Austen country: inspirational setting for greater wellbeing

75% of the land in the borough is agricultural or woodland, of which 33% is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

250-acre

A new 250-acre countryside park is being created within the town

65-acre

The 65-acre flagship business park, Basing View, is a short walk from the town centre and Eastrop Park, which features a large boating lake and walking trails

Basingstoke and Deane is a harmonious blend of urban convenience and rural tranquillity. The birthplace of Jane Austen, these are the views that once inspired the acclaimed novelist. Today, the picturesque landscape that surrounds Basingstoke and Deane inspires greater wellbeing.

Explore 226 miles of rolling hills and murmuring streams as you walk and cycle along countryside trails around Whitchurch, or breathe in serenity at Beacon Hill a historical hill fort with expansive views over the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

In Basingstoke and Deane, miles of countryside will take you from screen to green, restoring a healthier balance in work and life.

“From the very beginning Silchester Farm ticked all the boxes for us: the beautiful location, 18th century farmhouse, original barns and acres of green space for kids and animals to run through. It has taken a great deal of TLC but a fabulous opportunity to indulge in our passion for creative restoration. We always wanted to create a place people could get together and enjoy… Not just a venue for a wedding or celebration, conference, or team building, but a venue for the community and local people to enjoy all year round.

“Our location provides respite from the faster moving local towns, bringing a rural retreat to our visitors and staff. We strive to support local businesses and work closely with a hand-picked selection of suppliers. We are extremely grateful to have been able to find our dream space within such a prosperous and forward-thinking town. Transportation links to Basingstoke and Reading ensure that we are easily accessible, while our spacious and unique site offers the opportunity to leave the wider world behind.”

Al and Carla Winsey, Silchester Farm

“Vitacress Salads has been a part of the Hampshire community for over 70 years, starting with just one acre of watercress beds. As one of Europe’s leading growers and packers of watercress, salads, fresh herbs and vegetables we supply supermarkets with their own-label products and with our nature-friendly, fully recyclable salad bags, Steve’s Leaves. Located on the headwaters of chalk streams, we feel privileged to be the guardians of such a special part of Hampshire, and our long-term environmental plans to become net zero carbon will help us protect these beautiful surroundings.”

Chris Jinks, CEO, Vitacress