Things To Do In July

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🎪 Soak Up the Country Show Spirit

The New Forest and Hampshire County Show
One of the region’s biggest summer highlights is the famous New Forest and Hampshire County Show, usually held at the end of July. It’s a true celebration of rural life — think prize-winning livestock, horse displays, show jumping, local produce tents, vintage tractors, craft stalls, and live music. Perfect for families, foodies, and anyone who loves a good old-fashioned country fair vibe!

Top Tip: Book tickets in advance and get there early to catch the best arena events.

🐄 Visit Local Farms & Pick-Your-Own

July is a wonderful month to experience the New Forest’s farming heritage up close. Pop by a local farm shop for fresh produce or spend an afternoon at a pick-your-own farm. Strawberries, raspberries, and gooseberries are all in season.

Places to try:

  • Goodall’s Strawberries near Lymington: Perfect for PYO strawberries with a picnic area.

  • Setley Ridge Farm Shop & Vineyard: Pick up local fruit, jams, and even English wine.

Some farms also run open days and small summer fairs with tractor rides, petting zoos, and BBQs — keep an eye on local village noticeboards or farm websites for pop-up events.

🍻 Enjoy Local Food & Drink Festivals

July is also the season for local food festivals and pop-up events celebrating the best of Hampshire produce. Look out for:

  • Lymington Seafood Festival (early August but worth planning ahead for!)

  • Farmers’ markets in towns like Ringwood, Lymington, and New Milton — where you can sample artisan cheeses, chutneys, ciders, and homemade bakes.

🎵 Experience Live Music & Outdoor Theatre

Many villages and country pubs host outdoor concerts, folk nights, and even open-air theatre in July. Pack a picnic blanket and catch a Shakespeare performance or a local band under the summer sky. Venues like Beaulieu Abbey and Exbury Gardens often host lovely outdoor shows — check their calendars before you go!

🌿 Family Fun at Country Parks

For families, places like Longdown Activity Farm are always a hit. Children can bottle-feed baby animals, cuddle goats, or ride on a tractor. Combine it with a walk at Moors Valley Country Park, where there’s also a steam railway and treetop trails.

Our Tips for July in the New Forest

✨ Book ahead: July is one of the busiest months, so reserve accommodation, tickets, and restaurant tables early.

🐴 Respect the wildlife: Remember the ponies, donkeys, and deer are wild — admire them from a distance and never feed them.

☀️ Pack for all weather: A sunny forecast is likely, but this is England — so bring a raincoat just in case!

Ready for a summer adventure? Book into one of our caravans for your trip and whether you’re watching show jumping at the County Show, picking fresh strawberries, or sipping local cider in a flower-filled pub garden, the New Forest in July is an unforgettable treat.