19th century when much of it was rebuilt. Take a look next time you’re there!