Ruins, Lego Events and Whales in the Cathedral

Happy Tuesday Hampshire!

I hope you’re all feeling refreshed and ready for the week ahead. It’s been a bit grey, but I like to think of it as perfect tea weather—ideal for curling up with a warm brew after a day out exploring.

This week, why not discover the history of King John’s Castle with a scenic walk? Plus, there are lots of events and deals to keep you busy.

Have a great week,
Hannah

☕ Shout-out: A warm nod to the New Forest Tea Company for their beautifully blended teas. Whether you're a fan of classics or something a little different, their local roots and sustainable ethos make every cup extra special. Check them out here.

Ruins, Ford, and a Scenic Stroll

Known locally as ‘King John’s Castle,’ this historic site sits in a peaceful setting beside the Basingstoke Canal. Built between 1207 and 1214, the castle has witnessed key historical moments, including the signing of the Magna Carta, a dramatic French siege, and even the imprisonment of a Scottish King. It later became the property of the de Montfort family during a period of revolt, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Open daily from 09:00 to 17:00*, the castle is free to visit and features interpretation boards that provide insight into its intriguing past.

Want to Make It a Walk? Here’s How:

1. Start at Odiham Wharf: From the car park, head towards the canal and turn right onto the towpath.

2. Follow the Towpath: Walk under the bridge and continue with the canal on your left. Pass two bridges before reaching the picturesque Warnborough Lift Bridge with its white railings.

3. Explore King John’s Castle: Continue past the bridge to the castle ruins, marked by a green sign. Take your time exploring the free-to-enter site and its historical displays.

4. Optional Ford Detour: After the castle, look for a yellow footpath marker leading across a grassy space to Tunnel Lane. Enjoy the ford before retracing your steps to the lift bridge.

5. Return Path Options:

   • Towpath Return (Recommended in Winter): Retrace your route along the towpath for a smooth and easy walk back.

   • Circular Route (Dry Months): From the lift bridge, cross the road bridge and follow the footpath along the opposite side of the canal. Pass through fields that were once part of the castle’s deer park and rejoin Colt Hill near the Waterwitch.

Highlights Along the Walk

• Watch ducks and boats glide along the canal.

• Visit the shallow ford at Tunnel Lane, where kids can splash in their wellies.

• Relax at The Waterwitch pub, a canalside gem with a lovely garden at the start and end of the walk.

For more in-depth details, check out this post by The Ambling Path.

Dates and times may be subject to change, so be sure to check ahead if planning a visit.

Photo of the Week

A LEGO Event You Won’t Want to Miss!

Get ready to immerse yourself in the colourful and creative world of LEGO at the Portsmouth Brick Festival—a day packed with interactive activities, awe-inspiring displays, and endless fun for fans of all ages.

• Impressive Large-Scale Displays: Marvel at intricate LEGO creations designed by talented builders.

• Speed Building Competitions: Test your skills and race against the clock!

• Hands-On Activities: Get creative in the dedicated building area.

• Marketplace Finds: Browse stalls offering loose bricks, retired sets, minifigures, and exclusive accessories.

Date: Sunday, February 2, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Location: Mountbatten Centre, Portsmouth

Get your ticket now by visiting the Brick Festival website.

p.s. If you can’t make it to Portsmouth, don’t worry! Save the date for the Southampton Brick Festival, happening on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Places Leisure Eastleigh. Learn more here.

p.p.s If you love LEGO, don’t miss The Brick People at the Army Flying Museum on Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd February. Enjoy a fantastic range of Lego-themed activities throughout the weekend!

This Week’s Events

Tuesday 21st January 2025

• Frank Oates & the Ndebele: A Meeting of Worlds - Gilbert White’s House Museum - 19:00

Thursday 23rd January - Tuesday 28th January 2025

• Pride and Prejudice Festival - Jane Austen's House, Chawton - 10:00 - 16:00

Saturday 25th January 2025

• Burns Night Ceilidh - Portsmouth Cathedral - 19:30 - 22:00

Sunday 26th January 2025

• James Bond Themed Charity Concert - Thornden Hall, Chandler's Ford - 15:30 - 17:30

• Eastney Engine Houses Open Day - Southsea - 10:00 - 15:00

Pride & Prejudice Festival at Jane Austen’s House

Are you a big Jane Austen fan or simply looking for a unique literary adventure this January? Jane Austen’s House in Chawton is hosting a Pride & Prejudice Festival from 23–28 January 2025, marking the 250th anniversary of her birth and celebrating her most iconic novel. With activities galore, all free with House admission, it’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Austen right here in Hampshire! Here’s what’s on:

Thursday 23rd January

• Pride and Prejudice Trail - Jane Austen's House - 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Pride and Prejudice Photo Station - Jane Austen's House - 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Literary Quiz Night: Pride and Prejudice - Goldfinch Books - 8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Friday 24th January

• Drop in and Write - Jane Austen's House - 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

• Pop Up Talk: Austenmania - Jane Austen's House - 2:00 pm

Saturday 25th January

• Pop Up Talk: Austenmania - Jane Austen's House - 1:00 pm

Tuesday 28th January

• Stitching Circle - Jane Austen's House - 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

• Pop Up Talk: Austenmania - Jane Austen's House - 11:30 am

Please note that some events may require booking or have limited availability. For more details and to confirm event times, visit the official Jane Austen's House events page.

Look What’s Making a Splash at Winchester Cathedral!

Ready for an oceanic adventure without getting your feet wet? From January 22nd to February 26th, 2025, Winchester Cathedral’s nave will transform into an underwater wonderland featuring three gigantic sperm whale sculptures by renowned artist Tessa Campbell Fraser. 

Key Features:

• Three suspended sperm whales, measuring 5.2m, 4.6m, and 3m, immerse the viewer in a marine-inspired space.

• The nave's ship-like wooden beams evoke the history of industrial whaling and its ecological consequences.

• A call to action for marine conservation and harmony with nature.

Special Events:

• Interactive Family Fun:

  • Ocean Commotion Trail: Rescue sea creatures and explore ocean-themed challenges.

  • The Whale: Plastic Ocean: Puppetry and music explore marine pollution (19 February).

• Evening Experiences:

  • Evening Openings: Wander through the cathedral after dark (30 January).

  • Valentine’s Date Night: Cocktails, music, and tours under the whales (14 February).

• Music and Performance:

  • The Norfolk Broads Folk Concert (1 February).

  • Silent Discos: Separate events for families and adults (15 February).

• Expert Talks and Discussions:

  • Artist Talk with Tessa Campbell Fraser: Insights into the creation of the installation (12 February).

  • Tom Mustill on Animal Communication: A biologist’s perspective on speaking with whales (22 February).

  • Ocean Giants: University of Southampton experts on whales’ ecological roles (6 February).

• Immersive Soundscapes:

  • How to Be a Whale: A bioacoustic journey through marine life ( 21–22 February).

Find Out All the Details Here

Hampshire Hot Picks

🔭 Discover and save this January with discounted afternoon saver tickets at Winchester Science Centre! Grab your tickets here.

💆‍♀️ Relax in style! Enjoy a 4* Hampshire Court Hotel & Spa stay for two with breakfast, dinner, health club access, late checkout, and spa upgrade—save up to 55%! Book your escape here.

🐠 Dive into savings! Portsmouth and Hampshire Library Card holders enjoy 10% off at Blue Reef Aquarium. Learn more and book here.

🌿 Explore Gilbert White's House with 50% off for all Hampshire residents—offer valid until 14th February! Plan your visit here.

🌅 Enjoy all-day views at Spinnaker Tower—pre-book online and save £5 per person, tickets just £13! Book now.

🌳 Adventure awaits! Snag 15% off the Treetop Challenge at Go Ape when you book for a Sunday with a group of 4+ - use code SUNFUN at checkout. Book your adventure here.

Quick links

• Was this email forwarded to you? Sign up

• Do you know of a Hampshire business that deserves a shout-out? Email us to tell us more.

• Interested in advertising? Reach out here.

• Read past newsletters here.