There is a particular point in early March when the New Forest begins to change.

The light lasts a little longer into the afternoon, the air feels softer, and people start to venture out again with intention rather than necessity. A few brighter days this week have been enough to remind us that spring is not far away. The café terrace has started to fill again, families are combining breakfast with a walk, and there is a noticeable sense of energy returning to the site.

At Hockey’s Farm Shop in South Gorley, just outside Fordingbridge, March is always a month that brings people together. This year, it also marks the start of our events for the New Forest Awakening Festival 2026.

We opened the programme on Sunday 1st March with our Local Makers Market. Although the weather was wet and grey, visitors still arrived from across the New Forest to support local producers and spend the morning with us. From 10am to 1pm, the atmosphere was busy and welcoming, with customers browsing stalls, enjoying coffee in the Farmyard Café and exploring the Farm Shop.

Blue Sky Plants, Jasmine Makes Stuff, Fordingbridge Fudge and Ian Lubbock each brought something distinctive to the day. There is something particularly satisfying about meeting the person behind the product, hearing how something is made and taking home something that feels considered rather than mass-produced.

Many visitors chose to stay longer than planned. Some arrived for the market and stayed for breakfast. Others came for coffee and found themselves browsing the stalls. That relaxed flow between spaces is one of the things that makes a visit to Hockey’s feel unhurried and enjoyable.

The Local Makers Market was just the beginning of a full March programme.

Carers and Companions Coffee Morning

Thursday 5th March | 10am – Midday

This Thursday we are hosting our Carers and Companions Coffee Morning as part of the New Forest Awakening Festival.

This event has been designed to offer a calm and welcoming environment for carers and those they support. The Farmyard Café will provide space to sit comfortably, enjoy good coffee and freshly baked cake, and spend time in conversation without feeling rushed.

We are pleased to welcome New Forest Aromatics, who will share insight into wellbeing and local production. The tone of the morning will remain relaxed and informal, with plenty of time simply to talk and connect.

If you know someone in Fordingbridge, Ringwood or the surrounding New Forest villages who would appreciate a morning like this, we would be delighted to welcome them.

Breakfast and Guided Farm Walk

Tuesday 10th March & Friday 20th March | 9am – Midday | £20 per person

For those who would like to experience more of the farm itself, our Breakfast and Guided Farm Walk events offer something a little different.

The morning begins in the Farmyard Café with our Hungry Farmer Breakfast, prepared using produce from our own butchery team. After breakfast, New Forest expert Andrew Parry Norton will speak about land management and the way farming and conservation work together within the National Park.

Guests will then join us for a guided walk around the Hockey’s Farm Loop. During the walk, you will see our rare breed British Lop pigs and gain a clearer understanding of how food is produced in this landscape.

These events are ideal for anyone who enjoys understanding where their food comes from, as well as those simply looking for a meaningful way to spend a morning outdoors in the New Forest. Numbers are limited to ensure the experience remains personal and engaging, so early booking is recommended.

Recipes and Tasters – Cooking with the Season

Saturday 14th March | 10am – 1.30pm | Free Event

As the season begins to shift, so too do the meals we cook at home.

On Saturday 14th March, we will be hosting Recipes and Tasters - Cooking with the Season, a free event focused on seasonal inspiration and practical advice. Our butchers will be available to talk through different cuts of meat, offer preparation tips and answer questions about cooking times and flavour combinations.

Fordingbridge Fudge will also be joining us, adding a sweet element to the morning and showcasing another of the independent producers we are proud to work with.

Whether you are planning ahead for Easter gatherings or simply looking for new ideas for family meals, this event is designed to give you confidence and inspiration in equal measure.

The ‘Golden Years’ Lunch

Monday 23rd March | Midday – 2pm

Our Golden Years Lunch is a dedicated afternoon created with our older visitors in mind.

Guests will enjoy seasonal homemade soups, artisan toasties in a comfortable, welcoming setting. During the lunch, Jodi Longyear will share stories about the heritage of the New Forest and the history of food production in the area.

It promises to be an afternoon of good food and thoughtful conversation. As spaces are limited, we recommend booking in advance to secure a table.

Family and Animal Showcase

Saturday 28th March | 10am – 2pm | Free Event

We will conclude our New Forest Awakening Festival events with our Family and Animal Showcase on Saturday 28th March.

This day is designed for families who would like to spend time outdoors while learning more about farming and animal care. Children will have the opportunity to meet our resident animals and understand how they are cared for throughout the year.

We are delighted to welcome Bramble and Beach, Jasmine Makes Stuff, Ali Hoyle, Claire Manser ( Longfield Barn Pottery) and Ian Lubbock as part of the day, offering a range of stalls and activities to explore.

For families looking for things to do in the New Forest this March, this event provides a chance to enjoy fresh air, learn something new and spend time together in a relaxed setting.

Mother’s Day at Hockey’s Farmyard Café

14th & 15th March | Advance Booking Required

In the middle of this busy month, Mother’s Day is fast approaching.

On 14th and 15th March, we will be serving Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea in the Farmyard Café. The menu includes freshly prepared sandwiches with Wiltshire ham, coastal cheddar and Clayton’s free range eggs, alongside handmade sausage rolls and warm scones served with Dorset clotted cream.

Mother’s Day is always one of our most popular weekends, and tables fill quickly. If you are searching for Mother’s Day afternoon tea in the New Forest or a relaxed setting near Fordingbridge to celebrate, we encourage you to book early.

For those looking for a gift, The Vinery offers a thoughtful range of items from independent makers, including candles, ceramics and curated hampers assembled by our team. You are welcome to pre-order a gift pack or visit in person to create something that feels personal and considered. Afternoon tea can also be upgraded with Prosecco for those wishing to add an extra touch to the occasion.

Looking Ahead to Spring

As March continues, we are looking forward to welcoming both familiar faces and new visitors to Hockey’s Farm Shop.

Whether you join us for a festival event, book Mother’s Day afternoon tea, attend a farm walk or simply call in for coffee and a browse, there are plenty of reasons to visit over the coming weeks.

The New Forest is beginning to stir into spring, and we would be delighted to share it with you.