Activities at New Forest Day Opportunities

Available activities

• Furzey Gardens

  Take part in gardening and outdoor activities at this beautiful public garden. Help with weeding, grass cutting, planting, or caring for vegetables and flowerbeds. Enjoy being outdoors, learning about plants, and seeing the results of your work bloom all around you.

• Furzey Gardens Nursery

  Work with plants in a calming, hands-on way. Potting, watering, and caring for plants as they grow helps you learn gardening skills, patience, and responsibility. You’ll see the fruits of your labour and help others enjoy a thriving nursery space.

• Woodwork

  Work with wood to make useful and decorative items such as bird boxes, planters, or shelves. You’ll learn how to use tools safely, measure and plan your designs, and gain confidence in building your own projects. Each finished item is a proud achievement and can even be sold in Furzey Gardens’ shop.

  

• Ceramics

  Get creative with clay! Make everything from bowls, tiles, and mugs to fun models. Learn how to shape, sculpt, and decorate your pieces using glazes and paints. You’ll discover new techniques, experiment with colours and textures, and see your creations come to life in the kiln. A hands-on way to express yourself and develop your artistic skills.  

• Crafts

   

  Dive into a variety of craft projects! Try felting (both wet and dry), seasonal decorations, papermaking, spinning, simple sewing, and more. Each session gives you the chance to explore new materials, learn new techniques, and create beautiful, high-quality items that are sold in our Furzey shop. Perfect for those who love making things with care and creativity.
• Wellbeing (including weekly Yoga/Keep-Fit)

  Move, stretch, and relax with gentle exercises like yoga, dance-inspired movement, or keep-fit routines. These sessions build strength, balance, and flexibility, while also helping you feel calm, refreshed, and energised. A positive boost for both body and mind. 

  

• Estate and grounds maintenance

  Help care for our Lodge grounds by mowing, weeding, tidying paths, and maintaining gardens. These practical tasks are rewarding, keep you active, and give you a sense of pride in looking after outdoor spaces that everyone can enjoy. 

• Vegetable garden

  Experience the joy of growing your own food! Plant seeds, care for them as they grow, and harvest fresh vegetables and herbs. Learn practical gardening skills, understand the seasons, and enjoy the satisfaction of nurturing plants from start to finish. A great way to connect with nature and eat what you grow.

   

• Animal care

  Feed, clean, and look after animals, learning about their routines and needs. Build confidence, responsibility, and empathy as you care for these furry friends. A hands-on, rewarding way to connect with animals and develop practical skills.

  

• Walking groups

  Discover the local forest and its wildlife. Learn about trees, plants, and animals while enjoying peaceful walks. A perfect way to explore nature and enjoy the outdoors.

  

• Pedall inclusive cycling

  Hop on a specialist bike and enjoy cycling safely, whatever your ability. Build fitness, coordination, and confidence while exploring outdoor trails. Fun, active, and energising, with the chance to ride with friends and enjoy the fresh air. (Additional cost applies)

• Performing arts

  Sing, dance, act, or try circus skills! Help with costumes, staging, and performances. These creative group sessions build confidence, teamwork, and imagination while providing a fun and lively way to express yourself.

  

• Weaving

  Use looms to turn yarn or fabric into colourful creations like table runners, bookmarks, and small purses. Weaving is both relaxing and engaging, helping to improve focus, coordination, and creativity. You’ll learn new patterns, textures, and techniques while making beautiful, high quality items that are sold in Furzey shop.

  

• Newspaper Group – The Minstead Enquirer

  Be part of our creative newspaper team! Write articles, take photos, interview people, and help design each edition of the Minstead Enquirer.

  Learn new media skills, express your ideas, and see your work shared with the community. A fun way to be creative, collaborative, and informed.

• Community drama

  Step into the spotlight! Work with a drama teacher and fellow performers to act, improvise, and put on shows. Build confidence, teamwork, and communication skills while exploring different characters and stories.

  A lively, fun way to express yourself through performance each Monday and Wednesday at Hanger Farm in Totton. (Additional cost applies)

• Jam and Chutney making

  Turn fresh fruits and vegetables into delicious jams and chutneys. Learn about cooking, hygiene, and packaging, and discover new recipes and flavour combinations. You might even help sell your creations, sharing your tasty work with the community!

  We run our own Real Jam & Chutney Company, which sells quality products throughout Hampshire.