Little Troopers New Forest Reconnection Weekend – next events are Dorset, 25 to 27 July, and 26 to 28 Sept

'Group of children photographed with Little Troopers Founder, Louise’

Military families were brought together this week when Little Troopers, the children’s military charity, hosted a New Forest family reconnection weekend.

In January, the organisation revealed they were launching a series of four fully-funded family reconnection weekends for forces families to spend quality time together outdoors, funded by Team Forces.

The weekend was the second one to take place, with eight families taking part in action-packed activities at the New Forest Outdoor Centre in Lyndhurst, Dorset.

Families arrived on Friday (13th June), kicking off the weekend by taking part in an evening woodland nature walk, before staying in shepherd’s huts.

On the second day, families got to try out raft building and racing on Leominstead Lake, followed by archery and bushcraft, a BBQ cooked by the parents, and campfire games for the children in the evening. Families headed home on Sunday 15th June after a morning of trying out high and low ropes amongst the trees and enjoying some Father’s Day treats.

Northern Ireland: Wake The Giant Festival - Saturday 28th - Sunday 29th June

 

Wake the Giant is one of Northern Ireland’s most spectacular summer festivals, set against the stunning backdrop of Warrenpoint in the Mourne Mountains & Ring of Gullion. This family-friendly event brings local legend to life with giant-themed street theatre, live music, Giant's Parades, and interactive performances that celebrate the mythical tale of Fionn the Giant. Perfect for a weekend break or day trip, Wake the Giant blends arts, culture, and folklore into an unforgettable outdoor festival experience on the scenic shores of Carlingford Lough.

For more details, please click here

Information provided by HIVE NI

Catterick: E50k Armed Forces Day Community Picnic 22nd June

 

This Sunday, join us for a completely FREE community event in Catterick Garrison! 

Begin a week of Armed Forces celebrations with a delightful picnic in our allotment 
Just bring your blankets, camp chairs, your favourite treats and your friends and family 

Featuring:
Entertainment from Charm Productions UK
Free face painting by LINDY POPS
Beautiful donkeys from the Long Ears Donkey Centre - Home of Blackberry Donkeys
Fun storytime and activities with Sunshine Sensory UK
An adorable petting zoo presented by Belle's Beasties CIC
Plus family games

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Grantham: St Anne's Community Fun Day

Information provided by Grantham HIVE

 

London: London Palladium Evita

 

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Newcastle: Newcastle Pride 19th July

Newcastle Pride is set to return for a city-wide takeover this summer, following the success of last year’s transformative event​​. We've announced some big changes which we believe will make this year’s event even better.

New venues are on board to amplify the city take over. First up is the iconic Theatre Royal which will place host to the incredibly popular Family and Youth Zone. Whilst independent theatre, Alphabetti, will support the delivery of a new zone. The Trans+ Zone will provide a safe, celebratory, and empowering area for the region’s trans and non-binary community.

In 2024, over 16,500 people marched with us, weaving through the city, down the iconic Northumberland Street and passed the historic Grey’s Monument.

The city becomes awash with all the colours of the rainbow.

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

LEEDS: Leeds Pride - The biggest celebration of LGBTQ+ life in Yorkshire 20th July

 
Welcome to Leeds Pride, the biggest celebration of LGBTQ+ life in Yorkshire!

Leeds Pride is one of the biggest one-day festivals in Leeds City Centre! It has undoubtedly become a huge contributor to the local economy with over 70,000 choosing to visit last year, and attendance numbers are growing every year!

Each year, the colourful parade kicks off at Millennium Square, winding its way through the city streets and culminating on Lower Briggate by The Calls, where the festivities begin. 

The parade is not only a celebration of pride and solidarity, but also a significant economic driver, contributing an estimated £3.8 million to the city centre. 

Last year saw the biggest ever parade with over 167 organisations in attendance throughout the day. Leeds Pride now attracts people from all over the UK and overseas, whilst still remaining free for all to attend

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

Invitation to attend Financial Literacy Focus Groups

Introduction

Financial literacy is a key life skill and is critical to the development of our personal and collective resilience. The Financial Times charity FLIC is has funding to expand financial literacy into the Armed Forces and they are running 2 online focus groups in June and one face to face focus group in July (details below). 20-30 Service personnel and family members across a mix of ranks, ethnicity and gender are being sought for each focus group, to help FLIC understand the financial challenges that the Armed Forces face, and the information that would be useful.

The three focus groups will take place on the following dates/times:

19 Jun 25 (1130-1230 tbc) – Online focus group delivered by via MS TEAMS (25 pers)

24 Jun 25 (0900-1000 tbc) – Online focus group delivered via MS TEAMS (25 pers)

17 Jul 25 0900-1200 – Face to face focus group delivered by FLIC, Buller Conference Centre, St Omer, Aldershot. (35 pers). Civilian attire, lunch at PAYD facility.

Register interest here: https://forms.office.com/e/at8DSE3evc

Volunteers will be asked to take part in a discussion to help shape a package that informs our Service community in a way that is relevant, engaging and accessible. The discussion will explore their topics of interest, financial challenges and how they want to receive the information. The session will also include the opportunity to test video and e-learning platform capabilities.

Darlington: Proms in the Park 6th July

Each year, we (ABF) work with the Royal Signals (Northern) Band and Darlington Borough Council to host Proms in the Park, Darlington. 

It is a free open-air concert at the Bandstand on Sunday 6th July 2025 (14:00 to 17:30); we regularly get 
around 2k – 2.5k+ members of the public attend.

There is no need to pre-book, it is just a case of turning up (hopefully with a picnic) and enjoying the afternoon.

Information provided by North HIVE Hub

London: Royal Botanic Gardens Kew

 

Kew Gardens

Discover the world of science behind our botanical collections, with over 50,000 living plants to be found across our UNESCO World Heritage site.

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Chepstow: Chepstow LGBTQIA+ Pride Events - 28 & 29 June 25

 
Chepstow Town Council:

We’re proud to support Chepstow Pride: the LGBTQIA+ Community of Chepstow and their incredible line-up of events this June! 🌈

From a celebratory Parkrun and a special service at St Mary’s Priory, to a joyful parade and festivities at The Bandstand – it’s set to be a weekend full of love, pride, and community spirit. 

Follow Chepstow Pride for full details and join us in celebrating inclusivity and unity in our town!

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Folkestone: Parkrun Every Saturday at 0900hrs

Click HERE for more information.

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Maidstone: Leeds Castle Knights Retreat

 

|Knights’ Retreat

Knights’ RETREAT

Knight Knight, Sleep Tight

NOW OPEN for bookings, stays available from 18th July 2025! This NEW getaway invites dreamers and adventurers to discover one of eight cosy lodges. Named after mythical creatures such as the Basilisk, Minotaur and Gryphon. Inspired by Queen Eleanor of Castile’s vision of a “Castle of Delights,” the Knights’ Retreat warmly welcomes you for a ‘knight’ you won’t soon forget.

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Chatham: The Historic Dockyard Armed Forces Day

In a poignant year that marks the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) and Victory over Japan (VJ), The Historic Dockyard and Medway Council are delighted to bring Armed Forces Day to the Dockyard this June.

Get ready to experience colourful military parades, displays, bands and singers as we come together to celebrate the bravery of those who have answered the call of duty.

Prepare to be captivated by a range of immersive experiences – from military displays and musical performances.

Click HERE for more information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub

Vale of Glamorgan: Citizen's Advice Cardiff & Vale Drop in at Woody's Lodge for Armed Forces Community - 27 June 25

 

New Drop-In Alert! 27th June

We’re excited to announce that Woody’s Lodge is partnering with Citizens Advice Cardiff & Vale to bring you a brand-new monthly drop-in service!

When? Last Friday of every month
Time? 11am – 1pm
Where? Woody’s Lodge, Barry, Amelia Trust Farm

This is part of the Military Moves Made Easy project, funded by AFCFT, offering dedicated support for Armed Forces serving personnel and their families during relocation across Cardiff and the Vale.
Whether it’s:

• Welfare benefits
• Housing
• Debt
• Employment rights
• Family & relationships
• Or general social welfare issues

…Citizens Advice will be here to help, in a space where you can grab a brew and get support.
If you’re currently serving or a family member of someone who is, pop in and have a chat – we’re here for you.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Chepstow: Little City at Drill Hall, Chepstow on Friday 20 June 25

Little City - Gloucestershire: 

Little City is back in CHEPSTOW at The Drill Hall this FRIDAY, 20th June.
Spaces to play at 9.30 & 11am
We are a multi-award winning mobile role play city for the under 6’s
Come and play in our 10 bespoke bays!
NEW FOR SUMMER….. our Little City beach and school.

Click here to book your space.

FOLLOW US Little City - Gloucestershire to find out where we are and what we are up to.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub. 

London: Historic Royal Palaces

 

Plan your next day out

Whether you're into delectable food festivals, family-friendly trails, or thought-provoking exhibitions, we've got something for everyone. Start planning your next day out with us today. 

Click  HERE for further information

Information provided by South East HAVE 

Monmouthshire: Wales National Armed Forces Day 2025 at Caldicot Castle & Country Park - Sat 28 June 25

 

Click poster to enlarge.

On Saturday, 28th June 2025, Monmouthshire will proudly host Wales’ National Armed Forces Day at the picturesque Caldicot Castle and Country Park.

Join Monmouthshire County Council as we celebrate and support the Armed Forces community, from currently serving personnel, including reservists, to Service families, veterans, and cadets.

This free family-friendly event features parades, military displays, and various engaging activities. It presents an opportunity for the public to gain insight into the military’s vital roles and contributions, fostering a deeper appreciation for their dedicated service.

The event will be open to the public from 11am to 4pm and will feature exhibitions and demonstrations throughout the site.

With many attractions to be seen throughout the event, highlights will include a fly-past by the Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team along with The Military Vehicle Trust, bringing a variety of ex-military vehicles for people to view.

For more information & to book free tickets click here.

Information provided by Wales HIVE Hub.

Chertsey: Thorpe Park Resort

 

Check out the latest best value ticket and short break offers and deals at Thorpe Park, the ultimate destination for thrillseekers. Discover great savings when you book theme park tickets online and explore the best advance ticket prices now from just £29 per person online.

Click HERE for further information

Information provided by Southeast HIVE

Windsor: Legoland Windsor Resort

 

Click HERE for further information

Information provided by South East HIVE Hub