New Forest Romany Heritage Event

About the event

In Boldre and Thorney Hill this May we will see the arrival of an important heritage exhibition, which reflects local Romany Gypsy life through photographs, crafts and performance, and which sensitively marks the opening of the New Forest Gypsy compounds a century ago.

What to expect

This developed exhibition had its first outing in 2024 and now has 300 more images (800 in total) that speak to lived experience, family history and community memory in the New Forest. The 2026 exhibition has been brought together to remember the compound system that began in 1926, and the people connected to them.

Alongside the photographs and information, there will be craftspeople showcasing equestrian paintings, Romany models, vardos, peg-making, basket-weaving and traditional step dance.

There will be Authors selling books, and information stands from Romany & Travellers Family History Society, Kushti Bok and health services.

There will be refreshments available, including a burger van brought by Tracy Cooper, and cakes for sale served by volunteers.

The itinerary varies for each location, please keep up to date by visiting the venue pages on https://tinyurl.com/2sdahzb8 or by following https://tinyurl.com/vx52dybt. 

Where and When

Boldre War Memorial Hall

22nd – 25th May 10:00am-4:00pm

Thorney Hill Community Centre

30th May 12:00-4:00pm

31st May – 1st June 10:00am-4:00pm

With Special thanks to Tony Johnson, Steve Antczak, Rebecca Johnson and Katie Light.