Event NewsRun Beaulieu – 12th of OctoberThursday 14th August 2025Learn More
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What we do
Established in 1975, The Countryside Education Trust’s mission is to connect people with the countryside. Forty years ago we were pioneers, but now we are experts! We introduce people to the wonders of the British countryside, rural life and farming. Our expert teaching team tailors national curriculum-based modules to the needs of each school and we have great feedback from our visitors.
Farm Life
We welcome schools all year, with an emphasis on hands-on, outdoor learning. Schools visit for a week, half a week or a day. Residential visitors experience daily life on the farm, collecting eggs from our hens for breakfast, helping with animal feeding and picking their own vegetables from the garden.Farm Life
Based at Home Farm in the New Forest, we also have Treehouses close by in ancient woodland. Blessed by a wonderful position, close to woods, a river, heathland and the sea, we have a variety of habitats on our doorstep and teach a wide range of environmental and bush craft activities.Farm Life
Beaulieu village, the historic Palace House and monastery, and the National Motor Museum are all within walking distance. Slightly further afield is Bucklers’ Hard, a historic shipbuilding village, reached by a lovely riverside walk.-
- Schools trips in the forest
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- Pond dipping in the river nearby
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- Bird of prey
The Countryside for Everyone
We run regular playgroups Owlets (0-2), Little Owls (2-4) and Big Owls (4-6). The general public is welcome for family days and we hold a variety of events and courses throughout the year to introduce people to country living, rural crafts and wildlife. Home Farm is perfect for groups of families or friends who want to spend time in the countryside and our Treehouses host truly beautiful weddings.
Upcoming Events
Volunteers: Farm conservation- Plum tree pruning
1st September 2025
10:30am
Back in the orchard so soon? Needs must as after clearing all the trees of plums for jams, crumbles and healthy snacking; we need to help the plum trees to do their best next year and now is the time. There might be time for some other orchard or garden jobs but this is the...
Family Pony Picnic Walk
3rd September 2025
12:00pm
*Pony Picnic – This is a one family event with space for 4-8 family members taking part* Have you met our Shetland Ponies Lala and Po? Did you know they love to go for long walks… while carrying a picnic?! You may have seen them at Explore Your Outdoors when they did our pony walks....
Little Owls: Apple Day
11th September 2025
10:00am
Picking apples, craft with apples, juicing apples and most importantly – eating apples! We need the Little Owl’s help getting the apple harvest going this year, it should be a good one. Bring a bottle along to take some tasty, hand-made fruit juice home with you. Please note: Ticket includes one child and an accompanying...
Vineyard Tour and Wine Tasting Event
18th September 2025
04:00pm
The Countryside Education Trust is marking it’s 50th Anniversary year! Join us for a special evening fundraising event. Learn about the work of the Trust, enjoy a unique guided walking tour of the Vineyard at Beaulieu and explore the ancient woodlands. The evening includes canapes and a drink as well as the opportunity to taste...
Owlets: Needle Felting
19th September 2025
10:00am
Using wool from our farm, we will be needle felting our own creations! Please note: Ticket includes one child and an accompanying adult, and we’re unable to accommodate non-participating siblings. We need supervising adults to be able to give 100% of their attention to the child taking part in the session to ensure that everyone...