Heath extravaganza returns!
August 13, 2021
The popular Secrets of the Heath event returns next month, celebrating our local heathland’s vibrant history and wildlife with an action-packed programme.
The festival takes place over the weekend of 4 and 5 of September from 11am to 4pm at Hogmoor Inclosure, near Bordon, in Hampshire.
From a Stone Age camp, have-a-go archery, to close encounters with reptiles that call the heath home, there are activities to keep the whole family entertained.
As well as re-enactments, and immersive storytelling sessions, visitors to the free annual festival can bring their dog and have a go at the Countryside Dog Ability Challenge, win a certificate and sign up to support our #TakeTheLead campaign. On Saturday night there is also the chance to join in an expert-led bat walk around the inclosure.
Colin Carré, Project Manager for Heathlands Reunited, said: “We’re so pleased to be able to bring this community event to Bordon this year.
“As coronavirus restrictions are lifted, it’s wonderful to be able to hold these in-person events once again, following what has been a tough year for so many. We hope the weekend of exciting events will encourage visitors of all ages in the local area to learn more about our unique and fascinating heathland habitat.”
The event will take place within the Government’s Covid guidelines.
The festival has moved from Petersfield to Bordon this year to celebrate the legacy of the Heathlands Reunited project, which focuses on the Wealden Heath Special Protection Areas situated around Bordon. Working with local authorities and organisations such as the Deadwater Valley Trust and The Land Trust, the project aims to inform, inspire and engage local communities to use their heathland sites in a responsible and sustainable way.
Heaths are rare and protected habitat which are home to a wide variety of fascinating and endangered wildlife species, including the Sand lizard, Natterjack toad and Nightjar.
The festival is organised by the Heathlands Reunited project.
