Head to Test Valley a scenic slice of Hampshire, with thatched cottages, cosy pubs and a range of accommodation to choose from. Fish in the famous River Test, explore the countryside by bike or on foot or visit one of the many attractions from gardens to theme parks.
The latest luxury self-catering accommodation that opened in 2022 is Medieval Michelmersh Manor Farm. This historic family farm set in idyllic surroundings has a range of accommodation for visitors to the area with all kinds of opportunities to explore farm life at its best. At the heart of the farm are 3 self-catering options, 2 shepherd huts, with mod-cons and glorious views and the latest addition, a listed barn conversion. On the farm there are 300 cows milked on robotic milking machines, 200 sheep, as well as chickens, guinea fowl, peacocks and horses and a rare breed goat. In the Spring guests will be invited to watch the lambing which starts on 5 April and later in the year, when the bluebells arrive, guests will be able to walk through the woods using the specially written Michelmersh Farm walk book, which can be found in all the accommodation. https://michelmershmanorfarm.com
Enjoy a stay in luxury self-catering rooms at Houghton Lodge Gardens. What was once a dormant calf byre of the 18th century historic family home is now a bespoke collection of six individually designed boutique ensuite bedrooms called The Apple Rooms, named after apple trees growing in the walled garden orchard. https://houghtonlodge.co.uk/
The Potters Heron Hotel is a lovely thatched hotel in a woodland setting near Romsey they are running a special Staycation Package between January and into spring and summer. The package gives guests the option to stay for 1 night (or more) with Dinner, Bed & Breakfast included from just £150. Plus, children stay for free when sharing with an adult. (Book ahead with confidence knowing all new bookings are subject to the hotel’s flexible cancellation policy). Enjoy spacious, beautiful rooms which are either on garden level or first floor and almost all have their own balcony or terrace area. Dogs can come too and are allowed in the rooms and the pub area at a charge of £20 per stay. https://potters-heron.co.uk/staycations/
At Gambledown Farm near Romsey there are luxury barn conversions and African-style safari tents to be enjoyed for superb holidays on a rural working farm. Enjoy the signs of spring too - at this special time of year visitors can help bottle feed the lambs. here are also bluebells and daffodils to be seen. The farm also runs a number of events and retreats over the year. Gambledown Farm Meat can be purchased onsite, with a selection of beef steaks, beef roasting joints & burgers from its herd of Shorthorn cattle, pork sausages & bacon from its free-range Gloucester Old Spots and leg & shoulder of lamb, lamb chops & mince from its flock of sheep. All meat can be purchased by emailing farm@gambledownfarm.co.uk. More information from https://www.gambledownfarm.co.uk/
The Greyhound on the Test Hotel, Stockbridge has links back to the 1800s and the name dates to the use of greyhounds to hunt. Enjoy a Greyhound Getaway, (Dinner, Bed & Breakfast), which gives you the chance to indulge in a 3-course dinner in the restaurant or courtyard (weather permitting) from Head Chef Phil Bishops’ select menu. The hotel can also organise fishing, shooting and a variety of local countryside activities. There is also casual dining to be enjoyed in the riverside garden complete with wonderful views over the River Test, atmospheric lights and tenting. Special events are arranged throughout the year, from opera and outdoor theatre, Back to Basics nights,wine and food pairings and more. Kingfisher Hampers can also be enjoyed offsite – luxury, high quality, home-made food using locally sourced ingredients and freshly made on the day. http://thegreyhoundonthetest.co.uk/special-offers/
The iconic Grosvenor Hotel in the centre of Stockbridge is the perfect getaway for Spring. Bedrooms are completely renovated, including 6 stunningly designed, south facing garden rooms with doors opening onto the hotel's tranquil walled garden – all breathing new life into this historic hotel. The Tap Cottage, a charming semi-detached cottage adjacent to the hotel, has also recently reopened after extensive restoration. The Walled Garden has been re-designed and offers a world of calm, tucked away in a sunny spot and completely enclosed. Diners can choose from the outside Terrace, the new covered Alpine ski refuge La Hutte or the refurbished historic Market Room, where once the Stockbridge Market was held. Guests can also enjoy The Treatment Shed, offering massages for relaxation and sports massages to help with recovery or preparation for a sports event. The Grosvenor also arranges various breaks such as seasonal fishing breaks, advanced purchase breaks, deluxe breaks and more. www.thegrosvenorstockbridge.com
The Duke on the Test, Romsey is a new addition to the Test Valley, offering incredible food and drink and accommodation in 12 stylish, brand-new rooms. This 16th century inn, just outside Romsey, has been re-opened after a period of closure and re-imagined for the 21st century with a high-quality pub/restaurant serving delicious food and elegant bedrooms at the back. It has a rich and curious history dating back to as early as the 1500s. It retains the same historic charm but has a modern twist. Local produce and talent have come together to bring guests an impeccable service, comforting and creative dishes and the 12 rooms, each decorated in a relaxed contemporary style. Outside there’s a spacious, wheelchair-accessible garden for drinking, dining and relaxing. There are dog friendly bedrooms and designated areas for dogs in the bar area. There’s also plenty of outdoor space for them to enjoy a walk. https://www.thedukeonthetest.co.uk
There are lots of lovely places to stay in the Test Valley to ensure your break’s one to remember – choose from B&Bs, farmhouses, pubs-with-rooms and country houses as well as cosy shepherd’s huts and more. For more information about breaks in the Test Valley visit Where to stay | Visit Test Valley
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