Top Picks

Free Things This Weekend

Good local plans needn't cost the earth. This page keeps an eye on the stronger free events nearby, so you can skip the faff and get straight to the promising stuff.

11–12 July Near St. Mary's

Not every listing gets a golden ticket

We don't just scoop up anything with a £0 next to it. These picks still need to be nearby, useful, and properly explained, because 'free' is lovely but 'free and baffling' is less of a selling point.

Happening Saturday 11 July to Sunday 12 July.
Picked for St. Mary's, not somewhere halfway across the county.
Only Local Gems and Curated venues make the cut, because standards are still a thing.
Listings with proper descriptions get bumped up the list. Three words and a shrug will not do.

Our 10 picks near St. Mary's

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Festival of Speed 20263Free! (worth double-checking)

Festival of Speed 2026

at Grand Hall Function Suite

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is one of the world’s most exhilarating motorsport events, bringing together legendary cars, iconic drivers, cutting‑edge machines and thousands of passionate fans in the beautiful parkland surrounding Goodwood House. Known as the ultimate summer garden party of motorsport, this four‑day festival delivers non‑stop action, innovation and atmosphere for enthusiasts of all ages.

20.2 milesSun 12 Jul
Local gemSee the details→
Festivals & Events
Youth Art Session4Free! (worth double-checking)

Youth Art Session

at Quay Arts Centre

A monthly workshop especially for 12-15yr olds. Whether you want to learn new skills, try out new materials, or simply enjoy making art, these workshops offer a fun and supportive space to explore your creativity.

11.9 milesSun 12 Jul
Local gemSee the details→
Community
Wood Fayre5Free! (worth double-checking)

Wood Fayre

at Butser Ancient Farm

Step back into a world of living heritage at Butser Ancient Farm’s Wood Fayre, held in partnership with the Hampshire Coppice Group. This lively weekend celebrates traditional woodland crafts and skills, bringing together talented craftspeople, hands-on demonstrations, and engaging talks to inspire visitors of all ages.

10.5 milesSat 11 Jul
CuratedSee the details→
Markets & Fairs
Blandford Skatefest9Free! (worth double-checking)

Blandford Skatefest

at Corn Exchange

We are holding an Armed Forces Expo, in the Corn Exchange, Saturday 11th July 2026 Join us at this free event showcasing military charities ...

48 milesSat 11 Jul
Local gemSee the details→
Community

More Top Picks

Keep the good ideas rolling

If this page has done the trick, there is more where that came from.

Round-upFamilies This WeekendTen family-friendly picks with proper details, decent venues, and no mystery listings that leave you guessing.Round-upRainy Day Picks This WeekendA shortlist for damp weekends: likely-indoor plans, cosy venues, and fewer reasons to pretend your coat is more waterproof than it is.All PicksBack to Top PicksSee all our curated round-ups in one place.