New Forest Living May

YOUR FREE COPY MAY/JUNE 2026

NEW FOREST

living

OUTDOOR

LIVING

Creating your

dream garden

PUZZLE

PAGE

Our eagerly

awaited new

feature!

AN EXTRA

SLICE

Decadent brownie

recipes to devour

ADAM

HENSON

We catch up with the Countryfile

presenter to discuss all things farming

FOOD & DRINK • EVENTS • LIFESTYLE • INTERVIEWS • TRAVEL

exbury.co.uk

New Forest, Hampshire, SO45 1AZ

info@exbury.co.uk

023 8089 1203

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21

C O N T E N T S

THE ULTIMATE BROWNIE LINE-UP

A NOTE

NOTE

from the editor

from the editor

As we move into May and

June, there’s a real sense of the

season opening up — longer

evenings, lighter days, and more

opportunities to enjoy time at

home and outdoors. In this issue,

we’ve leaned into that feeling

with a lead feature on outdoor

living, exploring how to carve out

a space you genuinely want to

spend time in — whether that’s a

quiet corner for a morning coffee

or somewhere to host friends on

warm summer evenings.

Staying with the theme of simple

pleasures, we’re delighted to

share a selection of indulgent

brownie recipes from Kate

Jenkins of the renowned Gower

Cottage Brownies. Perfect for a

weekend treat or to accompany

a garden gathering, they’re well

worth trying (and sharing!).

24

OUTDOOR LIVING

Elsewhere in the magazine, you’ll

find a fascinating interview with

Adam Henson, reflecting on life

in farming and his experiences

as a television presenter — a

thoughtful and engaging read

that offers a glimpse behind the

scenes.

ADAM HENSON

08

Editor Katie Thomson

e katie@minervapublications.co.uk

Assistant Editor Kate Norris

Publisher Sally Thomson

Pre Press Manager Rebecca Rose

Contributors

Matthew Biggs, Angela Cave,

Louise Thomson, Pete Lawrence

FOR ADVERTISING

Account Manager Helen Skeates

e helen.skeates@minervapublications.co.uk

t 01225 984494

Cover courtesy of Adam Henson/Farm-Fest

SCHOOL GUIDE

10

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held liable for any loss occasioned by

failure of an advertisement to appear, or

any damage or inconvenience caused by

errors, omissions and misprints. No part of

this publication may be reproduced without

prior permission from the publishers.

The opinions expressed within are not

necessarily those of the publishers.

We’re also keen to hear from

you. You’ll notice a QR code

dotted throughout this edition

— by taking just three minutes

to complete our reader survey,

you’ll not only be entered into a

draw to win a £240 wine hamper,

but you’ll also help us shape the

magazine around what you most

enjoy reading.

As always, thank you for your

continued support — and we

hope this issue provides plenty

of inspiration for the weeks

ahead.

Katie

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Puzzle Time

Summer Word Search

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A CHAT WITH NEW FOREST'S

Innovative Winery Founder

Promotional Partnership

New Forest Living caught up with Owner and Founder of

Beaulieu 58 Wines, Sandy Booth to find out more about the

wine brand and how the first year of the winery has been…

HOW DID THE B58 WINERY

COME ABOUT?

In 2019, The New Forest Fruit Company

started looking after the Beaulieu

Vineyard and it wasn’t long before I

became curious about how we could

grow grape varieties in the New Forest

that weren’t usually successfully grown

in the UK.

We set about growing different varieties

and, with the support of Swiss winemaker

Guillaume Lagger, officially launched The

B58 Winery and its inaugural collection of

still wines in February last year.

WHAT SETS YOUR WINE

BRAND APART FROM OTHERS

IN THE MARKET?

What sets us apart from other UK wine

brands is the fact that our vines grow in

tunnels, which enables us to grow grape

varieties which aren’t usually successfully

grown in the UK, such as Gewürztraminer,

Shiraz, Merlot, Tempranillo and many

more.

There are a number of wineries that

produce sparkling wines in the UK.

However, from the onset, our goal at

The B58 Winery has been to make good

quality still wines. The environment and

techniques used in producing our wines

are a positive, innovative and sustainable

step forward in the world of English Still

Wines and one which we hope people

will enjoy!

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE

HIGHLIGHTS SINCE THE

LAUNCH LAST YEAR?

One of the main highlights has been

being able to share our inaugural wines

with people over the past year, hearing

what they think and being awarded both

bronze and silver awards from Wine GB

Wessex, the International Wine & Spirit

Competition and the Independent English

Wine Awards in the winery’s first year!

Another highlight is the ongoing learning

process. With my extensive experience

in fresh fruit and asparagus growing

Guillaume Lagger (L) and Sandy Booth (R)

and my passion for my business to be

as sustainable and as innovative as

possible, witnessing the vines thriving is a

wonderful feeling.

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE

IN THE WINERY’S SECOND

YEAR?

New varieties being harvested and

made into English still wines that

people wouldn’t have enjoyed before,

more stockists, ensuring the wines are

accessible to more people and wine

events at the winery, including tours,

tastings and talks with myself and

Guillaume Lagger, our winemaker.

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ADAM HENSON

Why British Farming

Matters More

Than Ever

Farmer and BBC Countryfile

presenter Adam Henson has spent

decades championing British

agriculture and helping people

understand where their food comes

from. Ahead of appearances at the

Great British Farm-Fest and the

Royal Three Counties Show, he

reflects on the realities of farming

today — from unpredictable

weather to global competition —

and why reconnecting people with

the countryside has never been

more important.

FARMING AT THE

MERCY OF NATURE

Farming may be supported

by increasingly sophisticated

technology, but it remains

fundamentally dependent on nature.

That reality became clear last year

on Adam’s farm.

“We had the driest summer in living

memory,” he explains. “We went

from a wet autumn and spring to

an incredibly dry summer, and our

crops really struggled. Yields were

down by about 30%.”

The sunflower crop was particularly

affected and had to be cultivated

back into the soil. Yet farming often

brings unexpected moments.

“We left a strip as a wildflower

margin, and the seeds that

hadn’t rotted germinated again.

Suddenly we had this beautiful

strip of sunflowers.”

It’s a reminder of the unpredictability

that defines agriculture — and the

resilience it demands.

A COMPLEX

INDUSTRY UNDER

PRESSURE

Modern farming faces a range of

challenges. British farmers work

to high environmental and welfare

standards — something Adam

supports — but competing with

imports produced under different

conditions can be difficult. “When

imports don’t match our standards,

it makes competition harder.”

Disease also remains a concern.

Livestock conditions such as

Bluetongue and Schmallenberg can

have serious consequences, while

avian influenza continues to disrupt

poultry farms.

Despite this, Adam is clear that

farming is far from uniform.

MANY TYPES OF

FARMING

“The industry is incredibly diverse,”

he says. “You might have a small

family farm working hard for modest

returns, or a large-scale operation

using advanced machinery.”

“You can have all the plans

in the world, but farming

constantly reminds you

Both play a vital role in producing

food and sustaining rural

communities. “We want the

countryside to be vibrant and

successful.”

RECONNECTING

PEOPLE WITH

FOOD

there are things you

simply can’t control.”

Adam’s biggest concern is how

disconnected many people have

become from food production.

“We don’t teach agriculture in the

national curriculum,” he says. As a

result, everyday processes — from

how eggs are produced to how

crops grow — are often poorly

understood.

“If we don’t understand where our

food comes from, it’s very hard to

make informed choices.”

LOOKING AHEAD

With a busy show season ahead,

Adam remains optimistic. “If people

understand and value the work

behind their food, that’s incredibly

powerful,” he says.

Because farming, he believes, is

about far more than food — it’s

about landscape, wildlife and

the communities that shape our

countryside.

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THE HAMPSHIRE

SCHOOLS GUIDE

Hampshire is home to some of the

South’s most respected independent

schools, offering a compelling mix

of academic excellence, strong

pastoral care and outstanding

co-curricular opportunity. From

nurturing preparatory schools to

high-achieving senior schools and

sixth forms, the county provides

families with an exceptional breadth

of choice. Many attract pupils from

across the wider region, drawn by

both reputation and results.

In this special feature, we present

a curated selection of Hampshire’s

leading schools, each with its own

distinctive ethos and approach,

and all committed to developing

confident, capable and well-rounded

young people.

DURLSTON SCHOOL

Becton Lane, Barton on Sea

New Milton, BH25 7AQ

www.durlstonschool.co.uk

At Durlston School, the mission

is to provide every child with an

inspiring and enriching educational

experience, developing confidence

and individual talents while

preparing pupils for life beyond the

classroom. The school is committed

to nurturing curious, resilient, and

compassionate young people

who are ready to embrace new

opportunities and challenges.

Located in New Milton, between

the sea and the New Forest on the

Hampshire/Dorset border, Durlston

Durlston School

School offers a safe and supportive

environment for children aged 2 to 16.

A MAGICAL, NURTURING

BEGINNING

Strong academic foundations are

established in the Pre-Prep, where an

interactive and engaging curriculum

is built around hands-on learning

experiences. Generous adult-tochild

ratios help foster trusting

relationships, allowing confidence to

flourish. Individual targeted support

and early interventions ensure each

child’s academic progress is fully

supported.

CONFIDENCE BUILDING

OPPORTUNITIES

In Middle Prep (7–11 years), pupils

are encouraged to step forward

and embrace a wide range of

opportunities, with specialist

teaching in Art, Drama, DT,

Languages, Music, and Sport. The

school focuses on achieving the right

balance of nurture, support, and

academic challenge.

HIGH ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Every pupil is truly known — their

Durlston School

“Pastoral care is at the heart of life

at Durlston.”

strengths, challenges, and ambitions

understood. This personalised

approach builds confidence,

resilience, and a strong drive to

succeed. Senior pupils benefit

from high academic expectations

alongside exceptional pastoral care.

Highly qualified and enthusiastic

teachers inspire and support pupils

throughout their studies and GCSE

choices.

STRONG PASTORAL CARE

Pastoral care lies at the heart of life

at Durlston. The school believes that

happy children learn best, and a

strong focus on wellbeing underpins

both personal and academic

success. Open communication with

parents ensures each child’s growth

and development is fully supported.

LEARNING BEYOND THE

CLASSROOM

Learning extends far beyond

the classroom, with a wealth of

opportunities available to all pupils.

Time is regularly spent in the forest,

on the beach, and on the farm,

encouraging a connection with the

Durlston School

natural world. Alongside regular

sports lessons and specialist

coaching, pupils take part in lifelong

activities such as golf, badminton,

padel, and skiing.

Creative opportunities are

embedded throughout school life,

with drama and music helping

pupils build confidence, express

themselves, and develop a lasting

sense of creativity.

LE@D (Life Experiences at Durlston)

is a timetabled programme focused

on practical life skills, from ironing

a shirt and changing a fuse to

managing money, exploring careers,

and developing effective study

techniques.

NEW HEAD, NEW VISION

From September, Bennjamyn Smith

will join Durlston as Headmaster.

Parents are invited to meet Mr

Smith and hear more about

Vision 2029 — an opportunity to

understand the school’s future

direction and what it means for

their child. Plans include new

co-curricular and enrichment

opportunities, upgrades to facilities

across the school, and a continued

commitment to the supportive,

family ethos that defines Durlston.

Mr Smith’s vision is clear: to deliver

structured, enriching learning

experiences that combine strong

academic results with personal

development and global awareness,

ensuring each child’s journey is

shaped around their strengths,

needs, and ambitions.

Personalised tours are available

for families considering entry

from Kindergarten through to

Year 11. Recognising that family

life is busy, the school offers

flexible appointments at a time

to suit individual schedules.

Visitors have the opportunity to

see the school in action, meet

staff and pupils, and ask any

questions about life at Durlston.

Contact

admissions@durlstonschool.

co.uk or visit:

www.durlstonschool.co.uk

THE GREGG SCHOOL

Townhill Park House, Cutbush Lane,

Southampton SO18 3RR

www.thegreggschool.org

The Gregg School is a coeducational

independent day

school, for pupils age 4-16, set

within the spacious Townhill Park

House estate, on the outskirts of

Southampton. Its ethos focuses

on unlocking every pupil’s

potential, supported through

small class sizes, excellent

individualised academic support

and an ambitious focus on

enrichment. Staff know pupils

well and provide differentiated

challenge and guidance. A

minibus service operates across a

15 mile radius, including the New

Forest, Winchester, Southampton,

Fareham and Titchfield.

ACADEMIC APPROACH

Achieving Personal Best is a

core value of the school. Prep

pupils follow the Pre-Senior

Baccalaureate programme whilst

senior students are baseline

assessed to provide predicted

grades to guide progress. GCSE

outcomes are strong: high

achieving students often secure

full sets of top grades and, on

average, students perform 20%

above predictions. A 100% pass

rate is regularly achieved in most

subjects, notable for a

non- academically selective

school. Placement in sets

and small class sizes ensure

appropriate pace, high challenge

and individual support.

PASTORAL & CO-CURRICULAR

LIFE

The school places a strong

emphasis on enriching

experiences beyond the

classroom, providing a varied

co-curricular programme that

runs daily, at lunchtime and after

school, supported by a late bus

service. Highlights include the

school production at the Theatre

Royal Winchester, competitive

sport with local and independent

schools and The Elite Sports

programme for regional and

inter/national performers. Pupils

benefit from regular subject day

trips and residential experiences

in the UK and abroad. Pastoral

care and personal development

are clear strengths, with easily

accessible support from all staff,

reinforced through the bespoke

Respect programme.

WHAT SETS THE SCHOOL

APART

The Gregg School is a genuinely

independent school, not part

of a wider group, with a longestablished,

experienced

leadership, which enables it to

remain agile and shape its own

direction. From September, the

Prep School will join the same

site, with sensitive development

underway to accommodate the

younger pupils. Set within a

The Gregg School


23 acre estate of playing fields,

woodland, orchard and listed

gardens, the school places strong

emphasis on outdoor learning

and wellbeing with forest school

lessons from Reception to Key

Stage 3. Pupils spend significant

time outdoors each day, where

fresh air, green surroundings and

a close knit community create a

supportive environment that helps

pupils to build confidence and

discover their passions.

The Gregg School’s Open Day

is on Saturday 27th June, from

10am-1pm, for prospective

families wishing to explore the

estate, talk to staff and pupils,

visit the new Prep facilities and

enjoy refreshments, adventure

trails and music.

Please register online at

www.thegreggschool.org/openevents

or contact the Registrar on

registrar@thegreggschools.org

EMBLEY

Romsey, Hampshire SO51 6ZE

www.embley.org.uk

Embley is a co-educational

independent day and boarding

school set within an inspiring

130-acre campus on the edge of

the New Forest, near Romsey, in

Hampshire. Educating children

from the age of 2 to Sixth

Form, Embley is dedicated to

Embley

©tomsoperphotography

The Gregg School

developing confident, capable and

compassionate young people who

will make a positive difference in

the world.

As an innovative and forwardlooking

school, Embley offers

an education designed for the

modern world that brings out the

highest levels of achievement in

every child. Children leave Embley

as well-rounded Renaissance

individuals - intellectually curious

and open-minded and driven to

achieve their personal best in all

that they do.

ACADEMIC APPROACH

Great teachers are the heartbeat

of Embley, bringing learning to

life through a rich curriculum that

connects across subjects. With

specialist teaching including

Marine Biology, French and Music

from the earliest years in Prep

to a wide range of GCSEs and A

Levels subjects, taught in small

classes, to choose from.

Embley is in the top 5% of

schools nationally and pupils

secure their first choice places

at Oxbridge and Russell Group

universities or go on to degree

apprenticeships.


LIFE

From the moment your child

steps through the doors of the

school, they will feel a powerful

sense of belonging. Children

have a genuine connection to

those around them, building

confidence which then fuels

academic success and growth of

emotional and social wellbeing.

Full, weekly and flexi boarding

from Year 7 offers a welcoming,

family-orientated environment,

contributing to a close-knit

community.

Pupils gain real-world skills

through over 180 exceptional

co-curricular activities each term.

Unique opportunities include

trading on the global markets

with Embley Asset Management;

designing and building electric

racing cars; learning to fly

through the school’s aviation

programme; volunteering at

its partner school in Ghana;

performing to audiences of over

1,000 people at Winchester Royal

Theatre; training with elite sports

coaches; and sailing aboard

Embley’s fleet of keelboats.


APART

Embley is more than an

education. Its aim is the

deliberate and purposeful

formation of young people who

go out into the world as capable,

independent, interested and

interesting individuals. Every

child is known, challenged


and supported to achieve their

personal best.

Embley has an extensive

transport system with over 25

bus routes across Hampshire

and beyond, providing a safe and

environmentally friendly way for

children to travel to school from

Reception age to Sixth Form.

Go to www.embley.org.uk/visitingembley

to arrange a visit or call

01794 512206.

BALLARD SCHOOL

Fernhill Lane, New Milton

BH25 5SU

www.ballardschool.co.uk

Ballard School is a

multi‐award‐winning,

co‐educational independent day

school in New Milton for children

from Nursery to GCSE. Set in 34

beautiful acres, it is a nurturing

community where every child is

known, supported and inspired.

Rooted in strong values and

excellent teaching, Ballard is the

perfect size to combine academic

ambition, pastoral support

and extensive co‐curricular

opportunities, building confidence,

Embley

©tomsoperphotography

character and curiosity to prepare

pupils for life beyond school.

ACADEMIC APPROACH

Ballard’s academic philosophy

places the pupil at the centre of

everything they do, fostering a

dynamic and inclusive learning

environment that empowers

every pupil to achieve academic

excellence and personal growth.

High‐quality teaching ensures

pupils are challenged, supported

and inspired to do their best with

many different approaches to help

tailor pupils learning. This ethos

delivers exceptional outcomes:

50% top GCSE grades, an average

of nearly one grade higher per child,

and pupils achieving straight 9s.


LIFE

Pastoral care and co-curricular life

sit at the heart of Ballard’s culture.

While many schools have a single

Designated Safeguarding Lead,

Ballard has over ten, led by the

Deputy Head, Pastoral, with all

staff proactively supporting pupils.

The Deputy Head, Co-Curricular &

Operations, ensures outstanding

opportunities for pupils, including

multiple trips and over 150

weekly activities. Award-winning

sport, art, STEM, Eco, music and

performing arts sit alongside clubs

such as flying and scuba diving.

Opportunities abound within the

curriculum too including fortnightly

forest or beach school for younger

pupils. All this helps build pupils

confidence, curiosity and wellrounded

character for life beyond

school.


APART

Ballard won Co‐educational

School of the Year in October

2024. Its exceptional education,

outstanding facilities and

consistent reinvestment allow

pupils to belong thrive and

achieve. New leadership

brings further momentum, with

Headmaster, Mr Stuart Turner,

joining from Emanuel School,

London, and choosing Ballard for

his own children. New initiatives

include the appointment of a Head

of Wellbeing, a Pupil Engagement

and Most Able Co-ordinator, and

a new Laureate and Scholarship

Programme from Year 7.

There is so much on offer at Ballard

that it is not hard to understand

why parents call it “simply the best

school every day.”

So, if you are seeking an

award‐winning, nurturing

community that delivers results

and invests in pupils’ futures,

visit www.ballardschool.co.uk or

contact the friendly Admissions

team on 01425 626900 or

registrar@ballardschool.co.uk to

arrange a visit and discover life at

Ballard today.

Ballard School

Ballard School


award-winning

eforea spa

at Hilton Southampton – Utilita Bowl

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Spa experiences from just £39

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Enquire now 02382 027093

Quote ‘NEWFOREST10’ for 10% off any 50 minute treatment,

redeemable until 31st October 2026.

SMARTER, SMALLER, MORE SOCIAL

The New Shape of the Modern Garden Pool

The role of the garden swimming

pool is changing. Once seen purely

as a luxury add-on, today’s pools

are increasingly designed as part

of a broader outdoor living space

— combining style, wellbeing and

practical usability in ways that suit

modern homes and lifestyles.

SMARTER OWNERSHIP

AND EASIER

MAINTENANCE

One of the biggest shifts is toward

smarter ownership. Advances in

pool technology now make dayto-day

maintenance far simpler

than many homeowners expect.

Automated cleaning systems,

app-controlled heating and lighting,

and improved filtration mean pools

can be managed efficiently with

far less hands-on effort. Energyefficient

heating options and better

insulation are also helping to extend

the usable season while keeping

running costs more predictable.

DESIGN FOR REAL

GARDENS, NOT JUST

LARGE ESTATES

Design is evolving too. Not every

garden — or homeowner — wants

a large traditional pool. Compact,

design-led installations are growing

in popularity, particularly in town

and village settings where space

is at a premium. Smaller pools can

still deliver strong visual impact,

especially when paired with highquality

finishes, integrated lighting

and coordinated landscaping.

Features such as counter-current

swim systems also allow shorter

pools to double as fitness spaces.

A SHIFT IN STYLE AND

MATERIALS

Aesthetic choices are shifting away

from bright blues toward more

architectural tones — soft greys,

darker liners and natural stone

surrounds — helping pools sit more

comfortably within contemporary

garden schemes. The emphasis

is on cohesion: terraces, planting,

seating and water all working

together as one outdoor room.

POOLS AS PART OF A

WELLNESS LIFESTYLE

Wellbeing is another major

influence. More homeowners are

thinking about their gardens as

places for regular exercise, stress

relief and social connection. Pools

are increasingly paired with saunas,

cold-water features, hydrotherapy

jets or shaded lounge areas,

creating flexible wellness zones at

home. For families, they also offer

a screen-free focal point that brings

different generations together.

PRACTICAL FEATURES

FOR EVERYDAY LIVING

Safety and usability are part of

the conversation as well. Discreet

covers, integrated steps, shallow

lounging ledges and improved

lighting design all help make pools

more family-friendly and practical

for everyday use.

Taken together, these trends point to

a more thoughtful approach to pool

design — less about occasional

luxury, and more about long-term

lifestyle value. When well planned,

a pool can become the centrepiece

of an outdoor space that supports

fitness, relaxation and entertaining

in equal measure.

Swimming in

QUALITY

& STYLE

LIFETIME

STRUCTURAL

WARRANTY

LIFETIME

STRUCTURAL

OSMOSIS

WARRANTY

The speed and ease of installation will impress.

Short lead times as most models are in stock.

We are increasingly spending

our private lives in our homes

rediscovering how much of a

pleasure it is to spend time

with family and friends.

A pool is an attractive

extension of your living area -

the ultimate way to enjoy your

free time and enhance your

lifestyle and health.

Choose from a wide range of

designs and sizes with a

comprehensive package that

leaves nothing to be desired.

A state-of-the-art product with a quick hassle-free installation.

Your pool will not only enrich your family’s life, but also increase the value of your home.

www.swimpools.co.uk

enquiries@swimpools.co.uk

Phone for brochure and prices 01444 411 411 / 07710 402917

LYMINGTON

OPEN GARDENS

Lymington Open Gardens - a

popular bi-annual event in

the Lymington social calendar

organised by St Barbe Museum

+ Art Gallery - returns on

Sunday 24 May 2026 (2-6pm)...

It is also an important fundraiser for the museum, an

independent charity, who aim to put the community at the

heart of everything they do.

This year’s 14 gardens showcase the breadth of Lymington’s

green spaces including:

• One of the town’s original historic gardens, offering a

glimpse into Lymington’s past

• A peaceful oasis created by church volunteers just off the

High Street

• A newly designed garden for care home residents

• A tranquil space behind a GP practice

• Cottage gardens with traditional planting and seasonal

colour

• Sensory gardens designed to support wellbeing

• Modern gardens featuring water elements, specimen

plants and structured planting

Garden owners will be available throughout the afternoon to

share planting ideas and the stories behind their spaces.

With many gardens located close together, visitors can enjoy

a relaxed, self-guided route through Lymington’s streets and

lanes. Teas and homemade cakes will be served at the United

Reformed Church on the High Street, while St Barbe’s Old

School Café will also be open for light lunches, coffee and cake.

Images credit: ©Colten Care

And enjoy a special Open Gardens cocktail at Stanwell House

Hotel! Plant stalls at key locations offer the chance to take

home a favourite variety spotted during the afternoon or a plant

recommended by one of the garden owners.

Open Gardens is more than a pleasant day out. Every ticket

sold helps St Barbe continue its work preserving local heritage,

delivering exhibitions and running creative workshops and

educational opportunities for families and schools. The event is

supported by lead sponsor Knight Frank, with additional support

from Lymington & Pennington Town Council.

TICKETS

• Early bird online tickets: £8 per person

• On the day tickets: £10 per person

• Entry to all 14 gardens included

Tickets can be booked online

at https://www.ticketsource.

com/st-barbe-museum-artgallery/t-rzzyxnq

with printed

brochures — including a

map, garden descriptions and

suggested walking routes —

available for collection during

May or on the day. Tickets

will also be available from the

museum’s front desk from

1 May.


Sway Open Gardens on

Sunday 7th June 2026

Book your tickets now to visit eighteen

enchanting private gardens in Sway, in aid

of Oakhaven Hospice.

The Sway Gardening Club and the Villagers of Sway look forward

to welcoming you to Sway Open Gardens, from 11am to 5pm on

Sunday, 7th June 2026.

Eighteen beautiful village gardens of different shapes and sizes will be

open to visitors at this popular biennial event in the heart of the New

Forest National Park.

A free park-and-ride bus will operate on the day, leaving the car park

in Jubilee Field every half hour from 11 am and stopping near the

open gardens. The last bus will leave Jubilee Field at 4.30 pm.

At Sway Youth Centre, you will find a plant stall offering a huge variety

of plants, with a plant ‘crèche’ where you can safely leave your plants

while visiting the gardens. In addition, Oakhaven Hospice will be

holding a Grand Raffle with lovely prizes to be won, all kindly donated

by local businesses.

Visit the village Church Rooms for refreshments, including delicious

homemade food as well as hot and cold drinks, and musical

entertainment. There will also be refreshments, entertainment and

activities in some of the open gardens.

Tickets cost £10 on the day, or £8 in advance; accompanied

children go free. All proceeds will go to Oakhaven Hospice. Booking

in advance is highly recommended; ticket programmes can be

purchased at Sway Post Office and online at:

oakhavenhospice.co.uk/sway-open-gardens.

PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

On the day, tickets will be available at the Jubilee Field car park and

the Church Rooms. Your ticket for the event will be a detailed event

programme, which must be shown by each person to enter each of

the open gardens.

Elizabeth Marsh, Chair of Sway Open Gardens, said: “Sway Open

Gardens is a wonderful day of celebration in the village. We are

grateful to the villagers who open their beautiful gardens in support

of Oakhaven Hospice. This joyful event represents the spirit of

hospitality, generosity, and the beauty of Sway.”

Oakhaven Hospice currently supports over 600 patients and their

families at any time, in the Hospice and in homes throughout the

New Forest, Totton and Waterside community. Oakhaven’s specialist

hospice care is provided free of charge, yet just 11% of its annual

costs are covered by the government. For the remainder, Oakhaven

relies on the generosity of its community’s kind donations, fundraising

and gifts in wills, along with income from charity shops and its home

care provider, Oakhaven Care.

For more information, please visit oakhavenhospice.co.uk/swayopen-gardens,

call the Oakhaven fundraising team on 01590 677773

or email fundraising@oakhavenhospice.co.uk.


ADVERTISING FEATURE

DELICIOUS

FRUIT SNACKS

For Everyone!

From New

Forest Fruit

In 2023, New Forest

Fruit launched

a brand-new snacking

product. The idea

for Pulsed Dried

Strawberry Snacks

evolved from the

aspiration that CEO

Sandy Booth had to

reduce food waste...

Simply put, the process of ‘pulsing’ splits

the cells of the fruit and removes any

excess water. Then the berries are freezedried,

which produces a meringue-like

textured piece of fruit. Not only do the

berries retain all the nutritional value, but

also their delicious flavour.

All the fruit used to produce the snacks is

grown on the farm. It is also processed,

packed & dispatched on-site in the

purpose-built facility, which means the

business is reducing food miles & carbon

footprint at the same time. This, in turn,

is kinder to the environment – something

that is a top priority for all the methods

used at New Forest Fruit.

In July last year, The New Forest Fruit

team were delighted and very proud of

their Strawberry Snacks when they were

awarded ‘2 stars: Outstanding’ by the

Guild of Fine Food at the 2024 Great

Taste Awards. This prestigious accolade

is testament to the commitment to quality

and innovation of this project.

HEALTHY, NUTRITIOUS

& TASTY – GREAT ‘ON

THE GO’ OR AFTER A

WORKOUT.

GLUTEN-FREE, VEGAN

FRIENDLY & DAIRY FREE.

PERFECT FOR CHILDREN’S

LUNCH BOXES.

One of the judges’ commented, “These

strawberry snacks have retained their

attractive shape and colour, but most

importantly, they have an amazing texture

that is crisp throughout but not hard or

chewy, just meringue-like as described.

The strawberries have maintained all their

flavour, and the judges think that this

would make a versatile ingredient for a

variety of uses. Truly impressive!”

If you would like to purchase some New

Forest Fruit Snacks for yourself, they

can be bought online and locally in food

stores and farm shops in The New Forest

and Hampshire. They are also available in

NOTHING IS ADDED. THE ONLY

INGREDIENTS ARE OUR NEW FOREST FRUIT

STRAWBERRIES.

ENJOY CRUSHED & SPRINKLED OVER

CEREAL, INFUSED IN DRINKS OR IN BAKING.

A PERFECT ADDITION TO A CELEBRATORY

GLASS OF FIZZ & WATCH THE BERRY

REHYDRATE!

244 selected Waitrose stores across the

UK, a list can be found on our website.

Please don’t forget to tag New Forest

Fruit Snacks in any social media posts!

www.newforestfruitsnacks.com


NEXT-LEVEL BROWNIES

Rich, indulgent and endlessly

adaptable, brownies are the

ultimate crowd-pleaser. In The

Brownie Book: Wickedly Irresistible

Chocolatey Bakes, Kate Jenkins

reimagines the classic with creative

twists and bold flavours. Kate’s

kindly selected three standout

recipes to try at home.

MATCHA BLONDIE

Building on a white chocolate blondie

base, half the batter is infused with

earthy matcha for a striking finish and

distinctive flavour.

INGREDIENTS

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter,

diced

150g (5½oz) white chocolate, broken

into small pieces

300g (1½ cups) caster sugar

1⁄2 tsp vanilla extract or paste

150g (1 cup plus 2 tbsp) plain flour

½ tsp baking powder

3 eggs

2 tbsp matcha powder

METHOD

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C

fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter in a saucepan over a

medium heat, stirring continuously.

Reduce to low, add the chocolate

and stir until smooth and glossy.

Remove from the heat. Stir in the

sugar and vanilla, then the flour

and baking powder until you have a

smooth mixture with no lumps.

Whisk the eggs until light and frothy,

then gently fold into the mixture to

form a thick batter.

Divide between two bowls and mix

the matcha into one until evenly

green.

Dollop alternating spoonfuls into a

lined tray to create a marbled effect.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until set at

the edges with a slight wobble in the

centre. Cool completely, then slice

into 12.

PEANUT BUTTER

SALTED CARAMEL

BROWNIE

A rich chocolate brownie layered with

salted caramel and peanut butter,

with optional chopped peanuts for

extra texture.

For the salted caramel

100g (1⁄2 cup) light soft brown sugar

175ml (3⁄4 cup) double cream

50g (1¾oz) unsalted butter, diced

1 tsp sea salt

300g (10oz) crunchy peanut butter

(optional)

For the brownie batter

175g (6oz) unsalted butter, diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,

in small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain flour


3 eggs

50g (1¾oz) lightly salted peanuts,

chopped (optional)

METHOD

To make the caramel, gently heat

the sugar, cream, butter and salt

until dissolved. Increase the heat

and simmer for 2–3 minutes until

thickened. Remove from the heat, stir

in the peanut butter and spread into a

lined tray. Freeze until firm.


fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter, then stir in the

chocolate until smooth. Remove

from the heat and mix in the sugar

and vanilla, followed by the flour and

baking powder.

Whisk the eggs until frothy, then fold

into the mixture.

Spread half the batter into a lined

tin, add the frozen caramel layer,

then cover with the remaining batter.

Sprinkle with peanuts if using.

Bake for 40 minutes until set at the

edges with a slightly soft centre. Cool,

then cut into 12 bars.


RASPBERRY RIPPLE

BROWNIE

Inspired by raspberry ripple ice

cream, this bake combines rich

chocolate with a soft, tangy swirl.

175g (1½ sticks) unsalted butter,

diced

100g (3½oz) dark (70%) chocolate,

broken into small pieces


½ tsp vanilla extract or paste

100g (3⁄4 cup plus 1 tbsp) plain

flour


3 eggs

For the raspberry swirl

125g (4½oz) white chocolate

75ml (2½fl oz) soured cream

1 egg, beaten

1 tsp natural raspberry flavouring

(we use Foodie Flavours, available

online)

1 tbsp raspberry jam

METHOD


fan/Gas 4).

Melt the butter, then stir in the

chocolate until smooth and glossy.

Remove from the heat and mix in

the sugar and vanilla, followed by

the flour and baking powder.

Whisk the eggs until light, then fold

into the mixture to form a smooth

batter.

For the swirl, melt the white

chocolate in short bursts, then

mix in the soured cream, egg,

flavouring and jam until smooth.

Spread half the brownie batter into

a lined tin. Spoon over half the

raspberry mixture, then top with the

remaining batter. Add the rest of

the swirl mixture and lightly marble

with a cocktail stick.

Bake for 35–40 minutes until set at

the edges with a slight wobble in

the centre. Cool, then cut into 9.

The Brownie Book: Wickedly

Irresistible Chocolatey Bakes

by Kate Jenkins (DK, £16.99),

with photography by Kim

Lightbody, is available now.


SEASONAL FOCUS

OUTDOOR LIVING

Designing gardens that feel like a

natural extension of the home

THE GARDEN,

REIMAGINED

The garden is no longer a separate

space — it’s an integral part of

the home. As the days lengthen,

attention naturally turns outdoors.

But today’s approach to garden

design goes far beyond planting

schemes. It’s about creating a

cohesive, functional environment

where cooking, relaxing,

entertaining and even

working can all

take place.

Wooden Adirondack Chair,

£239, hauslife.co.uk;

Ocellus Outdoor Cushion

£75, oka.com

The result?

Spaces that

feel

every bit as considered as the

interiors they connect to.

SEAMLESS INDOOR–

OUTDOOR LIVING

One of the biggest shifts in recent

years has been the desire to blur the

boundaries between inside and out.

Large-format doors, level thresholds

and consistent flooring help create a

natural flow from kitchen to terrace.

Even subtle details — matching

colour palettes, coordinated

furniture styles — can make the

transition feel effortless.

This connection doesn’t just

enhance aesthetics; it changes how

the space is used, encouraging

more time spent outdoors.

PERGOLAS

& COVERED

SPACES

Pergolas have become

one of the defining

features of modern

gardens.

Images, clockwise from top left; Garden

House Design, Renson Canopy; Danetti

Furniture; OKA tablescape

Whether sleek aluminium structures

with adjustable louvres or more

traditional timber designs softened

with planting, they provide structure

and shelter — extending the

usability of outdoor spaces well

beyond the height of summer.

Add integrated lighting, heating or

retractable shades, and a pergola

becomes a true outdoor room.

OUTDOOR

KITCHENS & DINING

Al fresco dining has evolved into

something far more sophisticated.

Outdoor kitchens — from simple

built-in barbecues to fully equipped

cooking stations — allow hosts to


Project by Green Retreats

stay part of the occasion rather than

stepping away indoors.

At the heart of many of these

spaces is a high-quality grill.

Kamado-style barbecues, in

particular, have seen a surge in

popularity, prized for their versatility,

heat retention and ability to cook

everything from slow-smoked meats

to pizzas and seared vegetables. As

a result, they’re increasingly being

designed into outdoor kitchens as

a permanent feature rather than a

portable add-on.

Indoor/Outdoor Rug, £115, clickstyle.co.uk;

Garden Chair, £129.99,

laura-james.co.uk; Outdoor Cushion,

£38, hauslife.co.uk

Materials matter here too: durable

stone worktops, weather-resistant

cabinetry and thoughtfully planned

layouts ensure these spaces

are both practical and visually

cohesive — built to withstand the

elements while still feeling like a

natural extension of the home.

GARDEN ROOMS &

FLEXIBLE SPACES

Garden rooms continue to grow

in popularity, offering a flexible

solution for modern living.

Whether used as a home office,

gym, studio or simply a quiet

retreat, they provide valuable

additional space without the need

for a full extension.

High-quality insulation, glazing and

interior finishes mean

these spaces can be

used year-round —

making them a practical

as well as aspirational

investment.

Cintre Lounge Chair £1595,

oka.com

PLANTING: BRING

IT ALL TOGETHER

With so much emphasis on

structure, it’s easy for planting to be

pushed to the edges — but it’s what

gives a garden its softness and life.

The most successful spaces

bring planting closer to the house,

allowing greenery to frame seating

areas, soften terraces and enhance

the view from inside. Even simple

additions — pots near doorways,

looser borders around

entertaining spaces — can

make a garden feel more

immersive.

Crucially, planting needs room

to thrive. Generous beds

and thoughtful layering will

always create more impact

than squeezing greenery into

leftover gaps.


fi

01425 650235 | sales@nfdesigns.co.uk | nfdesigns.co.uk 0

New Forest Designs, 6 H

01425 650235 | nfdesigns.co.uk f

Call us now for a consultation

New Forest Designs

has over 25 years’

experience in designing

and installing kitchens,

bedrooms, bathrooms

and studies.

New Forest Designs has over 25

years’ experience in designing

and installing kitchens, bedrooms,

bathrooms and studies.

New Forest Designs, 6 High Street, Fordingbridge, Hampshire SP6 1AX

LANDSCAPING:

ANCHOR THE

SPACE

Behind every successful outdoor

space is strong landscaping.

Clean lines, defined zones and a

balance of hard and soft materials

create structure. Planting schemes

are increasingly designed for yearround

interest, with texture and

form playing as important a role as

colour.

Importantly, good landscaping

ensures that all the individual

elements — seating areas, pergolas,

kitchens — feel connected rather

than competing.

A SPACE THAT

WORKS FOR YOU

The most effective outdoor spaces

are those tailored to how they’ll

actually be used.

For some, that means a sociable

entertaining area. For others, a calm

retreat or a practical family garden.

Often, it’s a combination of all three.

What’s clear is that outdoor living

is no longer a luxury — it’s an

expectation. And with thoughtful

design, even modest spaces can

be transformed into something truly

special.

Because when the garden works

as beautifully as the home itself,

summer living becomes second

nature.

LIGHTING: THE

FINISHING TOUCH

Lighting is often the element that

brings everything together.

A well-designed

scheme can

highlight planting,

define pathways

Ember-bbq.co.uk

and create atmosphere long after

the sun has set. Layering is key —

combining subtle uplighting, task

lighting and softer ambient options.

Done well, lighting transforms a

garden from a daytime space into

an evening destination.

Available Exclusively from Ember BBQ Co. | Luxury Outdoor Living

Ember-bbq.co.uk | 01202 028371 | hi@ember-bbq.co.uk

Tesso Dark Grey

Garden 4 Seater Dining

Table £699, danetti.

com; Firebowl, £79.99,

homescapesonline.com


England’s

Garden Machinery

England’s Garden Machinery is a family run

business based in Ringwood. We provide

new machinery sales, service & repair for all

grounds and garden machinery.

We have a range of machinery and equipment

on display from the biggest brands, including

ASMotor, Hayter, Mountfield, Iseki, Toro,

Alko, Eliet, Ego, Cobra, & Echo.

TRACTORS, MOWERS & BATTERIES

THE BEST GARDEN MACHINERY, THE

BEST ADVICE AND THE BEST PRICE

Our premium customer service starts with

quality advice to ensure you purchase the right

equipment for the job. If you need some help

and advice from our sales team, get in touch.

Call us on:

01425 482509

WWW.ENGLANDSGARDENMACHINERY.CO.UK

The Old Coal Yard, 18 Hightown Road, Ringwood, BH24 1NW

F u r n i t u r e ,

f a s h i o n ,

h o m e w a r e ,

g i f t s &

a c c e s s o r i e s

s h o p a l l a t

h a u s l i f e . c o . u k 07747 750842 • 01725 514622

studio@davidlonggardens.co.uk

www.davidlonggardendesign.co.uk

David Long Garden Design

david_long_garden_design


SMART JOBS FOR JUNE

to keep your garden looking its best

June is one of the most rewarding

months in the garden. Borders are

bursting into life, lawns are growing

quickly and outdoor spaces

become somewhere to relax and

entertain as the evenings stretch

longer.

A little regular maintenance now

helps keep everything looking

beautiful through the rest of

summer — and prevents those

small jobs turning into bigger ones

later in the season.

KEEP THE LAWN

LOOKING ITS BEST

With warmer temperatures and

occasional rainfall, lawns tend

to grow rapidly in June. Regular

mowing encourages thicker growth

and keeps grass looking lush and

healthy.

Avoid cutting the lawn too short

during dry spells — slightly longer

grass helps protect the roots and

retain moisture. Edging paths,

patios and borders also makes a

surprisingly big difference, instantly

giving the garden a well-kept look.

Modern cordless mowers such as

the STIHL RMA 235 battery mower

have become increasingly popular

with home gardeners. Lightweight,

quiet and easy to store, they

make routine mowing quick and

convenient for smaller to mediumsized

lawns.

TRIM HEDGES BEFORE

SUMMER GROWTH

TAKES OFF

Many hedges benefit from a light

trim in early summer to keep them

neat and encourage dense growth.

Formal hedges such as box, privet

and yew respond particularly well to

gentle shaping during June.

For taller hedges and shrubs, a

dedicated hedge trimmer makes

the job far quicker and easier.

Battery models like the STIHL HSA

45 hedge trimmer offer plenty of

cutting power while remaining

lightweight and easy to handle for

most garden tasks.

Always check carefully for nesting

birds before trimming, and aim for

light shaping rather than heavy

pruning.

DON’T FORGET TOOL

MAINTENANCE

Reliable tools make garden jobs far

easier, particularly during the busy

summer growing season. Whether

using traditional petrol equipment

or newer battery-powered tools,

keeping blades sharp and engines

or batteries well maintained helps

ensure everything runs smoothly

when you need it.

Many gardeners choose to have

equipment professionally serviced

once a year — a simple service can

often extend the life of tools and

maintain peak performance.

KEEP PATHS AND

BORDERS TIDY

With plants growing vigorously, it’s

easy for paths, patios and borders

to become cluttered with grass

clippings, fallen leaves and early

weeds. Regular light clearing keeps

outdoor spaces feeling fresh and

welcoming — especially if you’re

planning garden gatherings or

summer barbecues.

VISIT YOUR LOCAL

STIHL STOCKIST

Your local authorised STIHL dealer

can offer expert advice on choosing

the right equipment for your garden

— whether you’re maintaining a

compact lawn or managing larger

hedges and borders.

They can also help with:

• Demonstrations of the latest

petrol and battery garden

tools

• Servicing and maintenance

to keep equipment running

smoothly

• Replacement parts,

accessories and seasonal

advice

Speak to your local STIHL dealer

to find the right tools for the

season ahead.


PROMOTIONAL PARTNERSHIP

Your Trusted Local Garden

Machinery Experts

As a long-standing family-run business, we are proud

to be part of the local community, supporting gardeners,

homeowners, and professionals with reliable advice and

quality garden machinery.

Our reputation has been built on

friendly, personal service and the kind

of knowledge that only comes from

years of hands-on experience.

Our approachable sales team is

always happy to help, whether you are

choosing your first piece of garden

equipment or upgrading existing tools.

We take the time to understand what

you need and offer honest advice to

ensure you get the right machine for

the job.

Our experienced workshop mechanics

are also on hand to keep your

equipment performing at its best. From

servicing to repairs, we aim to provide

dependable support, so your machinery

stays ready whenever you need it.

As well as using only Aspen fuel in our

workshop to help keep your machinery

running cleaner and more efficiently, we

also stock both Aspen 2 and Aspen 4

available to purchase.

As one of the biggest STIHL dealers in

Dorset, we stock a wide range of highquality

tools and equipment. Every new

purchase is fully assembled, checked,

and ready to use, so you can leave

confident that your machine is set up

correctly and ready to go.

You’ll find us on Bridge Street, just

a short distance from Christchurch

High Street, with convenient customer

parking available making us easy to

reach for customers across the local

area. Whether you are popping in for

advice, looking for new equipment, or

booking a service, our team will always

be happy to welcome you.

54 Bridge Street,

Christchurch

BH23 1EG

Tel: 01202 473355

www.christchurchgm.co.uk


CARPENTRY

Mark James Carpen

Mark James Carpentry

Established 1988

Established 1988

for Home and Garden

for Home and Garden

Let your property

with confidence

Mob: 07833 950 405

Email: enquiries@markjamescarpentry.co.uk

Mob: 07833 950 405

(9 markjamesbuildingservices.co.uk

(j) MarkJamesCarpentry

Email: enquiries@markjamescarpentry.co.

(9 markjamesbuildingservices.co.uk


Smart letting starts here

At Belvoir Christchurch, we combine national strength with

genuine local expertise to deliver a fully managed lettings

service you can rely on.

From accurate rental valuations and compliant marketing to

tenant selection and day-to-day management, we handle every

detail with care and professionalism. Because your property is

more than an investment — it’s personal.

Book your free, no-obligation rental appraisal today

Property is personal

belvoir.co.uk/christchurch T: 01202 588920

CARPENTRY

■ Extensions

Mark James Carpentry

■ Kitchen Installations

Established 1988

■ Refurbishments

for Home ■ and Outbuildings Garden

■ Garden Rooms

Mob: 07833 950 405

Email: enquiries@markjamescarpentry.co.uk

(9 markjamescarpentry.co.uk


Image Hypnos Beds

LEADING BRANDS AT

AMAZING PRICES

“Over 25 Mattresses to try from leading

manufacturers such as Hypnos, Kaymed,

Mlily, Dormeo and many more...”

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

FREE ONSITE PARKING

OLD BED / MATTRESS DISPOSAL AVAILABLE

New shop now open!

Unit 1, 23 Salisbury Road, Amesbury, SP4 7AW

www.elitebedsandmattressesdirect.co.uk

Thatcham: Unit 9, Wyvale Garden

Centre, Bath Road, Thatcham,

RG18 3AN • Tel : 01635 897665

Devizes: l & 2 Windsor Drive, Devizes,

SNlO 2TH • Tel: 01380 887943


NOTES FROM THE

Garden

‘The darling bugs of May’

with apologies to Laurie Lee!

May and June are wonderful months in the garden. Lots to

enjoy and lots to do but this time of the year is also critical for

our insect friends. Bees, butterflies, moths all need our help and

so choosing what we plant, what parts of the garden we leave a

little wild - all of these affect how useful our garden is for them.

Dandelions are an essential bee flower so I leave them to flower,

but dead head them before they seed! Nettles are also essential

for certain butterflies, the small tortoiseshell, peacock and red

admiral to lay their eggs on -

nettles don’t need to overrun

the garden but a discreet, out

of the way, clump is great.

Ivy provides nectar for the holly

blue butterfly and winter shelter

for all overwintering species

plus nesting birds.

Lavender, Buddleia,

Honeysuckle and Sedum are

great for bees and butterflies

too.

If you have a shallow dish you can make a mud puddle which

butterflies and other insects appreciate- soil, water and maybe

a landing stone is such a useful resource and so simple to

provide.

There are so many types of bees, from the hairy footed flower

bee to the buff tailed bumblebee - and some are solitary bees,

the more I learn about bees the more I appreciate them.

Bee hotels, softwood with holes drilled in, or making a bee and

bug hotel is a great outdoor task for kids, and teaches them

such a lot - so whatever you do in the garden in May and June,

don’t forget the tiny pollinators and our insect chums.

For more advice, visit Matt Biggs’ website:

www.matthewbiggs.com


Living Well, Living Connected

Why retirement is becoming one of life’s most

rewarding chapters...

For a new generation, retirement is no

longer about winding down — it’s about

opening up. More time, more freedom

and more choice are reshaping what later

life looks like, with lifestyle, wellbeing and

connection now firmly at the heart of the

conversation.

One of the biggest shifts is how people

are choosing to live. Downsizing, once

seen purely as a practical necessity, is

increasingly viewed as a positive step

forward. A well-considered move can

unlock equity, reduce the burden of

maintaining a larger home and create a

simpler, more enjoyable way of living.

The result? More time to spend on the

things that bring genuine pleasure —

whether that’s travel, creative pursuits or

simply enjoying a beautiful, thoughtfully

designed space.

Alongside this comes a more proactive

approach to financial planning. Rather

than reacting to change, many are

choosing to plan ahead — making

confident decisions about their future

while they are still in control. This sense

of preparedness not only protects longterm

security, but also allows individuals

to fully embrace the opportunities that

retirement can offer.

Yet perhaps the most defining element of

modern later-life living is connection. As

awareness grows around the impact of

loneliness, there is a clear shift towards

environments that actively foster social

interaction. Today’s communities are

designed with this in mind — from shared

lounges and landscaped gardens to

organised events and interest-led groups.

These are places where neighbours

quickly become friends, and where a

sense of belonging develops naturally.

Wellbeing, too, has taken centre stage.

The focus is no longer simply on care

when it’s needed, but on maintaining

health and vitality for as long as possible.

Access to fitness classes, walking

routes, wellness programmes and on-site

support all contribute to a lifestyle that

feels both active and reassuring. It’s

about living independently, but never in

isolation.

Importantly, the look and feel of these

communities has evolved. Gone are

the outdated perceptions of later-life

housing. In their place are light-filled

apartments, stylish communal spaces

and amenities that rival those of highend

developments. It’s a model that

recognises that expectations don’t

diminish with age — if anything, they

grow stronger.

For families, this new approach offers

genuine reassurance. Loved ones are not

only safe, but thriving — surrounded by

opportunities to stay engaged, active and

socially connected.

Ultimately, retirement today is not about

stepping away from life, but stepping into

it in a different, often richer way. With the

right environment and the right choices,

later life can be every bit as full, vibrant

and rewarding as the years that came

before.


Oakhaven Care opens a

new office in Romsey!


Oakhaven Care provides home care and

live-in care services - and donates 100%

of any profits to Oakhaven Hospice...

Last month, the award-winning home care provider opened a

new office in Romsey, at 9 Church Street. This new Oakhaven

Care team provides domiciliary care visits and live-in care across

the Romsey, North Baddesley, Chandlers Ford and surrounding

areas.

Oakhaven Care’s personalised home care services can help

you or your loved ones maintain independence at home. From

30-minute drop-ins to multiple daily visits, extending to live-in

and 24-hour care as and when required, Oakhaven Care can

support you to remain in the comfort of your own home and

maintain your chosen lifestyle.

A social enterprise, 100% of any profit made by the organisation

is donated to help fund Oakhaven Hospice. This is innovative and

unique; Oakhaven Care Ltd is the only home care provider in the

area that funnels all its profits into a local charity rather than into

the pockets of investors.

Erica Longyear, Managing Director, commented, “We are

delighted to now be able to offer our first-class home care

services across Romsey, North Baddesley, Chandlers Ford and

surrounding areas. Whether you are looking for regular home

care visits, convalescent care after an illness or stay in hospital,

respite care whilst relatives take a holiday, companionship care

to support you once a week or full-time live-in care, our team can

help. We are committed to continuing to provide outstanding,

personalised care to every individual we support. If you are

considering care for yourself or a loved one, do get in touch with

the team, who will be pleased to answer any questions you might

have about care.”

Get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation. The new

Romsey team can be contacted by telephone at 01794 400 130,

by email at info@oakhavencare.co.uk or by popping into the

new office for a chat.

Oakhaven Care covers the whole New Forest and Waterside

area, from Fordingbridge, Ringwood, Lymington and New Milton

to Waterside, Totton, Romsey and Chandlers Ford. Find out more

at www.oakhavencare.co.uk. Totton office: 02381 800 505

Lymington office: 01590 646400.

Care in your

own home

with 100% of any profits

going to Oakhaven Hospice

Support with the activities of daily

life and companionship to help

combat loneliness and isolation

From 30-minute ‘drop-ins’ to multiple daily visits to

24-hour live-in care, we can help you maintain your

independence in the familiar surroundings you know

and love, while receiving the support you need.

Our friendly, trained Care Assistants provide a wide

range of paid care services, tailored to your exact

needs and wishes. Services include support with daily

tasks, personal care, assistance with medication, and

companionship, helping you live your life to the fullest.

AWARD OF EXCELLENCE 2025

HOMECARE PROVIDER

OF THE YEAR

Live-in care

Visiting care

Respite care

Palliative care

Convalescence

Companionship

For live-in or visiting help in your own home,

call us for a chat today

01590 646 440

02381 800 505

Find out more by visiting

OakhavenCare.co.uk

Scan for info


The care company who do just that

EAST

Full Care • Respite • Companionship

Dementia • End of Life and so much more

In the comfort, security and safety

of your loved ones own homes

RINGWOOD •NEW FOREST • CHRISTCHURCH

HENGISTBURY HEAD • MUDEFORD • HIGHCLIFFE

AND SURROUNDING AREAS

...to arrange outstanding care for your loved ones contact us today!

01202 022178

lines open 7am - 7pm Monday to Sunday

www.bettercareathomeeast.co.uk

ALLENBROOK

NURSING & RESIDENTIAL CARE

F O R D I N G B R I D G E

Quality Care in Idyllic Surroundings

Peacefully located near to Fordingbridge town centre in

mature landscaped gardens. A perfect location for

comfortable living with professional care.

We have built an excellent reputation for providing first

class care in beautiful surroundings.

Our aim is to provide a place that feels like ‘home’ but gives

all the care, support and companionship for comfortable

day to day living.

For further information please contact Camelia Tendea at

hello@allenbrook-fordingbridge.co.uk

Nursing Care Residential Care Respite Care

01425 656589

hello@allenbrook-fordingbridge.co.uk


Regency Heights

Poole, Dorset

Open Event 20th - 21st June

Discover serene living at Regency Heights, a private 63-acre residential

Park Bungalow community in Dorset, where over-45s can enjoy spacious homes

with private gardens, tranquil fishing lakes, and easy access to scenic trails,

Blue Flag beaches, and vibrant local towns. Providing spacious plots with private

gardens overlooking two calming fishing lakes. Scenic nature trails meander

through the grounds, perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the fresh air.

You attend. You reserve. You choose.

Home

Part Exchange

BS3632

Build quality

Reserve a home at one of our Open Events and receive

our £25,000 incentive bundle to spend how you like*.

How about creating a relaxed decking area to enjoy

some drinks or perhaps an outdoor storage shed.

*T&Cs apply

£180,000

£315,000

£315,000

Plot 21

Open Plan Living | Vaulted Ceilings

Plot 79

Galley Kitchen | Two Double Bedrooms

Plot 80

Light and Spacious | Shaker-style Kitchen

Book your viewing with our friendly Sales team today!

0330 236 7403 regencyheights@regency-living.com regency-living.com

Live life

independently, at

Sway Place care home

At Care UK’s Sway Place care home in Sway,

you can live each day your way. With our

stunning independent living cottages and

access to luxurious facilities, you can live

hassel-free with the lifestyle advantages of

living in a care home...

Our spacious cottages are a fantastic choice for older people

who are keen to maintain their independence and enjoy a

wonderful quality of life. Set in Sway Place’s beautiful grounds,

you’ll have access to luxurious facilities right on your doorstep,

plus peace of mind knowing our team is in hand for a friendly

chat whenever you need it.

PART OF THE COMMUNITY

Each of our independent living cottages at Sway Place has one

large upstairs bedroom with an ensuite wet room. Downstairs

is a spacious kitchen diner and lounge area, and WC. With the

option to have a stairlift and an allocated parking space. While

your bungalow is unfurnished ready for your own treasured items,

it does come with all the kitchen appliances you need – a fridgefreezer,

washer-dryer, oven and hob. You’re welcome to bring

your pet too.

NEW FRIENDS AND LUXURIOUS FACILITIES ON

YOUR DOORSTEP

In our gated and fully secure grounds, you can enjoy privacy and


a place of your own, with the freedom to pop over to Sway Place

whenever you like. Here, you can enjoy full access to our care

home facilities including a bistro, library, hair and beauty salon

and stunning landscaped gardens.

Our chef-led catering team provide homecooked meals which

you can enjoy with company in one of the home’s dining rooms,

or we can deliver them to your door. Pop over whenever you

like to enjoy a cup of tea and a chat, or to take part in our varied

programme of activities, entertainment and day trips too. These

are a wonderful way to meet new people and make new friends,

to continue lifelong hobbies or even try something new.

To find out more about our independent living cottages call

01590 608 130.

Sway Place care home

Church Lane Hampshire, Sway SO41 6AD

careuk.com/sway-place

Help at hand with the press

of a button 24 hours a day

50% off an installation

with code ‘NEWFOREST’

Always at the end

of the phone for you

Helping to keep you

independent at home

A helping hand

when you need it most

Staying connected

so you’re never alone

023 8028 5523

appletree.careline@nfdc.gov.uk • newforest.gov.uk/appletreecareline


Award

winning care

homes

A lifestyle tailored to you

Residents’ quality of life is at the heart of everything we do,

helping individuals to stay active and independent so they can live

each day to the full.

Sway Place care home, Sway

01590 608 130

careuk.com/sway-place

Rated

9.9

out of 10 on

carehome.co.uk

Trusted to care

New Forest Living May - Jun 2026

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