Flaming June will soon be here, hopefully bringing with us those balmy summer nights and plenty of opportunities to soak up the great outdoors. Take a look at what you can join in with this month…
Get active in the glorious New Forest
With longer days, June is the perfect time to get outdoors and active in and around our beautiful National Park.
Try your hand at a sunset paddle along the Beaulieu River on various dates across the month with New Forest Activities; a great way to relax after a busy day exploring.
Image - New Forest Activities
If you fancy learning more about our local brews and wines, then book yourself onto a Beer and Brewery Tour or Wine Safari with Jaunt e-bikes. Running on dates throughout the month, these tours take you on quirky e-bikes as you pedal around the forest.
Or, join New Forest Cycling Tours a guided cycle starting in Brockenhurst that encompasses Burley and the disused railway line to The Old Station Tea Room at Holmsley. This group ride takes place on 7 June, however other dates can be arranged by making contact with New Forest Cycling Tours in advance.
Image - Jaunt-e Bikes
Challenge yourself (or cheer on the participants) of the New Forest Rattler across the weekend of 3-4 June. Perfect for anyone training for a triathlon, with a combination of running, cycling and swimming options available.
Join us for festival season
June is a popular time for festivals. If you have a dog, or perhaps are thinking of getting one, then the perfect festival to start with has to be Dogstival! Returning again to Broadlands Park, this year on 3-4 June, the festival offers all kinds of doggie-related fun, displays and activities.
Image - Dogstival
Also at Broadlands, on 16-18 June, will be The Nostalgia Show. There'll be a fabulous choice of entertainment, including live music, street performers, traditional fairground rides and opportunities to take part in daily dance classes.
Over 10-11 June, Highcliffe Food & Arts Festival returns to Highcliffe village centre and recreation ground. Free-to-attend, the festival promises more than 120 traders covering all types of artisan food and drink. There will also be ‘crafts on the green’ to take part in.
Guests staying at Sandy Balls Holiday Village can join in with all the action of the Summer Festival on 17 June. Featuring specialist acoustic acts, themed activities and live action role play, it’ll certainly capture your imagination.
Image - Sandy Balls Holiday Village
Last but by no means least, cider lovers should definitely check out the Glastengore Cider Festival on 17 June, a one-day festival of real cider and live music at Harrow Wood Farm.
Live music and comedy nights
Throughout the month, lookout for comedy nights at The Attic (Totton), The Barn (Ringwood) and Milford on Sea Community Centre including some big names ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe and smaller acts trying to get their name heard.
Image - The Blue Tides
If you love live music then be sure to check out evenings of live music at Hanger Farm Arts Centre and Bramshaw Village Hall or why not make a weekend of it by booking a stay at Back of Beyond Touring & Glamping Park, near Ringwood. Here, on Saturday 2 June, they will be hosting local band, The Blue Tides, who’ll be reggae, blues and soul music. Take a look at our events listings to see all that’s on across June.
Events and activities for children
The start of June sits within the Hampshire half term so there are still some very family-friendly events and activities happening across the forest. Take a look at our half term blog to find out more.
If you have young children, then plan a visit to Furzey Gardens for the Artists' Fairy door trail. Running right across June, the trail features 25 four-foot doors to discover around the gardens and there is a huge range of door designs to enjoy. The gardens are a delight for all.
Image - Furzey Gardens
Keep an eye out for special events happening around 17-18 June as well, as Father’s Day will take place on Sunday 18 June. Some events such as a Paddle to the Pub and a steam cruise to the Solent aboard SS Shieldhall have already been announced, but do look out for our forthcoming blog where we showcase what’s on and what you can do with dad soon.
Image - New Forest Activities
From cars to art: discover what Beaulieu has going on
Popular as ever, Beaulieu is holding more of its car meets on various dates throughout June, including The Custom American Car Show, 18 June.
Image - National Motor Museum Beaulieu
Anyone with a keen eye for sculpture should also plan to visit the Sculpture at Beaulieu display from 17 June. Featuring works from national and international sculptors, this event runs through until 24 September.
Find out more
As always, this is just a sample of what’s on in and around the New Forest. Do keep an eye on our events listings to find out other events that are taking place. And, if you are looking for further ideas on what you can do here, our things to do and ideas and inspirations pages offer lots of suggestions.