Top Music and Food Festivals to Experience in the New Forest
The New Forest, located in the south of England, is widely celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and deep historical roots. From food lovers to music enthusiasts, and those eager to experience local traditions, the New Forest hosts an exciting mix of festivals that showcase the best of this beautiful region. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine foods, an avid music lover, or simply someone wanting to soak in the culture of this picturesque area, you won’t want to miss these top festivals. Each of these events offers a unique opportunity to experience the local food, music, and crafts that make the New Forest so special.
1. The New Forest Food and Drink Festival
The New Forest Food and Drink Festival is one of the premier events for foodies in the region. Held annually, this festival celebrates the best of what the New Forest has to offer in terms of locally-produced food and drink. This vibrant festival is set in the heart of the forest and brings together some of the finest food producers, local chefs, and drink makers to offer visitors a truly immersive experience.
One of the highlights of the festival is the wide variety of stalls offering an array of locally-made products, from delicious handmade chocolates and artisan cheeses to fresh seafood and locally-brewed beers. The festival is a perfect opportunity to sample these products, and many of the vendors offer free tastings so you can try before you buy. In addition to the food and drink stalls, there are cooking demonstrations from top chefs who share their skills and recipes, helping visitors learn new techniques and tips for making the most of local ingredients.
The festival’s focus on food sustainability is also a key feature, with talks and workshops aimed at educating visitors on the benefits of eating locally, supporting small-scale producers, and embracing a more sustainable food culture. This event is perfect for families, as there are plenty of interactive activities and tastings for all ages. With the stunning backdrop of the New Forest providing the perfect setting, this festival truly brings the region’s culinary heritage to life.
2. The New Forest Marque Artisan Food and Drink Fair
Another significant food-focused event in the New Forest is the New Forest Marque Artisan Food and Drink Fair. Held in the quaint village of Beaulieu, this fair is dedicated to showcasing the very best in locally-produced food and drink. The event is particularly focused on artisanal products and sustainable food production, providing a platform for local food makers to exhibit their creations. The New Forest Marque is a certification scheme that guarantees all products on display at the fair are made or grown within the New Forest, which makes this fair a great place to discover the authentic flavours of the region.
The fair’s stalls feature a wide variety of products, including local cheeses, smoked meats, handcrafted breads, fruits, vegetables, and wines from nearby vineyards. Whether you’re looking for a delicious gift or planning to stock up on provisions for your stay, this fair has something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy the opportunity to meet the producers, hear about their processes, and discover the stories behind the food.
Aside from food, the fair also features live music performances, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for all. This event is a fantastic way to experience the authentic food culture of the New Forest while supporting local businesses. The Beaulieu village setting, with its charming streets and beautiful surroundings, adds to the appeal, making the New Forest Marque Artisan Food and Drink Fair a highlight of the year for food lovers.
3. The New Forest Folk Festival
For music enthusiasts, especially those with a passion for folk and acoustic sounds, the New Forest Folk Festival is a must-visit event. Held annually in the picturesque village of Lyndhurst, the festival celebrates the rich traditions of folk music and attracts an eclectic mix of local and national musicians. The performances span a variety of folk genres, from traditional folk to contemporary acoustic styles, offering something for everyone.
In addition to the live performances, the New Forest Folk Festival offers a range of workshops and jam sessions, where attendees can learn from professional musicians and even join in the music-making themselves. Whether you’re a skilled player or a complete beginner, the festival offers a welcoming and encouraging environment for all levels of musicianship. Workshops may include subjects such as songwriting, guitar playing, and folk music history, providing attendees with an educational and interactive experience.
The festival is family-friendly, offering entertainment for all ages, with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages participation. Visitors can also enjoy food and drink from local vendors, with plenty of options to keep you refreshed while soaking up the music. With Lyndhurst’s charm and its historic surroundings, the New Forest Folk Festival is a delightful celebration of both local culture and national folk music traditions.
4. The New Forest Show
For those interested in the agricultural and heritage side of the New Forest, the New Forest Show is a landmark event. Held over three days in July, this agricultural show is one of the largest of its kind in the region, attracting visitors from all over the UK. The event is a celebration of the New Forest’s farming heritage, showcasing the region’s history and current contributions to agriculture, livestock, and food production.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from livestock shows featuring prize-winning animals to equestrian eventssuch as show-jumping and dressage. The food and drink hall is a major highlight, where visitors can sample a range of local delicacies, including cheeses, meats, and baked goods, as well as other produce from the New Forest. It’s an excellent opportunity to meet local farmers and food producers and discover more about the region’s agricultural traditions.
Beyond food and drink, the New Forest Show offers family-friendly entertainment, including hands-on activities for children, a funfair, and plenty of opportunities to explore the New Forest’s rich rural heritage. If you’re interested in farm animals, horticulture, or simply want to enjoy a lively day out, this traditional agricultural show is one of the best ways to experience the New Forest’s rural charm.
5. The Beaulieu Autojumble and Historic Vehicle Event
For those with an interest in vintage cars and motor history, the Beaulieu Autojumble is an exciting and unique event. Held annually in the iconic village of Beaulieu, this event is a celebration of classic cars, vintage vehicles, and automotive memorabilia. The event brings together car enthusiasts, collectors, and restorers, offering the chance to see a wide variety of historic vehicles, from classic vintage cars to restored motorcycles and other motoring gems.
While the Beaulieu Autojumble isn’t focused on food or music, it provides a fascinating look at the motoring heritageof the region and the history of transportation in the New Forest. In addition to the restored vehicles on display, there are stalls selling a range of auto-related memorabilia, spare parts, and tools, making it a great place to find unique collectibles.
Though it may not be a typical festival for food or music, the Beaulieu Autojumble offers an intriguing glimpse into the automotive world. Whether you’re a classic car enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring vintage vehicles, this event offers a memorable and informative day out in one of the New Forest’s most iconic villages.
6. The New Forest Spring Festival
Another fantastic celebration of the New Forest’s natural beauty is the New Forest Spring Festival. This event takes place during the early days of spring and offers a range of outdoor activities that showcase the New Forest’s flora and fauna. While the event is not specifically food-focused, it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience the natural landscapes of the area, including guided walks, wildlife watching, and foraging tours.
The New Forest Spring Festival highlights the seasonal bounty of the area, including edible wild plants, herbs, and flowers, which can be incorporated into recipes and meals. For those interested in food and nature, this festival offers an excellent opportunity to explore the wild side of the New Forest and learn about the ingredients that grow naturally in the region.
7. The New Forest Cider Festival
For those who enjoy a tipple, the New Forest Cider Festival is an event that combines fantastic local produce with a celebration of the region’s famous cider-making tradition. The festival is held annually at the New Forest Cidercompany, located in the heart of the forest. Visitors can sample a wide variety of locally-made ciders, from dry and crisp to sweet and fruity styles, and enjoy pairing them with food from local vendors.
This lively event also features live music, local entertainment, and activities for all ages, making it a fun, relaxed day out for families, couples, and groups of friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cider lover or a first-time taster, the New Forest Cider Festival offers a delightful opportunity to enjoy the best of the region’s beverage culture.
Conclusion: A Festival for Every Taste
The New Forest truly offers something for everyone when it comes to festivals. Whether you’re savoring delicious local produce, tapping your feet to live music, or enjoying the beauty of the region’s countryside, there is always a festival to look forward to. From food-focused events like the New Forest Food and Drink Festival and the Marque Artisan Food and Drink Fair, to music festivals like the New Forest Folk Festival and the Cider Festival, the New Forest brings together a delightful blend of culture, heritage, and local traditions.
Planning a trip to the New Forest? Be sure to time your visit with one of these exciting festivals to experience the best that this beautiful area has to offer. With its wide range of festivals celebrating everything from food and drink to music, wildlife, and rural heritage, the New Forest offers something to suit every interest and taste.
