It has been a long year…. Covid 19 meant we had to close our doors to visitors in March 2020 and we have been unable to host residential visits for nearly a year now. But we have been able to welcome plenty of children on day visits (Covid restrictions permitting) and we are planning for lots of day visits as soon as restrictions lift in May! We have a new roundhouse, new outdoor clothing (so our visitors can stay warm and dry), more chickens and sheep and plenty of activities and fun are being planned. We want to be able to be outside as much as possible so have got creative… check out our “jellyfish” - an old parachute converted to a shelter over our log circle!

It’s all change here at Minstead as both Jane and Chris have retired after 28 years at the Centre. We are delighted to welcome James Dawkins and Jenny Stride as the new Head of Centre and Deputy - both of whom have moved to the New Forest to take up their new roles after previously running and working at sustainability study centres in East Anglia.

As a change from the successful quiz we’ve run for the last few years, for 2019 we are hosting a ceilidh at Minstead Village Hall. The band and caller are booked, there will be great food, plenty to drink (helps with the dancing), a raffle and lots of fun to be had.

Tickets will go on sale in January - more details to follow!

We had a fabulous day on the 14th July, celebrating 50 wonderful years of magical Minstead! One of the ways we are marking our 50th year is by selling limited edition pottery leaves made by talented New Forest potter Isil Campanella. These gorgeous leaves can be used as a coaster or just as a decoration.  Only 100 are available, each individually numbered.  We sold lots at the Open Day but we have some available to buy for a minimum donation of £10 each, with all funds going towards the Centre. If you'd like to buy one, please get in touch via friendsofminstead@gmail.com