300 artist venues and galleries to visit free of charge
STYLE ˙ INTERIORS ˙ HEALTH & BEAUTY ˙ INTERVIEWS ˙ FOOD & DRINK ˙ ENTERTAINMENT ˙ EVENTS
Image: Mottisfont House
We’re celebrating 20 years of excellence – and you could win £20,000 in our Anniversary competition! To enter, simply spend £500 or more with us between now and the end of August 2026.
For over 20 years, Cloudy2Clear, a trusted family-run business, has been the UK’s leading domestic glass replacement specialists, serving as your One-Stop Shop for all your glazing requirements – and now we’re marking this milestone with an exciting competition where one lucky customer will win £20,000! We take pride in generating our own leads, crafting tailored quotes, and manufacturing our own glass using only the highestquality materials to ensure exceptional results. Unlike competitors, we never use subcontractors—our team consists entirely of skilled, in-house professionals, guaranteeing consistent quality and reliability. Every glass unit we fit comes with a 25-year guarantee, complemented by comprehensive aftersales care, providing you with lasting peace of mind.
Why opt for costly full window frame replacements that lead to unnecessary redecoration expenses? By replacing
only the failed glass unit, we save you money and minimise disruption –perfect for qualifying for our £20,000 prize draw while upgrading your home. Join over 344,000 satisfied customers who trust our ethical, affordable service. Failed double glazing can compromise your home’s protection and energy efficiency, so check your windows today to avoid future costs.
Since 2005, Cloudy2Clear has been committed to saving customers money while supporting local communities. Manager Nick Karpeta explains, “Our focus is on replacing just the glass, not the entire window, which reduces costs and upheaval. As a One-Stop Shop, we manage everything—from lead generation to crafting premium glass with a 25-year guarantee and dedicated after-sales support—making us the smart, cost-effective choice in any economy.”
For a free quote (and your chance to enter the competition), call 0800 61 21 118 or visit www. cloudy2clear.co.uk today!
(Prize draw 28/8/2026 - T’s&C’s apply. Visit www.cloudy2clear.co.uk for more information)
Transform your home with bespoke interior designs tailored to your lifestyle. Our expert designers craft elegant, functional spaces that blend premium materials, intelligent storage, and timeless aesthetics.
From concept to installation, we collaborate closely to bring your vision to life, whether modern minimalism or classic warmth. Every detail is considered: custom cabinetry, lighting, worktops, and integrated appliances, all seamlessly finished to the highest standard. Elevate everyday living with a interior space that reflects your personality and enhances your home’s value.
Discover interiors designed around youbeautiful, practical, and uniquely yours. Book a consultation today and start creating your perfect interior space now.
Hampshire Open Studios
Saturday 22 – Monday 31 August 2026
Art lovers and curious visitors are invited to step inside the creative heart of Hampshire this summer as Hampshire Open Studios returns from 22 – 31 August 2026.
For ten inspiring days, 300 venues across the county will open their doors free of charge, offering a rare chance to meet local artists and makers in the places where creativity happens. From painters and potters to sculptors, jewellers, textile artists and printmakers, visitors can explore an extraordinary variety of art and craft while discovering the stories and techniques behind the work.
The Romsey and Stockbridge area offers one of the most varied and picturesque trails within Hampshire Open Studios, with artists opening their homes, studios and shared exhibition spaces across market towns and beautiful Test Valley villages. Visitors can enjoy a creative day out while exploring the distinctive character of Romsey, Stockbridge, King’s Somborne and Broughton.
In Romsey, venues including Romsey Art
Saturday 22nd - Bank Holiday Monday 31st
purchase unique handmade pieces. Planning your own art trail is easy with the free full-colour catalogue, available from midJuly, or through the Hampshire Open Studios app on both Apple and Android devices. The app allows visitors to search venues by location, medium or opening date, save favourites and navigate using interactive maps.
Brick House Conservation at work New for 2026, HOS welcomes several exciting new exhibitors, adding even more variety to this popular destination. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the vibrant contemporary paintings of Sally Hawke and the distinctive ceramic work of Molly Haeri, both opening their studios to the public for the first time as part of the event. Alongside these artists, Brick House Conservation offers a fascinating chance to explore the specialist skills involved in the conservation and restoration of historic buildings and decorative surfaces, providing a unique insight into Hampshire's rich heritage crafts.
There is also the chance to win a £100 prize draw towards purchasing artwork from a favourite Hampshire Open Studios artist. Simply pick up a brochure, download the app and follow the distinctive pink directional arrows guiding you to studios and exhibitions across Hampshire.
For more information visit www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk
BROUGHTON VILLAGE ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL
Now in its sixth year, the Broughton Art & Crafts Festival brings together 70 local artists all exhibiting under one roof. This year we welcome 14 new artists displaying their works for the first time. Open
every day between 22 and 31 August 2026 from 10am to 5pm. As part of the Hampshire Open Studios program, the Festival provides the opportunity of seeing a wide variety of creative works including being able to speak with the artists.
Last year’s event attracted over 3,000 visitors across the 10-day event. Still the single biggest art exhibition in Hampshire under one roof, work featured includes paintings, drawings, cards, photographs, ceramics, jewellery, wood carvings, glass ware, basket weaving and much more. Lots of gift ideas and the chance to meet and talk with the artists.
Now in its 6th year, the exhibition has become one of the most popular Hampshire Open Studios venues, offering visitors not only a wide and eclectic display of art and crafts but also providing refreshments in conjunction with the Broughton Community Shop.
The Village of Broughton nestles in the Test Valley between Winchester and Salisbury. It is surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside with the River Test’s tributary, The Wallop Brook, flowing through the village.
A visit to the Broughton Art and craft festival makes a perfect day out for all. With plenty of free parking, onsite refreshments and lawns to relax in, it makes for a great day out in the picturesque Test Valley Village of Broughton.
www.broughtonvillage.art
Broughton Village Hall, High Street, Broughton, SO20 8AX
• Families welcome
• Broughton Community Village Shop & Post Office on site for refreshments.
• Choice of pubs for lunches.
Village & Rural Estate Agents
Winterslow | Price £2,000,000
A beautifully modernised and light-filled family home with extensive outbuildings, high quality 8 car garaging, stables and studios all set within approaching 8 acres of grounds in a peaceful elevated position enjoying uninterrupted far-reaching views
Broughton | Price £1,250,000
An outstanding individual detached house set in approaching half an acre of beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds, offering beautifully presented and well appointed accommodation including a self contained annexe/holiday let, in this highly regarded and well served village close to Stockbridge.
Evans and Partridge have been based in the attractive Test Valley town of Stockbridge since 1991, specialising in the sale of village and rural property throughout the surrounding area.
Professional | Dedicated | Successful
Chattis Hill, Stockbridge | Price £850,000
A substantial detached character property with elegant and spacious accommodation, two garages and a south facing garden within a Victorian courtyard development that was once the stables for Stockbridge's former racecourse.
Broughton | Price £1,250,000
A beautifully presented and characterful period family home offering four double bedrooms, together with an adjoining two-bedroom cottage, both enjoying attractive walled gardens in the heart of this highly sought after village.
West Tytherley | Price £1,500,000
A unique modern residence with open-plan living, an additional barn, stables and free draining paddocks and grounds extending to about 4.5 acres, with no near neighbours, immediate access to excellent outriding, and beautiful views over surrounding farmland and countryside in a quiet rural setting between West Tytherley and Broughton.
Longstock | Price £1,250,000
A substantial and distinctive modern family home offering exceptionally light, beautifully presented and versatile accommodation, including a guest annexe or holiday let, set within stunning landscaped gardens with far reaching open views in one of Hampshire’s most sought after villages.
Forthcoming Events
Trout ‘n’
about 2026
Sunday 2 August
From 10am to 4pm
Stockbridge High Street
On the first Sunday of August every year, Stockbridge high street is alive with local traders showcasing the very best of local food, produce and crafts, attracting thousands of visitors. Trout ‘n’ about is a free-toattend event although we do charge for park so we can raise money for local good causes. Trout’n’about is run entirely by local volunteers. We look forward to welcoming you to Stockbridge on August 2nd! For more information visit: https:// tnastockbridge.com/
Exclusive Private Screening of 'Land of silence' & 'Counterforts'
Two short documentary films by the United Nations Development Programme. Raising funds to
Wednesday 12 September
From 6.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
send essential life-saving kit to the Ukrainian Frontline. Please book your tickets via the website: www.stockbridgeukraine.org
Stockbridge Cinema Sentimental Value (15)
Wednesday 21 August
From 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Sisters Nora and Agnes reunite with their estranged father, the charismatic Gustav (Stellan Skarsgård), a once-renowned director who offers stage actress Nora a role in what he hopes will be his comeback film. Tickets £6.00 on sale online via www.
stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by free telephone call to TicketSource 0333 666 3366.
Stockbridge Cinema The Mastermind (15)
Wednesday 26 August
From 4.45pm to 7.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
JB Mooney (Josh O'Connor), a restless carpenter in 1970s Massachusetts, becomes obsessed with proving his own brilliance through an audacious art heist. He fixates on four Arthur Dove paintings in a small suburban museum, convinced the theft will finally validate the genius he believes he possesses. Tickets £6.00 on sale online via www.
stockbridgecinema.org.uk or by free telephone call to TicketSource 0333 666 3366.
Longstock Park Water Gardens
Special opening for St Nicholas Church, Leckford on Wednesday
Wednesday 2 September
From 4.30pm to 6.30pm
Longstock Park Water Gardens, Stockbridge, SO20 6EH
Come and wander around these beautiful water gardens at your leisure and help support our lovely old church in Leckford. Entry Fee £15 (by card) on the gate includes a glass of wine. £15 per person, typically payable by card at the gate, which includes a glass of wine.
Longstock Village Fete
Saturday 5 September
From 12.30pm to 4.30pm
Longstock Recreation Ground
Otterbourne brass band, BBQ, bar, teas, dog show, sheep racing. tug o’ war, laser tag, axe throwing, coconut shy, golf pitch ‘n putt, tombola, bottle stall, books, produce, cakes and jams and grand draw. Come and help us raise funds for our church and playground, while everyone has fun!
Daniel Lebhardt, Piano
Friday 11 September
From 7.30pm to 9pm
St Peter's Church High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HF
Stockbridge Music’s presentation of a piano recital in 2024 was very warmly welcomed by our audience and this year we are delighted to offer a recital by a highly acclaimed rising star, Hungarian pianist Daniel Lebhardt. Highlights of Daniel’s concerts and recitals for this year include performances in London with the Royal Philharmonic and London Philharmonic Orchestras. He will be making his debut at the Royal Albert Hall the week after our concert. Daniel studied at the Franz Liszt Academy in his native Hungary and at the Royal Academy of Music in London. Daniel’s programme for Stockbridge Music includes famous works by Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, Schubert and Brahms. Full details and online bookings available on our website stockbridgemusic.uk
A Talk by David Boyd Haycock
Wednesday 30 September
From 6.30pm
Stockbridge Town Hall, High Street, Stockbridge, SO20 6HE
Writer, lecturer and expert in British Art from 1848-1945, will be in Stockbridge Town Hall on 30th September, on behalf of StockbridgeUkraine. He will be talking about PAUL NASH, one of the most important BrItish Artists of the 20th Century. David has written many books, one in particular’A Crisis of Brilliance: Five Young British Artists and the Great War’. The ‘Five Artists’ being Stanley Spencer, Mark Gertler, Dora Carrington, CW Nevinson and Paul Nash. Door open 6.30 and the lecture starts at 7pm.
Add you event to this page FREE of charge by emailing: editor@forumpublications. co.uk. Please Note: We are unable to guarantee publication.
Hair Art Your professional Aveda™ Hair Salon in Alresford, Hampshire
Hair Art in Alresford has a philosophy that places customer service at the forefront of the Company’s Activities. Our Aveda™ Salon was established in March 2000 and has become recognised as one of the most prestigious salons in the area.
Director Simon Sothcott has created a relaxing environment where clients can enjoy a first class hairdressing experience. All members of the highly trained team feel passionate about client satisfaction. Hair Art aim to give clients the best quality care available, a hairstyle that makes them feel fantastic and individual attention to service.
Simon started his hairdressing career in St Thomas Street, Winchester, before moving on
to work at Hair Art in Bishop's Waltham, then moving over when the company opened Hair Art Alresford.
Simon left Hair Art and went on to become a successful hair and make-up artist in films and television. Screen credits for his work include epics such as Troy with Brad Pitt, Alexander with Colin Farrell and television series such as Messiah III and Murder City. Where he looked after well known leading actress Amanda Donahoe. He then returned to Alresford and purchased Hair Art Alresford in 2006
Hair Art in Alresford is excited to welcome the arrival of two new Stylist’s to the Team. Carly Christie is our new Senior Stylist. With
over 30 years in the hairdressing industry
Carly brings unmatched expertise and a creative spark to every client.
Carly joins us from Winchester where she worked for the renowned salon Storm/ Harringtons.
Megan Simpson joins us as our new stylist. Megan is formerly from Misho Hair Studio in Stockbridge where she built a strong following. Megan is a bubbly professional who has six years hairdressing experience and is passionate about her career and all things hairdressing.
Hair Art in Alresford has a philosophy that places customer service at the forefront of the company’s activities.
Please phone for a free Consultation with our stylists. All colour services require a skin test 48 hours prior to your colour treatment. You can purchase gift vouchers to your specified amount and are valid for six months from date of purchase, an ideal gift for a friend or loved one.
We are proud to be the only exclusive Aveda™ salon in the area, Aveda™, The Art and Science of Pure Flower and Plant Essences™, was founded in 1978 with the goal of providing beauty industry professionals with high performance, botanically based products that would be better for service providers and their guests, as well as for the planet.
For more information or book an appointment contact: Simon@Hairart.net or call us on: 01962 736398 | www.hairart.net
ABBOTTS ANN VILLAGE FETE
Come along to our wonderful Abbotts Ann village fete on Saturday 5th September at 1pm to experience all the nostalgic fete delights such as Tug of War and scrumptious cake and teas supplied by our village WI. The theme of our fete is the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest and this is reflected throughout the day with a variety of music and singers performing from 1pm in Duck Street, at St Mary’s Church and the Eagle Inn until late into the night.
Guinea Lane, the popular saxophone quartet will open our fete with some well-known Eurovision songs amongst their vibrant repertoire. We’ll provide a tasty BBQ throughout the afternoon outside the Eagle Inn, famous for real ales.
If you want to shop, Duck Street will be lined with stalls brimming with craft items, honey cakes and other goodies. Local Charities/ organisations will also provide stalls giving information about their activities. It’s a great day out for the Family with lots of entertainment including a Family entertainer with puppets, a Dog Show for the Most Obedient Dog and side shows including the Human Fruit Machine. Alpacas and goats will feature too alongside a Butterfly on stilts!
A vintage car procession will make two exciting appearances throughout the afternoon hooting down Duck Street. If you can’t make the fun in the afternoon, we are offering a children’s disco early evening followed by a party in the Eagle pub and garden. Delicious Thai food served by Aom from Salisbury Market Square at a competitive price will be available with the fantastic background music of Butler’s Rat and Fallen Heroes. If you like a quiet moment amongst all the fun we exhibit produce, flowers, craft, photography, baking and paintings exhibited by enthusiasts in various buildings within walking distance of the village centre.
The buildings referenced are the heart of our Abbotts Ann community. Our local artist Matt Kirby has drawn the Eagle Inn, the War Memorial Hall, St Mary’s Church and the Community Shop and we have included his drawings on our fete advertising poster. Matt has autism and as well as painting Matt has been a deliverer of The Forum Magazine for many years. Matt will be selling his paintings at the fete.
We look forward to seeing you at our event which is filled with so much local talent including a Ukulele band, Middle Wallop & Andover Military Wives Choir, Handbells and local boy band The Buzz!! There is ample free parking too off Church Road.
All fete funds raised will be distributed to our vital village community groups.
A very special thank you to our fete supporters Bluebird Care and Evans and Partridge along with many other local businesses organisations, residents and volunteers.
THE OPPOSITE OF SITTING ISN'T WHAT YOU THINK
Walking: The Summer Habit Your Body Has Been Waiting For Summer is the perfect reminder that movement doesn't have to mean workouts, gym memberships or complicated fitness plans. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do for your health is also the simplest: go for a walk.
Many people think the opposite of sitting is standing. While standing is certainly better than staying glued to a chair all day, it's still another static position. What your body really craves is movement.
Walking is the true opposite of sitting. It gently reverses the flexed posture created by hours at a desk, opening the hips, extending the spine and encouraging your joints to move through their natural range. Every step helps restore the body to what it was designed to do.
The benefits go far beyond easing a stiff back or tight shoulders. Regular walking improves circulation, supports heart health, boosts energy, sharpens concentration and lifts your mood. Spending time walking in green spaces adds another layer of wellbeing. The Japanese practice of ‘forest bathing’ (Shinrin-yoku) has been shown to reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure and improve feelings of calm, without needing to hike a mountain. Even a gentle stroll beneath trees in your local park can make a noticeable difference.
Every minute counts
• 5 minutes: Loosens stiff joints, improves posture and gives your eyes a break from screens.
• 45–60 minutes: Enhances cardiovascular fitness, burns calories, strengthens muscles and maximises the restorative benefits of time spent in nature.
If you're working in an office, standing desks can help, but they don't replace movement. Our bodies simply weren't designed to stay in one position for hours, no matter how ergonomic the chair. This summer, make walking the easy choice. Leave your trainers by the door, set a reminder to take a movement break, arrange a weekly walk with a friend, or head to your nearest woodland or park for a dose of nature as well as exercise.
Every walk is an investment in your long-term health. One step moves you away from stiffness, fatigue and brain fog, and closer to resilience, better posture, a clearer mind and healthier ageing. And if you can't get away from your desk, don't forget to try my 3-minute movement break on the SOP YouTube channel, designed to mimic many of the benefits of walking until you can get outside. https://youtu.be/fCS9w55Ekhg
Emma Wightman - www.the-sop.com
Seven years ago, Alresford Hearing Studio opened its doors on West Street with a simple idea: that hearing care should feel unhurried, personal, and genuinely local. Today, we're marking that anniversary with heartfelt thanks to the community that has made it possible.
In that time, we've had the privilege of getting to know hundreds of local families — not just as patients, but as neighbours. We've fitted over 1500 pairs of hearing aids and carried out more than 10,000 microsuction appointments, but the numbers only tell half the story. We've fitted first hearing aids for people nervous about the change, celebrated when a grandparent heard their grandchild's voice clearly again, and become a familiar, friendly face on the high street for many who now pop in simply to say hello.
Hearing changes so gradually that it’s easy to miss
A television turned up a notch at a time, a habit of nodding along in a busy café, a quiet withdrawal from group conversations that no one quite mentions. Seven years in, we still find that the simplest thing we offer - time, and a proper listen - makes the biggest difference to the people who visit us.
“From
and
of the
My audiologist, James,
the
listen carefully and explain every step... I cannot recommend this audiology team highly enough - five stars without hesitation.”
A Lekas - 5 Google review
“I came in recently with wax build up that another specialist was unable to resolve. James not only resolved the issue but was helpful, friendly and very knowledgable. It was great value for money, these guys really are the best. I can’t recommend them enough, thanks guys”
R. Wood - 5 Google review
“Sam’s been absolutely brilliant. A genuine expert in what he does, and has made a life-changing difference to me! I’m so pleased with my new hearing aids, and the service that Sam has given me.”
M. Sadler - 5 Google review
I was a reluctant and occasional hearing aid user until I discovered Alresford Hearing Studio. Sam has listened to my concerns and provided me with some super aids which are now worn every day. A significant issue for me was the enjoyment of and participation in music. My fear that aids would get in the way of my music proved unfounded. I am now enjoying added clarity. My wife is even happier than I am, as her every word is heard first time!
My husband, Paul, was champing at the bit to make his favourite tipple - mead. Personally, I’m not a fan. Honey has this taste. It doesn’t matter what particular variety: lavender, acacia blossom or heather – it tastes of honey. And it does something right at the back of the roof of my mouth, just as it reaches my throat. My body segues through surprise, suspicion and revulsion; ‘Oh? Wossat? Yuk!’.
Anyway, Paul had assembled plastic barrels and glass demijohns and the sort of enormous saucepan and ladle that you see in the orphanage scene in Oliver Twist. Just to clarify, it’s the version with Oliver Reed as Bill Sykes, dripping with sex appeal (the subject of an early crush).
I’ll mention here that I’m allergic to bee stings. One childhood summer, I was staying with a friend and trod on a hapless bee. My foot swelled, skin growing hot with the unhealthy sheen of being stretched too tightly. That night the allergic reaction triggered an asthma episode. Pre-diagnosis: no meds. Wheezing loudly, with a fat, shiny foot, I was the biggest nuisance to the sweetly caring mother of my friend. She slathered my foot in calamine lotion, to no effect save staining the sheets.
Many years of slim-footedness and bee-avoidance later, back at the caravan, Paul was outside dealing with the honey; decanting and weighing. The bees lived in a settlement of hives about thirty yards from the caravan. We couldn’t see them, but their daytime hum was like a distant road with constant but light traffic.
We didn’t bother the bees and they politely ignored us. There was a mutual respect. At least, I had a huge respect for them because I’d seen that horror film The Swarm at a very impressionable age. I didn’t want to find myself covered in them and have to sit in a fridge until they went to sleep – like in the film. In any event, I have no idea whether they had respect for me. I doubt it. I just wasn’t a flower and at no time did I try to get into their hive to steal their food, so they left me alone.
Armed with my enormous respect (for ‘respect’, read ‘fear’), I elected to be inside the awning of the caravan. I was in charge of sterilising the equipment and manning the gas burner with its giant saucepan of water, into which I was going to pour the weighed honey. Like a modern-day alchemist, I was going to produce the nectar of the
monks. The first recorded alcoholic drink. We’d looked it all up on BBC Good Food. I love BBC Good Food. BBC Good Food made everything look easy. It was going to be a piece of cake, BBC Good Food practically said so.
There I was in the awning, all zipped up and bee-free. Paul was outside communing with the bees. They, having smelt the honey that had been so unceremoniously stolen from them, had come to investigate. They buzzed around him, coming in for a closer look, hovering about. Then presumably they decided that a sample might be in order and one or two landed on the bucket.
It must have been the equivalent shout-out of, “Yes chaps, it’s definitely ours,” as Paul was then inundated with their little bodies, flying in and landing. I’ve no idea what they thought they were going to do. Take it all back, one tiny bee mouthful at a time? Entirely feasible, given the amount of hard work and diligence it had taken them to manufacture the stuff in the first place.
Meanwhile, back in the awning…
I couldn’t work out what the little noises were. Sounded like the pitterpatter of raindrops, but couldn’t be – the sun was beating down on the awning, heat radiating through the canvas.
No, it wasn’t rain. It was the bees. They were batting against the canvas, first one or two, then more and more. The bees must have got a whiff of the honey that I was adding to the now-boiled water and they were making it their mission to come and get that too.
Feverishly, I was checking the door was completely zipped up. I couldn’t see anywhere they might get in, and relaxed a bit.
But for all they look so sweet and busy on these natural history programmes, doing their little waggle dance and flying around with pollen laden trousers, the little bees are cunning and devious little Bs. They circled the caravan and found they could get in under the skirt of the awning where there were gaps caused by the uneven grass. In just a few minutes I had my own contingent of nosy insects buzzing around me. I fled to the caravan and locked myself in, shouting for Paul in a panic. “They’re here! They’ve brought their friends. Millions of the little wotsits looking at me with accusing feelers.”
Tobecontinued...
Sunflower Cottage, Stockbridge OIRO: £625,000
A charming three-bedroom semi-detached home offering bright, spacious and versatile accommodation, complemented by a generously sized south-facing rear garden.
A recently renovated Grade II Listed four-bedroom detached property, bursting with period features, with a beautiful cottage garden and parking. Stockbridge
Residential & Commercial Sales and Lettings
Our agreed sales are up 87.5% over the past six months, after a very busy June in the Stockbridge office. We are delighted to present six of our newest properties to the market in the Test Valley.
Could your home be next?
Nether Wallop To Let: £4,200 PCM
An ultra modern, converted barn with views over the surrounding countryside.
Woodhouse Guide Price: £795,000
Impressive four-bedroom detached home with versatile accommodation on a quiet rural lane.
Stockbridge Guide Price: £499,950
A delightful three-bedroom town house in the centre of Stockbridge High Street.
Lopcombe Guide Price: £475,000
Recently renovated detached bungalow with south-facing garden and excellent outbuildings.
Could your home be our next hot result?
With strong activity across Test Valley, now’s the perfect time to understand what your property could achieve. Contact Myddelton & Major for a FREE, no-obligation valuation and marketing appraisal from a team that knows the local market inside out.
Home of Independent Education in Hampshire
Winchester
Romsey
King
Southampton
King Edward VI School Senior | Sixth Form | Age 11-18
New Forest Portsmouth
Edward VI Preparatory School Nursery | Prep | Age 2-11
Prince’s Mead Nursery | Prep | Age 2-11
Nursery Prep Senior Sixth Form Nursery Prep Senior Sixth Form
Discover a seamless journey from age 2 to 18 across our exceptional Group of schools.
From those first steps in Nursery to the confidence and independence of Sixth Form, we offer a truly joined-up experience.
1.
A nurturing start from age 2
Our nurseries are open 51 weeks of the year with flexible wraparound care and access to early years funding, supporting busy families while giving children the very best start.
Making excellence more accessible
Stepping Stones Awards (Reception to Year 3) and Bursaries at our Senior School and Sixth Form offer fee reductions and full funding for eligible families.
2. A smoother transition to Senior School
Our Head’s Recommendation Pathway offers eligible pupils, at Prince’s Mead and King Edward VI Preparatory School, a guaranteed Year 7 place at King Edward VI School.
Open Events
2 October 2026
King Edward VI School
9 October 2026
Prince’s Mead
16 October 2026
King Edward VI Preparatory School
Personalised tours and taster mornings also available via the QR code.
3.
Outstanding Exam Results
Ranked Top 10 in the South West (The Sunday Times Parent Power 2026).
98% GCSE grades A*-C
96% A Level grades A*-C
The KES Group launch marked by time capsule to be opened at 500th anniversary of King Edward VI School, Southampton in 2053
In June, King Edward VI School announced the launch of The KES Group, bringing together King Edward VI School in Southampton, KES Preparatory School in Romsey and Prince’s Mead in Winchester, reinforcing KES as the home of exceptional independent education for children across Hampshire aged 2–18.
At the heart of the Group sits King Edward VI School, recently named among the Top 10 schools in the South West in The Sunday Times Parent Power 2026 league tables, based on exceptional A Level and GCSE results. The school was also recognised as a Finalist for Regional Independent School of the Year (South) in the 2025 Independent Schools of the Year Awards, a recognition that reflects not only its academic strength, but the clarity of its recently redefined values and Boundless Futures vision, which now unite King Edward VI School, KES Preparatory School and Prince’s Mead in a shared sense of purpose.
That family extends across Hampshire, with the Preparatory schools and nurseries in Romsey and Winchester playing a vital role. KES Prep and Prince’s Mead bring their own thriving communities and cherished traditions, strengthening the breadth and continuity of education offered to families.
On Thursday 25th June 2026, that connection was brought to life through the creation of a time capsule, holding a moment in their shared story while looking ahead to the future they are shaping together.
Placed in the grounds at Hill Lane, the capsule will be opened in June 2053, when King Edward VI School celebrates its 500th anniversary. It contains a snapshot of life across the Group in 2026 and the ambitions that will shape the years to come.
The initiative brought together contributions from across the KES community, both past and present. Letters from the Heads of each school sit alongside messages from pupil leaders and pupil voice groups, who wrote directly to future generations, sharing their
hopes for the schools and the opportunities they believe lie ahead. Old Edwardians (the school’s alumni) also contributed, ensuring the capsule reflects not only where the schools are today, but the strength of the community that has shaped them over generations.
Neal Parker, Head of King Edward VI School, said:
“As ever, our children are at the heart of every decision we make, so it felt only right to mark this moment in a way that amplifies their voices and reflects their experiences. The time capsule brings together perspectives from across our communities, from age 2 through to 18, capturing what school life means to them today and the hopes they hold for the future. When it is opened in 2053, it will speak directly to future pupils about the moment our schools came together with a shared purpose.”
As the oldest school in Southampton, King Edward VI School looks ahead to 500 years of educating children across Hampshire, marking a defining moment in its story.
It honours a remarkable heritage while setting the course for its own Boundless Future.
forthcoming EVENTS HAMPSHIRE
HAMPSHIRE AIR FESTIVAL
The Hampshire Air Festival takes flight on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026 at Thruxton Aerodrome, Hampshire, celebrating “The Age of Flight” across a spectacular weekend of aviation and entertainment.
Experience an incredible journey through the skies, from the pioneering aircraft of the Great War, to iconic Warbirds including the legendary Spitfire in its 90th Anniversary Year, thrilling formation aerobatics, and the power of modern fast jets, all performing across both days.
Included in your Saturday ticket, in the evening, the sky comes alive with our breathtaking Pyro & Lights Extravaganza, featuring pyrotechnic aircraft displays, a dazzling light show, illuminated drone formations, and a grand fireworks finale lighting up the Thruxton skyline.
Aviation is fun and can inspire the next generation, getting young people interested in both history and the STEM subjects, we call it education by stealth! We also have ground attractions including motorcycle stunts, military re-enactors, vehicles and live music. These will take place around the flying display so as not to distract from the aviation but complement it.
For tickets and more information visit: www.hampshireairfestival.co.uk
THE ROMSEY SHOW
The Romsey Show is a traditional country show held on the 12 September 2026. From 8pm to 5.30pm.
The show is organised by The Romsey Agricultural and Horse Show Society and held on the magnificent and historic Broadlands Park, Romsey. With a regular annual attendance of around 20,000, the Show welcomes people of all ages and interests, from families to local businesses. There is something for everyone.
There will be a wealth of events such as: Coaching Class & Marathon, Extreme Bike Battle BMX Ring, Children’s Activities, Livestock Classes & Grand Parade, The Thrings Countryside Ring, Modern Machinery, The Sheep Show, Floral Art, Classic Cars, Family Dog Show & Scurry, Circus Skills Area, Reptiles, Horse & Donkey Classes, Vintage machinery, Falconry, Shopping & Craft Stands, Heavy Horse Parade, Fur & Feather Tent, Horticulture, Food Zone & Local Produce, Hobby Horse Competitons, Dog Agility, Bars and Fairground.
Each year, the show has a wonderful turnout of cattle, sheep, horses and donkeys. Other animal displays include the rabbits, cavies and the Angora goats. We also have a mobile petting farm.
For tickets and more information visit: www.romseyshow.co.uk
PORTSMOUTH INTERNATIONAL KITE FESTIVAL
The Portsmouth International Kite Festival returns in 2026, with the skies above Southsea Common bursting into life and colour on the weekend of 12 and 13 September from 10am to 5pm at Southsea Common, Southsea, PO5 3AE. What's more, to mark the centenary of Portsmouth getting city status, the 2026 event will have the theme: 100 Kites to celebrate 100 years.
The event features beautiful and awe-inspiring kites, flown by some of the world’s most internationally renowned flyers. There's so much for visitors to enjoy and admire. The festival has amazing demonstrations showcasing the art of kite flying and making, which will see UK and European champions flying multi-line kites to music - performing tricks and ballet routines.
There will also be a host of activities available, including craft stalls and local amusements, whilst dedicated kite traders will be on hand with a wide range of equipment to browse and buy. Don't miss the enchanting displays - featuring beautiful single line kites (intricately appliquéd or painted with magnificent designs), amazing cellular kites (flying miracles of structural engineering), and stunning 3D soft kites in a range of shapes and sizes. The best bit? This exhilarating familyfriendly festival is free to attend! The event is scheduled to run from 10am to 5pm on both days.
For tickets and more information visit: www.visit-hampshire.co.uk/whatson/portsmouth-international-kitefestival-p1726331
Your Local Roofing Experts
A Class Roofing and Construction Ltd (A Class Roofing) is an established roofing and construction business. We have been established, well known and well credited business and between us have more than 100+ years of roofing experience.
We are a fully licenced and insured roofing business and perform our work with pride, safety and professionalism. We appreciate how important your home or business is to you and therefore we ensure our work is given the same care and attention as we would complete if we were performing on our own property.
We pride ourselves with our customer service, health and safety knowledge, and our attention to detail. We will always try to ensure that any work is a "stress-free" project from start to finish for our clients.
Please do contact us if you wish to discuss any roofing needs further or have a query in mind. We are always more than happy to help.
Two in one garage door conversion specialist
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
FROM THIS TO THIS IN ONE DAY
Skandoor has led the way in manufacturing and installing garage doors in Hampshire and the south for many years. Our speciality is high-quality garage and front doors, on-time delivery and full ownership from start to finish.
A well respected long established family run business based in Bishop's Waltham
ELECTRIC GARAGE DOORS
AUTOMATIC INSULATED GARAGE DOORS & FRONT DOORS
Roller Doors
Roller Door
2 Medium Panelled Sectional Doors
2 Medium Individial Panelled Sectional Doors
Two large ribbed smooth sectional doors Solidor Front Door
Roller Door
Potter pasta with bacon and spring onions
INGREDIENTS
200G POTTER
4 RASHERS STREAKY BACON
1 CLOVE OF GARLIC, CHOPPED HANDFUL OF BUTTON MUSHROOMS, SLICED
5 SPRING ONIONS, SLICED
1 TBSP BUTTER
A LITTLE OIL
LINGUINE (OR ANY PASTA)
METHOD
Cook your pasta in salted water following packet instructions until done and when draining, reserve some of the pasta water. Pop the drained pasta back into its cooking pot. Whilst the pasta is cooking, fry off the streaky bacon in a pan with a little oil so that the bacon is crisp. Keep the bacon on a plate for later.In the same bacon-y pan, in that lovely bacon fat, add the butter and the mushrooms. Once frying and the mushrooms beginning to change colour, add the garlic and spring onions. Season well with pepper and salt if needed (although the bacon will have already added saltiness here).
Once the mushrooms have turned a lovely golden brown, cut up the crispy bacon and add to the pan and then add in the Potter and stir in so that it melts. Keep this mixture on a low heat until the pasta is ready.
Put the pot with the pasta back onto a gentle heat and add in a little of the pasta water followed by the cheesy Potter sauce and mix well until the pasta is glossy with sauce. You can add more pasta water if you need to until you get the desired sauce consistency.
Serve and enjoy!
This recipe is from the Book & Bucket Cheese Company website by Heather Brown from Dorset Foodie Feed. It features their Porter, a kind of hybrid cross between a soft cream cheese and a curd.
Hambrooks Landscaping
Expert gardening care & maintenance in Hampshire
Year round border & pond care
Keep your garden looking beautiful - without the hassle
The NGS is now gearing up to 2027, when we celebrate our centenary. How different life and gardens were then. The first 600 gardens opened in May 1927 and the cost per head was ‘a shilling’. They raised a total of £8,191.00, which went to help support the District Nurses. Currently we open 3,500 gardens, nationwide and the the admission fee to visit a garden is anywhere between £4.50 and £10.00, depending on the garden. In 2025 the National Garden Scheme raised a staggering £3.8m - it would be great to make it £4m leading into our centenary year.
As well as donating to several well known charities, the National Garden Scheme also supports many other Nursing, Health and Caring projects - the latest one being a donation of £37,828.00 to the rooftop critical care unit garden at Kings College Hospital, London. This donation was used to support the planting. This is the first rooftop critical care unit garden in the world.
To read more about this wonderful garden simply visit: https://ngs.org.uk/ national-garden-scheme-helps-fund-worlds-first-rooftop-critical-careunit-garden/
We have a few gardens opening in September, which you may like to visit - thus helpings reach our goal of £4m donated to our very deserving charities.
Laurel House
4 Beechwood Crescent, Chandler’s Ford, SO53 5PA
Opening: Saturday & Sunday 5 & 6 September 1pm to 5pm.
Pre-booking available.
Admission: £5.00 children free. Cashless payments available. Home-made teas including G/F option.
An enchanting 2/3 acre, garden designer's garden, developed over 35 years has matured into a vibrant tapestry of colour, texture and scent. Woodland walks feature dry-shade plants, while hot beds bloom in
late summer. Wildlife thrives with ponds, bird boxes and wood piles. Sustainable practices like composting enrich the soil. This garden offers a tranquil retreat, full of inspiration year-round.
Bramdean House
Bramdean, Alresford, SO24 0JU
Opening: Sunday 13th September 1.30 to 3.30 children free.
Admission: £7.00 children free. Cashless Payments available. Refreshments: Tea, coffee and cake (Donations to Bramdean Church) https://findagarden. ngs.org.uk/garden/3145/ bramdean-house
This is a real plantsman’s garden, full of interest all year round. To the north of the house, five acres of garden slope up through the exemplary mirror-image herbaceous borders, planted with over one hundred genera and reaching their peak in June with nepetas, geraniums, tradescantias, Clematis x diversifolia ‘Hendersonii’ and galegas, followed by yellows and then the russets of late summer.
September brings us to the end of our National Garden Scheme Open Gardens for another year - can you believe it!
This will be my last article for a few months - unless the National Garden Scheme Head Office release some more exciting news regarding our Centenary Celebrations in 2027.
Now that Autumn is just round the corner, don’t forget we give talks about the National Garden Scheme - evenings or afternoons - so if you belong to a Group, who would like to learn more about what we do, simply contact me and I will send all the details.
I would like to express huge Thanks to Forum Publications for supporting us in Hampshire for yet another year. I wish you all very best wishes for the rest of 2027.
Pat Beagley (Head of Publicity) National Garden Scheme - Hampshire
FIRE method: Could it help you retire early?
FIRE – ‘Financial Independence, Retire Early’ – is a movement where people save aggressively with the aim of retiring decades earlier than traditional retirement age. It aims to achieve financial independence, defined as having an income sufficient for your basic needs and comforts from a source other than paid employment1
How does FIRE work?
Per the FIRE method, you need to save up around 25 times your annual expenses to achieve financial independence. So, if you expect to spend £20,000 a year when you retire, you’d need to save around £500,000. This calculation assumes you withdraw 4% of your savings each year in retirement.
What are the benefits of the FIRE method?
Working towards financial independence could help improve your financial wellbeing. Saving for your future is also wise, as you might not be able to entirely rely on the state to fund your desired retirement. Investing can help mitigate the impact of inflation on your savings, giving your money the opportunity to grow over time.
What are the potential pitfalls?
Your savings may not be sufficient to fund a potentially extremely long retirement. A 40-year-old UK woman has an average life expectancy of 87 and a one in ten chance of living to 100², so your money might need to last another 50 years or more.
The 4% withdrawal rule was developed using U.S. market performance data from 1926 to 1992 and targeted at retirees with a 30-year time horizon. For a UK investor in the 2020s, with a 50-year time horizon, there’s a real risk that relying on the 4% rule results in savings being depleted too quickly.
As you can’t access money inside personal pensions until age 55 (rising to 57 from April 2028), you would need to have saved a large chunk of money in Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs), which don’t have quite as many perks as pensions.
Next steps
If retiring early is important to you, you may wish to speak to a wealth manager. By understanding your financial circumstances, they can determine whether your target retirement date is achievable.
The value of investments, and any income from them, can fall and you may get back less than you invested. Tax treatment depends on the individual circumstances of each client and may be subject to change in the future. You should always check the tax implications with an accountant or tax specialist. Information is provided only as an example and is not a recommendation to pursue a particular strategy. Information contained in this document is believed to be reliable and accurate, but without further investigation cannot be warranted as to accuracy or completeness.
entriesOpenforbetween 30Marchand 1September2026 .
Are you a brilliant baker or dazzling designer, aged between 5 and 14? We need you to design a show-stopping cake for our 170th birthday!
Whether it's shiny like a pound coin, stacked sky-high with candles, or shaped like our famous castle logo - we want you to dream big!
How it works:
The top 12 designs will star in our 2027 calendar. The 11 runners-up will win:
• A £25 Hobbycraft voucher
• A special apron, perfect for future makes, bakes, and creative projects!
The overall winner, picked by our judges, will win a £50 Hobbycraft voucher and see their cake design created and baked for real!
Terms
How to enter:
Scan the QR code or pop into your local branch and ask for a paper entry form.
