Rain didn’t dampen the conversation at our first networking walk on Monday 12 October, which brought together people involved in community and creative activity across the New Forest.

Starting at The Drift Inn, the walk was hosted by Culture in Common in collaboration with the New Forest National Park Authority and Creative Forest. Community Anchors, local artists, community leaders and representatives from New Forest District Council joined us for a relaxed opportunity to meet, share ideas and get to know one another.

A chance to connect

Jim Mitchell from the New Forest National Park Authority led the one-hour circular walk along one of the Authority’s accessible routes, sharing insights into the Forest along the way.

Walking together gave everyone space to chat, exchange experiences and explore possibilities for working together. Afterwards, the conversations continued over a complimentary coffee at The Drift Inn.

Thank you to everyone who came along and braved the weather, and to Jim for leading the walk.

What’s next?

This first walk was a pilot for a longer programme, and participants’ feedback has helped shape what comes next. One suggestion was to give future walks a theme, offering a chance to discover different aspects of the Forest while meeting new people.

We’re now planning quarterly networking walks with the National Park Authority from January to October 2027. Themes will explore archaeology and history, commoning, wildlife, and the Forest’s coast and salt-making heritage.

You don’t need to already be involved with Culture in Common to join us. If you’re interested in local creative activity, run a community group or would like to make connections with others across the Forest, we’d love to welcome you.

Dates and booking details will be shared through our website and newsletter as the programme develops.