What a Weekend...
After months of planning, preparation, and plenty of anticipation, The Game Fair 2026 has finally come to an end... and what a weekend it was.
As first-time exhibitors, we genuinely had no idea what to expect. We hoped a few people might stop by, discover New Forest Clothing for the first time and maybe pick up a new jacket or shirt along the way.
Instead, you completely exceeded every expectation we had.
From the moment the gates opened on Friday morning until the final visitors left on Sunday afternoon, our stand was buzzing with conversations, laughter, familiar faces and thousands of people who share the same passion for the countryside as we do.
To everyone who visited our stand, shared your stories, tried on our clothing, made a purchase, or simply came over to introduce yourselves... thank you. Every conversation reminded us why we love what we do.
50 Years of Experience Behind the Counter
One of the most special parts of the weekend was having James' Dad and Uncle join us on the stand.
Long before New Forest Clothing was founded, Phil had already spent decades in country clothing retail. For many of our customers, it was a pleasure to chat with someone who has witnessed the evolution of country clothing over nearly five decades and whose knowledge comes from a lifetime in the industry.
Alongside James, it was wonderful to see the two generations serving customers together. Between them they helped hundreds of visitors over the weekend, offering advice, sharing stories and helping people find exactly what they were looking for.
We also managed to persuade Uncle Mike to join us for the weekend, and it didn't take long for him to slip back into his old salesman routine. It was brilliant to have him there, chatting with customers and proving that some skills never fade.
For us, New Forest Clothing has always been about family. Seeing that reflected on the stand throughout the weekend made the experience even more memorable.
A Brilliant Community
One of the things that makes The Game Fair so unique is the incredible community surrounding it.
Friday and Saturday afternoon gave us the opportunity to welcome some of our wonderful ambassadors, content creators and friends onto the stand.
It was lovely to finally catch up properly, enjoy a few drinks and nibbles together, and spend time with the people who help tell the New Forest Clothing story throughout the year. After months of working together online, seeing everyone in person is always a real highlight.
Throughout the weekend we were lucky enough to meet so many friendly neighbouring exhibitors, many of whom we've admired for years. It was brilliant catching up with friends from Dedito, Beretta, Swazi, Swanndri and so many other fantastic brands, all sharing the same passion for quality products and life outdoors.
It's a reminder that while we may all have our own stands, we're all working together to celebrate the countryside and the people who enjoy it.
A Well-Earned Pint
By Saturday evening, after two incredibly busy days on our feet, we finally managed to sneak away for a couple of well-earned pints.
It wasn't a late night—we all knew there was one more big day ahead—but it was the perfect chance to reflect on everything that had happened so far, celebrate with the team, and recharge before the final push on Sunday.
Share Your Adventure with #TagTheStag
The Game Fair may be over, but we'd love to keep seeing where your New Forest Clothing takes you next.
Whether you're out on a shoot, walking the dogs, exploring the countryside, enjoying a day at the races or simply making the most of the great outdoors, we'd love to see your photos.
Simply share a picture of yourself wearing your favourite New Forest Clothing gear on Facebook or Instagram using #TagTheStag, and you'll be entered into a prize draw to win a £200 Gift Voucher.
Not only will you be in with a chance of winning, but you might even find yourself featured across our social media channels or on our website, inspiring fellow countryside enthusiasts.
We can't wait to see your adventures.
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Gone to the Game Fair