A New Forest tradition with a twist of chaos, competition, and community spirit.
This October, The Horse & Groom is proud to host the second annual International Conker Championship – and you’d better start soaking your conkers now.
Following last year’s wildly successful debut, where locals packed into the pub garden to swing, smash, and sing their way through the afternoon, the event is back for 2025 – and promises to be bigger, bolder, and just as brilliantly bonkers.
As before, the tournament will be run by local legend Pete, who helped bring the idea to life in 2024. With conkers sourced by Mike Anton, strings prepared, and the
tournament draw organised by Eunice (Mike’s wife), it quickly turned into one of the most memorable days on the village calendar.
“Well, we started it last year… Mike Anton, one of the local lads, supplied all the conkers, we strung them up and his wife did all the draw and everything. It was a fantastic afternoon. Everyone was absolutely leathered by the end of the day. They were singing and dancing – it didn’t have much to do with the conkers, but anyway, it was good fun!” – Local Legend Pete
The competition drew international attention, too – with visitors from Holland and Ireland joining in. True to its name, this isn’t just a village affair – it’s an international championship, and everyone is welcome to enter.
This year’s event will take place on Sunday 19th October 2025, right here at The Horse & Groom in Woodgreen.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just in it for the laughs, you’re welcome
to sign up. Simply pop into the pub to register your interest. Pete will be on hand to string the conkers and referee the action and the pub will be well stocked with pints, snacks, and encouragement.
Come for the conkers, stay for the chaos. You don’t need experience. You don’t need strategy. You just need a conker, a string, and a sense of humour.
Join us for a one-of-a-kind afternoon that celebrates local tradition, muddy boots, and good cheer. And yes – there may be singing and dancing again by the end of the day.
