Marinas, Board Games and Stags

Happy Tuesday, Hampshire!

It’s only the 19th of November, but this week’s events are bursting with enough festive fun to make Rudolph’s nose glow even brighter – think markets, and enough twinkling lights to rival Santa’s workshop.

Now, I know Hampshire is getting all Christmassy already, but don’t panic – I’m sure by Christmas, you’ll be bored of me rambling on about tinsel and mince pies. I’ll make sure there’s a bit of non-Christmas content sprinkled in too!

Let’s take a look at what’s going on this week…

Food, Shops and a Walk Around the Marina

A couple of weeks ago, I found myself enjoying a lovely afternoon out at Port Solent, and honestly, I had no idea The Trading Post was even there! Nestled right by the marina, it has a few boutique stores that cater to just about everything—from charming little shops to a nail bar and even a spa for pampered pooches. If you’re heading that way, make sure you pop in; it’s a little gem.

The afternoon felt like a perfect mix of browsing, strolling, and indulging. In The Trading Post was Gracie-Ann’s Tea Room, which was packed when we walked past, and it’s easy to see why. There was a selection of mouth-watering cakes; it looked like everyone’s go-to spot for a treat. I’m already planning to stop in next time!

If you’re ever up for visiting Port Solent, I’d say it’s the ideal place to meet a friend. You can grab a bite to eat from one of the many restaurants or pubs – there are about 15 spots to choose from. After that, you could take a leisurely walk around the Boardwalk, soak in the marina views, and admire the boats. It’s especially lovely when the sun’s out.

For a bit of extra fun, you can have a look around a few of the shops, let the kids burn off some energy at the small play area, or even pop into the Odeon cinema for a film. And with free parking, you can really take your time and enjoy everything the place has to offer.

There are often events happening at Port Solent too, so it’s worth keeping an eye out. If you’re in the mood for some festive cheer, Christmas Carols at the Boardwalk is coming up on Wednesday, 18th December. It promises to be a heart-warming hour filled with carols, led by the Portsmouth Salvation Army Band and the Portsmouth Baroque Choir (with a few talented friends!). The singing kicks off at 6:30 pm outside the Harvester, and there’ll be a collection for the Salvation Army’s work in Portsmouth.

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Photo of the Week: Wild Beauty of Burley

In the village of Burley, a majestic stag stands tall, embodying the king of the forest with its skyward-reaching antlers and commanding presence. What a great photo!

Sidenote: If you’ve never visited Burley, it’s a proper New Forest gem! Think tea rooms, cosy inns, and even a cider farm – all with ponies and cattle wandering freely around like something out of a storybook. Burley’s got a history of witchcraft (thanks to the 1950s ‘white’ witch, Sybil Leek, and her pet jackdaw) and tales of smugglers too.

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Events This Week in Hampshire

Thursday 21st November

• Christmas Lights Switch On - Southsea, Palmerston Road - 5:00pm-7:00pm

• We Shine Festival - Portsmouth - Runs 21st-23rd November

• White's Eco Light Festival - Gilbert White's House and Gardens, Selborne - 21st November-21st December, daily 4:30pm-8:00pm

Friday 22nd November

• Cosham Carols in Cosham High Street - 5:00pm-6:30pm

• Portsmouth Christmas Market - Commercial Road, City Centre - Runs 22nd November-30th December

• We Create Market - Pitt Street Skate Park, City Centre - 22nd-24th November (Fri & Sat 12:00pm-9:00pm & Sun 12:00pm-5:00pm)

• Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market - 22nd November-22nd December 2024

Saturday 23rd November

• City Centre Christmas Lights Switch On - Commercial Road, Portsmouth - 4:00pm-6:00pm

• Cardinal Wolsey: For King and Country Talk, Tour and Book Signing - The Mary Rose, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - 1:00pm-4:30pm

• Decorate Christmas Ceramics with Amy Morris - Tudor House & Garden, Southampton - 11:00am-1:00pm

• Fareham Town Centre Lights Switch On Indoor Christmas Market - Fareham Shopping Centre - 23rd-24th November, 10:00am-4:00pm

• Portsmouth On Ice - Guildhall Square - 23rd November-5th January 2025 (Daily, times vary)

• Santa's Winter Wonderland at Stewarts Abbey Garden Centre - Fareham, Titchfield - 23rd November-24th December

• The Christmas Illuminated Garden Adventure - West Green House Garden, Hart - 23rd November-29th December

• Farnborough Frost Fair - Queensmead - 10:00am-3:30pm

• QECP’s Christmas Market - Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Petersfield - 23rd-24th November, 10:00am-3:00pm

• Makers Market - The Discovery Centre, Basingstoke - 10:00am-4:00pm

• Basing House Christmas Fayre - Basingstoke - 23rd-24th November, from 11:00am

• A Nutcracker Christmas at Mottisfont - Romsey - 23rd November-5th January 2025 (whole property closed 24th and 25th December)

Sunday 24th November

• Christmas at The Brickworks - Southampton - 11:00am-4:00pm

• Fareham Town Centre Lights Switch On Indoor Christmas Market - Fareham Shopping Centre - 10:00am-4:00pm

• QECP’s Christmas Market - Queen Elizabeth Country Park, Petersfield - 10:00am-3:00pm

Anyone For a Board Game? 🎲

I absolutely love playing board games, and sometimes it’s nice to mix things up and make a day of it with the family. So I’ve been exploring board game cafes in Hampshire. There are a lot more than I thought, but here are three, which are highly recommended 👇

First up, Board in the City in Southampton – a community-run spot with a fantastic game collection and a welcoming atmosphere. They’ve earned their great reviews thanks to homemade food and plenty of cosy vibes. There’s a small entry fee after 4 pm, so you can settle in for an evening of games and laughs.

Next, head to Dice Board Game Lounge in Portsmouth. With over 500 games (pretty much every board game you can imagine), it’s a hit with locals for a reason. You’ll find locally sourced food, craft beers, and wine, making it perfect for a group outing or even a competitive date night.

Lastly, there’s Dice Tower Gaming in Basingstoke, bringing a pop-culture twist to the board game scene. With themed events, a huge selection of games, and community favourites like Dungeons & Dragons, it’s easy to see why they’re so loved. Don’t forget to grab a snack to keep your energy up – this place is a must-visit!

Hampshire Hot Picks

🍷Feel the Christmas Spirit on a Mulled Wine Walk Through Winchester

🚢 Don't Miss These Black Friday Deals for a Christmas Cruise from Southampton

🗺 Enjoy 15% Off These Stunning Map Gifts

📍Grab Last-Minute Autumn & Christmas Escape Deals with Shorefield Holidays

🎫 Win Two Tickets to Winter Woodland Lights at the Hawk Conservancy Trust

⛺ Win a spring Glamping break in Hampshire

I hope you find something that brings a little sparkle to your week. I’ll be back next Tuesday with more tips and a mix of Christmassy (and non-Christmassy, promise!) content to keep things fresh. Until then, stay warm, keep smiling, and maybe squeeze in a mince pie - it’s practically mandatory this time of year.

Until next time,

Hannah