Some of The best in Rural Retreats from Test Valley
Yes there is still time to catch a break!
Enjoy a rural staycation in the Test Valley, Hampshire with lots of camping, glamping and self-catering options to choose from!
The Test Valley in Hampshire is a beautiful, rural area named after its most famous river, the River Test. Enjoy a break away from the crowds and experience some of the best in accommodation such as camping, caravanning, self-catering cottages and units, shepherds' huts, tents and yurts. Below are just some of the special sites and self-catering units on offer. Please note however that they're not necessarily recommended or ‘judged' by Test Valley Borough Council.
Camping/Caravanning/Glamping sites
Stay in an original showman's wagon from the 1890s or a boho boutique hideaway at The Meadow Glamping. Nestling in a quiet corner of the lovely village of Broughton, this glamping site has 2 unique places to stay - Wild Billy's, an original restored showman's wagon and an authentic travelling gypsy home dating back to 1890, and Mary's Place, a beautiful boutique bohemian hideaway. The Meadow Glamping is set in 2 acres of stunning grounds which include a lake and grass tennis court. Both Wild Billy's and Mary's Place are set in their own secluded private area with private compost toilet. Just a short 90 second walk away along Gypsy Angel Row each unit has its own beautiful dedicated and themed hot water shower. Visitors can enjoy taking out a rowing boat together on the lake, play tennis, order a romantic dinner for two delivered by one of our amazing local caterers or sit chilling by the Wallop Brook watching the trout and ducklings cruise by. Rooms in the annexe of the house are also available. www.themeadowglamping.co.uk/
Enjoy farm life in an African-style safari tent down on Gambledown Farm near Romsey. This farm offers both luxury converted barns and African-style safari tents. The tents open onto the living, dining and kitchen area, where a wood-fired stove keeps the space lovely and warm in the chillier months. There's a comfy sofa to relax on and the dining area can seat 6, with high-chairs available to hire for little ones. Everything you'll need to cook can be found in the kitchen; a gas hob, sink, kettle, pots, pans, all the normal utensils, a cafetiere, cool box, crockery and cutlery. There's a master bedroom with king sized bed and a second bedroom with the choice of either twin beds or a bunkbed. A cosy double cupboard bed is tucked into the wall which sleeps two and travel cots are available to hire. Each tent is fitted with an internal bathroom; a hot water shower, normal flushing toilet and basin and there's an outside BBQ. There's a fire pit and a front deck with chairs - perfect for taking in the scenic views. Gambledown steaks, burgers, sausages and bacon can be added to your booking as a BBQ or breakfast hamper, or purchased in the farm shop.. Glamping essentials such as extra fire logs, coal, matches, firelighters, marshmallows,Gambledown meat, tea & coffee and other local treats can all be bought on site from the farm shop,. The farm hosts regular wood-fired pizza nights during high-season, as well as farm tours, Pilates and Yoga workshops, retreats and healthy cooking courses combined with yoga days, workshops in sourdough baking and more are offered through the year.https://www.gambledownfarm.co.uk/
Environmentally friendly Rowbury Farm Camping near Andover is off the beaten path and committed to having a low impact on the environment. It encourages recycling and water comes straight from a borehole on the farm and is untainted by chemicals. There's also a 10% discount for those arriving by bike, on foot or even roller skates! There are 50 large pitches, showers and toilets and 6 fire pits available over 11 acres. Dogs are welcome if kept under control. https://www.rowburyfarmcamping.co.uk/
Enjoy adult-only back to nature wild camping at Meadow Tree Farm, Sherfield English, near Romsey is a new campsite. This working farm has devoted one of their fields and a part of their woodland for adult campers wishing to get back to nature. It welcomes tents, motorhomes and campervans for 28 days of the year on select weekends. Surrounded by some of the best of the British wildlife this birdwatchers' paradise is ideal for watching the local buzzards and kites fight off the mobbing crows or following the progress of the nesting doves. You may even catch a glimpse of the elusive Roe Deer. Meadow Tree Farm is also one of the few dog friendly camp sites that allow dogs of any breed to be off lead providing they are controlled and supervised at all times. Due to the virus current bookings are being postponed until July at the earliest, and new bookings will not be accepted this season as the season ends in August. https://www.meadowtreefarm.co.uk/
Outdoor hot tubs, BBQs, shepherds huts and log cabin in ancient woodland setting at Chilworth Woodland Retreat. This retreat near Romsey offers beautiful shepherds huts and a mini log cabin. Nestled amongst ancient woodland, Chilworth Woodland Retreat offers guests the chance to relax and soak up the beautiful natural surroundings, or get active with a walk, cycle ride, fishing or a round of golf at the neighbouring Chilworth Golf Centre. Bluebell is one of the shepherds huts, equipped with everything you should need, it even comes with its own wood-fired hot tub and log-burner. It also includes a comfy double bed complete with bedding and towels, fridge, twin gas hob, flushing toilet, electric shower, fully equipped kitchen with household essentials, outdoor seating, BBQ and fire pit. Ivy includes similar facilities including slightly smaller toilet/shower room (with an ingenious lifting trap door to convert it from toilet to shower) and a camping stove so it has more of a camping feel. The new mini log cabin, Oak Lodge, has all you need for a great holiday including comfy double bed with bedding and towels, log burner, fully equipped kitchen with twin gas hob (no oven), microwave and fridge, toilet, shower, household essentials, outdoor seating and loungers, BBQ, chimnea and wood-fired hot tub with lights and bubbles. Golf packages and fishing can also be arranged - enquire for details.https://www.chilworthwoodlandretreat.co.uk/
Back to Basics and wildlife at adult only Small Campsite, Broughton. It's not called Small Campsite for nothing as there are just 5 pitches in four acres. This is the perfect place for quiet, back to basics camping for adults, surrounded by chalk downland views, wildlife and great countryside. Here you can walk and spot wild flowers and butterflies. The site is open all year round, weather permitting, and welcomes tents, caravans and campervans. There's a tap for fresh water and emptying point, but no shower or toilet facilities or electric hook up. There are 2 pubs in the village and plenty of eateries and unique shops in nearby Stockbridge or Romsey. https://www.smallcampsitehampshire.co.uk/
Plenty of facilities for families at Hill Farm Park near Romsey. This relatively quiet, dog friendly site has a selection of pitch choices for caravans, ranging from standard, to fully serviced pitches, which include grey waste drainage, mains water and electrical hook-up. Spacious grass pitches are also available for camping, with or without Wireless internet available on the park and packages are available from just £1. All facilities are finished and maintained to a very high standard. The central toilet and shower block has under floor heating. Other facilities include 2 wash up blocks, 2 chemical disposal points, laundry and facilities for the disabled and families. A small licensed shop on-site offers a wide range of everyday groceries, caravan spares, accessories and gas. The Garden Room café serves a selection of food and drink throughout the day. Recreation areas cater for a range of ages and they include a sandpit, swing set and slides for the younger ones and a new adventure play area for older children. There are also designated open areas for ball games etc. Older children are free to play in the recreation field. hillfarmpark.com/
Be assured of plenty of space at adults only Three Trees Camping, near Romsey. This quiet, spacious campsite offers generously spaced large pitches for adults. There are 15 pitches spread over a 3 acre site. Motorhomes, caravans, folding campers, trailer tents and tents are all welcome. Quiet well behaved dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead, due to the possibility of livestock being in adjourning fields. There are showers, electric hook-ups, toilets, chemical waste point, a washing up area and a pub within walking distance. There's also a farm shop next door selling fresh free range eggs, award winning sausages, honey etc threetreescamping.co.uk/
Families and Dogs welcome at Green Pastures, near Romsey. This site is ideal for families and caters for tents and caravans in a peaceful rural setting on the site of a family run farm. There are hot and free showers and a toilet block and the facilities include shower and toilets for the disabled. Facilities also include a washing machine and dryer, washing up area, small shop, camping gaz and calor gas and payphone. Well-behaved and controlled dogs are welcome and there are even dog kennels on site too! Bell tents can be hired in specially for extra glamping adventure! Enquire at www.greenpasturesfarm.com/
There are various self-catering holiday home options, too.
Dogs welcome at Bells Cottage. This thatched cottage sleeping four guests is in the quiet rural hamlet of Newtown, close to the village of Awbridge, near Romsey. The cottage itself dates back to the 19th century and is believed to be one of the oldest dwellings in the village. Features include traditional hand-made wood windows, master crafted thatched roof, log burning stove and new fully fitted kitchen. It has undergone a full renovation and is back to its former glory with a modern twist. It is constantly being upgraded too. There is free Wi-fi, TV with DVD (some DVD's supplied), access to telephone with free UK landline calls, hairdryer, washing machine, fridge freezer, dishwasher, hob, double ovens, microwave and lots of other kitchen facilities, iron and board etc. There are outside chairs and a selection of guide books, books, maps and games, as well as an outside BBQ available on request. There's even a picnic basket! Dogs are very welcome and facilities for them include dog beds and crates (on request), towels, bowls, scoop for dog food, spare leads, jar of doggy treats, washing and drying facilities on site (grooming room in the dog barn), freezer facility for raw dog food (in the dog barn) and the cottage can even deliver dog food on request from a local supplier. www.bellsholidaycottage.co.uk/
Some disabled facilities at spacious cottage. The Granary, Lockerley, near Romsey is a detached cottage situated just off a quiet lane in the village of. It is in a very peaceful location surrounded by rolling fields and woodland, within an area rich in wildlife and crossed by many footpaths and bridleways. The Granary offers luxurious and comfortable accommodation and is in immaculate condition throughout, with a double bedroom (super king-size bed which can be separated to create twin beds), a fitted kitchen, a spacious bathroom and a light and airy living room with garden views and doors to a paved patio area with outdoor furniture. The cottage is fitted out with disabled facilities including hand rails, a ramp to the front door and a wet room style shower in the bathroom. There is central heating, a washing machine, a TV and a fully equipped modern kitchen with oven, hob, microwave and fridge/freezer. Bed linen and towels are provided. Wi-fi internet access is available, for free. Outside there is a parking area for two cars and a large garden. https://www.visitsoutheastengland.com/accommodation/the-granary-at-totehill-cottage-p436841
More farm life in a converted barn at Gambledown Farm near Romsey. As well as safari tents Gambledown offers two recently converted barns as spacious holiday lets. The Cart Shed and The Hay Barn are available year round. The Hay Barn sleeps 8 and has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The master suite has a king-sized bed with ensuite shower room and large window looking onto the open living space below. The ground floor has a double heighted living area with impressive floor to ceiling windows and bespoke kitchen. One family bedroom and shower room is found on this floor with a bunkbed and two singles which can be made into a kingsized bed. A third bedroom upstairs with views across to the paddock has twin beds and an ensuite family bathroom. There's a private rear garden with BBQ, table and front garden with patio, lawn and more seating. Other facilities include washing machine, dishwasher, Sky TV and underfloor heating. The Cart Shed has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and sleeps 6. The living area, kitchen and dining area centre around a wood burning stove. Folding doors open onto a front lawn. There's a superking master bedroom, shower room (downstairs) and a second bedroom sleeping 4 on the first floor with a shower room outside the room. There's a private rear garden, BBQ, garden furniture and underfloor heating. Home grown produce can be bought from the farm shop including eggs, bacon, sausages, beef steaks, burgers and other seasonal food. A breakfast hamper or BBQ box can be added to bookings. Guests are welcome to join the Pizza nights every Tuesday and Saturday in high season. https://www.gambledownfarm.co.uk/
The Hog House, Romsey, is a charming converted former farm building near to nature walks through spectacular countryside. Situated in a courtyard setting opposite the owner's home, this character property offers stylish accommodation for up to 4 people. The addition of a wood burner makes it an ideal retreat at any time of the year. The Hog House retains many of its original features including wooden beams. It's the perfect place to escape and relax while still being close to all the amenities you'll need. The accommodation includes ground floor king-size bedroom and upstairs twin. They share a ground floor shower room. The open-plan lounge/diner features a TV, DVD player, dining table and the kitchen includes cooker, fridge and dishwasher. On a sunny afternoon, make the most of the weather in the enclosed patio area with seating. https://www.visit-hampshire.co.uk/accommodation/the-hog-house-p1472301
Enjoy the ideal location of Lavender Cottage in Chilworth, near Romsey. This self-catering cottage sleeps 4 adults in 3 bedrooms and is ideally situated to explore the area. There is a very large garden with views across the open countryside and private parking for two cars. Lavender Cottage has an entrance hall leading to a well equipped kitchen, and the lounge/diner has the original inglenook fireplace with baker's oven. The room faces south overlooking the front garden. In the lounge there is a CD player, TV and DVD player. The cottage includes a fridge/freezer and there's also a tumble dryer. The bathroom is on the ground floor with modern bathroom suite including a shower over the bath. The three bedrooms include 1 double and 2 single rooms. There is electric central heating, log effect fire in the lounge and all bed linen (duvets) bath towels and kitchen towels are provided. https://www.visit-hampshire.co.uk/accommodation/lavender-cottage-p218801
A break on family working farm Pyesmead Farm Self Catering Pyesmead Farm Self Catering, Plaitford near Romsey. Enjoy a relaxing break on a real family working farm - with its 4 renovated old barns situated in a pretty courtyard on the edge of the farm and the New Forest. Make use of the heated indoor swimming pool (available on a booking basis to reduce use) and coarse fishing lakes or just enjoy exploring the farm. The Hayloft was originally built as a stable block with hayloft above, and has now been beautifully transformed into a 3 bedroomed cottage sleeping 7 plus cot. The open plan kitchen/dining and living area retains many original features. The fully equipped kitchen area has an electric oven/grill and hob, dishwasher, microwave and under counter fridge/freezer. The seating area has FreeviewTV and DVD. There is a separate laundry room in the courtyard. Downstairs is a double bedroom with an en-suite containing a large walk in shower. Upstairs are 2 further bedrooms, one with a king size bed and a single bed and the other with twin beds. There is also a further bathroom. A cot and highchair are available on request. There is under-floor heating throughout the ground floor and radiators upstairs. Acorns is a converted old dairy building, sleeping 2 in a double bedroom. All on one level it is full of character and has vaulted ceilings throughout with all original oak beams. The open plan living area has a fully equipped kitchen with electric oven/grill and hob, dishwasher, microwave and fridge/freezer. There is a Freeview TV and DVD player. The bedroom has a king size bed and en-suite shower room. There is under floor heating throughout. Oak Apple Barn is another barn conversion with double bedroom and a twin bedroom, sleeping 4 in total. There is under floor heating throughout. Apple Pye Barn is the latest of the barn conversions with one double bedroom with King size bed and a second bedroom with bunk beds, sleeping 4 in total. There is under floor heating throughout. In each cottage heating, electricity, bed linen and towels is included in the rate. The cottages are thoroughly cleaned between bookings and all pillow and mattress protectors are washed at minimum 60 degrees between guests.https://pyesmeadfarm.co.uk/
Enjoy 15th century and wildlife at Ranvilles Farm on Pauncefoot Hill, Romsey. This historic farm belonged to Richard de Ranville and his family after they settled in England from the shores of Normandy and has continued to be a much loved home for many a family since. Now the vast property is an inviting and homely getaway. Ranvilles is set in five acres of beautiful gardens. Wildlife loves Ranvilles Farm House so while away the hours watching a huge range of birds flutter between the trees. There are plenty of places to sit and just enjoy the view too, accompanied by a good book and a glass of wine!. The Courtyard Wing has a spacious sitting area with dining table and large TV. There's a king-size bedroom with en-suite and room for a put-u-up and cot. A fully fitted kitchen and patio with table and chairs completes the picture. The Granary includes lounge, galley kitchen and 2 bedrooms, one with an extra large double/twin and one standard double, both with ensuite. There's access to the garden and large field. Morningside has a fully equipped kitchen and dining area with table. The extra large king-size bed can be twinned and there's a large chesterfield to lounge on. 2 put-u-up beds for children or adults are available too. A bathroom with walk-in shower and large bath has serious wow factor! French doors from the living area lead onto the patio and the private garden faces all the flora and fauna of the open countryside. Fresh milk, ice, hairdryers, electric shaver adapters, irons and ironing boards are all available upon request and free WiFi is available. Dogs are welcome, and towels for muddy feet and beds and dog treats are available. https://www.ranvilles.com/accommodation/
Another historic place to spend a break - Michelmersh Manor Farm, near Romsey.This family run mixed arable, dairy and sheep farm is surrounded by fields and ‘Bluebells' and ‘The Manor' offer the ideal base for families or couples wishing to experience and explore the local area. There's plenty to get involved in such as calf feeding, lambing and observing the cows being milked by state-of-the-art Robotic milking machines. The Manor Farm is first mentioned in 1205 as a large grange with a great hall, chapel and fortified gate head. Valuable grain, paid as tithes would have been stored in its big granary. There is evidence of Iron Age and Roman era occupation nearby and the farmhouse and associated buildings are of great medieval interest. The listed Tithe Barn is said to be the largest in Hampshire.and the farm has Agincourt connections. Bluebells has room for 6 guests over 3 bedrooms. It has a kitchen/dining area with dishwasher, washing machine, microwave and fridge freezer. The bathroom has a shower over the bath and a toilet. The living room has a TV, DVDs, games and puzzles. Upstairs the main bedroom has a super king sized bed and the 2nd bedroom has a double bed with a wardrobe. The 3rd bedroom has two single beds. There is also an upstairs toilet and sink. Foxglove is an annex to Bluebells for 4 guests. It has its own front door and can be shut off from Bluebells or included to accommodate a large party. It has 2 upstairs double bedrooms and a downstairs toilet, bath, kitchen and living room with TV. The Manor is a 3-bedroom annexe to the main farmhouse with room for 6 guests. Parts of the building date back to the 12th century. There's a kitchen with separate dining area, walk-in shower and toilet. A large reception room has a wood-burning stove. The main bedroom has a king size bed, open beams and countryside views. The second room has a double bed and the third 2 single beds with en-suite shower and toilet. A third bathroom is located on this floor. The Manor has an enclosed garden, BBQ and seating. dartshttps://michelmershmanorfarm.com/accommodation/
Stay in a former calf byre on the site of glorious Gardens - The Apple Rooms at Houghton Lodge Gardens, near Stockbridge- here you can enjoy a stay in self-catering rooms at one of Hampshire's most beautiful gardens. What was once a dormant calf byre is now a bespoke collection of six individually designed boutique en-suite bedrooms called The Apple Rooms, named after apple trees growing in the walled garden orchard. The rooms are perfect for family gatherings and can sleep up to 12 people. Also perfect for romantic getaways, people wishing to explore Hampshire and Wiltshire, walkers, fishermen, and families visiting their loved ones. The rooms face a grassy meadow, away from the main house and river. Mahogany and oak Georgian furniture and complementary new pieces have been selected to style the rooms. All guests can enjoy free entry to the gardens during their stay. Guests will also receive a discount for the on-site Honesty tearoom. The rooms have a kitchenette with microwave, kettle, toaster and fridge. Please note there is no oven or hob. You are welcome to bring a BBQ. There are local pubs and restaurants, and take away pizza, curry and fish ‘n chips only a short drive away in Stockbridge (5 mins). Bathrooms are equipped with automatic lighting, anti-mist smart mirror, heated towel rail and under floor heating. There is free WiFi, linen, Smart TV, hairdryer, ironing board, magazines, books, local map and picnic rug. Dogs are welcome. A continental breakfast hamper can be pre ordered. See website for exact details of each of the rooms - Arthur Turner, Barnack Beauty, Cox's Orange Pippin, D'Arcy Spice, Egremont Russett and Fearn Pippin. https://houghtonlodge.co.uk/apple-rooms.
Relax in a secluded garden at rural Larch Loft in Chilbolton near Stockbridge. This delightful accomodation is completed and furnished to a very high standard . It offers beautifully appointed self catering accommodation for 2 in the grounds of Inglenook Cottage. The accommodation, set over 2 floors, includes fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, washing machine, oven, hob, microwave, fridge freezer, Nespresso machine and dining table and chairs for 2. There's also free wi-fi, Smart TV, off street parking, secluded courtyard garden and a spacious bedroom with sitting area. The bedroom has a choice of super-king or twin beds on request and bed linen is provided. The bathroom has a bath with shower over it. You can spend a few hours relaxing in the secluded cottage garden and enjoy home-made cake and a refreshing drink. A welcome hamper of essentials is provided.https://larchloft.co.uk/
Upside down living at The Old Barns in Kings Somborne near Stockbridge. This charming barn conversion consists of 4 x 1-bed upside down cottages with South facing balconies, making the most of the lovely views of the Test Valley. The barns have rustic interiors with beams and vauled ceilings. Cottage 1 is available as a self catering holiday cottage (stays of 2 to 30 nights) or an AST rental (minimum 6 months). The spacious entrance hall has coat hooks and plenty of storage space for boots, etc and perhaps a dog bed under the stairs. The period bathroom has roll top bath and hand held shower with towels and bath mat supplied. The bedroom has tiled floors, beamed ceilings and north facing large window leading outside with views to the grounds. There is a double bed with bed linen included. A single put up mattress can be supplied for 1 child - please enquire. Upstairs the cottage is open plan with lounge/kitchen/diner. The fully equipped kitchen area has plenty of cupboards, double electric oven, 4 ring electric hob, fridge (with small freezer section), toaster, kettle, microwave and dishwasher. The lounge area has TV (FreeSat) and leather sofa and the dining area has a table with 4 dining chairs and there are French doors accessing a South facing balcony with table and chairs for al-fresco dining. There is parking for 1 car. Mobile signal is poor and Vodafone is the strongest, but most guests can get a signal on or near the balcony area. Electricity, oil fired central heating, bedding, towels, bath mat and T-towels are all included. There is Wi-Fi, but this is not guaranteed due to the rural location. Additional charges apply for children. Normally 1-2 well behaved dogs are welcome and again, additional charges apply (please enquire about children and dogs). To the North of the properties is a delightful good-sized garden with a large grass area and orchard. https://www.oldbarns.co.uk/1
Art, yoga, relaxation, cookery and more at Riverside Lifestyle near Barton Stacey, Andover. Riverside Lifestyle was first developed when the owners opened the doors to Riverside Cottage, a spacious Hampshire hideaway that's since been featured amongst The Sunday Times' 25 Great British Holiday Rentals. With its exposed beams, flagstone floors, open fireplaces and roses round the door, the house has long been a refuge from the stresses of everyday life. Riverside Cottage consists of a thatched cottage and lodge. There is also a Studio on the River and a seasonal Yurt. This home from home offers a cosy environment presented to a high standard and with all mod cons. It is now a roomy house which lends itself to small gatherings through to larger get togethers. The cottage sleeps 8 in double bedrooms, some en-suite, with a further study bedroom downstairs. The old beamed hall, sitting room and snug are cosy with wood burners and a fire place. The large kitchen and conservatory have views to all aspects of the garden. The dining area seats 14 easily on a long table and comfortable chairs. The Lodge can be rented in conjunction with the Cottage for extra guests. Inside is a beautiful beamed open plan sitting room/kitchen and mezzanine floor space. It has two bi-fold doors on either side opening to the outside. One opens from the sitting room onto a sheltered patio with comfortable chairs and table overlooking the lavender. The other leads out from the kitchen onto the pool with surrounding terrace. The large sitting room has a comfortable sofa and chairs with TV and wood burning stove. There is underfloor heating for the winter months. There is one double bedroom downstairs with the opportunity to use the mezzanine floor for extra space. The downstairs main bedroom is large and sleeps 2; the has two trussel beds. A modern spacious shower room on the ground floor completes the setting. Art classes for groups or 1-2-1 sessions can be arranged in the specially designed studio by the river as well as sound bath relaxation sessions, Yoga, classes in cookery, jam-making, cake decorating, or even making the perfect G&T using Riverside's lavender gin. Flower arranging, pampering massages, facials and nail painting can also be arranged. https://www.riversidelifestyle.co.uk/
For further information about visiting the Test Valley, including a range of places to stay visit http://www.testvalley.gov.uk/communityandleisure/tourism