Festival fever
(Stock image)
The summer holidays are here! Time to relax, recharge and soak up some sunshine while experiencing all that the local area has to offer with a staycation here in the heart of the stunning South Downs.
From striking scenery and landscapes to a packed calendar of events and activities, there really is something for everyone here in Hampshire this summer.
But in this, our latest blog post, we are focusing our attention on some of the fantastic festivals taking place locally – from music highlights to flying kites, you’re sure to find a festival that appeals to you...
Portsmouth International Kite Festival
When: Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 July
Where: Southsea Common, Portsmouth
Distance from Woodlands Retreat B&B: 18 miles
This free-to-attend festival - one of the biggest kite festivals in the world - features stunning and colourful demonstrations of the art of kite flying and kite making, with teams and individuals skilfully flying kites, performing tricks and even ballet routines to music.
This year is the 30th festival, and to mark the occasion there is a special theme of "Art on the Line", which provides a rare opportunity to showcase kites from the Hague Air Gallery and the European Air Gallery.
There are also a whole host of other activities to keep the whole family entertained, including craft stalls and local amusements.
A great day out for all the family.
Wickham Festival
When: Thursday 4 – Sunday 7 August
Where: Wickham, Hampshire
Distance from Woodlands Retreat B&B: 11 miles
This four-day music and arts festival takes place every August in an idyllic rural location near the historic village of Wickham in Hampshire.
The event has won many plaudits throughout the years – not least for its relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly approach.
This year’s packed music line-up includes The Saw Doctors, Levellers, The Waterboys and 10CC, and there will also be late-night comedy from the likes of Tom Deacon, Eshaan Akbar and Nathan Caton.
Attractions vary every year as festival organisers look to try new ideas and keep what works, so keep an eye on the festival website for more news of what else is going on at the 2022 festival.
Victorious Festival
When: Friday 26 – Sunday 28 August
Where: Southsea Common, Portsmouth
Distance from Woodlands Retreat B&B: 18 miles
A family-friendly festival for music lovers, Victorious takes place against the striking backdrop of Southsea Seafront over the August Bank Holiday Weekend.
Confirmed acts performing at the 2022 festival include Stereophonics, Paolo Nutini, Sam Fender, Bombay Bicycle Club, Bastille and Anne-Marie.
Among the other main attractions are an acoustic stage arena, World Music Village and comedy tent. Meanwhile, the kids arena is a mini festival in itself with a kids stage, meet and greets, circus skills, arts and crafts and face painting, plus plenty more besides.
Petersfield Summer Festival
When: Saturday 27 – Monday 29 August
Where: Petersfield
Distance from Woodlands Retreat B&B: 8 miles
It’s back! Cancelled in 2021, this ever-popular free festival is back, promising to serve up a packed weekend of entertainment for visitors of all ages.
There will be live music on stage in the Square, a whole host of stalls offering locally-sourced produce and awesome gifts, plus face painting and children’s rides. On the Sunday, a classic motorbike display takes centre stage in the heart of the town, while the following day Star Wars characters will be the main attraction with “The Force Festival”.
There’s something for everyone at this family-friendly event in the heart of this historic market town.
Time to unwind
A reminder that when staying at Woodlands Retreat B&B, you can book access to our private swimming pool (not heated) and hot tub (in walled garden area) at £10 per person per stay – a perfect way to relax and unwind if you’ve had a busy day exploring the local area.