😀 Owls, Saxon History, and a Spooky Ghost Walk

Good Morning Hampshire!

As autumn settles in, I’ve lined up some exciting finds for you this week. From a family day out in Ringwood to an immersive historical experience in Winchester. I’ve also got a spooky ghost walk that takes you through Southampton’s haunted streets and a few brilliant discounts you’ll want to jump on.

With 1500 of you now exploring alongside me, let’s dive into the best that Hampshire has to offer this week.

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A Place to Vist: Owls, Raptors and Fun in Ringwood

I recently had a hoot of a time at Liberty's Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre in Ringwood. This place is a bird (and reptile) lover's dream, with displays like Fish Feeding, Birds of the World, Predators of the Sky, and Wonders of the Wing.

The demonstrations are not just entertaining but also an excellent way to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures.

When it was time to refuel, I stopped at the Chilkat Café, which offers a range of hot and cold sandwiches, sweet treats, and even ice cream.

For families, there's a play area with a sandpit, balance trails, and a small fort to keep the children entertained while you enjoy the displays. There are also plenty of picnic tables around the centre, so you can bring your own food and enjoy it while watching the birds in action.

Liberty’s is open until the 3rd of November before it closes for a well-deserved winter break. One person on our Facebook page summed it up perfectly:
"Went last Monday, and what a delight to see four kites flying together."

Step Back in Time in Winchester

This wasn’t what I expected to find at the Brooks Shopping Centre in Winchester...

I was invited to explore 878 AD, and the photos really don’t do it justice. It’s an experience that vividly brings Winchester’s history to life.

With all the modern tech in use, it’s an exciting way to dive into the city’s Saxon past. My little one had a blast with the interactive elements, and the actors made it even more immersive and authentic.

The best part? Your ticket is valid for the whole year, and the staff mentioned they regularly update the exhibits, so there’s always something new to discover.

It’s a fantastic spot for kids or anyone interested in history!

Photo of the Week

I stumbled upon this stunning photo capturing the early morning skies over the River Itchen in Southampton. The colours are simply breathtaking! This beautiful shot was taken by Solent, and you can check out more of their work on Instagram here or on Facebook here.

Upcoming Events

Thursday 10th October 2024

Mesmerica - Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium
A Murder is Announced - Petersfield Festival Hall
Monthly Forest Arts Comedy Club - New Milton - 19:30 - 21:30

Friday 11th October 2024

Writing Workshops - New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth - 14:00 - 16:00

Saturday 12th October 2024

Owls by Moonlight - Hawk Conservancy Trust - 17:30 - 20:30
Ranger Talk & Tour - The Rut Walk - 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Discount Weekend at Butser Ancient Farm - 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM - £3 Discounted Rate for East Hants Residents
I Can See The Sea Workshops - Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - 13:30 - 16:00
Fossil Day - Cumberland House Natural History Museum, Portsmouth - 10:00 - 16:00
Worth The Weight: Vintage Kilo Sale - St Mary's Church, Southampton - 11:00
Lyndhurst Scarecrow Trail - Lyndhurst
New Forest Cider Festival - Burley
1920's Murder Mystery - Milford on Sea
Makers Market - The Discovery Centre, Basingstoke - 10:00 - 16:00
Big Band Swing - Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance Concert - Queen Mary's College, Basingstoke
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra - The Anvil, Basingstoke - 19:30
Romsey Craft and Gift Market - Romsey Town Hall - 10:00 - 16:00
Planting and Afternoon Tea: Autumn Edition - Dobbies Garden Centres, Andover - 12:00 PM

Sunday 13th October 2024

Botanical Painting: Peonies with Gouache with Viktoriia Bezuga - SeaCity Museum - 10:30 - 13:00
John Nichol's The Unknown Warrior - New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth - 19:30
Southsea Castle Makers Market - Southsea Castle, Portsmouth - 11:00 - 15:30

A Place to Eat: Winchester Cathedral

I’ve walked past Winchester Cathedral’s café countless times but finally decided to step inside, and what a delightful find it is! Nestled amidst beautiful gardens and historic walls, this café offers a peaceful retreat that's perfect for unwinding with a coffee.

During my recent visit, I enjoyed a fantastic lunch, and I can't recommend it enough. The café is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, so there’s plenty of time to drop by. You’ll find it sheltered behind an ancient flint wall, conveniently located opposite the Cathedral.

The café boasts an award-winning contemporary design. Its spacious terrace offers stunning views of the Cathedral and a lovely walled garden—ideal for catching up with friends over coffee, lunch, or afternoon tea. With soft banquette-style seating and charming tables in the courtyard, it's a cosy spot that truly enhances your dining experience.

The menu showcases fresh, local ingredients prepared by a talented chef, ensuring that each meal is both delicious and satisfying. If you haven’t been yet, I highly recommend making a visit.

The Ghost Walk That Takes You Back to Southampton’s Past

If you know me, you’ll know I can’t resist a spooky experience! There’s something thrilling about exploring places steeped in history, especially when they whisper tales from the past. Enter the Southampton Ghost Walk, hosted by the Theatre of Dark Encounters.

This unique ghost walk starts at the old City at West Gate and takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. It occurs on the second Thursday of every month and offers a captivating mix of history and horror.

What sets the Southampton Ghost Walk apart is its engaging storytelling approach. It’s not just a lecture; participants are encouraged to interact and immerse themselves in the tales of murderers, thieves, and the ghostly apparitions that haunt the city.

As you journey through the city, some secrets even lead you underground! Suitable for ages 12 and above (accompanied by an adult), this tour invites you to step beyond the usual sights and uncover the true stories that pulse through Southampton’s ancient heart.

Are you ready to book your adventure into the unknown?

p.s. Last week, I mentioned all the upcoming Halloween Events, you can see them here.

Hampshire Highlight: Portsmouth Crowned Street Art Capital of UK

It’s time for a fresh contender in the street art scene—enter Portsmouth, the new capital of creativity! A study by Bromley Art Supplies has named this vibrant town the home of UK street art, boasting an impressive nearly eight murals per square mile.

The researchers noted that while Portsmouth’s street art might surprise some, it’s quickly gaining traction, injecting a wave of innovation into the city’s historic streets. One standout piece is the 'Phone Your Mum’ mural outside Southsea Cycles, which beautifully combines emotion with a simple yet powerful message. Hats off to My Dog Sighs for such a striking contribution!

Hampshire Explorer’s Hot Picks

These hand warmers are my new cold-weather hack.

Visit these Hampshire Gardens for £6.50 before they close for the winter.

Try these family discounts for £1 for 60 days.

5 tickets for £85 at Marwell.

Save 45% on this indoor skydiving experience in Basingstoke.

Check out this YouTube channel on pub walks around Hampshire.

Save on Raymond’s Brasserie Blanc Three Course Meal with Prosecco for Two.

Champagne, dinner, bed & breakfast offer at Hotel Du Vin (inc. Winchester).

Use code “EHAFF2024” for 15% off English Heritage Memberships.

That's all for this week! I hope you found something new to explore or try out. And as always, feel free to hit reply and share your thoughts or suggestions; I'd love to hear from you!

Hannah