Starter for ten
On a weekend away, you’ll want to make the most of every moment, and with so much to enjoy here in the Hampshire countryside there’s no need to venture too far.
Whether you’re bringing the family for a weekend of exploring or getting away from it all with your other half, we’ve got it covered with 10 summer activity ideas, all within 10 miles of Woodlands Retreat B&B…
Pedal power at Queen Elizabeth Country Park
There are some exhilarating mountain biking routes on offer at Queen Elizabeth Country Park, suited to both the beginner and the keen cyclist.
The park has two fully way-marked off-road mountain bike trails, with the blue route (intermediate – 6km) and the red route (advanced – 7km).
Behind the bubbles at Hambledon Vineyard
Discover this unique, fully gravity-fed, state of the art winery with a vineyard tour.
Friendly and experienced staff explain the processes involved in making English sparkling wine, as well as what makes Hambledon Vineyard unique.
Dive in at Petersfield Open Air Swimming Pool
This heated open air pool is a hugely popular Petersfield attraction and a great place for a dip on a hot summer’s day.
Green hedges and fences still surround the pool providing a secluded, tranquil setting in the heart of the town, with a personal and friendly atmosphere.
A step back in time at Butser Ancient Farm
An unique experimental archaeology site, Butser Ancient Farm features archaeological reconstructions of ancient buildings from the Stone Age, Iron Age, Roman Britain and the Anglo-Saxon period.
The farm also offers a full programme of special events, including Celtic festivals and workshops, such as metallurgy, Iron Age cooking, bushcraft skills or felting.
Enjoy outdoor entertainment at Stansted Park
A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Legend of King Arthur, Gangsta Granny… Stansted Park has a varied programme of outdoor entertainment on offer this summer, with something for all the family to enjoy.
Standing in 1800 acres of parkland and ancient forest within the South Downs National Park, Stansted Park’s forest, grounds and walled gardens are open all year round.
Soak up the summer at Uppark House & Garden
A visit to this tranquil and intimate 18th-century house offers a chance to discover history and heritage.
And this summer, Uppark provides a striking backdrop for some live entertainment, with special outdoor theatre events and live music on the lawns.
Family fun at Staunton Country Park
There’s fun and adventure for all the family at Staunton Country Park’s farm and gardens. Kids can meet and feed the animals on the farm, which is based on the 1830’s style ferme ormeé (ornamental farm).
There’s plenty of twists and turns in the Golden Jubilee maze, while George’s Barn soft play area offers somewhere for the kids to play - whatever the weather.
Out on the fairway
Whether your putting is in need of practise or you simply want to sample a new course, you can bring your clubs with you and experience one of the many great golf courses the South Downs has to offer.
For example, South Petersfield Golf Club is a 12-hole pay and play course set in beautiful and tranquil surroundings with numerous trees and water hazards - a good test of golf for every level of golfer.
A cycling trail with views across the valley
The Meon Valley Trail stretches for 10 miles from Knowle to West Meon along a disused railway line, providing a safe and flat surface for all the family.
Open to walkers, cyclists and equestrians, the trail offers striking views of the Hampshire countryside and provides a perfect chance to experience the great outdoors.
Crabbing in Emsworth
Sometimes it’s the simple things in life we enjoy the most…
With shallow waters and plenty of places to drop a line, Emsworth is a popular crabbing spot. At high tide you'll always find families on the pontoon seeing what they can catch in the shaded waters.