Thousands of dogs enjoyed the inaugural 'Dogstival' in the New Forest

There were wagging tails and strutting paws aplenty at Pylewell Park for Lymington's first Dogstival

Thousands of dogs of all shapes and sizes enjoyed a great day out last weekend (18th and 19th May) at the very first Dogstival, with more than 10,000 dog owners and dog lovers giving the family-friendly festival at Pylewell a huge paws up too!

We were there, and we "got" it! A Festival for and about dogs is a fabulously positive environment and the dogs seemed to sense it, there was very little doggy disagreement to be seen or heard anywhere, and the enormous space offered at Pylewell Park Estate with its own beach and views across the Solent made it absolutely the perfect venue.

Headline-sponsored by Go Get it, a dedicated pet insurance comparison website, this inaugural  New Forest Dogstival was a really lovely celebration of, for and featuring our four-legged friends.

Some of the highlights

Thousands of paws and shoulders rubbed harmoniously alongside one another over the course of the two days to enjoy dazzling high energy displays in the Main Arena from the Aces High Flyball Team and the Little Nippers Terrier and Lurcher Show. The Rockwood Display Team also left crowds gasping as their courageous dogs scaled an 80ft ramp to leap through fire squares.

Owners of problematic pets headed for helpful advice and tips at the Dog House Behavioural Stage, where top experts explored typical issues that happen within the home such as separation anxiety. Further expert advice on dog health was also provided from TV’s Vet on the Hill Dr Scott Miller.

Absolute beginners to seasoned pro’s also enjoyed Dogstival’s impressive array of Get Your Paws Involved activities such as agility and flyball, along with one of the show’s biggest (and wettest) draws - the K9 Aqua Sports Pool, which saw hundreds of dogs flinging themselves into water just for the fun of it.

The love of water continued down at Pylewell Park’s beach. While owners soaked up the nice weather, dogs had the time of their life frolicking with their friends in the sea.  A very special interlude!

Fuelling the day was a host of artisan food and drink stalls. Doggies enjoyed a lip-smacking smorgasbord of treats such as specialist pet ice-cream, biltong and personalised biscuits. While The Pupcake Princess served dog doughnuts and other baked delights from her vintage caravan, which also doubled up as a cute photo backdrop for the click-happy #dogsofinstagram. The humans, meanwhile, ate and drank their way through gourmet pizza, fishcakes, squid (excellent), craft gin and more from local and carefully-curated suppliers.

Four-legged guests didn’t leave home empty-pawed either, with their devoted owners spoiling them to gorgeous gifts such as stylish dog collars, luxury beds and chic canine drying coats (perfect for post-beach dips), from independent pet brands, who had stalls at the event over the two days.

Adding to the unique doggy festival vibes, musicians played acoustic versions of canine classics including ‘Who let the dogs out’, while younger guests looped endlessly around the Vintage Fun Fair’s Ferris Wheel and Carousel.  (Tasteful, and not intrusive.)

Dogstival Founders, Domine and Richard Nowell commented: “We are absolutely delighted with our first ever Dogstival event. It was a fantastic turnout of lovely, well-behaved dogs and the event itself exceeded all our expectations. We set out to create a dog’s best day ever and judging by all the waggy-tailed departures at the end of each day, we definitely achieved our goal.”

They add: “As locals to the area and dog owners ourselves, it's been an absolute honour to showcase how dog-friendly the New Forest is and we could not have asked for a more perfect location than the picturesque Pylewell Park. With the help of leading experts in their fields, a host of impressive display dogs and brilliant independent suppliers, Dogstival has been a true celebration of the joy dogs bring to our lives and we looked forward to planning Dogstival 2020.”

Commenting on Dogstival David Roper-Curzon of Pylewell Park says: “We were thrilled to host Dogstival at Pylewell. It truly was a celebration of all things dogs with a wide array of stall holders, food and interactive experiences for those of all ages to enjoy. A memorable and enjoyable weekend, which we hope will return to Pylewell in the future.”

Yvonne Gosney, Brand Manager at Go Get it, headline sponsors of Dogstival also says: “We had a fantastic weekend at Dogstival and it was lovely to meet so many new furry friends, and of course their owners! As headline sponsor, this event for us was also about showcasing our dedicated pet insurance comparison website, which helps owners in sourcing the right level of cover for them, and we were thrilled with the reaction we received. The pet community is such a passionate and friendly one – we’re delighted to be a part of it!”

Dogstival will be back on 16th and 17th May 2020. To keep up to date with all the news, visit Dogstival.co.uk and keep @Dogstival on social media.

Photos: A Billion Clicks and Bartley Marketing

What’s on in the New Forest over the May Half Term Holidays

Things to do during the school holidays in the New Forest and surrounding areas 

To see what's on day by day, take a look at our Events Calendar for the Lymington, New Milton and New Forest area. Remember, if you're organising a local event then add your event to the Lymington.com calendar for free and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find out about business membership which includes local advertising and promotion (including being in this article!)

And if you've not already subscribed to receive our FREE Weekly What's On newsletter, emailed every Friday morning and full of the latest New Forest events, news and information, subscribe here:

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Fun Days Out

It's a great time of year to visit Beaulieu! Beaulieu was a top secret school for agents of the Special Operations Executive during World War II. Follow in their footsteps this May half-term and learn espionage skills before graduating as a fully-trained SOE agent. More info here.

Lymington.com Top Tip! Get a discount when you buy your tickets online at least one day in advance. Plus visit again within 6 days free of charge - perfect if its a cold day - spread out all the things to do over several days! 

Find the fairy doors at Furzey Gardens and enjoy time out enjoying 10 acres of enchanting woodland gardens! Plus make a miniature garden, perfect for elves and fairies.

The Mudeford Seafood Festival is taking place over the bank holiday weekend at Mudeford Quay, with food demonstrations and lots of entertainment over the three days.

Lepe Country Park are holding a two day History Festival on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 June, exploring Lepe’s fascinating history.

At Buckler's Hard there'll be a re-enactment of D-Day on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 May with model boats! A great way to learn about the Normandy Landings on the 75th anniversary. Also tour HMS Medusa at Buckler's Hard on 25 and 26 May. Plus throughout half term step back in time and chat to living history characters in the village to discover what life was life like during its shipbuilding heyday.

Great things to do in Lymington!

New Forest Adventure Golf is open throughout the holidays from 10am to 5pm. Built with children in mind, it's also fun and challenging for adults. The beautifully landscaped adventure golf course is a high spec 18 hole discovery adventure of the New Forest, including Isle of Wight ferry, Lymington and Beaulieu Rivers and New Forest towns and villages.

Over the way, Goodall's strawberry farm is open daily for pick-your-own berries. There are lots of other delicious homemade goodies at Pauline's pantry - including tea, coffee, scones and homemade cake in the wonderful tea garden, which has lots of toys to keep little ones amused.

Visit St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery for the last week of the 2019 Open Art Exhibition and all the St Barbe Young Artists' Open Exhibition, plus also the Textile Exhibition. Visit the museum - a delightful and entertaining exploration of the history of Lymington and the New Forest Coast - and remember to plan a stop at the spacious St Barbe café afterwards! Plus on Tuesday 29 May there's a Buzz Day: Painting on Fabric.

Lymington’s Charter Market takes place along the length of the High Street every Saturday throughout the year from 8am to 4pm. It's by far the largest street market in the New Forest area with over 100 traders who regularly attend. Established in 1250, this traditional market with a great deal of history behind it is nowadays a special experience for New Forest visitors to enjoy.

Get out on the water!

Lymington's Sea Water Baths will be open throughout the school holidays from 10am to 6pm daily. The Lymington Sea Water Baths is a fantastic place for all the family to enjoy - come rain or shine! Many local families take the attitude 'well, you're going to get wet anyway' and just pop on a wetsuit if the weather is a little chilly (wetsuits are available for hire). The kiosk is open daily serving a range of drinks and snacks.

Royal Lymington Yacht Club has Wednesday Junior Sailing for children aged 8 and over: you'll need to sign up online for either the 2-4pm or 4-6pm session.

Based in Milford On Sea, the New Forest Paddle Sport Company, offers you the chance to explore the scenic Solent coastline and Keyhaven River to Hurst Castle and beyond! Try the Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Castle Experience or the Kayak Castle Experience.

New Forest Activities have a number of outdoor activities for families. The Family Adventure Day combines kayaking along the Beaulieu River with cycling in the New Forest. Over the Easter weekend, go on a Canoe Easter Egg Hunt - enjoyed a guided family canoe paddle before disembarking for an Easter egg hunt with a twist! Meanwhile, Beaulieu River tours in canoes or kayaks give you more time out on the water, great for families with children aged 12+. 

If you're considering boat ownership then head for the FlexiSail Taster Sail Day on Saturday 1 June at Lymington Yacht Haven - you can also find FlexiSail at the Mudeford Seafood Festival over the bank holiday weekend.

Get active!

Holiday Adventure Days with New Forest Activities will be taking place on Thursday 30 May: the group will begin the day learning bushcraft skills such as foraging, shelter building and fire lighting before testing their aim with a bow on the archery range - then try your skills on the low ropes and high ropes courses set in the woods.

Ballard School have a one day basketball camp on Thursday 30 May and one day netball camp on Thursday 30 May.

Durlston Court Prep School have a Holiday Activity Day on Wednesday 29 and Friday 31 May (sport, yoga, woodland, art, story) and a Football Camp on Tuesday 28 May.

Get creative!

Forest Forge Theatre Company have a Half Term Shadow Puppetry Workshop on Thursday 30 May.

Durlston Court Prep School have a Holiday Activity Day on Wednesday 29 and Friday 31 May (sport, yoga, woodland, art, story).

Write your name with salad at Patrick's Patch at Fairweather's on Wednesday 29 May. Worth a look around Fairweather's and enjoy coffee and cake in Steph's Kitchen whilst you're there!

Get building at Construction Club at Lymington Library and Ringwood Library every Saturday, plus at New Milton Library every Thursday afternoon.

Learn about the New Forest and get hands on with crafts at a Discovery Day at the New Forest Heritage Centre, taking place on Tuesday 28 and Thursday 30 May.

Get crafting at Lymington Library 

Drama, Film & Comedy

The Malt Cinema at Lymington Community Centre will be showing Lego Movie 2 on Saturday 25, Tuesday 28, Wednesday 29 and Thursday 30 May.

At Milford on Sea Primary School there's a Coding and Film-Making Workshop on Tuesday 28, Wednesday 29, Thursday 30 and Friday 31 May.

What's cooking?

The Kitchen at Chewton Glen have a number of cookery courses for children over Half Term, including Junior Chef Time for Tea on Tuesday 28 May, Junior Chef Bonkers for Brunch on Thursday 30 May, Teen Chef Home Cooked Comforts on Tuesday 28 May and Teen Chef Oriental Express on Thursday 30 May. 

Understanding nature and our environment

This month Lymington Transition group challenge us to REFILL - think about things differently and try something new - have a go at these suggestions over the holidays! Find some ideas here - and where you can refill your water bottle with tap water in the New Forest area.

Learn more about the New Forest with seasonal activities at the Bolderwood Information Unit throughout Half Term. Plus cross over the road to the Deer Sanctuary and see how many deer you can spot!

The New Forest Reptile Centre  is open daily, with Wild Wednesday on Wednesday 29 May.

Meet a ranger and learn more about our beloved New Forest ponies. Wild about Ponies at Tilery Road Car Park in Brockenhurst on Thursday 30 May. 

On Wednesday 29 May near Burley, a talk and walk for adults and children aged 10+ about The Castleman Corksrew: the history of the New Forest railway. 

At Lepe Country Park, enjoy a Wildflower walk on Friday 24 May, Nature Detectives on Tuesday 28 May, Family Bushcraft on Wednesday 29 May and the Half Term trail from 25 to 31 May.

Things for preschoolers during the holidays

School holidays can be soul-destroying for parents whose children have not yet reached school age as many clubs, drop ins and classes only happen in term time. Thankfully the following are on during half term to help you retain some structure and sanity!

At Lymington Library there will be the Tuesday Rhyme Time, Thursday Baby Play and Thursday Toddler Time as usual. 

At Lyndhurst Library there will be Tuesday Terrific Tales for Tiny Tots and Wednesday Tots and Tinies. 

At Ringwood Library there will be Tuesday Tots and Tinies and Thursday Story Time.

At Hythe Library there will be Baby Rhyme Time and Toddler Rhyme Time on Monday as usual, plus Friday Story Time. Take a look at the Babies and Toddlers section in our Events Calendar to see what else is on! 

At New Milton Library there will be Thursday Storytime and Monday Rhyme Time as usual. 

Do you know of any other interesting events or activities happening in and around Lymington this half term? Suggest the organiser adds it to our Events Calendar!

If you'd like to find an event for a specific day take a look at our New Forest Events Calendar.

 

 

Dogstival promises a fantastic day out for dogs and dog lovers!

Whether you have two legs or four, the New Forest's 'Dog Festival' includes something for everyone

This weekend, Dogstival will be taking place in the grounds of the fabulous Pylewell Park near Lymington (home of the Curious Arts Festival for the past five years) and it promises a fabulous day (or weekend) out for dogs and dog lovers. And of course you don't need to be a dog owner to come along - nor do you need to bring your pooch, although there'll be plenty to woof about if you do!

From lap dogs to working dogs, Dogstival is an inclusive event that celebrates dogs of all shapes, breeds and sizes. Two and four-legged guests will be able to enjoy a truly exciting day out - with dazzling displays, shows, a bespoke dog-behavioural stage, flyball and agility have-a-go activities, K9 Diving Pool, vintage fun-fair, artisan food, expert talks, kids interactive zones and even its own beach. Dogstival also aims to help everyone learn a little more about all the enjoyment and challenges caring for a dog brings. 

Amazing displays in the Dogstival Main Arena

The Dogstival main arena, hosted by Mark Collins from Wave 105 Radio, will see an action packed programme of exciting demonstrations and displays designed to showcase the astonishing talents of our canine friends, from traditional working dogs, to therapy and assistance dogs, and dogs who just know how to get a laugh from the crowd! 

The line up includes the fabulous Aces High Flyball demonstration, winners of the Crufts Flyball 2019 (apparently even faster than my Lab - hopefully he won't join them in the arena when he sees the ball!) and the Rockwood Display Team who will take us through every aspect of dog training.

There will be demonstrations from specific breeds, including the Southern Leonberger Display Team (gentle giants of the canine world and their amazing carting skills) and the beautiful Newfoundland Display Team, who perform impressive exercises off the lead.

The interactive Paws4Thought Dog Display Team are going to be putting on a show to remember, curated by ex-police dog handler Stuart Brace, whilst the Little Nippers Lurcher and Terrier show includes lurchers and terriers doing what comes naturally to them: racing at full speed around the arena.

Understand more in the Dogstival Lounge

The Dogstival ‘Lounge’ will host a range of brilliantly insightful and thought provoking guest speakers across the weekend, with the aim of helping everyone learn and understand a bit more about the canine world and environment around us.

Hosted by BBC Radio's Anna Webb, who co-presents the only radio show dedicated to dogs in Europe, BBC Radio London's 'The Barking Hour', the Dogstival Lounge includes insightful talks, including understanding more about responsible dog ownership in the New Forest. We all care about our pets, but knowing more about how our dogs should behave around wild animals or watching out for bird nesting seasons will give us the knowledge to become better owners.

Also taking the stage will be amazing charities, local organisations and experts in all things dog related to tell you about their work and answer any questions you have, including Hampshire Hounds Dog Rescue, Canine Partners Assistance Dogs and Waggy Tails Dog Rescue.

Plus learn about Dog First Aid with Dr Scott Miller 'Vet on the Hill', thoughts on what to do when your dog starts to slow down and 'You are what you eat' - about dog nutrition.

For once you can be in the Dog House!

Meanwhile the Dog House Behaviour Stage will bring to life training issues, highlighting different life stages of dogs and common problems that may occur during these life stages. Common breed-specific behavioural issues will be discussed and how to prevent and tackle these in everyday life.

Ruby and Betsy will be showcasing Disc dog, a dog sport where throwers compete in events such as distance catching and choreographed freestyle catching. Not only is it great fun to watch but the sport celebrates the bond between handler and dog, by allowing them to work together.

Meet Colin and Molly The Pet Detectives. Following high-ranking careers with the Royal Navy and Surrey Police, Colin Butcher established The UK Pet Detectives in 2005. It has since become the market leader in the investigation of crimes against animals, and each year recovers hundreds of lost and stolen pets. An expert in the field of pet detection, Colin’s vast experience as a crime investigator has given him an unrivalled insight into the behaviour of missing dogs and cats.

Get your paws on some tickets now!

Dogstival very much looks forward to welcoming everyone to what will be a fantastic weekend for dogs and dog lovers in one of the UK’s most dog-friendly areas.  

 

 

Woodpeckers "Garden Marathon" celebrates London Marathon Weekend

And not just one but two marathons were run at Woodpeckers Residential and Nursing Home, Brockenhurst

Over the weekend of this April's London Marathon and in the spirit of the 40,000 plus runners representing, promoting and fundraising for so many important and personal causes, Woodpeckers Residential Home in Brockenhurst thought it would be timely, relevant and fun to organise its own "Garden Marathon".

Woodpeckers staff organising the event expected everybody to have fun trying to complete one marathon around the garden.

In the event there was so much positive response from the local community including Brockenhurst Pre-School and the year 3 class of 28 pupils from Brockenhurst Junior School, that they managed to complete two marathons!

Everyone from Residents, Home Manager, Chefs, Waitresses, Housekeeping, as well as the Care and Companionship Teams all joined in.  Residents who earlier in their lives would have run in record times were wrapped up well and as "wheelchair runners" were assisted around the course by staff - with big smiles all round!

Recently awarded the highly coveted "Outstanding" classification by the Quality Care Commission, Woodpeckers Residential Home is one of the "family" of Colten Care homes in the New Forest.  On the edge of Brockenhurst Village, close to the open forest and with ponies and donkeys grazing just outside it also boasts a large and really beautiful garden in which residents are encouraged to spend time whenever the weather permits. So this was a lovely reason to make the most of the garden even in temperatures which normally would have precluded going outside just for fun!

And with the involvement of the schools, this was another positive example of the mixing and mingling of the very young with the elderly, to the pleasure and benefit of all.  (See also Sweet Journey Through Time) 

Organiser Jane at Woodpeckers said: "Everybody had a great day and we will definitely be doing this again next year on London Marathon Weekend!"

Read more about Woodpeckers Residential and Nursing Home within the family owned Colten Care group here  

And if you'd like to visit Woodpeckers and see the home and the garden for yourself a visit can be organised at any time; plus they will be holding a "Celebration of Life" day on Sunday 19 May to which all are welcome, more details here, 

2 May 2019

 

 

Paw-fect for Dogstival, pets go free at Shorefield Holidays this May!

To celebrate the launch of Dogstival, your four-legged friend can accompany you on your holiday to any of Shorefield Holidays’ eight parks throughout May at no extra cost.

Dogstival, the paw-fect day out for you and your furry-friend, is coming to the New Forest from Saturday 18 to Sunday 19 May. Pamper your pooch with a weekend of delicious treats and over 200 stalls. World class dog displays, Dogstival Awards, a vintage fun fair, special guest speakers, and food from local businesses will also feature at the festival.

To celebrate the action packed event at Pylewell Park, leading holiday park Shorefield Holidays is offering pets go free for any holiday booked throughout the month of May.

Family-run Shorefield Holidays is set on a 100 acre site in the New Forest, and at just eight miles from Pylewell Park, it’s the perfect location for a day trip to Dogstival.

What's more, when you book a staycation at one of Shorefield Holidays eight parks across Hampshire and Dorset, your four-legged friend can enjoy the doggy delights of the stunning Solent coastline and the New Forest National Park.

After checking Dogstival off your to-do list, why not explore one of the many local dog-friendly destinations. During your stay, visit Hurst Castle and enjoy the fantastic views of the Isle of Wight. There is nowhere off limits for your dog here, they can even hop on the ferry. Dogs are welcome to visit the magical 200 acres of Exbury Gardens, as well as the serene grounds and gardens of Beaulieu and 18th century shipbuilding village, Buckler’s Hard.

Not far from Shorefield Holidays, there are endless dog walking locations. If you enjoy long walks, Lymington & Keyhaven Nature Reserve covers five miles along the sea wall. The Solent Way is a 60 mile footpath that stretches along the Hampshire coast line, from Milford on Sea to Emsworth Harbour.

Shorefield Holidays is a home-away-from-home for your pooch. There is plenty of dog friendly accommodation across all of the holiday parks, from cosy caravans to luxurious lodges and cottages, each with room for your dog’s basket and toys. All are only a stone’s throw from miles of woodland walks.

Both Shorefield Country Park and Oakdene Forest Park welcome dogs in certain areas of the complex where you can enjoy a drink or bite to eat.

Dogs should be kept on the lead at all times in the holiday parks and up to two dogs are allowed in all accommodation – just be sure to add them on to your booking when searching for your holiday to make sure you’re placed in a pet-friendly unit.

Book a stay with Shorefield Holidays

Find out more about Shorefield Holidays

Find out more about Dogstival - and book tickets!

Tick bites in the New Forest

Keep watch for ticks on you and your pets during late spring, summer and autumn

Lyme Disease, also called Lyme borreliosis, is an illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which live in the guts of some ticks. Most ticks do not carry the bacteria, but infection could be passed on to people bitten by infected ticks. To be safe you should assume that any tick bite is potentially infectious. Infected ticks are found in many parts of the UK, including the New Forest and neighbouring areas. They also occur in other parts of Europe and North America.

What to look for

Ticks are tiny spider-like creatures found in grassy or wooded areas. They attach themselves to passing animals (small and large domestic and wild animals, depending on the particular stage of the tick’s lifecycle) and people, and then actively crawl about until they find a suitable site; they then start to feed by biting through the skin and sucking blood. They may take three to five days to complete their blood meal, and then drop back into the undergrowth.

The peak periods for tick feeding are in late spring and early summer (April - July) and to a lesser extent in the autumn (September - October). There may also be a risk of tick bites at other times of the year if the weather is mild.

 

Prevention is Best - be tick aware

When in grassy, brushy or woodland areas: Keep your skin covered. Wear trousers rather than shorts or a skirt. Tuck your trouser bottoms into socks, and wear shoes or boots rather than sandals. Wear a long-sleeved shirt, with the cuffs fastened. These precautions will keep ticks on the outside of your clothes, where they can be spotted and picked off. Insect repellents containing DEET are useful as an additional precaution.

Examine yourself and your children for ticks every three to four hours and at the end of the day. Brush off clothing before going indoors and check that pets do not bring ticks into the home on the fur. Check your skin thoroughly for any attached ticks after returning from a tick-infested area, paying particular attention to armpits, groin, backs of knees, the waistband area and also the scalp and ears, especially in young children. Remove any attached ticks as soon as you can.

Use veterinary tick and flea repellents or tick collars on pets. If you regularly work* in a tick-infested area don’t wear your work clothing to go home in. Work clothing can be permethrin-impregnated to reduce the risk of being bitten.

*Lyme disease acquired through work involving exposure to ticks is a reportable occupational disease under RIDDOR (Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995)

The relative size of the animals (including Man) approximates their significance as hosts for the different tick life cycle stages in a typical woodland habitat. Larvae rarely carry Borrelia and their bites are not a significant risk. The life cycle usually takes 3 years. Although the peak feeding time is late spring/early summer with a lesser peak in autumn, tick activity (and the risk of tick bites) can extend beyond these periods in favourable weather conditions.

Useful websites:

European Union Concerted Action on Lyme Borreliosis (EUCALB): http://meduni09.edis.at/eucalb Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/lyme/index.htm

Health Protection Agency: www.hpa.org.uk

 

Download leaflet on ticks from Forestry Commission.

Lymington Infants enjoy a 'Sweet Journey' to Colten Care's Linden House

School children discover Linden House's Olde Sweet Shop - and learn from residents about the confectionary of times gone by.

Recently Colten Care's Linden House in Lymington hosted a ‘Sweet Journey Through Time’, a reminiscence museum experience for Linden House residents and pupils from Lymington Infants school. There were a number of interactive exhibits for the children and residents to experience, including:

The Feels – a sweet and sensory guessing game for your hands and nose

Take it A-weigh – a traditional sweet shop experience, learning how to measure out bags of pick’n’mix

The Tasting Station – from licorice twigs to marzipan bricks, opportunities to taste flavours of bygone eras

Back 2 the Future – comparing sweet wrappers through time, from yesteryear to ones we see on the shelf today, before having a think about what sweets of the future might look like

Giants of our Time – an enormous Jaffa Cake the size of a large pizza!

Both the school children and Linden House residents thoroughly enjoyed the 'Sweet Journey' experience, the children learned lots about confectionary of the past, whilst the Linden House residents had a chance to reminisce about the sweets they enjoyed in their earlier years.  

And for the encore: sweet songs sung by the Robins 

Following on from this visit, Lymington Infant School's very special "Robins" Choir well known for their beautiful public performances at the Lymington Christmas Tree Festival and other events, visited Linden House to sing to the residents.

This cemented more lovely links between young and old, especially pertinent in the light of all recent research as well as daily evidence at Linden House about how beneficial it is for people with dementia to hear and be involved in music.

Benefits for all involved when local organisations work together 

There can be many benefits when local organisations are able to work together in this way. These children have obtained a very natural experience of being amongst people with dementia whilst many of the residents are visibly animated, clearly enjoying the stimulus of being amongst the very young.

And indeed the 'Sweet Journey Through Time' at Linden House, Colten Care's dementia specialist residential care home in Lymington can be repeated! So if other schools or groups are interested do contact Ben Benson Breen, who now coordinates activities for the "New Forest Cluster" of Colten Care's homes (more information about the homes below). You can contact Ben by email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..   

Find out more about Lymington Infant School

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Find out more about Colten Care's New Forest homes

Colten Care operates six residential nursing and care homes in the local area, including three in Lymington: Belmore Lodge, Court Lodge and dementia specialist Linden House. There are also homes in Brockenhurst (Woodpecker's), New Milton (Kingfisher's) and Mudeford (Avon Reach). Click on the links to find out more about each home...

    

    

 

 

The Lymington Sea Water Baths are the oldest in the UK

Historic tourist attraction delights with stunning views of the Isle of Wight

Now open for summer 2022!

The Lymington Sea Water Baths in Bath Road is the oldest open-air natural swimming pool in the UK. Dating back to 1833 the baths have historically gained national interest for their health giving waters and natural mud minerals. Today, young and old still swim in the waters and enjoy the stunning location with views over to the Isle of Wight. Come rain or shine, the Lymington Sea Water Baths provide fabulous fun - with 200m of inflatables to challenge you and paddleboard fun!

Check website for full details of opening times - and also keep informed on their Facebook page. 

The best of pool and sea combined!

The Lymington Sea Water Baths is a fantastic place for all the family to enjoy - come rain or shine! Many local families take the attitude 'well, you're going to get wet anyway' and just pop on a wetsuit if the weather is a little chilly! Back in 2013, Chris Evans featured lidos on his Breakfast Show, after which the Lymington Sea Water Baths became known affectionately as Lymington Lido!

Inflatables, paddle boarding - and swimming too!

Whether you prefer to take a gentle swim, tackle the fabulous 200 metres of inflatable obstacle course, take up aqua jousting, stand up paddle boarding or swim, there is something for everyone. Younger children have a splash pool and sandpit - plus of course the kiosk/café is open throughout the season.

The Sea Water Baths have disabled access and facilities, toilets, changing rooms and showers, first aid room and bike racks. It is also possible to hire buoyancy aids and wetsuits.

You can also hire Lymington's Sea Water Baths for private parties. Get in touch with Hugo Ambrose and his great team to find out more...

A brief history of Lymington Sea Water Baths

Mrs Beeston, who took over the baths in November 1872 following her husband’s death, capitalized on the growing public health interest in seawater and mud by using an inlet from the Salterns and advertising her “strengthening sea baths.”

In 1825 the charges were: “For a warm bath: 3s. 6d; shower ditto, 2s. 0d; cold water bath with guide: 1s. od; without a guide, 6d. Every care and attention to the comforts of the invalid and the convalescent will be found strictly observed.” The male guide kept bathers afloat with the use of a rope.

The baths gained in popularity with customers coming from all over England to bath in the health-strengthening waters and mud.  In 1833 a larger building was funded by shares and donations (£6,000 in total) under the Lymington Bath and Improvement Co. to house hot, cold and vapour baths with separate wings for ladies and gentlemen and large swimming baths at the western extremity.

Further mud flat areas were taken over for pastimes such as archery, rifle shooting and even a 12- hole golf course in 1893, all below sea level. With a membership of 200 in 1916 and a ladies club, the course was flooded and then again in 1937. With the onset of the Second World War, the course was closed.

Refurbishment to extend the life of Lymington's historic Sea Water Baths

In 2016, the baths were extensively renovated by Lymington and Pennington Town Council to ensure their longevity. "The Sea Water Baths are owned by the town council and we have a management arrangement in place to manage the service, but the town council is still responsible for its upkeep and its structure," said Town Clerk, Caroline Godfrey. "We're hoping it opens up ready for the bank holiday. The town council wishes to see it succeed and extend its life as long as we can."

The base layer membrane had deteriorated and needed to be replaced, then covered with 200 tonnes of stones. Other parts of the structure have also been refurbished, such as new doors and roof on the building and the pump has been repaired. The pool is now in the process of being refilled - it takes the best part of a week to fill it as its almost the size of an Olympic pool along the width! Then it's topped up from the sea. After that the chlorination process is started and water quality is tested. 

Meanwhile if you've forgotten or never even discovered the pleasure of swimming, do read Clare Poynter's lovely feature article about the benefits of swimming, whether in open or enclosed water, indoors or out! 

Find out more about the Lymington Sea Water Baths.

 

Sneak Preview of a new New Forest Experience

The Bell Inn and New Forest Commoners team up to provide enjoyable education about the New Forest 

TV star of “A Year in the New Forest” young beef cattle farmer Tom Hordle with his deep love and knowledge of the Forest together with fellow commoner Lyndsey Stride who’s been recording the “Commoning Voices” story, have teamed up with the Bell Inn at Bramshaw to develop a unique New Forest experience for locals and visitors.

Taking in a scenic drive from the Bell to Tom’s farm near Moyles Court and a two hour guided walk discovering in a very personal way some of the secrets of the Forest, participants will then have the opportunity to savour a fabulous lunch featuring Tom’s own beef, at the convivial and comfortable Bell Inn whose accomplished and passionate chef sources as much of its produce as he can locally.

This will be a unique opportunity to learn a little of what's so special about the way the New Forest is managed and evolving, and an opportunity to delve deeply into the reality of how practising commoners live and work.

A privileged few of us took part as guinea pigs of this new enterprise, blessed in addition by wonderful spring weather.

The inclusive package of tour with walk and delicious lunch will shortly be available to everybody else...

Watch this space - sign up for the Lymington.com Weekly What's On  weekly e-newsletter to keep in touch with the news and keep an eye on the Lymington.com Events Calendar for dates and details!

The Bell Inn, Bramshaw

Locally sourced produce at the Bell Inn 

New Woodland Nature Trail at Shorefield Country Park

Suitable for wheelchairs and buggies, and with fairy tale surprises along the way!

A new Woodland Nature Walk Trail has been created at Shorefield award-winning holiday park in Milford-on-Sea.

Shorefield Holidays' five-star Shorefield Country Park has direct access to miles of peaceful forest walks, as well as a series of walks and nature trails on its 100 acres of landscaped parkland.

Following three years of careful planning, the Shorefield gardening team has created a new woodland nature trail in a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, which links up with the park’s existing woodland walk, as well as a network of paths owned by Milford Parish Council.

For the benefit of locals, guests and holiday home owners 

Classed as ancient woodland, the area is carpeted with seasonal wildflowers and features a huge diversity of trees and wildlife. The new trail also gives guests and holiday home owners at the park better access to the surrounding area and nearby seafront.

Head Gardener Ian Colverson says: “This is one of the biggest projects our gardening team has undertaken.

“The nature trail winds under a canopy of trees, and there is an abundance of wildlife and woodland flowers. Since we’ve completed the path, it’s become apparent just how many bluebells are emerging.

In time for the Easter Holiday weekend

“Everyone we have spoken to – both owners and local residents – is really pleased with what we’ve achieved and it’s great to have the work completed in time for Easter for all to enjoy.”

Shorefield Holidays’ Managing Director Simon Pollock commented: “This new nature trail has been three years in the planning and we are incredibly proud of the end result.

“From enjoying the seasonal wild flowers to looking out for wildlife and a wide variety of beautiful trees, our woodland trail is a great way to get closer to nature, and we hope people will come along and enjoy discovering this previously inaccessible woodland area.”

Perfect or all the generations!

The walk is suitable for buggies, wheelchairs and mobility scooters so will make a really welcome addition to locally available outings in the fresh air for all the generations.

There’s also lots to entertain the children along the way – look out for the fairy house, fairy town hall and fairy police station to name a few!

The new Woodland Nature Trail was officially opened on April 5 2019 by Keith Metcalf, from Milford Conservation Volunteers.  

Tony Locke, Chairman of Milford Conservation Volunteers said “We are very pleased to see this additional path, which is of great benefit for the guests and people at Shorefield Country Park, for them to connect more than before through the woodland walk, pleasure gardens and Studland Common up to the clifftop.”

Shorefield Holidays is an award-winning family-run business operating eight holiday parks across Hampshire and Dorset. It contributes more than £27m a year to the local economy and has won a  number of conservation awards over the years.

Read here more about Shorefield Holidays and living the dream with Shorefield Holiday Home Ownership