This spring, a collection of seasonal offers and experiences invites you to unwind, recharge, and enjoy the New Forest at its most peaceful, at Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa.
Summer in the New Forest has its own rhythm. The days stretch a little longer, local produce comes into season, and the coastline and forest become a backdrop for some of the region’s most anticipated events.
For Dylan James, Head Chef at Careys Manor's Cambium Restaurant, one event stands above the rest. The New Forest hotel sits on the edge of the National Park and hosts a packed programme of summer events.
"This year has to be the Lymington Seafood Festival," he says. "It's the festival's 10th anniversary, which feels like a real milestone, and we're proud to be involved."
Returning to Bath Road Park this July for its 10th anniversary year, the Lymington Seafood Festival has become one of the South Coast's most anticipated food events, bringing together chefs, producers and food lovers to celebrate the region's rich maritime heritage. This year, Careys Manor is headline sponsor of the Chef's Stage and Cookery Demonstration Tent, placing the New Forest hotel at the heart of the festival programme. Visitors can also look forward to seeing television presenter and food expert Chris Bavin, who returns as festival host, guiding audiences through chef demonstrations, interviews and live events across the weekend.
For Dylan, it's an opportunity to showcase the incredible ingredients available on our doorstep.
"The relationship between the New Forest, the coast and local food is something we're passionate about at Careys Manor. The festival brings all of that together in one place, whether you're a keen cook or simply someone who enjoys good food and spending time by the water."
"Having someone like Chris Bavin hosting the festival adds another dimension," says Dylan. "He's passionate about food, producers and where ingredients come from, which fits perfectly with what the festival is all about."
One of the highlights Dylan is particularly looking forward to is the return of The Big Careys Cook Off, now in its second year. Created in partnership with the festival, the competition invites local amateur chefs to share photographs of their favourite dishes for the chance to compete live during the festival weekend.
"Last year's final was brilliant," says Dylan. "The atmosphere was incredible. You had eight enthusiastic home cooks stepping out of their comfort zone and the crowd really got behind them."
The finalists will once again take to the festival cookery school, where Dylan and fellow judges will put them through their paces before crowning a winner during the festival weekend.
"What I enjoy most is seeing people's passion for food. You don't need to be a professional chef to create something memorable. The Cook Off is all about celebrating local talent and having a bit of fun."
Dylan and his team will also be taking part in demonstrations throughout the weekend, sharing their approach to seasonal cooking and local ingredients. Visitors will also have the opportunity to learn from fellow Careys Manor chef Songkiat Surin, Head Chef of Zen Garden, who will be hosting an adult cookery class, A Taste of Thailand. Drawing on his experience and heritage, Songkiat will introduce guests to the techniques, flavours and ingredients that make Thai cuisine so distinctive.
Away from the festival, Careys Manor's summer calendar continues to celebrate the connection between food, people and place.
A special Seafood Festival Afternoon Tea brings a coastal twist to a traditional favourite, inspired by the flavours and ingredients celebrated at the festival itself. Dylan is also looking forward to the return of the hotel's Into the Forest: Guided Walk & Tapas Lunch.
The experience begins with a guided walk through the New Forest led by Wild New Forest, offering guests the chance to discover more about the area's wildlife, history and hidden corners before returning to Careys Manor for a seasonal lunch.
"It's a wonderful way to experience the landscape," he says. "Spending time in the forest with the Wild New Forest guides gives people a greater appreciation for the environment around us and the ingredients that inspire so many dishes."
Father's Day Lunch at Cambium provides another opportunity to gather around the table with family, while The Neigh Bar offers a relaxed spot for summer drinks and seasonal plates. Overlooking the hotel's grounds, it's become a popular place to pause after a forest walk or enjoy an evening drink as the sun begins to set.
For Dylan, these experiences all share something in common.
"People often ask about things to do in the New Forest, and food is such a big part of that. Whether you're discovering local seafood at the festival, learning a new skill in a cookery class or simply sitting outside with friends and family, summer is a chance to slow down and enjoy what's around you."
For those planning their summer in the New Forest, many of these experiences can be enjoyed both at the festival and back at Careys Manor, with seasonal dining events, guided walks and outdoor gatherings running throughout the season. As the Lymington Seafood Festival celebrates its tenth year, Dylan believes there's never been a better time to discover what makes this corner of the South Coast so special.
What’s On at Careys Manor This Summer
Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa luxury spa hotel in Brockenhurst
From royal hunting lodge to state-of-the-art spa, Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa is an adult’s retreat that’s steeped in history and keeps its rich heritage at heart.
