Christmas has a way of bringing us back to our favourites: the food we look forward to all year, the places we love visiting and the traditions that make it feel like Christmas.

Here at Hockey’s Farm Shop in South Gorley, we’re getting ready to play our part in yours. Our Christmas order book is open, preparations are underway for our Christmas Shopping Event on 10th December, and this week we have some exciting news to share about the business behind it all.

Proud to Be a Finalist

We’re delighted to have been named a finalist for The Fordingbridge Print Award for Business Growth at the New Forest Business Partnership’s Brilliance in Business Awards 2026.

It’s lovely recognition of the work that goes into helping Hockey’s grow from the everyday care across our Farm Shop, butchery and Farmyard Cafe to bringing new events, products and reasons to visit to South Gorley.

For us, growth is also about building relationships: with the producers we buy from, the makers whose work we stock and the customers who return week after week. Every recommendation, visit and purchase helps us continue developing what we offer.

We’re proud of our team and grateful to everyone who supports Hockey’s. Being shortlisted alongside other local businesses gives us plenty to celebrate as we head towards one of our busiest seasons.

What’s Going on Your Christmas Table?

Perhaps you’ve already agreed who’s hosting. Perhaps the family group chat is still negotiating. Either way, once the numbers are settled, it’s time to think about the food.

Our Christmas order book is open now, with orders accepted until 10th December. Getting yours booked gives you time to plan the rest of the meal, from the vegetables and accompaniments to what everyone will be eating once the Christmas Day leftovers have disappeared.

Our butchery team is here to help with the decisions that can be difficult to make online. How much will you need? Which cut will suit your plans? How should you cook it? Come and talk to us, whether you’re feeding a small gathering or squeezing extra chairs around the table.

Good food is at the heart of Christmas at Hockey’s, and we want you to feel confident about what you’re taking home to serve.

Browse our Christmas ordering options through our online shop, or speak to the team on your next visit.

An Evening to Find Something Special

There’s a particular pleasure in finding a present and immediately knowing who it’s for. Our Christmas Shopping Event on Thursday 10th December is an opportunity to do just that, with over 20 local suppliers and makers coming together at Hockey’s.

We’re looking forward to giving you an evening of browsing, discoveries and Christmas inspiration. Meet the people behind the stalls, hear about their products and find gifts with a connection to the place we call home.

For the makers and independent businesses taking part, each purchase matters. For you, it’s a chance to choose something thoughtfully, ask questions and enjoy the shopping itself.

Come with friends, bring your list or simply leave room to be tempted. Alongside the visiting stalls, you’ll be able to explore our Farm Shop and Vinery for more gifts and festive food inspiration.

We’ll be sharing more about who’s joining us over the coming weeks, so keep an eye on our website and social media as the evening takes shape.

Start with a Visit

Until then, there’s no need to tackle Christmas in one enormous shopping trip. Call in, browse a few gift ideas, talk through your food order and make time for coffee or lunch in the Farmyard Cafe.

With the order book open, a festive evening in the diary and an award shortlist to celebrate, there’s plenty happening behind the scenes at Hockey’s. We look forward to sharing it with you.

Join us in South Gorley, New Forest, and make Hockey’s part of your Christmas plans.