Looking for a fantastic family day out this summer? Dream Empire Events has partnered with Itchen Valley Country Park and Eastleigh Borough Council to host a vibrant pop-up Summer Market at Itchen Valley Country Park on Sunday 16th August 2026. Running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM with completely free entry, this dog-friendly event offers visitors a chance to explore craft stalls under the canopy, indulge in street food truck delicacies, support local charities, and drop off items at charity recycling points while enjoying the beautiful woodland setting.
Event Schedule & Opening Times
The Summer Market at Itchen Valley Country Park takes place on Sunday during the August summer holidays:
- Event Date: Sunday 16th August 2026
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton (SO30 3HQ)
- Organisers: Dream Empire Events LTD in collaboration with Itchen Valley Country Park & Eastleigh Borough Council
Attractions & Event Highlights
A relaxing community market day set against the woodland backdrop of Itchen Valley Country Park:
- Under the Canopy Stalls: Explore a diverse selection of local craft traders, small business stalls, and artisan products set up under the canopy area.
- Charity Stalls & Recycling Points: Meet local animal and community charity stalls. Drop off your Terracycle items (raising funds for Kicks Count), aluminium cans (for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance), and household batteries (for Cancer Research UK).
- Food & Refreshments: Outdoor food trucks serving hot street food, plus hot beverages, lunches, and treats from the official on-site Woodland Café.
- Dog & Family Friendly: Enjoy woodland walks, children’s play areas, and nature trails across 440 acres of beautiful parkland with your dogs.
Ticket Types & Pricing
This community market is open to all visitors with completely free admission:
- General Admission: FREE (No ticket required; parking charges apply)
How to Get to Itchen Valley Country Park, Southampton
Itchen Valley Country Park is situated in West End near Southampton and Eastleigh, easily accessible by road:
- By Car: Located on Allington Lane (SO30 3HQ). Easily reached from Junction 7 of the M27 (follow signs toward West End / Allington Lane) or via B3037 from Eastleigh.
- By Bus: Local bus connections run to West End village center and Allington Lane, followed by a short walk down Allington Lane to the park entrance.
- By Train: The nearest railway stations are Hedge End or Eastleigh, both a short taxi ride away from the park.
Parking Information
Parking options available at Itchen Valley Country Park:
- On-Site Pay & Display Parking: Ample pay-and-display parking is available across the country park’s main car parks (ANPR camera system in operation). Charges apply.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the city? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest festivals, live music, theatre shows, and community events happening near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Summer Market at Itchen Valley Country Park taking place?
- The market takes place on Sunday 16 August 2026, running from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Where is the event located?
- It is held at Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton (SO30 3HQ).
- Is there an entry fee for the market?
- No, entry to the summer market is completely free for all visitors.
- Are dogs allowed at the market?
- Yes! Dogs are more than welcome to attend the market and explore the surrounding country park trails with their owners.
- What items can I bring for the charity recycling scheme?
- You can bring Terracycle items (for Kicks Count), aluminium cans (for Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance), and household batteries (for Cancer Research UK).
- What food and drink options will be available?
- Visitors can enjoy meals from an outdoor food truck as well as hot drinks and food from the on-site Woodland Café.
- Where are the stalls set up?
- The artisan and charity stalls will be located under the park’s outdoor canopy area.
- Who is organizing the event?
- The event is hosted by Dream Empire Events LTD in collaboration with Itchen Valley Country Park and Eastleigh Borough Council.
- Do I need to pay for parking at Itchen Valley Country Park?
- Yes, on-site parking is subject to standard park pay-and-display parking charges.
- How do I reach the park by car?
- Itchen Valley Country Park is located on Allington Lane (SO30 3HQ) and can be accessed via Junction 7 of the M27 or via the B3037 from Eastleigh.