By Isle of Wight Observer
The Island’s largest garden fair is back later this month, promising two full days of entertainment, demonstrations, and family fun in the stunning grounds of Wolverton Manor.
The popular ‘Hare Garden’ will feature West Wight Alpacas and demonstrations from Ability Dogs 4 Young People throughout the weekend. On the manor lawn, magician David Randini will perform his daily Magic Moments show, followed by a classic Punch & Judy performance each afternoon.
Historical enthusiasts can enjoy Elizabethan re-enactments and dancing with passamezzo, alongside cookery demonstrations, a traditional still room, and Annie the Pedlar.
Outdoor activities include kayaking around the moat with Tackt-Isle Adventures, ‘Have-a-Go Archery’ in the Country & Moat Field, with Wight Bowmen, chainsaw carving, by Mark Buckett, and daily flying displays from SWB Falconry’s birds of prey will also feature.
Each afternoon, local dog obedience group Barking Mad will host a fun dog show – open to all, with rosettes up for grabs in light-hearted rounds.
The fair also showcases Island craftsmanship, with displays from the IW Embroiderers, Guild of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers, Coppice Group, and the Vintage Tractor & Engine Club.
Children can enjoy vintage amusements, bouncy castles, and slides, while over 180 garden and craft exhibitors fill the showground with treasures to find.
The show is open from 10am to 5pm on both days and parking is free. Tickets are £8 on the gate (children under 14 go free) with advance tickets (£6) available at Brighstone Village Shop, Waterstones Newport, and Hose Rhodes Dickson Ryde.
A full itinerary and exhibitor list will be published in the IW Observer on Friday, August 29.
Carole Dennett 
Mal Butler