The site was even listed as a settlement in the Domesday Book of 1086, a survey ordered by William the Conqueror to ensure taxes were paid. Although only the heads of families were recorded, it’s believed that Hanger, spanning around 120 acres, had a small but thriving community of about 35 people. Over the centuries, the name “Hanger” has seen many spellings, such as Hangre, Hangere, and Hangra, which means “wooded slope” in old English.

Fast forward to more recent history, the area eventually transformed into farmland, with a 1927 document recording Hanger Farm as a 187-acre dairy farm. The farm continued operations until the 1950s. One notable story from this era is the tragic death of farmworker William Phillips in 1901 and the subsequent theft of funds raised to support his widow and 10 children, which deeply affected the local community.

Since 2018, Hanger Farm has been operated by Minstead Trust as a Social Enterprise. Our mission is twofold: to generate support for the Trust’s charitable work and to provide vital training and development opportunities for people with learning disabilities. Whether it’s working in the café and bar, learning about theatre technology, or supporting events, the opportunities here are endless.

We also offer community programs like our twice-weekly Community Theatre, workplace tasters, volunteering, and hobby sessions for local groups. Across our Social Enterprises, we provide 30,000 hours of support annually to over 200 people in the New Forest.

Thanks to our partnership with Minstead Trust, Hanger Farm is able to showcase accessible arts alongside mainstream entertainment at affordable prices, bringing together people of all abilities in a shared love for the arts.