Experience an enchanting evening of classic comedy, live jigs, and outdoor romance as New Forest Open Air Theatre present: She Stoops to Conquer at Furzey Gardens from Tuesday 11th August to Monday 17th August 2026! Set within the idyllic woodland surrounding Minstead in the heart of the New Forest, this West End-cast production blends high-energy farce, live folk music, and traditional country dancing under open skies.
Event Schedule & Timetable
New Forest Open Air Theatre present: She Stoops to Conquer nightly across seven consecutive dates at Furzey Gardens:
- Performances Dates: Tuesday 11th August – Monday 17th August 2026
- Gates Open: 5:30 PM (Picnics highly recommended before showtime)
- Performance Start: 7:00 PM
- Approximate Finish: 9:30 PM
- Venue Location: Furzey Gardens, School Lane, Minstead, near Lyndhurst, Hampshire (SO43 7GL)
Attractions & Performance Highlights
An entertaining outdoor theatrical celebration combining classic literature, farce, and live traditional music:
- Big-Hearted Comedy Classic: Oliver Goldsmith’s famous comedy where two London bachelors encounter country tricksters, practical jokes, and mistaken identities.
- Live Folk Music & Dancing: Features live jigs, reels, and country dancing integrated into the production.
- Acclaimed Creative Team: Brought to you by the acclaimed producers behind past seasonal hits including The Rivals, Twelfth Night, and The Importance of Being Earnest.
- Scenic Garden Setting: Set amidst the peaceful informal gardens, woodland glades, and historic thatch features of Furzey Gardens in the New Forest.
Ticket Types & Pricing
Ticket rates for all performance dates:
- Adult Ticket: £22.50
- Child Ticket: £16.50
How to Get to Furzey Gardens
Furzey Gardens is tucked away in the peaceful village of Minstead, just off the A31 in the New Forest:
- By Car: From the M27 westbound / A31, take the exit for Minstead / Emery Down. Follow the village lane signs leading straight to School Lane and Furzey Gardens (SatNav postcode: SO43 7GL).
- By Bus: Local rural bus routes serve Lyndhurst and Minstead village centre, placing the gardens within a short local walk or taxi ride.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Ashurst New Forest (approx. 6 miles) and Brockenhurst (approx. 8 miles), both offering taxi connections to the gardens.
Parking Information
Visitor parking facilities at Furzey Gardens:
- On-Site Visitor Parking: Free dedicated vehicle parking is provided directly at Furzey Gardens for all ticket holders.
- Accessible Parking: Designated Blue Badge parking bays are positioned adjacent to the main tea room and garden entrance pathways.
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Looking for more exciting things to do across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest open-air theatre, live comedy, outdoor festivals, and family events near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When are the performances of She Stoops to Conquer?
- Performances run nightly from Tuesday 11th August through Monday 17th August 2026. Gates open at 5:30 PM for picnics, with the show starting at 7:00 PM and finishing around 9:30 PM.
- Where is Furzey Gardens located?
- Furzey Gardens is situated on School Lane, Minstead, near Lyndhurst in the New Forest, Hampshire (SO43 7GL).
- How much are tickets for the play?
- Tickets cost £22.50 for Adults and £16.50 for Children.
- Is seating provided at the venue?
- No seating is provided by the venue. Visitors should bring their own picnic rugs or low-backed camping chairs. High-backed chairs may be requested to move toward the rear so sightlines remain clear for all attendees.
- Can I bring my own picnic?
- Yes, visitors are encouraged to bring picnics and arrive early when gates open at 5:30 PM. Arriving early to eat helps minimize noise from food wrappings during the performance.
- What happens if it rains during the performance?
- The performance will go ahead in the open air. Umbrellas are strictly prohibited during the show as they obstruct views for other audience members, so attendees are advised to bring raincoats or waterproof ponchos.
- Who is performing in the show?
- The production features a professional West End cast brought together by New Forest Open Air Theatre, complete with live folk musicians playing jigs and reels.
- How do I reach Furzey Gardens by car?
- From the M27 westbound / A31, take the exit toward Minstead / Emery Down and follow the signs through Minstead village to School Lane (SO43 7GL).
- Is parking available at Furzey Gardens?
- Yes, free visitor parking is available directly on site at Furzey Gardens, including designated accessible Blue Badge bays near the main entrance.
- Is the performance site step-free and accessible?
- Furzey Gardens features uneven natural lawn and garden paths. Visitors with specific access requirements are encouraged to contact the venue prior to attending.