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.

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

On Saturday 14th July we are throwing open the doors of the Study Centre and welcoming everyone to help us celebrate 50 wonderful years of Minstead Study Centre.  Join us between 12.30 and 4.30 for food, drink, music, crafts, activities, games, stories, animals, history, dancing - and much more.  It's free to enter and most activities are free too.   Come and help us celebrate!