Using Hampshire as a base for our recent trip to the UK was definitely a worthwhile experience. Visiting family and friends, we stayed in Winchester which turned out to be a great starting point from which we made several short trips. Norfolk 3 hours away, Bristol an hour and a half and London only an hour on the train. Whilst in Hampshire we had many good meals, a good British curry at the Rimjhim, Colden Common as good as we would have in London, great flavours and friendly service. 

We also made a stop at The Mayfly pub at Fullerton near Stockbridge. Great to sit outside by the river with a pint and watch the fishermen setting off to try and catch the famous Test Valley trout. We also had a great pub lunch there, a far cry from the stoggy ploughman’s often served up, they had delicious salads and cold meats from the buffet which complimented the usual suspects. In the global recessionary environment which is seeing local village pubs closing by the day we were told, it was encouraging to see the Brushmakers Arms in Upham was thriving in such hard times. 

On our last night we had a great meal at Clos du Marquis, a French restaurant situated between Stockbridge and Sutton Scotney. Run by a charming French couple eagerly assisted by their pet Jack Russell ‘Cassoulet’, we were made to feel at home from the moment we stepped through the front door. The food was excellent and the highlight was the cheese trolley with around a dozen or so French Cheeses to choose from, there was something for every taste.

Hampshire has definitely some hidden gems waiting to be discovered, just a pity we are now so far away. Until the next time… 

Anne

Wellington New Zealand