Taste the New Forest this summer

The New Forest Marque – the sign of true local produce – prepares for a busy summer of events with a series of fairs, markets and shows in the pipeline – and you’re invited!  

With almost 200 producers and sellers of everything from award-winning cheese and chutneys to strawberries and soap get your unique local treats and gifts this summer. 

You’ll find New Forest Marque producers at many events over the coming weeks including: 

• New Forest and Hampshire County Show: 29 – 31 July 

• Damerham Fair: Saturday 26 July 

• Ellingham Show: Saturday 9 August 

• New Forest Food Festival, Hinton Admiral Estate: 16 – 17 August 

• Romsey Show: Saturday 13 September 

The distinctive Marque logo is awarded to produce which has been grown, reared, caught, brewed, produced or processed within the New Forest District Council area. Hotels, farm shops, cafes and B&Bs can also become members when they sell, serve or use Marque produce. 

Notably the Marque will be returning to New Forest and Hampshire County Show from 29 – 31 July at New Park, Brockenhurst. The local produce scheme celebrated its 20th anniversary there last year and is excited to return with a larger stand and a stronghold of member stallholders located in the Local Produce Market.  

Marque members will also be hosting tastings and cookery demonstrations over the three days. New Forest Spirit’s Head Distiller and Founder Mark will be telling his story and offering alcoholic tastings at the NFU New Forest stand on Wednesday 30 July. Plus chef Sutti from Anissa’s Thai in Lyndhurst will be in action in the Demo Kitchen every day at 11am.   

New to the New Forest Show this year is the addition of an area dedicated to members of the Marque’s ‘Inspired’ category. Inspired was launched at the end of 2023 specifically for artists and craftspeople who live in the New Forest, predominantly trade in the New Forest, and create authentic and original arts or crafts inspired by the beauty of the New Forest. Inspired now has 40 talented members from potters and painters to photographers and jewellery makers.  

Inspired Membership and Events Coordinator and artist Lucy Bramley said:  

‘Bringing New Forest Marque Inspired to high-profile events such as the New Forest Show is a wonderful opportunity for our members to showcase and sell their unique artworks. The Forest is home to many small-scale artists and Inspired supports and encourages them to flourish. In keeping with the ethos of the New Forest Marque, we want people to recognise local talent, especially those creatives that bring to light the special qualities of the New Forest landscape.’  

New Forest Marque Inspired will also be running its own exhibition space in the New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst from 16 August – 14 September as part of Hampshire Open Studios.  

For more details about membership, events, where to buy Marque produce, or to pick up the new Local Produce Guide, visit www.newforestmarque.co.uk or follow @newforestmarque on social media.