South Downs Visitor Guide 2014

South Downs National Park

Hampshire Area Visitor Guide 2014

Map G Places to stay G Walks G Eating out G Events G Things to do

Welcome to the South Downs National Park

The Hampshire area of the South Downs National Park, part of Britain’s newest National Park, is an area rich in landscapes, wildlife and culture.

Leave your car behind and explore quiet country lanes by bike, stopping off to visit local attractions at Chawton, Steep and

Selborne.You can discover how the landscapes of the South Downs helped to inspire Jane Austen, Edward Thomas, Flora Twort and Gilbert White.

If all this fresh air makes you hungry, there’s plenty of good food and hundreds of tempting places to eat.

Taste artisan cheeses, preserves or honey at a local delicatessen; try a Hampshire hog roast at a village fête; or buy a bunch of fresh watercress just yards from where it is grown. Or indulge yourself with a meal at one of our award-winning inns, restaurants and cafés with local beer and wine.

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Escape to the countryside which inspired novelist Jane Austen and naturalist Gilbert White. Here you can discover ancient woodlands and enjoy spectacular views as you explore the open downs and heathlands. Within these landscapes lie bustling market towns and peaceful rural villages, historic houses and the remains of ancient settlements. Why not browse the local shops and be tempted by farmers’ markets, tea rooms and traditional pubs?

Sitting on Winchester’s doorstep, the Hampshire area of the South Downs National Park is characterised by steep wooded hills and hidden valleys perfect for walking, cycling and horse riding.

Whether you want to tackle the iconic South Downs Way National Trail or a shorter circular route, there’s no shortage of trails and footpaths taking you through ancient woodland or out onto the high chalk ridges.

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For ideas on where to base yourself during your visit see the ‘Where to stay’ section, which lists quality assessed accommodation offering you a comfortable stay and peace of mind. Or visit www.our-land.co.uk to find distinctive places to stay that are committed to responsible tourism.

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There are village fêtes and local events throughout the year. Find out more about what’s happening during your stay in the South Downs National Park at www.southdowns.gov.uk/ enjoying/events

A day out with a difference On the Downs

Whether you’re visiting the region for just a few days or a longer holiday, we have picked out a few of the interesting experiences you can enjoy.

The clear spring waters of the rivers Itchen and Meon, both renowned for fly-fishing, carve out deep valleys in the chalk downland creating lush, peaceful wet woodlands and water meadows. Along the river banks, pretty villages add to the timeless, pastoral feel.

The Hampshire Downs are known for top-of-the-world views – from the crowns of Old Winchester Hill, Butser Hill, Beacon Hill and St Catherine’s Hill you can see for miles across wide rolling fields to the sea and the Isle of Wight.

In the Hangers

Binswood Forest and Woodland is one of very few remaining lowland pastures still sustained by traditional grazing of commoners’ stock.The common was once part of the Woolmer Forest, a royal hunting ground, and the mosaic of grassland and ancient oak and beech woodland remains much as it was in medieval times.

From the Ashford Hangers near Petersfield, 323 acres of wooded hills known as ‘Little Switzerland’, there are magnificent views of the surrounding countryside.

On the chalk scarp there are panoramic views over the lowlands to the east and beyond from the open chalk grasslands of Selborne Common. Managed by the National Trust, this Site of Special Scientific Interest is rich in wild flowers such In the south of the National Park, the ancient royal Forest of as yellow archangel, wood anemone and Bere is a mix of woodland, open spaces and heathland, with ponds and streams, as well as farmland and downland. A network bird’s nest orchid, and butterflies including of walking and cycling trails lead you through coppice and woods, the rare purple emperor. ablaze with bluebells in the spring.

The different habitats at Shortheath

Common – a large pond, wet and dry heath, acid grassland and a quaking bog support an amazing range of creatures, many rare or endangered, including 23 different dragonflies, field crickets and water voles.

An ancient site with Bronze Age pits, Iron Age ramparts and Saxon Rare ground nesting birds the woodlark and boundaries, named for the Norman church that once stood here, nightjar nest here from March to the end of St Catherine’s Hill Nature Reserve has flower-rich chalk July – so do please keep to the paths so you grassland and many rare species of butterflies. don’t disturb them and their young.

Learn about creatures great and small at the 140-acre Marwell At the Alice Holt Forest Park (page 9) there’s Zoological Park, home to over 180 exotic and endangered plenty to do for all the family. Explore the forest by species in specially created natural habitats and enclosures. following the five waymarked trails, including the Easy www.marwell.org.uk Access trail, suitable for wheelchairs, and the Cycle Trail.

Magdalen Hill Down is a very special place – rare natural chalk grassland, untouched by modern agriculture. A paradise for butterflies, 34 species are found here, including the brown argus, green hairstreak and chalkhill blue.

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There’s a cafe, BBQ areas and play areas for children. And you can With seven railway stations along the trail, you can get there easily take the Go Ape! challenge (page 10) – a course of rope bridges, by public transport.The route will also form part of the Sustrans zip wires and Tarzan swings, exhilarating fun!

National Cycle Network route 22 linking London to Portsmouth. www.hants.gov.uk/shipwrights Queen Elizabeth Country Park is Hampshire’s biggest country park, with 2000 acres of woodland and downland, and 20 Take an electric bike for a spin miles of trails for walking, cycling and horse riding.There are Hire an electric bike from Alice Holt, Alton or Petersfield to special events throughout the year and you can try wayfaring and enjoy a relaxing day exploring quiet country lanes and trails orienteering and join guided walks. without breaking into a sweat. Follow your own route or use a special guided map which joins up local places of interest such as Uncover more of the thought-provoking, entertaining and Jane Austen’s and Gilbert White’s houses. Charge up your bike at stimulating activities which are waiting to be enjoyed on our 13 local attractions, cafés and pubs. Minimum age 14. Book your website www.easthants.gov.uk/tourism bike at www.electricbicyclenetwork.com Discover sculpture along Shipwrights Way On yer bike at Bishop’s Waltham Sculptures by local artist, Richard Perry, are Start at Bishop’s Waltham Palace and wind your way to Upham dotted along the Shipwrights Way, telling the along a brand new 20-mile cycle trail – with a three mile stories of the area. Each one extension to Botley railway station. Enjoy the sights at Marwell has a Quick Zoo, St Andrews Church in Owslebury and Stephen’s Response Castle Down, before heading into Droxford.

(QR) code Download a copy of the route at which allows www.southdowns.gov.uk/enjoying/publications you to link online to a variety of information about history and wildlife. The path is open to walkers and cyclists and, where possible, horse-riders and © B ob people with disabilities. © Re Eaton Photogra phy

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Map of the South Downs National Park Walk and ride on Hampshire’s trails

A series of circular walks and cycle routes across the National Park, all easy to reach by public transport, are available at www.southdowns.gov.uk/enjoying/outdoor-activities/ walks-and-rides. More information about walks in Hampshire can be found at www.hants.gov.uk/walking and www.easthants.gov.uk/tourism.

Here are five long distance routes across the National Park in Hampshire: • South Downs Way National Trail An iconic route running from Winchester to Eastbourne, 100 miles. It’s a diverse route offering spectacular views from the South Downs ridge, when planning your visit go to the national trail website www.nationaltrail.co.uk/southdowns

• Hangers Way Explore the steep sided wooded ‘hanger’ hills between Alton and Petersfield, 21 miles.

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• Monarch’s Way: A 615 mile trail that approximates the escape route taken by King Charles II in 1651 after being defeated in the Battle of Worcester. Around 54 miles of this historic trail go through Hampshire.

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Watercress Line

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• Shipwrights Way Linking Alice Holt, where medieval timber was grown, to Portsmouth, a ship-building port and now home of the Mary Rose and HMS Victory, 60 miles.

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St Swithun’s Way Winchester to Farnham, 34 miles. Weaving through the picturesque Itchen Valley, taking in several pretty and unspoilt Hampshire villages.

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• Staunton Way Discover some of the most uninhabited parts of Hampshire as you walk from Petersfield, across Queen Elizabeth Country Park and over the South Downs to Staunton Country Park, 20.5 miles.

Cowdray ruins, Midhurst

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Key to advertisers Hotels Listed on page 14

Countryside guest Listed on page 14

Self catering Listed on page 14

Camping & caravanning Listed on page 15

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Campus accommodation Listed on page 15

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Attractions

Winchester City Mill See page 9 Hospital of St Cross See page 9 Alice Holt See page 9

Hinton Ampner See page 9 Go Ape! See page 10

The Heritage Collection See page 11 Watercress Line See page 15 Fort Nelson See page 15

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The Greyfriar See page 12 Rimjhim See page 12

Accommodation

Langrish House Hotel See page 14

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Old Thorns Hotel See page 14

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The Running Horse Country Guest See page 14

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Places to Eat

The Old Drum Country Guest See page 14

Inadown Farm Holiday Homes Self Catering – See page 14

Snakemoor Farm Cottages Self Catering – See page 14

Two Hoots Camping See page 15

Sparsholt College Campus See page 15

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History and Heritage Literary heritage

Gilbert White 1720-1793

Jane Austen 1775-1817

Edward Thomas 1878-1917

Flora Twort 1893-1985

18th century naturalist Gilbert White’s observations of the flora and fauna of Selborne and the surrounding area inspired him to write The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne.Visit the museum of his life to find out more. www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk

Jane Austen lived most of her life in Hampshire and is buried in Winchester Cathedral. In 1809 Jane settled in Chawton, where her house is now open to the public.

Jane’s brother’s Elizabethan manor house (now Chawton House Library) is nearby. www.jane-austens-housemuseum.org.uk www.chawtonhouse.org

Edward Thomas became a poet at the end of 1914 whilst living in Steep. He enlisted in 1915 into the Artists Rifles and was killed in action in 1917. Learn more about his work and follow a walk dedicated to him at Shoulder of Mutton hill.

The painter Flora Twort (1893–1985) specialised in watercolours and pastels capturing everyday life in Hampshire. A selection of her work is on display in Petersfield Museum. www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk

You can follow in the footsteps of Hampshire’s literary greats on six self-guided walks, available for download from www.easthants.gov.uk/walking

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Historic places to visit

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Best known for its beautiful gardens, Hinton Ampner (see page 9) is an elegant country house with sweeping views across picturesque parkland and the South Downs.

Twyford Waterworks – an Edwardian pumping station with steam engines and boilers – has a handful of themed open days during the summer, when restored machinery is in operation, and the industrial narrow gauge railway is ‘in steam’.

Winchester City Museum tells the story of Winchester’s past from the Iron Age to the present. Star exhibits include the Victorian interior of Foster’s tobacconist shop, taken from the High Street and rebuilt in the museum, complete with box till and ornate tobacco tins.

Once the luxurious residence of the wealthy and powerful Bishops of Winchester, Wolvesey Castle’s extensive and impressive ruins date mainly from the 12th century and are situated in the heart of the city of Winchester.

Petersfield Museum is dedicated to the social, agricultural and industrial history of the area. Displays include archaeological finds, vintage bicycles and memorabilia from local pubs and breweries.

Visit Petersfield Heath barrows to see 22 prehistoric burial mounds, the largest concentration of Bronze Age round barrows in the area.

See how our ancestors lived 3000 years ago at Butser Ancient Farm, a reconstruction of a typical Iron Age farm. Buildings include a Roman villa, round houses and clunch sheds based on examples found and excavated in England.

Wolvesey Castle, Winchester

THE HOSPITAL OF ST CROSS

Rebuilt in 1744 on an earlier medieval site, the working watermill spans the River Itchen. Flour Milling demonstrations given on Saturdays and Sundays (subject to volunteer availability). There is a delightful island garden and impressive mill races. The video, exhibition, inner city otter watch, children’s quizzes (and special activities in school holidays) will keep all ages entertained and informed.

Baking demonstrations as advertised.

The shop offers a wide range of NT and local fresh produce including stoneground, wholemeal flour.

WINCHESTER CITY MILL & SHOP Bridge Street Telephone: 01962 870 057 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The best kept secret in Winchester History and hospitality in a serene and picturesque The Hospital of St Cross is a

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Visitors can admire the medieval architecture, absorb the quiet calm in tŚĞ ĮŶe

Open: 1 January to 16 February

the Porter’s Lodge. Tea rooms in the medieval Hundred Men’s Hall provide refreshments during the summer. St Cross is an easy walk along the river, 20 minutes from the city centre.

11am-4pm

17 February to 30 November 10am-5pm

1 December to 24 December

Open: April to October 9.30am – 5pm Monday – Saturday and from 1pm Sunday. November to March 10.30am – 3.30pm Monday – Saturday.

Charges: £4.50 adult; £3.50 senior/student; £2 child.

10.30am-4pm

25 December & 26 December Closed

27 December to 31 December 12noon-4pm Note - Last entry to the mill 30 mins before closing.

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Tel: 01962 851375 Fax: 01962 878221 www.hospitalofstcross.co.uk

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Open all year for you

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Discover newly opened woodland walks Relax in our tea-room and enjoy homemade cakes and scones Explore on a family trail Free weekly garden tours Special events and workshops Traditional walled kitchen garden

01962 771305 nationaltrust.org.uk/hinton-ampner

National Trust

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Gilbert White’s House, Selborne

Four of Hampshire’s finest heritage attractions have come together in partnership to help visitors make the most of this beautiful and historic corner of Hampshire.

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Jane Austen’s intimate home in the tiny village of Chawton, today a Museum

Her brother’s Elizabethan manor house and parkland (now Chawton House Library) just a short walk away

Gilbert White’s House & Garden and The Oates Collection in delightful Selborne, discover three fascinating stories about explorers of the Natural World Petersfield Museum including the Museum in the Old Courthouse and the Flora Twort Gallery in the ancient town of Petersfield

The Hampshire area of the South Downs National Park – with its steep wooded slopes, picture-perfect villages and peaceful market towns – is one of the loveliest parts of rural England. This is the landscape that inspired some of England’s greatest writers – among them Jane Austen, pioneering eighteenth-century naturalist Gilbert White and First World War poet Edward Thomas.

These few square miles of England’s newest National Park contain a natural network of historic places, people and stories – criss-crossing connections from the past that can be retraced on foot across the downlands and hidden valleys, or by road from village to village, through lovely scenery that has hardly changed for hundreds of years.

Jane Austen’s House Museum, Chawton

Gilbert White’s House & Garden and The Oates Collection www.gilbertwhiteshouse.org.uk 01420 511 275 GU34 3JN Jane Austen’s House Museum www.jane-austens-house-museum.org.uk 01420 83262 GU34 1SD Chawton House Library www.chawtonhouse.org 01420 541 010 GU34 1SJ

Petersfield Museum www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk 01730 262 601 GU32 3HX Find us on Facebook

SAVE £££s

1 child goes free with 1 full paying adult at Gilbert White’s House, Jane Austen’s House Museum & Chawton House Library or receive a £3 voucher for the Petersfield Museum shop * Valid until 31 December 2014

Chawton House Library, Chawton

Flora Twort Gallery, Petersfield

*Terms and conditions apply see websites for details.

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THE GREYFRIAR The Greyfriar is a picturesque country pub, set in the charming Hampshire village of Chawton, just outside Alton and right opposite the world-famous Jane Austen House Museum. We serve high quality pub food - which is made fresh on the premises, real ales and great wines in the Greyfriar’s traditional low-beamed 16th century bar & restaurant.

Delicious Days Out

The rolling landscapes of the South Downs National Park provide great grazing and crop growing environments and as a result the area has been farmed for centuries. This means you can find a range of locally grown produce in the area, from fruit and vegetables, to meat and fish, wine and beer. There are also many herbs and flowers and tasty treats such as preserves, oils, sauces and artisan breads.

Spend a day or two experiencing food and produce from the National Park. Enjoy the heady scent from the lavender fields near Alton or visit the Alresford Watercress Festival on Sunday 18 May 2014 – you could even enter the World Watercress Soup Championships!

Each month the market towns of Alton and Petersfield host a Hampshire Farmers’ Market where you can buy direct from local producers – supporting the people who care for the National Park’s landscapes. Visit www.hampshirefare.co.uk or www.goodfoodhampshire.com to find out more about the fine food that’s put the county on the map.

There are plenty of places to try and buy local food and drink, including farm shops, pubs, restaurants and farmers’ markets. You can even try the South Downs National Park food trails around West Sussex and Hampshire. The trails, developed by the South Downs National Park Authority, bring together information about a range of local producers so that you can enjoy morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and an evening meal, all in one day if you like! Find out more at www.southdowns.gov.uk/enjoying/publications 12 | South Downs Hampshire Area Visitor Guide 2014

We are a child and dog friendly pub, with a pretty, sheltered beer garden at the rear.

There is also a light and airy upstairs function room, which is available for booking for private parties.

Winchester Road Chawton, Hampshire GU34 1SB 01420 838 41 hello@thegreyfriar.co.uk www.thegreyfriar.co.uk

Open every day from noon to 11.00pm (10.30pm Sunday) Kitchen open: Monday to Saturday 12.00 - 2.30pm & 6.00pm - 9.30pm Sunday 12.00 - 7.00pm

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CONTEMPORARY STYLE INDIAN CUISINE ‘BEST IN WINCHESTER’ 26 Main Road Colden Common Winchester SO21 1RR 01962 713389

1 - 3 City Road Winchester SO23 8SD 01962 868352

coldencommon@rimjhim.co.uk winchestercity@rimjhim.co.uk www.rimjhim.co.uk

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Where to stay All the accommodation in this guide has been assessed, or is awaiting assessment by either the AA, Visit England, Visit Winchester and the Heart of Hampshire Approved Accommodation scheme or are invited signatories to the new Visit Winchester and the Heart of Hampshire Accommodation charter.

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21 Any Street, XX11 1XX

Establishments which are inspected by the AA or Visit England undergo the more rigorous star rating assessment and so exceed the criteria for the approved accommodation scheme which means they additionally carry the Visit Winchester and the Heart of Hampshire Approved Accommodation scheme logo – see the key below for more details.

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Tel: 01962 000 000 Email: anybandb@anyemail.co.uk Web: www.anybandb.co.uk

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Just ten minutes from Winchester, our delightful B&B is peacefully set in a quiet village with rural views and countryside walks all around. All guest rooms are tastefully furnished with antique pieces and decorated in muted colours.

Local produce and eggs from our own hens are served at breakfast. Guests can be collected from Winchester station on request.

1D 1T £65–£68 (£50-£55 SO) | 2ES

VisitEngland Silver Award

Key to symbols

Establishment name Star rating Green Leaf tourism scheme Visit Winchester and Heart of Hampshire Approved Accommodation Address Number on map Map reference Contact details Description

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Key to Advertisers

Single bedroom Double bedrooms Twin room Family room Suite Single occupancy En-suite bathroom (entrance within bedroom) Private bathroom (outside the bedroom but for sole use of the guest)

Number and price of bedrooms Number of en suite or private bathrooms Reference symbols (see key) Special awards

Lounge for residents’ use

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Hotels Listed on page 14

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Self catering Listed on page 14

Camping & caravanning Listed on page 15

Campus accommodation Listed on page 15

Wa shing machine and drying facilities facilitie TTe elephone

Star classification

Passenger lift

Confirmation of quality rating awaited

Full air conditioning (hotels only)

Linen provided free of charge

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Central heating throughout

Linen hire service

Establishment offering at least one Fairtrade product

Ironing oning facilities

Visitors must provide own linen

Visit Winchester and the Heart of Hampshire Approved Accommodation scheme

Confer ence/meeting facilities

Weekend and off-season midweek bookings accepted

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Symbols for all accommodation

Indoor swimming pool

C hildren welcome (a num mber following gives min age)

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Cot available

Pets welcome by arrangement

Ground floor bedroom(s oom(s)

Off-str f-street parking

Traditional four-poster bed(s)

Special prices for longer stays

TTe elephone in all bedroom ooms

Special Christmas/New Year packages

TTe elevision in all bedroom ooms

Cr edit cards accepted Wi-Fi available

Colour television in lounge TTea/co ea/coffee making facilities in all bedrooms Hairdryer

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Additional A dditional ssymbols ymbols fo forr ccamping amping & ccaravan aravan pa parks rks AA pennant rating Parking space next to unit Parking facilities on site Electrical hook-up points for caravans and tents TToilets oilets Showers Hot water to all washbasins Chemical toilet disposal point Calor Gas/Camping Gaz purchase/exchange chase/exchange service

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Foodshop on site

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Leisure facilities

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Games room

Special diets provided by arrangement

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TTo otally non-smoking

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Prior booking recommended in summer

Wa shbasin in all bedroom ooms Licensed

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Langrish House

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Langrish, PETERSFIELD GU32 1RN

Tel: 01730 266 941 Email: frontdesk@langrishhouse.co.uk Web: www.langrishhouse.co.uk

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Langrish House, a traditional, family run Country House Hotel with large grounds, nestling in the midst of stunning countryside.

Fredericks Restaurant has two AA rosettes for fine dining, open for dinner, lunch and cream teas. An ideal venue for weddings, parties, conferences and exclusive hire.

Dogs welcome by arrangement.

Closed: 27 Dec 2013 to 11 Jan 2014 7D 3T £119-£159 (£89 SO)|2Su £159-£179 (£99 SO)|1F £149-£179 (£89 SO)|13ES Short break price: £99.50 pppn DB&B i

OldThorns Manor Hotel ####

The Old Drum

Tel: 01428 724 555 Web: www.oldthorns.com

Tel: 01730 300 544 Email: info@theolddrum.co.uk Web: www.theolddrum.co.uk

Golf & Country Estate, Griggs Green, LIPHOOK GU30 7PE

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Set in 400 acres of rolling Hampshire countryside, an ideal place to explore the region. Enjoy the green landscape, state of the art facilities, Peter Alliss designed golf course, conference centre, sports bar and Starbucks.

En-suite accommodation and Eco Pods.

A leading wedding venue for a memorable wedding experience.

80D 70T £60-£239|2F £199-£259|6Su £110£259|2/3/4 bedroom apartments £499-£899

Chapel Street, PETERSFIELD, GU32 3DP

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Recently refurbished, we have discovered and uncovered a beautiful 16th Century pub in the heart of Petersfield. Five real ales from local micro-breweries that change regularly, and fantastic locally-sourced food in a relaxed, eclectic environment.There are three open fires, leather sofas, two wonderful guest rooms and happy, smiling staff.

2D £80-£120|(£65 SO) 2ES

Inadown Farm Holiday Homes

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Newton Lane, Newton Valance, ALTON GU33 4RR

Inadown Farm Holiday Homes have been recently developed on the site of our old grain store. Situated in Newton Valence, a beautiful part of the South Downs National Park, the five homes each sleep between 2 and 6 people and have been equipped and furnished to a very high standard. They offer a relaxing retreat for a week, a short break or weekend.

Perfect for family and friends who want to be together yet have some privacy and ideal for the business person as a base to return to and unwind. Our flexible arrival days throughout most of the year allow you to choose suitable dates.

Contact: Ann Flello, as above Weekly rate: £347-£1095

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88 Main Road, LITTLETON, Winchester, SO22 6QS

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Tel: 01962 880 218 Email: info@runninghorseinn.co.uk Web: www.runninghorseinn.co.uk

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The Running Horse is full of local atmosphere, fab food and charming accommodation. Offering contemporary style king size or twin bedded rooms around a courtyard, all with en-suite bath/shower rooms. All rooms have flat screen TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee. Ideal for business travellers or those looking for casual breaks.

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Snakemoor Farm Cottages

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Snakemoor Lane, DURLEY Southampton, SO32 2BW

Tel: 023 8069 4657 / 07771 962 621 Email: info@cottageshampshire.co.uk Web: www.cottageshampshire.co.uk Accomm: cottage Cap: 8

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Tel: 023 9246 8886 Email: enquiries@inadownfarmholidayhomes.co.uk Web: www.inadownfarmholidayhomes.co.uk Accomm: house Cap: 2-6

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The Running Horse

A pair of delightful single storey barn conversions, in a rural setting on the edge of the south Hampshire village of Durley, two miles from the historic market town of Botley.These charming traditional cottages have been converted to a very high standard, retaining many original features whilst enjoying the benefits of modern living, including cosy wood-burners and

superb en-suite facilities.These cottages 6 provide a superb base from which to explore this lovely area throughout the year.

There are many delightful walks within the vicinity and plenty of places to visit within a short drive.

Contact: Ben Boyes, Snakemoor Farm (office) as above Weekly rate: £260-£550

This year it will be 100 years since the outbreak of the Great War. Winchester district has longstanding military connections and to mark this important anniversary there will be a variety of educational; commemorative and ceremonial events taking place in 2014.

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An events programme called ‘Winchester’s Story’ will run from June to December. Exhibitions in the Discovery Centre and the military museums will focus upon the human, social and economic impact of the outbreak of the war locally. There will be readings from the war poets in the cloisters of Winchester College, a special exhibition in the Great Hall to mark the role of the Morn Hill camps during the war and military trails to follow through the city.

There will also be a series of county-wide events at museums and galleries – find out more at: www.bigtheme.org.uk/1914 and for activities at the national level see www.1914.org – where the Imperial War Museum highlights centenary events and resources from across the globe.

Two Hoots Campsite Sutton Wood Lane, Bighton, ALRESFORD, SO24 9SG

Sparsholt College

SPARSHOLT, Winchester SO21 2NF

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Tel: 01962 772 242 / 07599 837 880 Email: info@twohootscampsite.co.uk Web: www.twohootscampsite.co.uk

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‘Glamping’ Pods with king-size bed & bedding. Quiet, adult only within beautiful Hampshire countryside, wonderful views, walks, ideal base, lots to do. Near Watercress Line steam railway, Georgian town of Alresford,Winchester, Petersfield. Easy reach of New Forest and South Downs National Parks. Great base for exploring Hampshire.

Open all year. Gift vouchers now available.

Eco Friendly camping pods: £55-£65 per night limited

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FREE MUSEUM ENTRY

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For parties of ten or more. Countryside location ten mins from Winchester. Ideal for ramblers, cyclists, training and residential conferences. En-suite showers, fresh linen, free parking, onsite dining and licensed bar. DDA compliant. Well situated for Test Way, Itchen Way, Wayfarer’s Walk, St. Swithun’s Way and Three Downs link.

291|ES from £34|15T from £62

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THE BIG GUNS JUST GOT BIGGER AT FORT NELSON

royalarmouries.org

Capacity: 4 eco friendly camping pods

Tel: 01962 797 259 Email: enquiries@sparsholt.ac.uk Web: www.sparsholt.ac.uk

C L I C K E T Y C L I C K TTO O W.. W WAT O.. U K WWW AT E R C R E S S L I N E . C O

CAFE 1871/ GALLERIES / SHOP/ VISITOR CENTRE/ LIVE GUN SALUTES South Downs Hampshire Area Visitor Guide 2014 | 15

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Caring for the National Park

The South Downs National Park is a living, working landscape, shaped by thousands of years of human history. During your visit you’ll see inspiring landscapes, meet the people who live here and perhaps even be lucky enough to spot rare species such as the Adonis Blue butterfly, the nightjar or a water vole.

Planning your stay Visitor information

Petersfield Tourist Information Centre in the Library, The Square, Petersfield can help you plan your stay. Open Monday to Thursday 9.00 - 17.00, Friday 9:30 - 17:00 and Saturday 9.00 - 13.00, closed Sundays and Bank Holidays. Telephone 01730 268829. www.easthants.gov.uk/tourism www.facebook.com/hampshiresouthdowns Petersfield Shopmobility: 01730 710474 or www.visitpetersfield.com Alton For advice on places to stay, call the accommodation hotline on 07816 662 175 (staffed by volunteers from 9.00 - 21.00). www.altonaccommodation.co.uk Alton Shopmobility: 01420 85057

Getting here

National Rail Traveline By ferry By road

08457 484 950 or www.nationalrail.co.uk For national and local public transport information call 0871 200 22 33 or www.traveline.org.uk Brittany Ferries - 0871 244 0744 or www.brittany-ferries.com Less than 1 hour from London on the A3(M) and 30 minutes from Portsmouth

www.facebook.com/sdnpa www.twitter.com/sdnpa

Whats on?

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For more information about the Countryside Code visit: www.southdowns.gov.uk/enjoying/outdoor-activities/countryside-code www.southdowns.gov.uk

© Neil Hulm

We all have a shared responsibility to care for the National Park and the South Downs National Park Authority works in close partnership with local communities, conservation organisations, volunteers, local authorities, businesses and farmers. You can play your part too by being sensitive to the needs of wildlife, farmers and farm animals. If you’re visiting with a dog please join the many responsible dog walkers who enjoy walking in the countryside and treat it with respect.

Find out more about what’s happening during your stay in the South Downs National Park by picking up a copy of South Downs View from tourist attractions, accommodation providers and other businesses across the National Park. You can also visit www.southdowns.gov.uk/enjoying/events, become a fan of SDNPA on facebook or follow @sdnpa on Twitter.