We’ve scoured the county to bring you the top events taking place this month
The Spitfire Sisters
Head over to Hinton Ampner for a night of vintage music. Relax on the lawns, pack a picnic and listen to the fabulous Spitfire Sisters. The close harmony vocal trio, backed by a six piece swing band have a classic 1940s style and will be filling the air with classics like ‘Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy’, as well as an old take on some new tunes. Definitely not to be missed!
When: July 12, 7pm
Where: Hinton Ampner, near Alresford, SO24 0LA, 01962 771305, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner
--------------------------------------------------
Festival fun in Winchester
The world’s greatest living explorer, an award-winning author, a wildlife photographer and an historian will be just some of the guests appearing at the Winchester Festival. Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Germaine Greer, Chris Packham (above)and David Starkey are on a packed programme which also includes a tribute to the Great War and a Shakespeare anniversary theme.
Expect more than thirty events, offering a broad spectrum of eminent speakers and classical musicians, plus a few surprises along the way.
When: July 4 to 13
Where: Various venues across Winchester. Visit www.winchesterfestival.co.uk, or call 01962 857276
--------------------------------------------------
WWII Memories
Commemorate the role that Lepe and the New Forest played in the run up to the Normandy Landings. Throughout the weekend the Country Park will turn back the clock to the war years. Enjoy displays, living history re-enactments, military vehicle displays, guided walks to the embarkation beach and bands playing music of the time. On Sunday morning a parade of standards and a cliff top memorial service will be held in the presence of veterans. Plus there’s Wartime-themed food in the café.
When: 5-6 July, from 10am
Where: Lepe Country Park, Exbury, Southampton, SO45 1AD, 02380 899108, www3.hants.gov.uk/lepe
--------------------------------------------------
Bluebird 50th Anniversary
Mark the 50th Anniversary of Donald Campbell’s Land Speed Record of 403.10mph in the Bluebird CN7 with a celebratory evening at Beaulieu. The evening will include a screening of the digitally re-mastered film ‘How Long a Mile…’, dinner in the National Motor Museum, a talk by Tonia Bern-Campbell (Donald Campbell’s widow) and the opportunity to explore the Museum including the new For Britain & For The Hell Of It display in which the iconic Bluebird plays an integral element.
When: July 19
Where: Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, SO42 7ZN, 01590 614614, www.beaulieu.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------
A History of Jewellery
Join Antiques Roadshow’s John Benjamin for a fascinating talk on jewellery. From dazzling Elizabethan jewels to glamorous pieces from the golden age of Hollywood, discover pieces from the pomp of High Renaissance enamelled gold work to stunningly contemporary Harry Winston diamonds. Plus, discover the importance of Cartier and the introduction of platinum jewellery as a statement of style, and the jewels of the Duchess of Windsor.
When: July 10, 8pm
Where: The Spring Arts, 56 East Street, Havant, PO9 1BS, 02392 472700, www.thespring.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------
Falcons at Sunset
This amazing event takes advantage of the calm evening air to demonstrate the true aerial skill of falcons. As the air cools and the turbulence drops these masters of the skies will provide a thrilling demonstration of speed and agility. Why not head over to feathers Restaurant to enjoy a tasty meal after the demonstration?
When: July 12 and 19, 7pm
Where: The Hawk Conservancy Trust, Sarson Lane, Weyhill, Andover, SP11 8DY, 01264 773 850, www.hawk-conservancy.org
--------------------------------------------------
The draw of Quentin Blake
One of the nation’s best-loved artists comes to Mottisfont this summer in a new exhibition. For the first time, visitors will be able to see 21 new drawings done by Quentin Blake for the hit West End production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which are full of his usual wit and sharp-eyed observations. Families can set off on an epic imaginative story trail around the house and grounds, creating their own illustrated books as they go. Plus, on special event weekends in August there will be lots of additional hands-on activities.
When: July 19–September 14
Where: Mottisfont, near Romsey, SO51 0LP, 01794 344020, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mottisfont
--------------------------------------------------
Jack and the Beanstalk
Fee Fi Fo Fum! It’s a giant of a show and you’re invited. Suitable for the over 3s (and their giants), this classic fairy-tale is presented in true Lyngo style, with lots of surprises, a gripping story and beautiful images. Venture with Jack as he sells his cow for five magic beans and finds himself in a land above the clouds.
When: July 5, 11am
Where: The Berry Theatre, Wildern Lane, Hedge End, SO30 4EJ, 02380 652333, www.theberrytheatre.co.uk
--------------------------------------------------
Big Camping Weekend
Looking for something exciting to do this summer? How about some outdoor fun and a night under the stars? Bring the family along for a camp-out at the Vyne. Have free reign of the site, play some games, and then come back for a BBQ served around the campfire. In the morning, enjoy a hot drink and a bacon sandwich. Perfect for spending quality time with the family. Don’t forget your sleeping bag!
When: July 19, 5pm
Where: The Vyne, Vyne Road, Sherborne St John, Basingstoke, RG24 9HL, 01256 883858, www.nationaltrust.org.uk/vyne
--------------------------------------------------
The draw of Quentin Blake
This month, the women fly-fishing experts from Orvis US will be offering their unparalleled instruction, as well as sharing their passion for the sport, during a whole week of fly-fishing events for ladies. During your session you will learn to cast and pick up the basic skills needed to get started with Orvis’ renowned American female fishing experts.
No experience is necessary, but established fishers are also welcome. It is a great opportunity to get friends and family together!
When: July 15, 10am-12pm or 2pm-4pm
Where: Orvis Retail Store, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HB, 020 313 79076
