Issuu

Discover Hampshire’s

Test & Loddon Valleys The Chalk & The Cheese

Your FREE guide from

THE CHALK & THE CHEESE Welcome to the Test and Loddon Valleys: Two neighbouring areas of Hampshire, two different landscapes; one shaped by chalk, the other producing internationally recognised cheeses. We want to inspire you to explore a little known swathe of Hampshire – from Yateley in the north-east of the county, where waterways drain into the River Loddon, sweeping round west and south to the River Test.

Championin of g Lo rs ea

food

l ca

30 y

This is hidden Hampshire. Often not included in the guidebooks – a landscape of heathland and woodland in the east, farmland in its heart, and chalk downland with clear streams and vineyards in the west. It is an unexpectedly rural area liberally scattered with chocolate box villages.

drink

crafts

The cou nty’s local food group Supported by

Maps by @lastmaps 2

hampshirefare.co.uk

food county how re, the d a n F a t e s r ir psh unde We At Ham group, we rated. g e t k in in r is d d d d o n an ts a d fo ape an both residen the landsc at t with h c t e n w n o o n c k o o . t s ls a een es u s are k refresh visitor ds and e e f t a en has be land th e Fare ir s and h r s e p k rs Ham s, artisan ma a e y ents, 0 For 3 epend farmer cal ind g with , lo in ts s k n a r o ll ra w u we nd resta ers, as produc cafes, pubs a ops. g sh includin s and village p o h s farm these brates e are cele sses who hav F e ir h s e p n in o m s ti a u a H b n a desti ers and produc ampshire into d drink. H an shaped r quality food fo ty our n cou wcases shire nd sho p a m s a re H a ide sh known and This gu e of a lesser g - tourin dg knowle rth discovery o w . that is e way along th tasting

THE CHALK The Test Valley: Chalk has formed both the Test Valley’s distinctive landscape and its produce. This world-renowned gin-clear chalk stream is considered the birthplace of fly fishing. However, the area’s chalk downland, with a terroir comparable to Champagne, is contributing to the Test Valley’s growing reputation for wine production.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

The Test is 39 miles in length from source to estuary. The river rises in the hamlet of Ashe, near Overton and west of Basingstoke, travelling in a south-west curve with first the Bourne, then the Dever, the Anton, Wallop Brook and the Dun joining the main river. For much of its length it is an amalgam of the main channel, tributaries, carriers, side streams and mill channels with sometimes two, three or four streams running parallel across the lush valley floor, contributing to the landscape’s beauty.

hampshirefare.co.uk

CHALK: LOCAL HERO Chefs Jamie Oliver and Yotam Ottolenghi and food writer Tom Parker Bowles all recommend ChalkStream® farmed trout. Yotam also suggests that ChalkStream® is partly responsible for the recent revival of interest in trout. Hugo Hardman, who established ChalkStream® in 2014, says: “Trout had been fashionable in the 1970s and ‘80s but at the time was seen as the poor relation to salmon.” At that time Hugo, looking for a local business venture, visited the farms. Back then the farms were selling smaller fish - however Hugo spotted trout that were much larger. “When I saw the bigger trout I thought they looked amazing and wondered why didn’t we sell those?” Hugo began inviting chefs to try the fish and ChalkStream® was born – the name inspired by the waters where the trout grow. Hugo explains: “Similar to terroir in wine, it is the pure chalk stream water that gives our fish a unique taste. The quality of the trout we produce at ChalkStream®️ is directly related to the quality of the water and the high flow rates of the farms.”

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

Slow grown to up to 3kgs over two years in fast flowing pure chalk stream water, ChalkStream®’s artisan-farmed trout are raised in conditions as close to the wild trout of the Test as it is possible to create. The result is trout that are fit, firm and lean, low in fat and with a clean flavour in favour with top chefs and fine fish counters.

hampshirefare.co.uk

Jamie Oliver filmed at the farms for an episode of his series Friday Night Feast and has posted a video with a cookery demonstration featuring the trout on his Instagram account – with eight million followers. This has put Hampshire’s ChalkStream® trout firmly on the map.

Sales have also moved online with (mainland UK) deliveries direct to the doorstep. ChalkStream® trout is now available not only as fresh fillets and steaks, but hot smoked, cold smoked, and as smoked trout pâtés. The latest addition is potted trout flavoured with juniper berries, chives, dill and cayenne pepper – a delicious contemporary take on potted shrimp and perfect for a starter or easy lunch.

Hugo says, “This has always been the goal – for Hampshire to have a fish that’s widely known and respected.”

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

Today ChalkStream® trout is found on the menus of the very best restaurants including Four Seasons Hotel, Chewton Glen, Lime Wood and The Pig. It can also be bought from delis and farm shops across the county including Thyme & Tides in Stockbridge and Newlyns Farm Shop near Odiham.

FARM FRESH FISH: HOW IT WORKS ChalkStream® trout farms are built on the sites of old water mills as fully segregated systems, minimising the impact on the unique chalk stream environments of the main rivers. ChalkStream® consider themselves custodians of the rivers and migratory fish; as such they work closely with The Test and Itchen Association, along with other conservation organisations, to help support and protect the chalk stream environment. They also go to great lengths to keep wild species safe, with fine screens preventing migratory fish from leaving the main river.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DRINK IN THE LANDSCAPE Refreshing mouthfuls influenced by Test Valley’s chalky terroir. WATER The pristine taste of award-winning Hildon Natural Mineral Water is the result of a 50 year journey of natural filtration and purification deep below the Hildon Estate. This is nature at its simplest – fresh, clean and crisp as country air. PH neutrality makes Hildon the perfect accompaniment to food and fine wines. World class sommeliers at the Institute of Masters of Wine single out Hildon as their preferred bottled water. Serena Sutcliffe, Head of Sotheby’s International Wine Department and Master of Wine, explains: “You need pure, neutral water, with no perceptible smell, saltiness or oiliness, to keep the palate fresh and clean.”

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

Hildon was founded by Christian Heppe in 1989, after acquiring the Estate and discovering the purity of the water, sourced from an underground aquifer. Country house hotel Chewton Glen was Hildon’s first customer, and Hildon also carries the prestigious Royal Warrant after several years supplying Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

hampshirefare.co.uk

Credit: HIldon

ALE As water is the biggest component in brewing beer, the Test Valley’s pure water undoubtedly led to the growth of the brewing industry in Romsey. Strong’s was Romsey’s best known brewery, however it closed decades ago. The market town’s brewing heritage is now carried by Flack’s, established in 2010 by an experienced trio including MD Nigel Welsh, who learnt his craft from Peter Austin, the father of micro-brewing. They use local ingredients and the traditional double drop method to make award-winning ales such as Romsey Gold. With a nod to history, Flack’s original logo featured a version of Strong’s portcullis design – this one using ears of wheat and barley, a link to the area’s agricultural and brewing heritage. GIN The River Test’s gin-clear waters has provided inspiration for gin distilleries. The River Test Distillery, owned by Jonathan and Sarah Nelson, distil and bottle their award-winning London Dry Gin on the banks of the Test. Sarah Nelson (pictured right) says: “Perhaps our most important ingredient is water; we take pure chalk-filtered water from the aquifer that feeds into the river for an exceptionally smooth gin.” It is infused with local botanicals, including handpicked angelica and meadowsweet flowers, to create a classic London Dry Gin with gently honeyed, floral notes, and a true river spirit.

Credit: River Test Distillery; Matt Stills

Another local gin is Test Valley Gin, one of a portfolio of small batch spirits created by Kate Griffin of Wessex Spirits. Test Valley Gin was the first, a fresh and savoury gin infused with local basil and thyme and initially made in her grandfather’s garden shed. The name references the location, as Kate explains: “I live in the Test Valley, I make it in the Test Valley, and I use herbs grown in the Test Valley.”

hampshirefare.co.uk

WINE The Test Valley is one of England’s pre-eminent wine producing areas with a ‘terroir’ that’s similar to the Champagne region, helping to produce well-balanced, fresh, mineral-led wines. BLACK CHALK WINERY Black Chalk Wine references both the chalk downland of the Test Valley and the black chalk traditionally used by the old masters. Jacob Leadley, Black Chalk Wine’s CEO and master winemaker, is using classic grape varieties and traditional methods to craft standout sparkling wines that are picking up numerous awards and plaudits, among them Newcomer of the Year in the WineGB Awards 2020. This exciting vineyard is developing a new approach. On-site is a brand new state-of-theart winery, shop and tasting room as well as a vine circle as an outside events venue. This is a family-led concern with Jacob as winemaker and brother-in-law Andrew Sedden as marketing director. Jacob’s vision is to establish a creative space for collaborative practices – the first of its kind in the country. Andrew is focusing on developing memorable experiences, among them tours, tastings and Circle Wine Club with benefits such as a welcome case of wine and exclusive opportunities, including being involved in a harvest day.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

Jacob Leadley, CEO & Winemaker, Black Chalk: “To be crowned Newcomer of the Year in a fast-growing industry is a huge honour. The award acknowledges that Hampshire is one of the UK’s best regions for viticulture.”

hampshirefare.co.uk

DANEBURY VINEYARDS This boutique vineyard is planted in what were once the paddocks of a 19th century racehorse training yard. Hence Cossack, an award-winning vintage sparkling wine named after the Danebury-trained Epsom Derby Winner. Danebury Vineyards’ collection of “distinctively English” dry white wines includes Madeleine Angevine with a fragrance reminiscent of an English orchard; Schönburger, an elegant aromatic wine awarded Bronze in the International Decanter Wine Awards 2020; and Danebury Reserve, a blend of all the vineyards’ varieties which won Gold and Best Wine by the Glass at the Sommelier Wine Awards 2020. SOMBORNE VALLEY VINEYARDS This award-winning wine collection is produced from grapes grown in three separate vineyards in Test Valley’s downland landscape. The first planting was in the Millennium year. The vineyards now total some 28 acres with grape varieties encompassing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier, Rondo, Bacchus and Sauvignon Blanc. A diverse portfolio of wine includes Gold medal Blanc de Blancs, Blush Rosé, Estate Reserve Red, Bacchus, and the latest release is a Sauvignon Blanc.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

UNEXPECTED: SPARKLING CIDER Chalkdown is an award-winning premium sparkling cider crafted from selected apples grown on Hampshire’s chalk downland and made with the same traditional method used to make fine sparkling wine. Volumes are small with each vintage having its own character, combining delicate apple with elegant brioche for a refreshing alternative to champagne or prosecco.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT FOR GARDENERS The Test Valley is home to inspirational gardens of worldwide renown with plenty to entertain the entire family. MUST VISITS ROSES: Mottisfont is a riverside country estate, between Stockbridge and Romsey, owned by the National Trust. It includes a romantic house with 20th century art collection and a glamorous salon decorated by the artist Rex Whistler. However, it is best known for its walled gardens featuring colourful displays of roses. The wider estate also rewards exploration with drifts of snowdrops and woodlands carpeted in lady’s smock and bluebells. SHRUBS: Sir Harold Hiller Gardens, Ampfield, is run by Hampshire County Council. This world-renowned arboretum covers 180 acres with the most comprehensive collection of trees, shrubs and hardy plants in the UK. It is known for its seasonal displays. These include: camellias, magnolias and rhododendrons for a spring spectacular; the centenary border, at its most stunning in summer; winter garden, and a new addition, the Valley of Fire, lit up with rich golds, russets and scarlets in autumn. Children are entertained by a wobbly bridge over the pond, assault course and treehouse. Credit: National Trust Images, Clive Nichols

EAT The Bear & Ragged Staff, a welcoming country pub. Kimbridge Barn, a stylish café serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea, plus special pizza evenings.

STAY Gambledown Farm for chic barn stays and glamping in African style safari tents on a working farm. The Cromwell Arms in Romsey – pub with cosy rooms and deeply comfortable beds.

hampshirefare.co.uk

Credit: Sir Haro ld Hillie © Marc r Garde h Creat ns ive

KITCHEN GARDEN: Houghton Lodge is an 18th century Gothic Cottage Orné surrounded by gardens laid out in the natural style of the time including lawns with river views. There’s also a productive kitchen garden and heritage orchard within chalk cob walls, orchid house and formal topiary garden.

STAY The Greyhound on the Test, gastropub with country chic bedrooms; The Grosvenor, recently refurbished as boutique townhouse hotel; The White Hart, 16th century coaching inn with comfy rooms – all found in Stockbridge. WATER: Longstock Park Water Gardens, near Leckford, have been described as the finest water garden in the world. Owned and managed by Waitrose, the gardens cover seven acres with the River Test running through. Features include islands, woodland valleys and 40 varieties of waterlily. The gardens are open to the public on selected Sunday afternoons May to September. EAT The Mayfly Inn, Fullerton, an iconic riverside inn. Thyme & Tides stylish deli, fishmongers and bistro in Stockbridge. STAY The Peat Spade Inn with elegant and tranquil rooms in picture postcard perfect Longstock.

Credit: Bere Mill Gardens

EAT Café within the gardens is run by Honesty with all food handmade in its kitchen and bakery.

HAMPSHIRE COUNTRY & GARDEN FESTIVAL One-day festival celebrating gardening held mid-June in the beautiful grounds of Bere Mere, an 18th century water mill on the banks of the River Test, Whitchurch. The festival features music, art, plants and workshops, children’s activities and delicious local food and drink. All money raised goes to the Hampshire Medical Fund.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT SECRET HISTORIES From hill forts to army aviation, plus our industrial past, experience a new approach to history in the countryside. MUST VISITS IRON: Danebury Hill Fort is one of the most studied Iron Age hill forts in Europe and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It is a site of national importance and occupies a commanding position with magnificent views. Evidence suggests that the fort was built 2500 years ago. Some of the site’s finds can be found at the Museum of the Iron Age in Andover. Within the hill fort you can see the ‘ring’ of ramparts and the once hidden gateway. AIR: Army Flying Museum in Middle Wallop is the official Regimental Museum of the Army Air Corps and its predecessors, namely the Royal Engineers, Royal Flying Corps, Air Observation Post Squadrons, and Glider Pilot Regiment. The Museum charts more than 100 years of British Army Aviation including a display of over 40 fixed wing and rotary aircraft, as well as uniforms, medals and equipment, and an extensive archive of documents and images. EAT Thyme & Tide, bistro, deli & fishmongers in Stockbridge.

Credit: Winchester Silk Mill ©Joe Low

hampshirefare.co.uk

SILK: Whitchurch Silk Mill straddles the Test at the end of the silk road - from China to Whitchurch. This is the oldest silk mill in the country still in its original Georgian building, and the only one where visitors can see silk being woven on traditional looms. There’s much for families to discover, including rows of silk thread in a rainbow of jewel bright colours, and interactive games, including design your own woven fabric. PAPER: Laverstoke Mill, between Whitchurch and Overton, is a 300-year-old paper mill that once produced all the banknote paper for the Bank of England. It has now been restored and reimagined by designer Thomas Heatherwick as Bombay Sapphire’s destination distillery. Intertwining glasshouses, warmed through heat recovery from the stills, are a dazzling centrepiece, plus there’s a botanicals room and mill bar and opportunities to take cocktail masterclasses. EAT Honesty at Overton; chic café/deli with food handmade in its kitchen and bakery.

Credit

: The

White

Credit: Bombay Sapphire Distillery, Laverstoke Mill

STAY The White Hart, Overton; charming, character inn with individual boutique bedrooms.

Hart, O

verton

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT FOR WALKERS This is a gentle landscape of water meadows, pasture and woodland with high chalk downs, scattered with some of the prettiest villages in the county, plus country pubs. MUST VISITS COW COMMON This beautiful common is bounded by two arms of the Test, and is a delightful destination to stroll, picnic or paddle. It separates the villages of Chilbolton and Wherwell – the latter is known for its fine timber-framed thatched cottages. A choice of routes cross the common. One circular route starts from West Down, following the route of a disused railway line, past Fullerton Mill beside the River Anton. It rises to Red Hill above Wherwell, before dropping down into the Test Valley and crossing Cow Common to return to West Down.

Credit: Stockbridge Down National Trust ©John Miller

HAREWOOD FOREST Hampshire’s second largest area of ancient woodland (the largest is the New Forest) was a hunting forest in Saxon and Norman times. More recently its canopy hid munitions storage in WWII. Today it is an area that feels undisturbed, providing an excellent woodland habitat for wildlife, including roe deer. There are miles of trails to explore and dogs can run free.

EAT Chilbolton Shop & Tea Room for informal charm. STAY New treehouse suites at Black Chalk vineyard for luxury self-catering.

hampshirefare.co.uk

MILL TRAIL This waymarked walk from Whitchurch crosses and recrosses the River Test, creating a choice of circuits of different lengths, from two to seven miles. The trail passes seven of the area’s mills including Whitchurch Silk Mill and Bere Mill, now home to what must be the most picturesque butchery in the county. The longest circuit takes in Laverstoke Mill. TEST WAY This 44-mile long distance path begins high on the chalk downs, running through Hurstborne Tarrant, St Mary Bourne, Longparish, Stockbridge and Mottisfont before continuing into Romsey. The route can be divided into eight sections, each providing a varied landscape of downland, woodland and water meadows. Look out for kingfishers, marsh harriers, little grebes and green-winged orchids. EAT The Crown Inn, Upton, gastropub headed up by chef/patron Dave Watts who started his career under the tutelage of Raymond Blanc at Le Manoir Aux Quat’ Saisons. STAY Bourne Valley Inn with lots of rustic charm and cottage style rooms.

Credit: The Crown Inn, Upton, near cycle route 246

FOR CYCLISTS Route 246 is a national cycle route that starts at Timsbury, a village just north of Romsey, running along the old railway line once known as the Spratt & Winkle Line. It continues northwards, following the River Test, through Horsebridge, Stockbridge, Leckford, Fullerton, Goodworth Clatford and Upper Clatford. North of Andover the route runs along a mixture of traffic-free paths and quiet lanes with some much more challenging terrain.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT FOR FAMILIES MUST VISITS, TRADITIONAL FARM FAVOURITES AND ADRENALIN ADVENTURES DOWN THE FARM: Finkley Manor Farm was one of the first ever farm parks in the country. Open year-round with massive indoor play barn, animal handling and feeding activities, Meerkat Mansion, Farmyard Crazy Golf, Little Farmers Driving School and much more to entertain all ages. PICK YOUR OWN: Bourne Valley PYO is a great way of getting children to enjoy fruit and vegetables! This family farm was established 25 years ago and is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty near St Mary Bourne. Fruit and vegetable varieties are grown for flavour, and because people pick their own, it is all at its freshest, with no packaging and zero air miles. Crops include asparagus, broad beans, beetroot, strawberries, raspberries and rhubarb. Ready-picked fruit and vegetables are available from farm shop, May until October. EAT Bourne Valley Inn – family-friendly country inn serving pub classics using seasonal produce from local farms; dogs welcome. The Crown Inn, Upton, is an informal gastropub.

Credit: The Hawk Conservancy, Amport

STAY Bourne Valley Inn for lots of rustic charm and cosy, contemporary cottage rooms.

hampshirefare.co.uk

Credit: The Bourne Valley Inn

IN THE AIR: The Hawk Conservancy cares for more than 130 birds of prey including kestrels, owls and vultures. A visit can include the thrill of holding a bird of prey, watching world-class flying displays, or meandering through 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadow. Special activities throughout the year include Owls by Moonlight evenings, Experience Days for all the family and Photographic Days. Proceeds fund conservation, education, rehabilitation and research. ON THE TRACK: Thruxton Motorsport Centre is described as the UK’s fastest race circuit. With a huge fleet of supercars, sports cars and racing cars, it offers a memorable driving experience for any petrolhead. However, it is also popular with families as outdoor karting sessions are available for eight-year-olds and upwards. Three circuits include the latest, the Club circuit, designed with ‘Arrive & Drive’ and ‘Junior’ sessions in mind. EAT Rosebourne, near Thruxton, with food hall and restaurant offering breakfast, lunches, afternoon teas and seasonal favourites. The Hawk Inn, Amport, for modern British cooking including breakfast, bar snacks, Sunday lunch and good kids’ menu.

Credit: Thruxton Motorsport Centre, Thruxton

STAY The Hawk Inn, Amport, with views over Phillhill Brook and country style boutique rooms.

hampshirefare.co.uk

TASTE E H T R E V DISCO CE U D O R P L A OF LOC rie 1 Charcute

Run rm Charcuterie r Parsonage Fa to ie pr ro /P ef ts, Ch by David Wat o is Inn, Upton, wh ts of The Crown cured mea an tis ar g tin handcraf supplied from ck. using animals tra including Oak s smallholding

7 Honey

blended s Delicious un Beckys Beezzz ral goodness. natu honey full of eeping s also run beek Beckys Beezzz courses.

2 Cheese

-run Cheese Family their g Four Brothers in us s se ee ch ing hire business mak sture-fed Ayrs pa , ee gr di own pe a , in pp clude Pi herd. These in . d soft cheese brandy-washe

3 Eggs

8 Juices

ur own e Press Take yo or Kimpton Appl to juice in d se es pr ueur apples to be ’s – an apple liq Churchwarden ls. rre aged in oak ba tomato & Co Premium y rd Ha er rn Tu ’ ds en fri o tw t of juices born ou produce, healthy l ca lo r fo n passio dy Marys. juices and Bloo

e eggs Fresh, free rang Clayton Eggs . ns from happy he

duce 4 Farm Pro l family farm

rm Smal Warrenfield Fa they produce, at wh ly on d jams selling , lamb, eggs an including beef . ys and chutne

5 Game

Venison rest Produce Harewood Fo of ts cu d an s rger ld. sausages, bu ared in the wi re er de m fro most meat st, ie th al he e of the Venison is on ts. ea m l d natura sustainable an

Leaves 6 Herbs & us and

esh, nutritio Lusso Leaf Fr and microgreens ed ur vo fla llwe with g kin ea br farm herbs from a ient fic ef g in ploy convention, em chniques. te g in rm fa l vertica

hampshirefare.co.uk

9 Meats

lamb hery Beef and Bere Mill Butc ck, sto ed ar re efrom own hom ws water meado Bere pasture-fed on Available from st. Te e th e besid Mill Farm. butcher ar Sustainable Hogget & Bo range e fre d an local lo, rare specialising in ffa bu ed grass-f raised meat including b m la d d pork an breed beef an . nd la wn on chalk do

s 10 Souffle

ese se Souffle Th Red Fox Chee souffles se ee ch ed -bak d moreish twice an ns ria ta r vege eat. are suitable fo ply heat and sim s, et di e gluten fre

11 Trout

, Foods Unique ChalkStream n in ow gr ut tro clean-tasting ter. alk stream wa fast-flowing ch

WHERE TO BUY This is a landscape dominated by farmland and scattered with villages and market towns.

VILLAGE STORE The village store not only provides essentials for their communities, increasingly they are destination shops with a choice of top quality local produce.

Credit

: B eck

ys B ee

z z zs

For example, quaint Chilbolton Village Store & Tea Room looks as though drawn from a children’s storybook. Here owner Nicky also runs a tearoom and bakes her own cakes. Then there’s Enham Village Shop, a cheerful community hub. Ditto St Mary Bourne Village Shop which opened 20 years ago, thanks to support from the parish and residents. Between them you will find the likes of ales from Andwell Brewery, honey from Beckys Beezzzs, cider from Ciderniks, Moon Roast’s freshly roasted coffee, Lyburn cheeses, Red Fox Cheese Souffles and River Test Distillery gin. Also, Southern Co-op stores feature a Local Flavours range supporting local producers and farmers.

FARM SHOPS The farm shop has reinvented itself. Some are charmingly rustic, some are rural food halls, others focus on sustainability with features such as milk vending machines. Greenfield Farm Shop, Anna Valley, is found in a converted watercress packing shed. It’s primarily a butchery selling their own Credit: Weyhill Farm Shop award-winning sausages, and meats such as Dexter beef from the New Forest. Around half the stock is local, from free range Beechwood Eggs to Cold Pressed Oil and Hill Farm Juice to Jude’s Ice Creams. Rosebourne in Weyhill features a restaurant and food hall with in-store Owton’s butchery and a hoard of local produce such as Charlotte Brown’s Homemade Preserves, Clayton Eggs, and Test Valley Gin. Weyhilll Farm Shop focuses on tasty and traceable with a team happy to make suggestions for supper. There’s a butchery, plus over 40 different local suppliers including Bramley Bakery, Danebury Wines and Parsonage Farm Charcuterie.

DELI DELIVERY The Food Forager is an online deli from the team behind Thyme & Tides in Stockbridge. Pick your own fresh and store cupboard buys from a selection that includes Four Brothers’ Pippin cheese, Somborne Valley wines and Chalkdown cider.

hampshirefare.co.uk

THE COUNTRY PUB The Test Valley has an abundance of old coaching inns and picturesque village pubs.

EAT The Crown Inn, Upton Gastropub headed up by chef/patron Dave Watts who describes his style as classic French with modern rustic. The Mayfly, Stockbridge Known for its stunning riverside location. The Bear & Ragged Staff, Romsey Traditional pub with open fires.

EAT & SLEEP The White Hart, Overton Old coaching inn with cosy rooms, lots of character and menu featuring a modern take on pub classics. Bourne Valley Inn, St Mary Bourne Village pub with contemporary cottage-style rooms and menu focusing on fresh produce from local farms. Hawk Inn, Amport Country inn with views across to Pill Hill Brook, and comfy rooms. The Peat Spade Inn, Longstock Charming pub in picture postcard setting with top notch pub food and quiet rooms. The Greyhound on the Test, Stockbridge Relaxed Good Food Guide recommended inn with riverside gardens and boutique bedrooms. The White Hart, Stockbridge 16th century coaching inn with modern country style rooms and tasty menu using local, seasonal ingredients.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

BISTROS & CAFES

Honesty is a local bakery with its own destination cafes, including one at Houghton Lodge Gardens, Houghton, and a café/deli in Overton. Kimbridge Barn, Kimbridge is a relaxed tea house/café in a contemporary rustic setting serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and afternoon tea with occasional pizza pop-up evenings on the terrace. Thyme & Tides in Stockbridge combines bistro, deli and fishmongers.

hampshirefare.co.uk

GREAT ESCAPES Extraordinary experiences, from glamping to luxury treehouses, to create special memories.

THE FARM Gambledown Farm Stay in African safari-inspired tents with log-burning stoves and fire pits in a quiet corner of this 270-acre farm. Alternatively relax in one of the chic, contemporary barn conversions with modern comforts. Local produce, including Gambledown’s own, is available from their farm shop. Michelmersh Manor Farm Guests staying on this family-run mixed farm can experience the farming life - helping out at calf feeding times and watching lambs being born and cows being milked. The charming farmhouse may date back to the 12th century, however the very latest initiative is supplying fresh milk via vending machines into eco-friendly glass bottles (being rolled out at local farm shops and village stores).

THE VINEYARD Wild Escapes are new treehouse retreats overlooking Black Chalk vineyard. Deer and birdlife can be spotted without leaving the deck, and guests are invited to grab a bottle of local wine from the fridge and relax in an outdoor bath.

TOWNHOUSE HOTEL

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

The Grosvenor is an iconic Georgian townhouse hotel, its distinctive projecting porch dominating Stockbridge’s streetscape. The hotel recently underwent a complete refurbishment and now features individual designed suites. The menu focuses on seasonal, and leisure experiences such as fly fishing can be arranged.

Credit: The Grosvenor

hampshirefare.co.uk

THE CHEESE Welcome to the Loddon River. Although rising just a few miles east of the Test, the Loddon is very different in character, running east and north to the Thames. The Loddon flows under Festival Place shopping centre before emerging in Eastrop Park and continuing northwards for 28 miles to the Thames. On the way it is joined by Petty’s Brook, Lyde River, Bow Brook, River Blackwater (itself fed by the River Whitewater), Barkham Brook, Emm Brook and Twyford Brook. Together the Loddon and its tributaries drain a diverse landscape of farmland, heathland and woodland scattered with hidden communities. The Loddon may be unfamiliar to many, however the area encompasses Hampshire’s rural heartland. In particular it is home to some of the country’s most respected modern cheeses, among them Barkham Blue, Laverstoke Park Farm Buffalo Mozzarella and Tunworth, making this area a bit of a big cheese, and worthy of exploration.

Credit: Laverstoke Farm

“To produce great food you have to have great soil… Healthy soil is healthy grass is healthy animals.” Jody Scheckter, Laverstoke Park Farm

hampshirefare.co.uk

BUFFALO MOZZARELLA Laverstoke Park Farm is 2,500 acres of bio-dynamic and organic farming in the rural heartland of Hampshire, straddling both the Test and Loddon areas. It is owned and run by ex-racing driver and Formula One World Champion Jody Scheckter who wanted to create a farm that combined 21st century science with the most environmentally farming methods available. The Farm has provided the setting for ITV’s Sugar Free Farm and venue for CarFest South. Laverstoke Park Farm produced the first serious buffalo mozzarella made in the UK. The team travelled to Italy to learn from the masters, and consider their mozzarella to be superior as their buffalo milk is so sweet and fragrant thanks to Laverstoke Park Farm’s rich pasture with 31 herbs, grasses and clovers.

BARKHAM BLUE

rm oke Park Fa

rst Credit: Lave

hampshirefare.co.uk

Credit: Two Hoots Cheese

Barkham Blue is named after Barkham village on the Hampshire/Berkshire border where family-run Two Hoots Cheese produce their award-winning handmade cheeses in the traditional way. Having grown up on her parents’ dairy farm and helped her cousin Anne make cheese, Sandy Rose and husband Andy decided to try cheese-making. The result was Barkham Blue with a rich blue taste, smooth buttery texture and natural rustic rind. Within the first six months of its launch, Barkham Blue won Best New Cheese at the World Cheese Awards followed by Gold at the British Cheese Awards. In the years since, numerous awards have followed including Super Gold and Best British Cheese at the World Cheese Awards. Two Hoots Cheese’s latest addition is Barkham Belle, a semi-soft cheese with natural rind, a soft interior and complex flavours.

hampshirefare.co.uk

All photos: The Electric Eye Photography

CHEESE: LOCAL HERO HAMPSHIRE CHEESE CO Tunworth is Britain’s very own Camembert – a soft, white-rinded cheese reminiscent of its French cousin, yet markedly different, thanks to the lush grazing of the Hampshire terroir. Hampshire Cheese Co was founded in 2005 by artisan cheesemaker Stacey Hedges, making the first Tunworth cheese in her family kitchen, near the village of Tunworth. Since then Tunworth has been joined by Winslade (a milder addition, named after a nearby hamlet) and both are now made by a specialist team in a dairy in Herriard, situated among the verdant green valleys of Hampshire’s rural heartland. From the first ladle of pasteurised whole cow’s milk from the local farm to the paper wrap and box packaging, every cheese is still made entirely by hand, using traditional methods and expert skill. Fans include some of the top names in the food world. Chef Raymond Blanc has called Tunworth “The best Camembert in the world”. TV cook Nigel Slater has said, “My favourite melting cheese is a ripe Tunworth.” Chef Simon Rogan has commented, “Tunworth is a staple ingredient of my kitchen... because it is a world-class cheese with a well-deserved international reputation.” Hampshire Cheese Co is recognised worldwide for producing the finest, handcrafted soft cheeses. Year after year, Hampshire Cheese Co has scooped prestigious awards, among them Supreme Champion in the British Cheese Awards, Best Soft Cheese in the Great British Cheese Awards, Super Gold Medal at the World Cheese Awards and Gold at the Artisan Cheese Awards.

Credit: Hampshire Cheese Co, Winslade

TASTING NOTES Tunworth has a soft, thin and wrinkled rind, along with a rich and earthy mushroom fragrance, and sweet and nutty flavour. Winslade is a Vacherin/Camembert cross encircled by a spruce collar which gives it a unique and distinctive pine note. It has an unusual pinkish hue and dappled rind. When ripe Winslade is soft, yet rich and gentle on the palate with a subtle floral earthiness. Both cheeses need to be at room temperature for a few hours before serving in order to bring out their full flavour and become soft and creamy. Serve with crusty bread and a full-bodied white wine or delicious local cider.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DRINK IN THE LANDSCAPE CHEERS TO LODDON: CREATING A REFRESHING NEW LEGACY ALE Hampshire was once known as a brewing county with hops extensively grown in the area around Alton. You may spot converted hop kilns in this expanse of charming countryside, a patchwork of field and woodland. Andwell Brewery continues the tradition. Named after the hamlet where the brewery is located, alongside the Lyde River, it was established in 2008 by Adam Komrower, with the intention of brewing beautifully crafted Hampshire beers. The local area is not only referenced in the brewery’s name, but also in its ales. These include Ruddy Darter, a rich ruby ale named after a dragon fly found in the local rivers and wetlands, and King John, a fruity amber beer taking its name from the castle built by King John less than a mile from the brewery. Andwell Brewery is also now a destination itself with brewhouse shop, café and tours.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

COFFEE Moon Roast is so-called as founder Francis Bradshaw, inspired by a family heritage in the coffee and tea trades spanning four generations, began roasting coffee beans at night, after work, in a barn in his backyard in Chilton Candover. That was in 2012. Five years later this family-run business expanded, with outbuildings on a nearby working farm being converted into a roastery with barista training facilities, roastery tours, cafe and shop.

hampshirefare.co.uk

GIN The area is becoming known for refreshments recreated for 21st century tastes. One such is Gorilla Spirits Co in the village of Upton Grey. Gorilla was founded by Andy Daniels whose vision was to create an exceptional portfolio of spirits and an ethical business with a focus on social responsibility. The result was Silverback Mountain Strength Gin launched in 2015, with £1 from every bottle sold donated to The Gorilla Organisation. The selection of spirits now includes a cask-aged gin, vodka, spiced rum and coffee liqueur made with beans from local coffee roastery, Moon Roast. Gorilla also welcomes visitors to the distillery for a choice of experiences, such as a tour, speakeasy-style cocktail masterclass, and gin school where ‘pupils’ operate a mini copper pot still to craft their own unique gin from an extensive library of botanicals.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

WINE Just beyond Loddon’s southern boundary lie a trio of exceptional wine producers, namely Jenkyn Place, Hattingley Valley and The Grange. They all offer tours and all produce award-winning fizz, although Hattingley Valley also produce dessert wine, still rosé and (exciting recent addition) a still red. Generally, however, Loddon is not well known for wine. An exception is Laverstoke Park, located between the sources of the Loddon and Test Rivers. Here vines are managed bio-dynamically and organically, in accordance with the ethos of Laverstoke Park’s founder, Jody Scheckter, to produce an award-winning, limited edition vintage sparkling wine.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT SECRET HISTORIES Step into the past – discover national events recorded forever in ruins and country houses. ROMANS Silchester has some of the best-preserved Roman town defences in the country. After the Roman conquest it developed as Calleva Atrebatum, a large and important Roman town with amphitheatre, public baths and temples. Unlike most Roman towns in southern Britain, after it was abandoned it was never reoccupied or built over, allowing archaeological investigations to reveal an unusually complete picture of its development. Today a circuit of the walls provides an atmospheric walk. MEDIEVAL Odiham Castle, usually called King John’s Castle, sits within a bend of the River Whitewater and on the banks of the Basingstoke Canal. The Castle was completed in 1214 and is associated with the historic signing of the Magna Carta. King John stayed here in the days leading up to the meeting with his barons, riding from here to Runnymede on 10th June 1215. EAT The Gamekeepers, Mapledurwell, country gastropub. The Fur & Feathers, Herriard, country inn serving hearty helpings. Credit: Basing House, Hampshire Cultural Trust

STAY The Red Lion, Odiham, characterful inn with boutique rooms. Four Seasons Hampshire, Dogmersfield, luxurious 18th century manor house within 500 acres.

hampshirefare.co.uk

TUDORS The Vyne, near Sherborne St John, is a former Tudor powerhouse built by William Sandys, who became Lord Chamberlain to King Henry VIII in 1526. It is a third its original size after the sixth Lord Sandys sold The Vyne to Chaloner Chute, a barrister and the Speaker of the House of Commons, who reduced its size and modernised it, commissioning John Webb to add the classical portico in 1654; the first of its kind on a privately owned English country house.

Credit: Th Rachae e Vine ,Nation l Warre al Trust, n.

Basing House was the largest private house in the country with around 360 rooms when it was built in 1535. In its heyday it was visited by every monarch of the time including Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. However, in 1645 during the English Civil War, Basing House was stormed by Cromwell and his troops. Today only banks, broken walls and the Great Barn survive – one of the largest examples of its kind in England. STUARTS Odiham pest house, circa 1622, is a rare survivor and unusual in that it was built in the corner of the churchyard. Pest houses, or plague houses, were usually built away from communities.

Credit: Basing House, Hampshire Cultural Trust

GEORGIANS Stratfield Saye House has been the stately home of the Dukes of Wellington since 1817 when it was given to the victorious Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, following the Battle of Waterloo. The House is open by guided tour selected days in April and August and provides an insight into the Duke’s life. EAT The Wellington Arms is a family-friendly pub with rooms on the Wellington Estate. STAY The Wellington Arms – pub with rooms providing 21st century style and comforts within 18th century building. The Credit:

Electric

tograp

o Eye Ph

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT WALKS & WILDLIFE BASINGSTOKE CANAL The Basingstoke Canal is considered one of the finest waterways in Britain. Built in 1794 to link Basingstoke with the River Wey, it was reopened in 1991 after the Basingstoke Canal Society took 18 years to restore 32 miles of its original 37-mile length. Today it runs from the blocked Greywell Tunnel, winding its way past the ruins of King John’s Castle and Odiham and Crookham villages. It has become known as a haven for wildlife as well as popular with cyclists, canoeists, kayakers and walkers. EAT Café at Newlyns Farm Shop, North Warnborough, for a delicious menu including farmers’ breakfasts. The Exchequer, Crookham, welcoming country pub near the canal. STAY The Red Lion, Odiham, is a characterful inn with boutique rooms. Four Seasons Hampshire, Dogmersfield, is a luxurious country house hotel with spa, adventure pool and horse riding. CANDOVER VALLEY This verdant valley with a string of charming villages provides an easy escape. Walkers can discover numerous footpaths including long distance routes The Wayfarer’s Walk and Three Castles Path which both cross through the valley. Take a detour to discover the “Buried” church of St Nicholas in Chilton Candover. Its ancient crypt, discovered in 1929, is all that remains of the original Norman church.

Credit: The Electric Eye Photography

EAT The Yard Café at Chilton Manor Farm, Moon Roast’s HQ in Chilton Candover, for freshly roasted coffee. The Purefoy Arms, Preston Candover, is home to Pub Chef of the Year Gordon Scott.

hampshirefare.co.uk

HAZELEY HEATH Hazeley Heath is a fine example of lowland heath. Now rare, such heathlands were first created when Bronze Age farmers started clearing woodland for grazing, fuel and materials. In World War II Hazeley Heath Common was commandeered for tank training. Today, however, it is a tranquil reserve that’s home to special wildlife, among them nightjars, red kites, great spotted woodpeckers, tree pipits and woodlarks. Long distance Three Castles Path also runs through Hazeley Heath. This route was inspired by the 13th century journeys of King John via his Castle near Odiham. STAY The Wellington Arms is a family-friendly pub with rooms providing 21st century style and comforts within an 18th century building. MINLEY WOOD Near the Surrey border, Minley Wood and adjacent Hawley Common encompass dense woodland and a large sailing lake which takes 45 minutes to stroll around. This is also a good destination for celebrity spotting as several Hollywood blockbusters have been filmed on location here - due to the woodland’s proximity to London studios. The most recent include science fiction action film Infinite, starring Mark Wahlberg, and Jurassic World: Dominion, the third in the Jurassic Park series. These are scheduled for release autumn 2021 and summer 2022 respectively.

Credit: Phone box community library, Brown Candover

THE BAT CAVE Did you know? Blocked Greywell Tunnel provides excellent, cave-like conditions for hibernating bats. Five bat species have been recorded in hibernation here, including the second largest hibernating population of Natterer’s bat in Europe.

hampshirefare.co.uk

DAYS OUT FAMILY FUN From animal farms to boating, great ways to make memories… ADVENTURE Wellington Country Park offers an open-air, fun-filled adventure zone for energetic children up to the age of eight. Covering 350 acres of parkland and woodland, interactive attractions include an animal farm, miniature railway, splash zone, pirate ship, mini jeeps and a legion of dinosaurs in an immersive Lost World Sound Experience. Open mid-February to early November. EAT Wellington Farm Shop to pick picnic buys or visit the café, serving all-day breakfasts, afternoon tea, and good children’s choices. STAY Wellington Arms, Stratfield Turgis, welcoming pub with B&B accommodation perfect for family breaks. BOATING All aboard at Galleon Marine, Odiham, for messing about on the Basingstoke Canal. There are canoes, kayaks and row boats for hire (simply turn up), as well as narrowboats that can be booked for days or short breaks. In addition, two accessible boats are available for people with reduced mobility and wheelchair users. Open every day except Wednesdays from March until October.

Credit: Wellington Country Park

EAT Newlyns Farm Shop, North Warnborough, for delicious picnic buys plus destination café. Pubs found along the canal include The Exchequer at Crookham Village – family friendly pub with suntrap dining terrace.

STAY The Red Lion, Odiham, is a characterful inn with boutique rooms. Four Seasons Hampshire, Dogmersfield, is a luxurious country house hotel with activities for residents including woodland highwire adventure, horse riding and pool with fountain, jets and slide.

hampshirefare.co.uk

ANIMALS Miller’s Ark, Hook, holds Open Days when visitors are encouraged to cuddle and groom donkeys, foals, goats and their kids, hold chicks and ducklings, and tickle piggies’ tummies. Miller’s Ark specialises in British rare breed farm animals, among them ten different rare sheep breeds, Anglo-Nubian and pygmy goats, Kunekune pigs and miniature Mediterranean donkeys. Pennybridge Farm, Up Nateley, run alpaca meet, greet and walk experiences. Usually available 11.00am-1.00pm most days, these experiences include feeding, halter training, and walking an alpaca. FOLLIES For a magical Alice in Wonderland of a garden visit West Green House Gardens, near Hartley Wintney. Dreamed up by Marylyn Abbott, renowned garden designer, they include a grand water staircase, Moongate, walled garden approached through a wisteria arbor, elaborate potager, exuberant planting and eclectic collection of garden follies. Throughout the year are regular Family Days to inspire wonder in children.

OPERA GARDEN Every July West Green House Gardens provide the setting for a friendly, boutique opera festival. The coming season promises lunchtime proms, Gigi In Concert, Around the World in 18 Arias, and Puccini’s La Rodine. Credit: The Electric Eye Photograpahy Basingstoke Canal

hampshirefare.co.uk

ASTE T E H T R E DISCOV DUCE O R P L A C O OF L 1 Ale

ned ery Family-ow Longdog Brew d te af cr nd ucing ha brewery prod all sm in es al d ne cask-conditio edients. traditional ingr batches using p ta -site shop and There is an on s. ur to d stings an room, plus ta

olate 5 H o t C ho c mpany

ocolate Co Mortimer Ch wders chocolate po ng ni in w Awardg the in chocolates us and drinking mplex co as s ur r flavo finest cocoa fo ing, ok co ine. Use for as coffee or w s. ue nd fo and hot chocolate

6 Skincare

e es Handmad A Basket of Be honey and g in us re ca natural skin ms local hives. Ite beeswax from lm, ca to s s and balm include soap repair d an ed fe , urise soothe, moist s such as with problem skin, helping ma and ze ec , in sk itive dry and sens psoriasis. sh d to help Briti Good Founde e wax, Be es be e es ri e Good us 3 Charcute bees thrive, Be dly en fri ebe Co d i is an lam honey, propol Hampshire Sa i maker, e balms, artisan salam extracts to mak er w flo ild r w fo Award-winning ps ish, ur ho ks no or at w th s cuterie es and cream , lv rs sa running char he to tc e bu ag mbat dam m novices to protect and co everyone, fro nts’ pig at ie e ed on gr il’, in ta e th to ‘nose skin, thanks to e d e th curing meat, bl an t la ai an av tic, antioxid meats also natural antisep a time. Cured The s. i. tie el D er re op hi pr ory amps anti-inflammat from on-site H natural e is over 98% Bee Good rang g. in ag ck pa dly 4 Eggs with eco-frien g Company Eg ed is Ra e Pastur s are in mobile shed Hens housed ng them vi gi , rm fa e th moved around scratch. rich pasture to new areas of ailable av e ar gs e eg Their free rang ing nd ve ient egg “Our roots as beekeepers are from a conven ed’. Sh gg ‘E ’s rm e fa machine in th so important to us. Everything

2 Bread

ge Bakery Bramley Villa range ry with wide ke Family-run ba baked s rie st pa d kes an e of breads, ca th m still warm fro ffee on-site, often co ite -s on also an and oven. There’s s tte la pit stop for shop - a good s. Danish pastrie

we do is underpinned by support for our precious bees” Simon Cavill, Co-founder, Bee Good

hampshirefare.co.uk

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED The Loddon is a quintessentially English country landscape of field and hedgerow. However, look again...

Credit:

COLD PRESSED OIL COMPANY

The Ele

ctric Eye

Photog

raphy

In April and May, fields near Crondall flower a dazzling yellow. This is rapeseed. From mid-July when the seed pods have ripened they are harvested by the Cold Pressed Oil Company to be stored and pressed into rapeseed oil in a barn on the farm – keeping food miles to a minimum. The traditional method of cold pressing is used to remove the oil from the seed without adding heat or chemicals. The result is a rich golden coloured oil that is deliciously flavoured and completely free of chemicals and additives. It’s one of the healthiest oils to use in the kitchen – high in Vitamin E and Omega 3 while having less than half the saturated fat of olive oil. Rapeseed oil also has a high smoke point; this means it is very versatile and can be used for frying and roasting as well as salads. Hence Cold Pressed Oil Company’s award-winning selection of oils, dressings and sauces.

SUMMERDOWN MINT

Credit:

The Co

ld Press

ed Oil C ompan

Credit: Summerdown Mint

Summerdown Mint have been growing, harvesting and distilling their own Black Mitcham peppermint on the family farm for almost three decades. Wander through their fields on a summer’s day and you’ll inhale its crisp intensity. This vibrant plant is transformed into an astonishingly aromatic, barrel-aged peppermint oil, which plays a starring role in Summerdown’s unique, calming yet revitalising range that encompasses award-winning chocolates, teas, candles and diffusers.

hampshirefare.co.uk

WHERE TO BUY THE FARM SHOP Farm Shops have evolved into food halls in the countryside. Newlyns Farm Shop, North Warnborough Farm shop on a 500-acre traditional mixed farm with a highly-skilled butchery at its heart. Meats include their own beef, grazed on local fields, and Hampshire Down lambs and Berkshire pigs raised at the farm in Upton Grey. Newlyns mature beef for at least 21 days for flavour and tenderness, cure and slow roast their own gammons as well as home-curing bacon and making sausages and burgers. In addition a small team of house chefs use meat produced on the farm to create Newlyns range of ready meals, from shepherd’s pie to boeuf bourguignon. Newlyns also sell a variety of local produce including fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, straight from the fields of local farmers. Their deli is a great resource for a light lunch or posh picnic. Choose from pork pies, sausage rolls, Scotch eggs, terrines, tarts and local charcuterie. Accompany with chutneys and dressings by small artisan producers. The farm shop’s most recent additions have been a specialist fishmonger and state of the art cheese room. The fish room sells quality fresh fish and shellfish delivered daily from a fleet of day boats working off the south coast. The cheese room is heady with the waft of cheese in prime condition. It is thought to hold the finest range of artisan cheeses in the area including acclaimed local cheeses, among them Tunworth and Barkham Blue. Credit: Newlyns Farm Shop

The on-site café is another find with menu encompassing both hearty and healthy breakfasts, lunches of soups, salads and sandwiches, plus steaks, and fish and chips.

hampshirefare.co.uk

Wellington Farm Shop, Riseley Newly refurbished farm shop with modern rustic charm. Shelves are well stocked with seasonal fruit and vegetables, artisan produce such as homemade jams and chutneys, award-winning cheeses and essentials such as bread, milk and eggs. Delicious ready meals and pies are prepared by chefs busy baking, grilling, steaming and roasting. Meanwhile at the butcher counter, butchers debone, cure, score, slice and dice favourite cuts of local beef, lamb, pork and poultry, and make sausages. Shoppers can also tuck into tasty homemade food and amazing cakes in the inviting café. Cobbs at Manydown Farm Shop, Worting What started as a traditional butchery has grown into a destination farm shop with a great deli, plus a tasty choice of homemade pies, baked goods, dairy products, fresh fruit and vegetables, including produce from their own farm and a wide range of store cupboard essentials.

Credit: Wellington Farm shop, Milly Fletcher

KITCHEN CONFIDENCE Above Newlyns Farm Shop is a demonstration and teaching kitchen with cookery courses for every level. They range from bread and baking to barbecue, and stocks, sauces and reductions to sushi.

hampshirefare.co.uk

WHERE TO EAT THE COUNTRY PUB

Discover gastropubs tucked into quiet villages and down country lanes. The Wellington Arms, Stratfield Turgis Familyfriendly pub with contemporary country club style interiors. Features include pub garden overlooking fields. Seasonal menus focus on local. The Exchequer, Crookham Village Welcoming, dog-friendly country pub near Basingstoke Canal with a bright, cheerful modern style, sunny gardens, and menu featuring local produce. The Red Lion, Odiham 500-year-old village inn combining rustic beams, modern design and relaxed ambience. The menu of modern pub classics includes vegetarian dishes, weekend brunch menu and Sunday roasts. The Fur & Feathers, Herriard Friendly, family-run country pub. Menus feature fresh homemade food with many gluten and dairy-free choices. A gin bar includes small batch Silverback from Gorilla Spirits in Upton Grey. The Gamekeepers, Mapledurwell Cosy country inn with exposed beams and flagstone floors. There’s a bar menu of updated pub classics and restaurant menu featuring local produce such as Tunworth cheese oven baked with honey and thyme glaze.

Credit: The Exchequers , Milly Fletcher

The Anchor Inn, Lower Froyle Relaxing country pub with garden overlooking fields. The bar offers craft ales and artisan spirits, and the dining menu includes classic British specialities.

The Purefoy Arms, Preston Candover Welcoming village gastropub headed up by award-winning Chef/Patron Gordon Scott. Menus use fresh, seasonal ingredients and include Tasting Menus.

hampshirefare.co.uk

WHERE TO STAY THE COUNTRY HOUSE

Indulge yourself: outstanding experiences in luxurious manor houses. Four Seasons Hotel, Dogmersfield Georgian mansion on 500-acre country estate combining luxury with adventure. Features include elegant suites, relaxing spa with heated, connected indoor and outdoor pools, and library lounge for afternoon tea. Families will enjoy Sharkie’s Reef adventure pool, treetop trails, tennis, equestrian centre, croquet, cycling and country pursuits. Dining experiences include Wild Carrot restaurant serving modern British cuisine influenced by Executive Chef Paolo Belloni’s love for the cuisine of la campagna, creating connections to the local landscape through ingredients. Relax at The Bar sipping cocktails inspired by the Hampshire countryside. Tylney Hall Hotel, Rotherwick Elegant Victorian mansion with Great Hall panelled in walnut and spectacular ceilings brought over from the Grimani Palace in Venice.

Credit: The Four Seasons Hotel, Dogmersfield

Heckfield Place, Heckfield Georgian stately home in 400 acres reimagined as a contemporary country house hotel, with Scandi-influenced interiors and Culinary Director Skye Gyngell creating seasonal menus.

THE COUNTRY INN Alternatively stay in an inn. These include Red Lion, Odiham, a characterful village inn with boutique rooms; The Wellington Arms, Stratfield Turgis, with comfortable and luxurious rooms; and The Anchor Inn, Lower Froyle, with cosy cottage style rooms.

hampshirefare.co.uk

THE LOCAL EXPERIENCE WHAT IS HAMPSHIRE FARE? Discover local with Hampshire Fare - celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2021 as one of the oldest food groups in the country. Hampshire Fare was originally established by a group of farmers to spread the message about local, seasonal and sustainable. Today this dynamic, award-winning group works with about 400 members, among them farmers, artisan makers and producers, independent retailers and hospitality businesses, helping to raise awareness of the choice, quality and value of local produce, and promote Hampshire as a food-lovers’ destination. Hampshire Fare is a great resource for discovering local. In its role enabling connections between producer, retailer, hospitality and consumer, Hampshire Fare publishes an annual Local Produce Guide, monthly e-newsletter, and maintains a continually updated website (www.hampshirefare.co.uk), showcasing local - what to try and where to buy and taste. Hampshire Fare also enjoys a high profile

across social media platforms, highlighting members’ news, products, offers and competitions. In addition, Hampshire Fare organises the Hampshire Food Festival, a countywide celebration of local food and drink encompassing tours and tastings, fairs and fêtes, and the acclaimed Great Hampshire Sausage & Pie Competition.

TASTE OF HAMPSHIRE A sense of place is better appreciated through local produce. Discover with Hampshire Fare the often intriguing stories behind what and where we eat and drink. Enjoy the friendliness and personal service of shopping in bakeries, butchers, delis, farm shops and village stores. Relax in a local bistro, café, pub or restaurant. Experience somewhere very special to stay – including working farms, country inns, grand estates and vineyard treehouses. Turn every visit into the Test and Loddon areas into a special memory.

“Hampshire Fare’s enthusiasm and expert knowledge of the local food scene has made them highly valued partners in Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s Great Solent Seafood campaign.” Tim Ferrero, Project Manager, Hamphire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust

hampshirefare.co.uk

WHY LOCAL? Choosing local has numerous and far-reaching benefits. There’s the environment (including reduced food miles); the importance of supporting and sustaining the rural and local economy; and then there is our own wellbeing. Local food and drink connects us with our environment. Food and drink production shapes our landscape and helps form our communities. Enjoying local produce enhances the staycation experience for visitors and quality of life for locals.

hampshirefare.co.uk

SUPPORT LOCAL Hampshire Fare performs a vital role linking public to producer via independent retailers and hospitality venues. This is achieved through an in-depth knowledge of Hampshire and being supported by a range of organisations committed to local. r the passion fo ire Fare’s local to ey k “Hampsh is r o drink sect d ership n n a rt d a o p fo ess. Our cc su ’ nnect rs co ce produ Place to d Festival le s b a ze n si e ll s a a h es of l business elp make h to with loca rm o e a platf and provid locally.” ce n re e eting a diff er, Mark lm a P y il m E al Place r, Fes tiv Manage

“At FuIler’s we are ve ry proud to have been working with and supporting Hampshire Fare for decades. We know that our chefs are ins pired by using local produce, and that our diners enjoy menu s with regional provenance .” Jane Jones, Dire ctor of Marketing, Fu ller’s

“It has been fantastic to work with Hampshire Fare ove r the past few yea rs and to witness firstha nd the positive im pa ct Hampshire Fare delive r to their membership and the wider audie nce.” Ross Br ec kenr idg e, Ma naging Dire ctor, Br ec kenr idge Th e Gr ow th Agency

ly Fantastic!! They bring together “The work Hampshire Fare does is simp s, but create a remarkable inclusive an already strong network of producer big and small. The passion and both environment for them all to flourish, a big to everyone in their network makes commitment shown from all the team pshire region.” difference to the success of the Ham , Ideal Collection ctor Dire g agin Man , eks Oliver We “We are keen to support entrepreneurial Hampshire businesses and enjoy working with Hampshire Fare, networking with like-minded individuals and businesses in the food and drink industry.” Nigel & Helen Owens, Rownhams House & Gardens

“At SOCAL, the outdoor cooking specialists, we are all kee n BBQers and foodies and we love Hampshire Fare and everything it sta nds for! The choice of good quality, locally pro duced food and drink has never been better, so ‘stay loyal, stay local’ to help these small busine sses thrive.” Charles Ramseyer, Dir ector, SOCAL

‘Hampshire Fare are a major force in developing the diversity and quality of produce in and around the county. They have raised awareness of Hampshire produce and the county’s great pubs and restaurants, adding the stamp of quality we all strive towards.” David Butcher, Director, Upham Inns

hampshirefare.co.uk

“As a regional co-operative, sustainab ility is really important to us, and part of that is supporting Hampshire producers thro ugh our Local Flavours range in our retai l stores. Hampshire Fare enables us to conn ect with both fledging and established busin esses right here on our doorstep.” Mat t Elliott, Southern Co-op’s Retail Buying & Services Manager

“We value our partnership with Hampshire Fare. Hampshire is blessed with a vast amount of excellent producers and by working collaboratively we have been able to raise awareness of the premium rs quality produce available with buye from the hospitality industry.” Leigh-Sara Timberlake, CEO, Business South

focus on “Menzies continue to be impressed with Hampshire Fare’s shire Fare helping to promote local businesses and the local area. Hamp their members, are passionate about helping businesses; they get to know their journey.” understand their aims and aspirations and assist them on Dave Gosling, Partner, Menzies LLP

Championin of g Lo rs ea

food

drink

crafts

The cou nty’s local food group

hampshirefare.co.uk

Credit : Black Chalk Vineyard, The Electric Eye Photography

itment “Hampshire Fare’s comm cers to promoting local produ rchasing not only encourages pu also raises great local produce but local awareness and supports venues d an ers producers, suppli ire sh in Hampshire.” Hamp ce er Chamber of Comm l ca

“NFU Mutual know that local food and drink is important for the success of independent hotels, pubs and restaurants. Therefore, we are delighted to partner Hampshire Fare, working together to support local food producers and hospitality businesses. This has included a recent collaboration delivering webinars to inspire the next generation of chefs.” Darren Seward, Sector Lead for Hospitality & Food and Drink, NFU Mutual

“Starfish is proud to support Hampshire Fare; their hard work and dedication helps local independent businesses of all sizes who are passionate about what they do.” Jo Scrivener, Director, Starfish Design

30 y

“We’ve found Hampshire Fare to be a great fit for Trethowa ns due to our sector specialisms in far ming, hospitality and the food and drink industry. As a firm that supports the commu nities we operate in, we are proud to be par t of Hampshire Fare’s ‘stay loyal, stay loc al’ approach.” Mike Watson, Partn er, Corporate & Commercial, Tretho wans

Discover Hampshire's Test & Loddon Valleys, The Chalk & The Cheese