Families Solent West issue 19 November-December 2010

Issue 19 – November/December 2010 www.familiessolentwest.co.uk

FREE Magazine

Cover photo by www.johnfranklinimages.com

SOLENT WEST

ALL THE LATEST NEWS & AN EXTENSIVE GUIDE TO WHAT’S ON IN YOUR LOCAL AREA Distribution: Warsash, Botley, Eastleigh, Chandlers Ford, Romsey, Lockerley, Alresford, Winchester, Southampton, Totton, Hythe, Lyndhurst, Beaulieu, Lymington and all the places in between.

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Families Solent West

November – December 2010

Families Solent West Where has this year gone…? …We have loved putting this Christmas issue together for you all… there is so much to do over the festive season, check out our ‘what’s-on’ pages. Don’t forget to shop local, it couldn’t be easier with the wonderful toys shops, gift shops and boutiques we have in the local area.

‘Panto’ season is here and we have a superb selection of shows for you, and lets not forget Santa… ‘Where is he this year’... Take a look in the magazine and find out where he is.

Here at Families Solent West, we all work very hard to bring you a magazine full of local interest so you can enjoy your local area to it’s fullest. I would personally like to thank every single one of the team for all their hard work and of course a big thank you to our loyal readers and advertisers who continue to support the magazine. So lets raise a glass of something bubbly and look forward to 2011 where we can keep on supporting our hard-working local businesses!

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Regards Beth Spread The Word!

THERE’S A NEW PARTY IN TOWN… pass it on!

Jamie Oliver is coming to Town!

Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be part of his exciting new business Jamie at Home. We are currently seeking self-employed Managers and Consultants with or without Party Plan experience and anyone looking for extra income for Christmas Could this be you?

For more details contact Sarah on 07796 170200 or vc_sarah@hotmail.com.

If you know of a nursery, school or other place that parents visit regularly that would like to receive FREE copies of Families Solent West please get in touch and we will bring some round.

Copyright: Families Solent West, November/December 2010.

Data Protection: if you send us your name and address in order to receive free samples or to enter a competition offering prizes in Families Solent West, we may supply your details to the company offering the samples or prizes. If you would prefer us NOT to do so please state this clearly on your entry.

Disclaimer: Colour transparencies and any other original materials submitted for publication are sent at the owners own risk and whilst every care is taken, neither Families Solent West nor its agents accept liability for loss or damage. We take care preparing this magazine but the publishers and distributors cannot be held responsible for the claims of advertisers nor for the accuracy of the contents nor for any consequence.

Families Groups: Families Solent West is part of a group established in 1990, headed by Families South West. All magazines in the group are independently owned and operated under licence.

Working with a successful, international company, with Magazine Designed by a £36 million turnover in the UK, we are looking for www.MatoboDesign.com open-minded and ambitious people to spearhead our second phase expansion. Working part time, £500£1,500 pm, or full time, £2,000-£5,000+ pm, without having to compromise your current career, business or family commitments. If you have supervisory, managerial, sales, marketing, recruitment, self-employed background, would like to work from home, or feel you wish to develop an extra-ordinary income, please call Hesione Waugh on 01329 232084 or 07794127732

GO FOR IT... JOIN THE BUSINESS MUMS!

Don’t forget to say you saw these adverts in Families Solent West

November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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Families Solent West November/December 2010

contents 4, 5, 6 & 7 NEWS Local news & updates covering events and services 5, 6 & 7 GROUPS, CLUBS & CLASSES Selection of out-of-school classes for your children 9 EDUCATION Schools & Workshops 10 & 11 CHILDCARE All types of childcare 12 & 13 LOCAL SHOPPING FEATURE Benefits of shopping locally & a list of our favourite local shops

13 WHERE’S FATHER CHRISTMAS? Venues where Santa will be visiting this Christmas 14,15,16, 17, 18 & 19 WHAT’S-ON Activities and events across the whole area

COMING SOON! Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park, Ower, Nr Romsey, Hants, SO51 6AL Opening on 9th April 2011, Peppa Pig World is a world first and exclusive to Paultons Park! 7 amazing new themed rides, huge indoor play area and animated attractions.

New cafe and the largest Peppa Pig Shop in the country! www.peppapigworld.co.uk / 023 8081 4442

20 THEATRES & RESTAURANTS

Pauline Quirke Launches New Performing Arts Academy in Eastleigh

21 LOCAL EVENTS November/December events in the local area

On Saturday 25th September Pauline Quirke opened a brand new Pauline Quirke Academy of Performing Arts (PQA). Children and their parents were invited to come along to meet Pauline and find out what it’s all about.

22 GIFTS Great gift ideas for Christmas

PQA is aimed at children aged from 4 to 18 with the focus firmly on fun.

Modules include Comedy and Drama, Musical Theatre, Film and Television which teaches students about the different acting styles required for camera work. The children will also learn how film and television productions are created, and will get the chance to take part in frequent specialist Masterclasses, which include Stage Combat, Physical Comedy, Street Dance and Circus Skills.

23 COMPETITION You have to be in it to win it!

23 CLASSIFIEDS Local products and services for you and the whole family Editor: Beth Taylor E-mail: editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk FAMILIES SOLENT WEST P O Box 630, Fareham, PO14 9HZ www.familiessolentwest.co.uk Tel: 01329 310994 Next Issue: January/February 2011 Editorial & Booking deadline: 3rd December 2010

Parents are able to monitor their child’s progress through PQA’s unique Creative Stages Awards scheme, which recognises their achievements and records their progress during their time with PQA. Parents can also watch their children at performances throughout the year, which culminate in annual screenings at the local cinema and a West End production every two years.

Principal of PQA Eastleigh, Steve Wakeford, explains: ‘I am delighted to be able to offer children in Eastleigh the chance to join PQA, which gives them the opportunity to get involved with all areas of performing arts from dancing, singing and theatre to comedy and television. At its core, PQA is designed to help children gain confidence, make friends and have fun.’

Pauline Quirke is delighted to have opened a new academy in the area: PQA Eastleigh. For further information please visit www.pqacademy.com or call PQA on 08456 732022

To advertise in Families Solent West: Call 01329 310994 or email ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk To place editorial: Email editor@familiessolentwest.co.uk To place a classified advert: Email classifieds@familiessolentwest.co.uk 4

Families Solent West

November – December 2010

News Kidz Play (uk) Ltd The first Kidz Club opened in September 2000 in Romsey, providing quality breakfast and after school care for children and working parents/carers. Some 10 years later Kidz Play have now extended to further schools across the South.

Each club is OFSTED inspected to ensure the high quality of our childcare.

The children have the opportunity to play amongst themselves with a huge range of toys and activities that we provide. We also provide the children with a snack table where they have the opportunity to have fresh fruit, sandwiches/toast and hot snacks in the winter as well as refreshments throughout the evening. Within the breakfast club we provide them with the same opportunity to play and provide them with a range of breakfasts.

Every staff member has an enhanced CRB disclosure and has the required play worker qualification. They are also constantly training towards further qualifications in play work.

Telephone: 01794 519871, www.kidzplayuk.com Head office: Unit 3, Romsey Industrial Estate, Greatbridge Road, Romsey, SO51 0HR

Quality After School & Holiday Club Provision available …with Waterside Out of School Clubs CIC, for children aged 3 to 12. There are two locations currently, one in Lymington at Lymington Juniors and can collect during term time from other local schools, the other is in Blackfield at Blackfield Primary school, currently collect from many local schools there in term times too.

We take children from any school during the holidays, and are open all school holidays, with the exception of Christmas week.

Our clubs provide a home from home environment where children can relax after a hard day at school, and, if they wish, join in with various activities, or take time out to read or watch a movie. During the holidays we have lots of fun things planned, to include, baking, arts & crafts, themed days, football sessions, off site trips, competitions, sports events and many more.... Each day we provide a healthy snack at around 4pm, and refreshments are on hand at all times... Packed lunches are required during the holidays.

For further info please contact Danielle or Danni on 07825 525050/07825 160105 for Lymington & Michelle/Kath on 07716 192939/07871 527722 for Blackfield.

Taptots Fever Hits The South The sound of tip tapping little feet is now in Southampton! Toddlers are being invited to join the latest in infant entertainment, combining excercise with tap dancing, music, stories and of course, lots of fun. Taptots is a brand new innovative phonic based tap syllabus class for children between 2 and 5 years old.

Much more than just a tap class, it is the first ever phonic based tap class of its kind, and is proving to be a hit with tots and their parents all over Yorkshire. After Southampton tap teacher Michelle Russell saw the classes in Yorkshire she was so impressed that she decided to have a Taptots franchise here in Southampton.

If you would like to give Taptots a try they are currently offering a 3 week trial session for £12. Classes are in the Totton area, but will soon be expanding out to other areas in the near future.

Contact Michelle Russell at Taptots on 02380 870800 or email Michelle@Taptots.co.uk

Let’s Party!

Christmas Eve Party at…

Book your ticket NOW, only £16 per child, and adults come free. Choose from two sessions: 11.30am till 2pm or 3pm till 5.30-pm, December 24th 2010.

Your child will delight in visiting Santa’s Grotto and receiving a fantastic present, don’t forget to bring your camera to take a picture of Santa in his rocking chair!. There are so many activities to keep each and every child amused such as biscuit decorating, to making tree decorations, hunt the chocolate Santa, face painting and crazy tattoos, a raffle and fancy dress competition too, with prizes for the best dressed! And if that is not enough activity, the children can also play on all the Jungle Jeans equipment too. All the staff at Jungle Jeans will also be dressed to impress so come along and let your little one’s run around and have fun, guaranteed they will sleep peacefully the night before Christmas. So do not delay, book your ticket today, then sit back and relax (or play).

To book simply call 02380 638120 or go along to Unit N, West Quay Ind Est, West Quay Road, Southampton, S015 1GZ.

November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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News

th 0 2 Anniversary proud to be 20 years old!

45 minute classes – no enrolment fee £4.00 per class payable termly in advance

Dance, Rhythm, Coordination, Imagination, Fun For Boys and Girls aged 2-5

(Romsey Rapids members £3.50)

THURSDAYS 10.45am @ ROMSEY RAPIDS Call Emma on

0781 8406831

Today Families Solent West is part of a thriving group of franchised magazines across the UK from the Solent to Fife, but twenty years ago it was a much smaller operation. The first issue in October 1990 was a cut and paste affair in black and white—meaning scissors and glue, not copy and paste!!

Precious Little Gems Precious Little Gems makes bespoke polished silver jewellery of your loved ones fingerprint. This unique piece of jewellery ellery is an ideal gift for mums, dads, grandmas, grandfathers and anyone else that would cherish the print forever.

Cufflinks, charms, pendant necklaces, keyrings ... you choose and we create your own, bespoke gift. Our jewellery is beautifully presented in a box and small gift bag.

We have a drop in service so your prints can be done in our shop ‘Little Gems Boutique’ or if you have a group of mums and toddlers then we can come to you.

If you’re looking for something unique for Christmas, then this is the ideal gift!

The very first edition, Families® South West, had a mere 4,000 print run, and colour wasn’t to be seen until Oct 2000. How things have changed – it would be unthinkable nowadays to have a Families magazine in black & white.

Even when the experts said that “it would never work in publishing,” Families started franchising the magazine in 1995. There are now 30 editions of Families in the UK and well over 500,000 copies are printed across the group.

But throughout it all, Families has remained true to the original thinking, a hands-on magazine for busy mums with useful information, centred around the local community.

We think (well of course we would) that Families is, and always will be, the best source of local information, news, events and what’s on for parents. You are certainly reading the right publication, well done.

T book your appointment please call To us on 02380251153 or drop in at Little u Gems Boutique, 13 Fryern Arcade, G Winchester Road, Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh, SO53 2DQ

F Frankie’s Fun Factory Ltd. FFantastic Family Fun H Hello Frankie! It’s great to finally meet you! The latest face in children’s activity centres opened its doors in early September, after a long process of negotiations Frankie’s Fun Factory took over as proud owner of Serendipity Sams in Romsey. The centre had previously been open for over 10½ years and had established a huge customer base in and around the Romsey area offering one of the biggest soft play frames around matched with great birthday party packages to cater for all ages. The centre had unfortunately suffered from a lack of investment in the last few years and the years had began to take its toll on the equipment and furnishings, so as Serendipity Sams celebrated it’s 10th birthday a local paper ran a story on the unit being put up for sale. Within days of the article being published local business woman Kate Ward had tabled an offer that was accepted and negotiations began and on the 3rd September Kate, alongside Jackie O’Brien and Paul Judd her business partners began the task of re-branding and re-vitalising the centre.

The changes have already started and there are plenty more to come as we try to stamp our mark on the place, we have all used the centre as our own children have grown up so we come into this business as a consumer wanting the best for their children’s visit. Between us we have expertise in child care, retail management and refurbishment project management which we believe will help us enormously to make the centre great again.

Visit our website at www.frankiesfunfactory.co.uk and come down and see Frankie the funasaurus he can’t wait to see you!

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Families Solent West

November – December 2010

News After school childcare with a difference Fun shine after school club was established a year ago to offer your children the next best thing to having a nanny with lots of fun, interaction and relaxation time. The children are able to choose what they want to do, anything from arts and crafts, indoor sports to reading books and helping with homework, all fully supervised and supported.

Fun shine is run by two previous nannies who saw an opportunity to offer something different, over and above the after school childcare clubs run by schools, by giving children a much more interactive and playful experience.

Book your space today! email ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk or give us a call

01329 310994

The stress has also been taken out of the school run pick up as they collect your child from the local schools in Chandlers Ford and take them to the club.

All Fun shine staff are fully qualified and first aid trained and the club has received a Good Ofsted rating.

For more information on Fun shine child care and to secure your child’s place please visit www.Fun-shine.co.uk or call 02380 276 415

The Best Christmas Ideas are Often Found in Unusual Places.

If you are looking for something a little different for that someone special, then www.hants.gov.uk/christmas is well worth a look.

The website is the one-stop-shop where you can find quirky Christmas gifts and décor. It features everything from the Culture-all Passport to hampers and from Christmas trees to Christmas wreaths.

It also contains useful information about the events and activities that are happening, around the county, over the Christmas period, including where the best pantos and grottos are.

On the website you can even find out where to get the that ideal outfit for a festive fancy dress party or somewhere to hold a unique Christmas shindig.

It’s a well used phrase, but we really do think that Hampshire’s got Christmas all wrapped up!

Take a look at www.hants.gov.uk/christmas.

November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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Natural, Relaxed, Beautiful Bump and Baby Portraits to Treasure Forever.

Autumn Family portraits Book make excellent Now! Christmas Gifts!

Exclusive offer for Families Solent West readers – free 7”x 5” print. Quote: FSW1

Check out our website for details or call us to book your session

www.bumpandbaby.co.uk 0843 2892706 or 07711 664967

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Families Solent West

November – December 2010

Education

November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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Sure Start Children’s Centres in the South West Region of Hampshire Southampton Sure Start: Central for Central Southampton: 023 803301635 Swaythling for Swaythling, Hampton Park & Mansbridge: 023 80833552 Coxford, Lordshill & Shirley Warren: 023 80833863 Harefield & Townhill Park: 023 80915480 Millbrook, Redbridge & Maybush: 023 80878387 Weston: 02380437866 Southampton City Council have Sure Start Partnerships in different areas across the city and have several centres in specific areas offering different services, as above.

A Sure Start for under fives in Hampshire Where in the world can you access fun activities, professional support and friendly advice for you and your family? At your local Sure Start Children’s Centre of course!

Whether you are a parent, grandparent or a carer, you and your under fives will find a warm welcome at your local Hampshire children’s centre. So if you have a child that’s aged 0-5 years, discover what your local centre has to offer: ■ Drop–in sessions, including play and support groups for mums, dads, carers and childminders ■ Antenatal and postnatal support ■ Access to child and family health services ■ Home visits from Family Support Outreach Workers ■ Links with Jobcentre Plus and further education ■ Learn new skills including cookery, baby massage and positive parenting ■ And so much more!

New Forest Forest First Children’s Centre, Heather Road, Fawley, Southampton, S045 1DZ. 023 80894425 The Waterside Children’s Centre, Waterside Primary School, Ashford Crescent, Hythe, SO45 6ET. 023 80845247 Cadland Children’s Centre, Cadland Primary School, Whitefield Road, Holbury, S045 2HW. 023 80890877 The Phoenix Children’s Centre, New Milton Youth Club, Culver Road, New Milton, BH25 6SY. 01425 612113 All Seasons Children’s Centre, Pennington Junior School, Priestlands Road, Pennington, Lymington, S041 8HX. 01590 678390 The Harbour Children’s Centre, Eling Infant School, School Road, Eling, Totton, S040 9HX. 023 80668683

Riverbank Kindergarten

Twyford Playgroup

Martyr Worthy Parish Hall, S021 1DY

• friendly community setting • outdoor play a strength • lunch club and afternoon sessions • Ofsted registered, NDNA accredited.

Morning Sessions 9am - 12pm weekdays.

Lunch Club till 1.30pm except Tuesdays.

Under 3’s: £3.90 per hour.

3-4 years government funded

• Open 09.00–13.00 • Open Tuesdays 09.00–15.00 Summer term only • Children aged 2yrs 9m – 5yrs • Continuous provision • Peaceful, rural setting

Contact Babs 07867 530075 Babs_smith@btinternet.com 10

Families Solent West

Contact Catherine Hutchinson 07977 543307 email: catherhutch@msn.com

Seedlings Children’s Centre, Highwood Road, Brockenhurst, S042 7RY. 01590 624489 Pathways Children’s Centre, Ringwood Library, Christchurch Road, Ringwood, BH24 1DW. 01425 472545 The Bridges Children’s Centre, Fordingbridge Junior School, Penny’s Lane, Fordingbridge, SP6 1HJ. 01425 654193 The Patch Children’s Centre, Calmore Community Centre, Calmore Drive, Southampton, S040 2ZU. 023 80668047

Eastleigh, Bursledon & West End The Windmill and Sails Children’s Centre, Bursledon Infant School, Long Lane, Bursledon, S031 8BZ. 023 80405189 Little Coppice Children’s Centre, Wyvern Technology College, Botley Road, Fair Oak, Eastleigh, S050 7AN. 023 80602799 Chamberlayne Children’s Centre, Norwood Primary School, Chamberlayne Road, Eastleigh, S050 5JL. 023 80684990 The Aviary Children’s Centre, Blackbird Road, Eastleigh, S050 9JW. 023 80626960 The West End Gateway, West End Parish Office, Chapel Road, Southampton, S030 3FE. 023 80462182 Caterpillar Hill Children’s Centre, Chandlers Ford Library, Oakmount Road, Chandlers Ford. SO53 2LH Hop-a-Long Children’s Centre, Botley Primary School, 52 High Street, Botley. SO30 2EA The Nest Children’s Centre, Wildern Clinic, Wildern School, Wildern Lane, Hedge End, SO30 4EJ.

Winchester Lanterns Nursery School and Children’s Centre, Bereweeke Road, Winchester, S022 6AJ. 01962 860393 Sparklers Children’s Centre, Winnall Community Centre, Garbett Road, Winchester, S023 0NY. 01962 861403 The Carroll Children’s Centre, The Carroll Centre, Somers Close, Winchester, S022 4EJ. 01962 840022 Merry-Go-Round Children’s Centre, Wickham Primary School, Buddens Road, Wickham, PO17 5HU. 01329 834874 Winchester 5 Children’s Centre, Kings Worthy Primary School, Church Lane, Kings Worthy, SO23 7QS. Little Petals Children’s Centre, Bishops Waltham Library, Bank Street, Bishops Waltham, SO32 1AN. 01962 711654 Happy Valley Children’s Centre, Denmead Infant School, Hambledon Road, Denmead, PO7 6PN.

Romsey Little Oaks Children’s Centre, Romsey Primary School, Mercer Way, Romsey, S051 7PH. 01794 834740 Sunshine Children’s Centre, 23 Fleming Avenue, North Baddesley, S052 9EJ. 023 80736013

Useful Info: To find a children’s centre local to you and see what services they offer: Hampshire www.hants.gov.uk/childrens-centres, 0845 603 5620 Southampton www.southampton.gov.uk/childrenandlearning/ preschoolchildren/surestart, 023 8022 3855 www.surestart.gov.uk/surestartservice/settings/fundsettings

Boyes Lane, Colden Common

Earlybirds Pre-School

• Beautiful Location • Access to playpark • Experienced, friendly, caring staff • Ofsted Registered • Pre-school Learning Alliance • Stimulating environment • Early Years foundation stage principles • Full Day Care 8-6pm Mon – Friday (51 weeks of the year) Let your child create their magic in learning & playing with us!

Call Sharon on 07711 710068 Email: sharonnichols1@hotmail.com

Earlybirds Pre-School, Newtown Soberton Infant School, Church Road, Newtown, Fareham, PO17 6LJ. Telephone: 01329 833161.

LITTLE WIZARDS PRE-SCHOOL

Offering a warm, caring & stimulating environment where children can feel secure & happy, & so develop & learn.

Excellent links with Newtown Soberton Infant School; Local to Wickham, Boarhunt, Southwick, Droxford & Denmead; Small Groups; High staff ratios.

Morning / Afternoon & All Day sessions available for children from 2y 9m – 5y.

November – December 2010

Childcare Rainbow’s End Pre-School

For 2 – 5 years. A fun caring environment where children thrive & reach their full potential.

01962 888 328 Winchester

Advertising on a regular basis with us brings your cost of advertising down and gives you continuity of advertising in the magazine that really works for you. Make sure your advert is seen, Advertise with Families Solent West!

Book your space today, email ads@ familiessolentwest.co.uk or give us a call to discuss further 01329 310994.

We would love to discuss your advertising requirements and we can ensure your business receives the correct amount of exposure it really needs.

OFSTED Registered

Breakfast, After School & Holiday Quality Childcare Holiday Club provision is available at selected schools throughout the year. We will be offering Christmas holiday clubs at: Upper Shirley High School, Shirley Halterworth Primary School, Romsey Fordingbridge Junior School, Fordingbridge 01794 519871 - www.kidzplayuk.com November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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Local Shopping Etikett is a unique boutique specialising in classic, traditional and designer wear for babies and children 0-8 years.

❉ accredited christening retailer ❉ bridesmaid & page boy outfits ❉ shoes & accessories ❉ toys & gifts

Shopping locally this

. . . s a m t s i r Ch

❉ baby & premature baby wear ❉ girls & boys wear ❉ baby gift hampers ❉ free gift wrapping ❉ loyalty cards

Perhaps the best reason for shopping locally for gifts & toys this Christmas is that when you are looking for something special or unusual, local shops can offer far more choice and cater brilliantly for niche markets – you are far more likely to find that special something in a local specialised shop than in a big high street chain. You also get a chance to see and try before you buy, and this is where local toyshops and boutiques can really shine.

Remember visiting the local toy shop as a child, maybe in the run up to Christmas or birthdays or just to spend your pocket money? Rifling amongst the shelves, picking things up to properly investigate them, maybe trying things out before making your choice. As a parent, spending a bit of time with your child in a local shop, noticing what grabs their attention and exploring together what’s on offer can provide a real insight into what gifts they will get most pleasure from...

We have listed some of our favourite shops for you to visit this Christmas which are right on your doorstep...

Receive the personal touch from shopping locally at any one of our recommended shops listed..

Happy Shopping!

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Families Solent West

November – December 2010

Most of the shops listed will have extended Christmas opening times... Check websites or give them a call.

Toy Shops Stork Gifts

10 St Thomas Street, Lymington, SO41 9NA 01590 678295 storkgifts.co.uk Opening times: 9 - 5.30 ( Mon – Sat)

Childhood’s Dream

Black Swan Buildings, Southgate Street, Winchester SO23 9DT 01962 861953 childhoodsdream.co.uk Opening times: 10 - 5.30 (Mon – Fri) & 9.30 - 5.30 (Sat)

The Toy Cupboard

65 St Georges Street, Winchester, S023 8AH 01962 849988 thetoycupboard.co.uk Opening times: 9.30 – 5.30 ( Mon – Sat)

The Beanstalk

6 St Thomas Street, Winchester, SO23 9HE 01962 868323 thebeanstalkonline.co.uk Opening times: 9.30 – 5.30 ( Mon – Sat)

Boutique & Gifts Etikett

22 High Street, Botley, Southampton, SO30 2EA 01489 785829 etikett.co.uk Opening times: 9.30 – 4.30 ( Mon – Sat)

Little Gems Boutique

13 Fryern Arcade, Winchester Road, Chandlers Ford, Eastleigh, SO53 2DQ 02380 251153 littlegemsboutique.co.uk Opening times: 9 – 5 ( Mon – Sat)

Ragamuffin

2 Bakehouse Yard, West Street, Alresford, S024 9AU 01962 734488 ragamuffin-uk.com Opening times: 9.30 – 5 (Mon-Sat)

Baby Blooming

21 Market Place, Ringwood, BH24 1AN 01425 473743 babyblooming.co.uk Opening times: 9.30 – 5 ( Mon – Sat)

Ickle Chicken

4 Middle Road, Park Gate, Southampton, S031 7GH 01489 570977 icklechicken.co.uk Opening times: 9.30 – 4 (Mon) & 9.30 – 5 ( Tues – Sat)

s ’ e r e h W ther Fa s? a

m t s i r h C

Milestones Museum

Father Christmas will be visiting...

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth

Marwell Wildlife

26th – 28th November (inclusive) 023 92 839766 christmasfestival.co.uk

Various dates between 26th Nov & 24th Dec – see website for details 0844 736 4200 www.marwell.org.uk

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market

Manor Farm Country Park

5th & 19th December 25th Nov – 24th Dec (inclusive) 01489 787055 01962 857274 winchesterchristmasmarket.co.uk hants.gov.uk/manorfarm

Paultons Park, Ower, Nr Romsey

And by steam...

Watercress Line,

20th, 21st, 27th, 28th Nov, Alresford and/ 4th, 5th, 8th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th Dec, or Alton then daily until 23rd December 4, 5, 11, 12, 18-24 December 02380 814442 01962 733810 paultonspark.co.uk watercressline.co.uk

Jungle Jeans 24th December 02380 638120 junglejeans.co.uk

Milestones 11, 12, 18 & 19 December 01256 477766 Milestones-museum.com

Exbury Santa Steam Specials 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th 21st December 02380 245750 exbury.co.uk

Baby Essentials Little Angels Prams

10 The Shirley Centre, Shirley Precinct, Southampton, SO16 4EY 02380 704040 littleangelsprams.co.uk Opening times: 10 – 5 (Mon – Sat)

Shoes

shoo hoo Ltd

7 Brook Court, Brook Street, Bishops Waltham, S032 1AX 01489 899001 shoo-hoo.com Opening times: 9.30 – 5 ( Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat) 9.30 – 6 (Tue & Thur) November – December 2010

Exbury Gardens

These are just some of the places Father Christmas will be visiting this year, but please remember to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Families Solent West

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What's On

We aim to be as accurate as possible but the listings are compiled several weeks beforehand and may be subject to change. Please contact venues in advance to check details and prices.

by Daniél Vaughan Where you see this symbol please visit...

www.hampshiretopattractions.co.uk k for more information and discount vouchers.

From Here To There Nuffield Theatre www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk 02380 671771 A show that’s full of the joy of building and knocking down, climbing over and crawling under, of hiding, of surprising and peek-a-boo! 11am & 1pm. £6, 18 months - 4 years.

Fireworks Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Make fireworks night go with a bang!

Enjoy the fun fair, take a ride on the miniature railway, and watch the colourful fireworks display. Doors open 6pm, fireworks at 7.30pm. In advance: adult £4.50, child £3. On the night: adult £7, child £5.

Walk the Line The Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810 Dust off your walking boots and hit the permanent way. Experience the railway from a different perspective by walking the ‘Watercress Line’ to raise funds for the Mid Hants Railway Preservation Society.

Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

NOVEMBER Monday 1st People at Work exhibition

by WH Allen Milestones Museum www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 WH Allen (1863-1943) was a painter and landscape artist who captured the traditional way of life on canvas before it disappeared beneath the wheels of progress. 11:00am.

1st Nov - 12th Dec

Tuesday 2nd Toddler Time Winchester Discovery Centre www.discoverycentres.co.uk/ winchester 01962 873603 2.15 to 2.45pm. Free, under 5s accompanied. No need to book.

Stories and simple activities to introduce parents and preschool children to a wide range of picture books and to help young children develop good listening skills.

Every Tuesday 14

Families Solent West

Thursday 4th Baby Bounce and Rhymetime Winchester Discovery Centre www.discoverycentres.co.uk/ winchester 01962 873603 9.45 to 10.15am and 11 to 11.30am.

Free, under 2s accompanied. No need to book. Toe-tapping, hand clapping, knee jogging songs and rhymes for children under 2 years and their parent/carer.

Wednesday 10th Stargazing Event Intech www.intech-uk.com 01962 863791 Formerly known as Telescope Amnesty. Regional Astronomy Societies let you look through their telescopes and give one-to-one advice to anyone bringing their own kit along. 6:30pm, age 8+.

Tour of the Night Sky Intech www.intech-uk.com 01962 863791 Live planetarium show about what you can see in the sky at this time of year. Running as part of the Space Lecture series. 8:30pm, age 8+.

Friday 12th Little Owls Parent and Toddler Club Countryside Education Trust Treehouse Study Centre, Beaulieu. www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Come and have fun and explore nature! Taster session and Friends of the Trust £4 per parent and child, £5.50 non-member.

Tuesday 9th

12th & 15th November, 3rd & 6th December

Winter Waddlers Toddler Club Testwood Lakes www.hwt.org.uk 023 8066 7929 10.30am–12noon or 1-2.30pm.

Wildlife walks, games and stories for 2-4 year-olds. Bring your wellies and waterproofs. All children must be accompanied by adults. Booking Essential.

The Hampshire Baby and Toddler Exhibition City Cruise Terminal, Southampton www.thehampshirebaby andtoddlerexhibition.co.uk Check website for further details or take a look at pages 8 & 21 for more information.

Saturday 13th

9th November & 14th December

Every Thursday During Term Time

Saturday 6th Saturday Arts Club Hanger Farm Arts Centre www.hangerfarm.co.uk 02380 667683 Come every week to experience something completely new and different! Check website for further details and weekly themes.

10:15 - 11:45. £5.

6th, 13th, 20th, 27th November, 4th December

The Watercress Line November – December 2010

What's On A Christmas Carol Nuffield Theatre

Thursday 25th A Christmas Carol – Nuffield Theatre www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk 02380 671771 Join in the Classic Christmas story this Christmastime.Various prices and times, check website for further details.

25th November 2010 8th January 2011

Friday 26th

Sounds Like – Nuffield Theatre www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk 02380 671771 Sounds Like invite its young audience on a discovery journey into the world of sounds and encourages them to help the sound collector in his attempt to create a sound symphony.

11am & 1pm. £6, 5 -11 years.

Sunday 14th Woodpeckers, Waders and Wellies Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Discover the winter birdlife found in the farmland, woodland and riverside on this guided walk. 11am at Barnfield Kiosk. Adult £3, Child £1.

Saturday 20th How The Koala Learned To Hug Nuffield Theatre www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk 02380 671771 Written especially for parents to enjoy with their children, How The Koala Learnt To Hug is a charming, tale about the magic of family and, of course, the importance of a nice warm hug! £6, 4+.

Santa’s Christmas Wonderland Paultons Park www.paultonspark.co.uk 02380 814442 Santa’s Christmas Wonderland is the best Christmas Attraction in the South. Children meet Santa in his toy factory and receive a super present.

All visits must be pre-booked.

20th, 21st, 27th, 28th November, 4th, 5th, 8th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd December

Sunday 21st Big Owls Countryside Education Trust Treehouse Study Centre, Beaulieu. www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401.

Fun, discovery activities for 4-6 year olds with adults. £6 per adult and child, £5 Friends of the Trust.

21st November & 12th December November – December 2010

Christmas at Marwell Marwell Wildlife www.marwell.org.uk/christmas 0844 736 4200 Let us take you on a magical journey this Christmas to meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their attentive elves.

Christmas Eve Party at 11:30 til 2:00 or 3:00 til 5:30

£16.00 per child (adults free)

December 24th 2010 • Visit Santa’s Grotto and receive a present • Tree Decorations • Biscuit Decorating • Hunt the Choc Santa • Crazy Tattoos • Fancy Dress • a Raffle • Party Bags and lots more...

Call 02380 638120 to book your ticket today!

Unit N, West Quay Ind Est, West Quay Road, Southampton, S015 1GZ

26th, 27th, 28th November, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th December A Victorian Festival of Christmas Portsmouth Historic Dockyard www.christmasfestival.co.uk 023 9283 9766 Stroll along a snow-covered Victorian Street, enjoy a visit to Fagin’s Tavern or our traditional Father Christmas (dressed in green) and find those unique gifts at our Christmas shopping market!

26th - 28th November

Saturday 27th Craft Fayre Titchfield Haven Nature Reserve www.hants.gov.uk/titchfield 01329 662145 Find a special Christmas gift amongst our local handmade craft stalls.

9.30am-4pm in the Visitor Centre.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS at the TREEHOUSE STUDY CENTRE, Beaulieu

12 Days of Christmas Party

for 5-9 year olds. Saturday 4th December.

1pm - 4pm at the Treehouse Study Centre, Beaulieu.

Fun party games indoors and out in the woods celebrating the 12 days of Christmas. Plus some seasonal crafts.

Cost: Friends of the Trust £7 per child. £8 for non-members.

27th & 28th November Dressing Queen Victoria Winchester Discovery Centre www.discoverycentres.co.uk/ winchester 01962 873603 11am, £10. You are cordially invited to to meet Her Majesty in the royal boudoir as she is dressed from corset to coronet in the magnificent fashions of the 1850s. Suitable for a family audience.

Natural Christmas Creations for all ages. Sunday 5th December.

2pm - 4pm at the Treehouse Study Centre, Beaulieu.

Take away your finished creations for Christmas presents and decorations. This event is aimed at families.

www.cet.org.uk

Cost: Friends of the Trust £5 per person. £5.50 for non-members.

Early booking recommended!

Tel. 01590 612401 or email mail@cet.org.uk

Sunday 28th Arabian Nights Winchester Discovery Centre www.discoverycentres.co.uk/ winchester 01962 873603 For ages 5 - 11 years, 11 am, £4.

Three tales found by the Queen of all storytellers – the incredible Sheherazade. Theatre of Woddershins takes you on an exciting journey through deserts, dunes, scented markets and seas, using puppets, masks, storytelling and wonderfully atmospheric music.

Families Solent West

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What's On Friday 3rd

DECEMBER Wednesday 1st The Wolves of Willoughby Chase Various Venues (check website for further details) www.forestforge.co.uk 01425 470188 A beautiful wintery theatre performance about good versus evil.

Suitable for children age 6+ and their families. Enjoy a wonderful and magic winter show.

1st December 2010, 3rd January 2011, 12th February 2011 Christmas Trail Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Wrap up warm for winter and take a walk through the park with our festive trail. All completed trails win a prize. £1.50 per trail, available from the Heritage Visitor Centre.

1st - 31st December

Winter Seasonal Trail Sir Harold Hillier Gardens www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 Fun family activity trail. Free with normal admission. 10am to 4pm.

3rd Dec - Onwards (check website for complete dates)

Saturday 4th 12 Days of Christmas party Countryside Education Trust Treehouse Study Centre, Beaulieu. www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401 Christmas Activity for 5-9 year olds.

1pm - 4pm. Fun party games indoors and out in the woods celebrating the 12 days of Christmas. Plus some seasonal crafts. Friends of the Trust £7 per child. £8 non-member.

Victorian Christmas Craft Fayre Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Get in the festive spirit and grab a gift at our craft fayre.Visit Santa in his grotto, get your face painted, and enjoy live festive entertainment. 10am-4pm.

4th & 5th December

Marwell Wildlife Santa Specials The Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810 Board the steam hauled ‘Santa Special’ and meet Santa himself!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa will give every child a gift in a special souvenir Santa sack. Children will also receive a soft drink and adults a glass of wine and mince pie!

4th, 5th, 11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, & 24th December

Sunday 5th Natural Christmas Creations Countryside Education Trust Treehouse Study Centre, Beaulieu. www.cet.org.uk 01590 612401.

A Family Christmas Craft Event for all ages. 2pm - 4pm. Take away your finished creations for Christmas presents and decorations.

This event is aimed at families.

Friends of the Trust £5 per person. £5.50 non-member.

Teatime with Father Christmas Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Father Christmas is popping in for tea, and you’re invited! Come and have a chat with Santa, and don’t forget your Christmas letter!

2.30-3.30pm. Normal farm admission charge applies.

Wednesday 8th Peter Pan the Pantomime Theatre Royal Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk 01962 840440 Your feet will hardly touch the ground in this magical pantomime version of Peter Pan, with original songs and music, lots of audience participation and some truly eyepopping surprises. Peter Pan the Pantomime is guaranteed fun for all the family.

8th December 2010 3rd January 2011

Saturday 11th Exbury Santa Steam Specials Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway www.exbury.co.uk 023 8089 1203 Wrap up warm and join in Christmas festivities at Exbury. A musical train ride awaits, through wintery gardens with seasonal characters to spot along the way. All children visit Santa’s Magical Grotto for a personal family meeting with Santa.

Pre-booking essential.

11th, 12th, 18th, 19th, 20th & 21st December

5th & 19th December 16

Families Solent West

November – December 2010

What's On

November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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What's On Thursday 16th

Peter Pan the Pantomime Theatre Royal Winchester

Children’s Christmas Crafts Sir Harold Hillier Gardens www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 Enjoy making Christmassy things and other decorative crafts with natural materials from the Gardens to take home. Free with normal admission (kids free). Booking by timed ticket on the day. 11am to 3pm.

16th - 23rd December

Friday 17th

Pantomime Themed Christmas Evening Milestones Museum www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 Join our costumed interpreters as they perform their Milestones themed ‘Cinders’ pantomime throughout the evening. Walk through the decorated streets of the museum and visit the gift and craft stalls for christmas gifts, listen to traditional music and more! 7pm - 10:30pm.

Father Christmas Grotto Milestones Museum www.milestones-museum.com 01256 477766 Treat your children or grandchildren to a traditional visit to see Father Christmas in his grotto at Milestones Museum from 11.15am - 4.45pm. A visit to see Father Christmas costs £3 per child aged up to 15 yrs where your child will be given a quality gift.

11th, 12th, 18th & 19th December Royal Victoria Railway Santa Specials Royal Victoria Country Park www.royalvictoriarailway.co.uk 02380 455157 Take a ride to Santa’s grotto on the miniature steam engine. Every child under 10 receives a festive gift. Trains leave at 12, 1, 2, 3 and 4pm. Meet at Chapel Road Station. Tickets £10 per person when booked before 26th November, tickets purchased after this date £12.

11th, 12th, 18th & 19th December Candlelit Carol Concert Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Sing along to some festive favourites, in the beautiful setting on Netley’s Victorian Chapel. 7pm. Adult £4, Child and Over 60 £3, please book in advance. Tickets available from 15th November.

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Families Solent West

Sunday 12th Christmas Market and Festivities Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Pick up a perfect Christmas gift, enjoy live entertainments, visit Santa’s stable, and dress up in the interactive nativity. 10am-5pm. Normal farm admission charge applies.

Brass Band at Christmas Sir Harold Hillier Gardens www.hilliergardens.org.uk 01794 369318 Come and enjoy your favourite Christmas music performed by Southampton’s Ocean Brass.

Free admission.

Tuesday 14th Forest Forge Tots – Stickman Forest Forge Theatre Company, The Theatre Centre, Ringwood www.forestforge.co.uk 01425 470188 Creative workshops for the under 5s and an accompanying adult. Forest Forge Tots is led by professional workshop leader Lisa Halpin and includes rhymes, stories, drama, movement and crafts – all based on the classic book Stickman! £1.50 per child payable at the start of the session. Please note, children must be accompanied by an adult – who are expect to join in the fun!

Wednesday 15th Away in a Manger – the Manor Farm Nativity Manor Farm Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm 01489 787055 Using live characters, animals from the farm, and everyone’s favourite Christmas carols, the nativity story unfolds in this very special guided farmyard walk, followed by your chance to meet the animals. 6.15pm or 7.30pm.

Ideal for ages 5+. Adult £7.50, Child £5, admission by advance ticket only.

15th & 16th December

Fun on Fridays For Under Fives Hanger Farm Arts Centre www.hangerfarm.co.uk 02380 667683 Come and get involved in a fun arts and drama project for families! Free.

10:30 - 11:30.

Saturday 18th Victorian Christmas at Beaulieu Palace House, Beaulieu www.beaulieu.co.uk 01590 612345 Visit Beaulieu this Festive Season for a glimpse of Christmas Past in a Victorian country house. Palace House, home of the Montagu family since 1538, is a place of enchantment at this special time of year. Children can delve into a ‘Box of Delights’ and dress up in period costumes while in the Lower Drawing Room there will be carol singing around the grand piano for everyone to enjoy.

18th December 2010 2nd January 2011 Carols & Wreaths Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp 02380 466091 Join us for a festive celebration. Make a Christmas wreath, eat a mince pie and have a glass of mulled wine.

3.00pm to 5.00pm. Cost £4.00 adults, £3.50 concessions. Booking Essential.

Monday 20th Cheap Cheep – Christmas Tree Treats Blashford Lakes www.hwt.org.uk 01425 472760 1-3pm. Drop in any time during the session to make some natural tree decorations that the garden birds will enjoy during the Christmas festivities. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

some simple activities along the way.

Suitable for adults and families with children over 4 years. Please wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear.

All children must be accompanied by adults. Booking Essential.

Goldilocks Hanger Farm Arts Centre www.hangerfarm.co.uk 02380 667683 With traditional glove puppets and live music, this is a Christmas treat for the whole family! 2pm. £7.

Wednesday 22nd Go Green Gang’s Christmas Craft Day Royal Victoria Country Park www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 02380 455157 Make your own festive decorations using natural materials from the country park. £3 per child, please book in advance. In Acorns Education Facility.

Christmas Past, Present and Future Testwood Lakes www.hwt.org.uk 023 8066 7929 10am-3pm. Drop in anytime during the session to discover a green Christmas. Create your own Christmas scene, make a holly wreath and listen to Winter Tales with a warm drink and a mince pie.

Suggested donation £2.50. All children must be accompanied by adults.

Thursday 23rd AndyCadabra’s Magical Christmas Show Hanger Farm Arts Centre www.hangerfarm.co.uk 02380 667683 Parents, Children, and Grandparents all love AndyCadabra’s specially designed Festive Magic! £5/£3 concessions, 1pm & 3pm.

Sunday 26th WWII Christmas Leave The Watercress Line www.watercressline.co.uk 01962 733810 Civilian and military welcome – Bring your family and friends along to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a Second World War Christmas, with civilian and military re-enactors, vehicles and more!

26th & 27th December

Tuesday 21st Chill Out Earthwalk Testwood Lakes www.hwt.org.uk023 8066 7929 1.30-3pm. Escape the Christmas crush and join in on a quiet earthwalk around Testwood Lakes Wildlife Reserve. A chance to wind down and open your eyes to nature through

Please sayy you saw it in Families Solent West November – December 2010

Advertising on a regular basis with us brings your cost of advertising down and gives you continuity of advertising in the magazine that really works for you. Make sure your advert is seen, Advertise with Families Solent West!

Book your space today, email ads@familiessolentwest.co.uk or give us a call to discuss further 01329 310994. We would love to discuss your advertising requirements and we can ensure your business receives the correct amount of exposure it really needs.

November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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Theatre

Restaurant Reviews ‘Caracoli’ of Alresford

Pizza Express

15 Broad Street, Alresford, Hampshire SO24 9AR 01962 738 730

32 Broad St, Alresford, SO24 9AQ 01962 738 758

All country market towns need a good specialist food and coffee house. In Alresford the locals are lucky enough to find it under one roof! Caracoli offers high quality coffees and teas alongside exceptional standards of food. If you are after something outstanding for a special occasion then this is the place to go.

Olive oils from as far a field as New Zealand and Tuscany, wine from Nabygelegen in the Cape, Artisan Scotch Eggs from the Handmade Scotch Egg Company, honey from Bees Online in Auckland and much more.

To make it even easier to enjoy such fine produce Caracoli has just opened a new online store, home to a large proportion of Caracoli store products.

Owners Gail & James Nichols want to share their passion for the food and drink they serve. Every last Thursday of the month is Ladies Night serving great food in a relaxed environment. Also on Wednesday 1st December there will be a Festive Tasting Day featuring Caracoli’s very own Great Taste Awards Gold Medal winning mince meat which will be used to make the tastiest mince pies..

Caracoli, a cracker of a coffee house in Alresford.

For further information contact enquires@caracoli.co.uk

What is it about Pizza Express that makes it so popular? Well the food is fabulous, that goes without saying. Is it the versatility, it can be all things to all men.

For all of us it has been a great place to take the family, the perfect venue to catch up with old friends plus on occasion an excellent romantic meal for two!

Alresford’s Pizza Express is no exception. Set in the historic surrounds of the town centre it fits perfectly into the surroundings. One thing Pizza Express has never done is shout from the roof tops we are here and I respect them for that.

The restaurant is understated but very calming and relaxing.

The menu has evolved over the years but many of the firm favourites are still there. I can thoroughly recommend the Antipasto starter to share with a loved one, the perfect combination of classic Italian hams, olives, salad and breadsticks.

As ever the Sloppy Giuseppe just refuses to disappoint and you can never, ever not appreciate the decadence that is Chocolate Fudge Cake.

One of the best things about dining here has always been the children’s menu.

Outstanding value for money and exceptional quality, next time I want a Bambachinno!!!

Pizza Express in Alresford, go on, give yourself an excuse to go. You will love it!!!

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Families Solent West

November – December 2010

Speciall Events

Local Events

Winchester Christmas Market

There’s no better time to visit Winchester than at Christmas, the historic city centre is dressed with Christmas lights and the crisp winter air is scented with roasting chestnuts and mulled wine.

At the heart of the city’s festive celebration is the Cathedral, its Christmas Market and real open-air ice rink.

Hampshire is expecting a new baby show!

The Hampshire Baby and Toddler Exhibition is an exciting new event for Hampshire and the South East area on Saturday 13 November at the City Cruise Terminal, Southampton. With over 60 exhibitors showcasing a range of products, services and advice for pregnancy, birth, babies and toddlers all offering amazing choice and exceptional value. The show promises to be fun, interesting and enjoyable but more importantly, it will give visitors the chance to meet and get to know what services and products are available within the area. From maternity wear, classic toys, clothing and pregnancy advice to photography, baby swimming, pushchairs, books, organic and eco-friendly products, the show will cover the essential part of having a baby.

As well as the exhibition, the event also includes entertainment in the demonstrations area. There will be taster sessions for mums, dads, babies and toddlers. Demos include football for toddlers from Little Kickers, Jo Jingles will be offering music and movement for babies and toddlers as well as a workout for mums from Pushy Mothers. Dads will also get a chance to have a question and answer session with a male midwife, and Mothercare will be demonstrating the latest in pushchair technology. The New Forest Nappy Network will be putting on a real nappy fashion show and talking about how a family can save money and help the environment by switching to real nappies.

Within will be a baby feeding centre which is supported by the Southampton branch of the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), a baby changing facility sponsored by Nappy Bliss in conjunction with the New Forest Nappy Network and as part of the show the event will be supporting Naomi House Children’s Hospice, a local charity who provide support to children and young people who are not expected to live beyond their 25th Birthday. Naomi House offers respite visits, hospice at home care and family support to them and their families. Naomi House will be doing lots of fundraising activities on the day.

Giveaway’s will include 500 VIP goody bags filled with information, vouchers and products from Plum Baby, Hipp Organic, Vitabiotics and Organix and Mum-to-be and Family packs from Bounty.

There will be competitions, including a ‘Face of the baby show’, exclusive show offers, shopping discounts as well as expert advice and information. Parking is free at the venue and tickets for the show are £3.50 if bought in advance and can be purchased on the website; www.thehampshirebabyandtoddlerexhibition.co.uk or email: info@dreameventmgt.co.uk November – December 2010

Christmas Market Thursday 25 November – Sunday 19 December 10am – 6pm Sunday – Wednesday 10am – 8pm Thursday – Saturday

Ice Rink 25 November – 3 January A temporary open-air real ice rink is built in the centre of the Cathedral’s historic Inner Close for the Christmas celebrations and is enjoyed by more than 40,000 people. Skating is fun for people of all ages and abilities so it’s a great way to spend time with friends and family. The Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop to the ice rink, which for much of the time is surrounded by our Christmas Market. The adjoining café offers a warm welcome, a wide selection of hot and cold food and drinks and a perfect view of the rink.

Booking Information: Buy tickets online www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk, by phone (01962 857 276) or in person from Winchester Cathedral Box Office (The Visitors’ Centre, The Close, Winchester, SO23 9LS), or the Ice Rink Box Office, Education Centre, The Inner Close from 22 November.

Booking and postage fees apply.

It’s ‘Panto’ Time!

Peter Pan the Pantomime Prepare to be swept off your feet in Theatre Royal Winchester’s most enchanting pantomime yet, based on J M Barrie’s classic children’s tale of make-believe and adventure.

Join Peter Pan and Wendy in Neverland as they embark on a host of adventures. They meet the band of lost boys, a shimmer of mermaids, a gaggle of squaws led by Tiger Lily, a mischievous fairy called Tinker Bell and a very hungry crocodile. But their biggest challenge is to evade the evil clutches of Captain Hook and his dastardly accomplice Smee.

Your feet will hardly touch the ground in this magical pantomime version of Peter Pan, with original songs and music, lots of audience participation and some truly eye-popping surprises. Peter Pan the Pantomime is guaranteed fun for all the family.

Wed 8 Dec 2010 to Mon 3 Jan 2011 – Theatre Royal Winchester www.theatreroyalwinchester.co.uk Box office 01962 840440

A Christmas Carol WINTER – times is ‘ard. Spare a copper for the poor Cratchit family at the corner…

Mister Scrooge is having none of it. “Christmas? Bah Humbug!” But sshh!

Look, it’s Marley’s spooky ghost come to teach Scrooge a lesson. The three mischievous Spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come, work their special magic. Mr and Mrs Fezziwig chortle fit to bursting, Bob Cratchit sings the sweetest Christmas song to Tiny Tim, and slowly, oh so slowly, the snow frozen around Mister Scrooge’s heart begins to melt… perhaps the Cratchits will get turkey and plum pudding after all!

A joyous tale, and HUGE FUN for children and grown-ups of all ages, with a chance to join in if you like, and a prize for the Dad with the best Christmas hat! Go on - make your Dad a hat!!

25th Nov 2010 – 8th January 2011 – The Nuffield www.nuffieldtheatre.co.uk Box office 02380 671771 Families Solent West

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s a e d I t f i G Christmas

Award Winning Hampshire Malt Biscuit Gift Box – £9.50 + P&P 3 Star Gold Great Taste Award winning biscuits for cheese – Hampshire Malt and Hampshire Ploughman’s, in a gift box with lovely Hampshire Jam & Chutney Company Caramalised Red Onion Chutney. The gift selection is perfect as a gift for cheese lovers.

01489 895 449 littlerosebakery.co.uk

A Reading Chest Gift Voucher is the perfect present for children

learning to read. A voucher costs from £25 for a 3 month membership to Reading Chest, the book rental service for 4 to 9 year olds. Children will then enjoy receiving their own deliveries of wonderful reading books, perfectly suited to their ability. The gift voucher package also includes a book to keep forever, a book bag, a reward chart and stickers. Go to www.readingchest.co.uk to find out more.

The Organised Mum 2011 Life Book diary with cover – £26.99 This is the ideal Christmas gift for busy women on the go. Combining practicality with a touch of luxury, the A5 Life Book diary is specifically designed for women to help them keep up to speed with home, work and family commitments whilst the luxury high finish faux leather cover will keep the diary looking neat and stylish year after year. www.boxhousepublishing.com

The ‘Wintergarden’ candle – really sets the scene for a wonderful winter with deliciously mellow autumn notes of fig and pomegranate floating over a rainfreshened English country estate, with topiary trees and late-flowering lilies. The candle is priced at £25 and is available from www.stevalcandlecompany.co.uk

“Find it” from University Games

All you have to do is twist, shake or spin, find an item in the capsule, tick it off your sheett and then pass the game onto the next person (or have another go yourself if playing alone). e).

There are three versions of “Find it” – Glitz & Glamour, Sports and Kids.

It is available in all good toy stores and online www.universitygames.co.uk 22

Families Famili ili liees So li Solent olent We West st

November – December 2010

Competition

Win 1 of 3 Family Tickets (family tickets include 2 adults & 3 children)

Sat 11, Sun 12, Sat 18, Sun 19, Mon 20, Tues 21 Dec

Exbury Santa Steam Specials Wrap up warm and join in Christmas festivities at Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway in the New Forest. Departing Exbury Central platform, beautifully decorated with greenery cut from the Gardens, enjoy a musical train ride through a festive-light filled tunnel and wintery scenes, with seasonal characters to spot along the way. Make sure you’re singing loudly and perhaps Exbury’s reindeer and snowmen will magically come to life!

There’s hot punch for adults & a festive chocolate for children. All children visit Santa’s Magical Grotto for a personal family meeting with Simply answer the following question to win: Santa, where they will receive a quality gift-wrapped present. Lots What is the restaurant called at Exbury Gardens? of free photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs Christmas, snowmen and reindeer, to take away lasting memories. Take home some lastTo enter just send your name, address and contact minute Christmas shopping from Exbury’s Gift Shop and Plant number to Families Solent West, P O Box 630, Centre. Why not follow the special Christmas Trail around the Fareham, Hampshire, PO14 9HZ. Gardens? Warming meals in Mr Eddy’s Restaurant. Tickets £12 and Closing date 26th November 2010. £6 for under 3’s. Group discounts available on 11, 20 & 21 Dec.

Best of Luck!

Pre-booking essential on 023 8024 5750.

Where can you find the best Autumn days out?

Classifieds Parties

Music

House & Garden Home & Garden Services

www.familiessolentwest.co.uk is packed with really useful local information to help make your family life a little easier.

Solent West’s leading parenting magazine is now available to view ONLINE or to download as a pdf.

Login and learn more.

November – December 2010

• Decorating Inside & Out • Loft Boarding & Insulation • Garden Maintenance • Licenced Waste Carrier • Public Liability Insurance

Tuition

Call Hugh on 01794 500519 – 07736 830249 for a FREE quote

Business Opportunites Your own home Business.

Health, Household, Skincare & Cosmetic Products. Unique product positioning. Start free this month!

Internet access required. Your own free website! www.ourhealthplus.co.uk Tel: Caroline 01271 867022 Families Solent West

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November – December 2010

Families Solent West

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