The New Forest, located in Hampshire, is a captivating destination that blends natural beauty, rich wildlife, and deep historical roots. Designated as a protected site in 1079 by William the Conqueror, the New Forest boasts nearly a thousand years of history, making it an outstanding site for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the New Forest National Park, visitors can enjoy a perfect family day filled with a diverse range of outdoor activities, from leisurely walks to more adventurous pursuits.

This year's LGBTQ+ history month is themed around medicine. Florence Nightingale is one person connected to this area of Hampshire who has been hypothesised by historians to have been LGBTQ+ in some way.

The New Forest has been an inspiration for many nature enthusiasts, both amateur and professional. Eric Ashby was one of them, and we are helping to promote the engagement of young people with nature by delving into our archives and seeing which birds are still making the New Forest their habitat. The RSPB is offering free access to their 21 most popular reserves for 16 to 24-year-olds. Be a part of something great and save our birds from extinction.

For International Women's Day, we celebrate the remarkable life and work of Miss Félicité Frances Hardcastle, a pioneer in history, archaeology, and botany. She paved the way for women to follow in her footsteps with her passion and dedication. Her unwavering commitment to her work and community serves as an inspiration to us all.