How to Find Us:

Our sessions take place in Stoke Park Woods, Bishopstoke, Hampshire SO50 6BW.

On entry to the woods via the carpark proceed through the gate. There are then 3 paths running left, straight ahead and right. Take the right hand path and continue for 5 -10 minutes (depending on the speed of little legs!) Our site is just off the main path to the left after you go around the bend. A notice will signpost you to where we are.

Our what 3 words location is comet.human.adults.

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Stoke Park Woods are managed by Forestry England whose work aims to protect, care and promote woodlands for people (recreation and well being), nature (wildlife and healthy forests), the climate (addressing the climate emergency) and the economy (providing sustainable timber).

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Things to be aware of:

Sessions run in all weather except for high winds and lightening so please come prepared in suitable clothing including change of clothes/footwear. We recommend long trousers and sleeves and sturdy shoes/wellies to provide protection from undergrowth, uneven ground and insect bites, including ticks. Waterproof trousers and jackets will keep you and your child warm and dry whilst exploring the woodland.

There is limited free parking at the entrance to the woods. Alternatively there is usually plenty of parking on the road outside, please park considerately of residents. If you are local please consider travelling by bus or on foot where possible.

We are in the public woodland and so may have other people/dog walkers passing nearby.

There are no toilet facilities in the woods, we will have a camping toilet and tent available for emergencies.

 

What do the sessions involve?

The focus of each session is to encourage child led play and investigation alongside other children and adults in a supportive and welcoming environment. We believe that our sessions should be  beneficial to adults too! Enjoy a swing in the hammock and play alongside your child (our more adult-led activities like crafts will always be suitable for the children but are often most enjoyed by the adults!).

We run on a ‘leave no trace’ basis so there will be some simple items and activities set up for when you arrive, but none of them are compulsory. Children might choose to do some mud 'cooking', explore natural paints, climb and balance on trees and logs, make dens, look for minibeasts, use simple tools to create things or relax in a hammock with a story. The opportunities for play in the woods are endless! 

About half way through the session we’ll have some drinks and a snack to give us a chance to come together as a community.  We usually bring our sessions to a close with some giant bubbles!