PHOTO OF THE WEEK

This photo was shared on our Facebook page. It was captured last week at Milford on Sea, and wow, it looks very stormy but very beautiful at the same time. There’s nothing like a walk along the coast to clear your mind and get some fresh air.

A DAY OUT

Fresh Air and Family Fun

Lepe Country Park is one of my favourite places to visit for a day out. Even when it's chilly, it's great to get some fresh air.

There's a fun play park (which my little one loves) and lots of green space, and it's perfect for a nice walk.

I highly recommend stopping by The Lookout for a drink and a bite to eat. Their menu features local produce, and if the weather's good, the view is fantastic. Plus, well-behaved dogs are welcome too!

There's also a kiosk that offers drinks, ice creams, and snacks. Just a heads-up, it can get pretty busy on sunny weekends.

A lot of people mention the parking fees, so here they are if you're planning a visit: Up to 1 hour: £2.50, Up to 2 hours: £5, Up to 4 hours: £8, Full day: £9.50 (these might change, but this was the rate last time I checked).

EVENTS POLL: HAVE YOUR SAY!

Your input really helps – thank you!

PLACES TO VISIT

Hampshire Gems Open for Free This Week – Don’t Miss Out!

You have a few days left to discover some of Hampshire’s hidden gems during Heritage Open Days (until Sunday, September 15th). There are over 100 sites normally closed or charging admission will open their doors for FREE. Some attractions require advance booking (popular spots fill up fast!), while others allow you to just turn up. Be sure to check the attraction's page for booking info and double-check opening times before your visit.

Find out more and explore local venues here: Heritage Open Days. Just enter your location and dates to discover places in Hampshire.

Here are a few highlights:

• The Vyne (14 Sep 2024): A stunning Tudor mansion with gardens, woodlands, and a cosy tea room. Learn more

• Charles Dickens' Birthplace Museum Open Day: Visit the birthplace of one of Britain’s greatest authors for free. Learn more

• Gilbert White’s House & Gardens (today): Explore White's home and garden, get lost in nature, and learn about the Oates family in Selbourne. Learn more

CASTING

New Hollywood Feature Film to be Cast in Southampton Today

Key Casting agency has announced that on Thursday, September 12, wannabe actors aged 17 and over can register their interest to be a paid extra in a mystery Hollywood film.

The Mike Shannon Suite at St Mary’s Stadium will host the open casting call from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

LOCAL ART

While wandering around Winchester, I stumbled upon this cool piece by Hendog, an anonymous graffiti artist. There are a bunch of other murals scattered throughout the city too. You can see his other work here.

EVENTS

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Southampton Boat Show - 13 – 22 September 2024
The show for boat buyers, watersports enthusiasts, and a great family day out.

The Romsey Show - 14th September 2024
A traditional country show featuring a family dog show, gundog scurry, flyball, and more. With cattle, sheep, horses, and animal displays, it’s a great day out for over 20,000 attendees each year.

Activity Day at Alice Holt Forest - 14th September 2024
Enjoy activities like Laser tag, Archery, Zorb football, and Sucker archery. Some activities require booking.

Eastleigh Pride - 14th September 2024
An amazing day of diverse entertainment celebrating love and joy at Eastleigh Pride 2024.

South Downs Food Festival - 14th September 2024
A weekend of delicious food, talks, and events launched by Dame Prue Leith at Stansted Park.

1hr SUP Taster Lesson - 15th September 2024
Learn the basics of stand-up paddleboarding in this introductory taster session on Basingstoke Canal, suitable for children (8+) and adults.