Ringos, Castle Views and Garden Centres

Good Morning Hampshire,

The weather lately has been so cloudy, hasn’t it? We’ve barely caught a glimpse of the sun! But it looks like there might be a few breaks in the clouds this week (fingers crossed). I’m currently sitting under my trusty electric blanket as I write this, trying to stay cosy - autumn vibes in full force!

As we head towards the end of the week, it’s clear we’re in the thick of the festive season. There are a few Christmas light switch-ons happening (already, I know!), but it’s all good fun. Plenty more to come!

I Went to Calshot for a Quick Walk and Ended Up Having an Adventure!

If you haven't been to Calshot recently, it’s worth the trip. We started with a stroll along the shore, checking out the colourful beach huts that line the coast. It’s a pretty spot, with a touch of that seaside charm that makes you want to linger.

Our walk took us to Calshot Castle, a fascinating artillery fort built by Henry VIII to keep an eye on the sea passage to Southampton. Entry is £5.90 for adults, and it's worth it—there's a lot of history packed in those walls. The castle has had a few lives, serving as a Navy and RAF base not too long ago.

The best part? Climbing to the roof. Seriously, the views are stunning! On a clear day, you can see for miles, all the way to Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower. It’s the kind of spot where you just stand and take it all in (and maybe snap a few photos too).

There’s also a place to camp (though I’m not sure I’d fancy it this time of year!) and plenty of watersports happening. We watched someone windsurfing, which was impressive to see.

Afterwards, we headed over to the Calshot Activities Centre. If you need to warm up, their café is a good shout—cosy and welcoming. But if you’re up for some action, this place has loads on offer: there’s a velodrome (the only indoor banked one in the South of England), tons of climbing walls, and even a small indoor ski slope.

We decided to go for something spontaneous - Ringos on the ski slope. Imagine sitting in a giant inflatable doughnut and whizzing down the slope. We paid £10 for 30 minutes per person, and it was a blast!

However, while writing this, I stumbled across some early Black Friday offers at Calshot Activities Centre. They’re offering up to 25% off selected courses and experiences, so it might be the perfect time to try something new or revisit an old favourite.

If you’re planning a visit, here’s the postcode: SO45 1BR, and for an exact spot, try this what3words link: ///mission.dame.stung.

Photo of the Week: The River Avon

This week’s photo shows a calm sunset over the River Avon in Fordingbridge, casting warm light across the water. It’s a great spot for a walk during autumn and winter, with crisp air and peaceful views. Even if it’s cold, it’s worth wrapping up to enjoy the scenery and quiet of the riverbanks.

This Week’s Events in Hampshire

Wednesday 13th November

Gilbert's Garden: Bulb Planting Day - Gilbert White's House and Gardens - 10:30 - 16:00

Thursday 14th November

Christmas Lights Switch On - The Broadway, Winchester - 16:00 - 19:00

Friday 15th November

Southampton Christmas Market - Opens - Above Bar Street, Southampton
Festive Friday - Top of the Town, Basingstoke - 17:00 - 20:00

Saturday 16th November

Love and Tragedy | City of Southampton Orchestra - Thornden Hall, Chandlers Ford - 19:30 - 21:30
Eastleigh Christmas Light Switch On - Eastleigh - 11:00 - 18:30
Aldershot Christmas Cracker - Aldershot Town Centre - 12:00 - 17:30
Evolution Drone Light Show - Utilita Bowl Stadium, Southampton - Gates & food open 17:30
How to Train a Reindeer - Furzey Gardens, Minstead - November 16, 2024 - December 24, 2024
Create a Willow Deer, Reindeer or Even a Llama - Pound Lane, Burley, Ringwood - 10:00 - 17:00

Sunday 17th November

Hampshire Farmers' Market - Palmerston Road, Southsea - 10:00 - 14:00
Southwood Craft Fayre - Southwood Country Park Field Centre, Farnborough - 10:00 - 15:00

A Place to Shop & Eat: Bambridge Garden Centre

Ah, Brambridge Garden Centre in Colden Common - it was meant to be a quick pop-in, just to grab something for the garden, but of course, we got completely swept up in the Christmas magic! Suddenly, it became a proper little outing.

I have to say, this place knows how to be festive. Their Christmas displays are absolutely stunning and beautifully presented. We even let our little one pick out a decoration. It was all so lovely that you almost forgot you were in a garden centre and not a winter wonderland.

Their Country House restaurant is a bit of a gem, too. It's always buzzing with people, and for good reason! They’ve got hearty breakfasts, classic lunches with a bit of flair, deli options, and an impressive children's menu. And oh, the homemade cakes and gluten-free treats—just the thought is enough to tempt you for a sit-down. Safe to say, everything we tried was delicious!

After we’d marvelled at the Christmas delights and spent more than we’d budgeted (doesn’t that always happen?), we made our way to The Miniature Railway right next door. It’s been chugging along since 1977!

The ride itself is a quick one—just up and down—but perfect for keeping a little one entertained. From the sign that’s currently up, it said for the winter season, it's open on the weekends of the 16th & 17th, 23rd & 24th, and 30th of November, plus 1st, 7th & 8th, and 14th & 15th of December. After that, it’ll be closed until 29th March 2025, so plan accordingly!

There’s also a walking trail nearby if you fancy stretching your legs a bit more. It's a great little spot for a family day out, even when you’re not intending to make it one!

Hampshire Hot Picks

🦓 Go Wild for less at Marwell - Tickets are £10 until Wed 26 Nov

🎢 November Reduced Rate Weekends at Paultons Park

🎇 Check out this drone footage of the fireworks in Portsmouth

🚂 Step back in time on board vintage carriages with this Steam Train Trip with Fish and Chips for Two.

🌄 Check out these walking trails in Hampshire

🎭 Win a Family Ticket to Sleeping Beauty at The Anvil

As we finish this week's Hampshire Explorer, I hope you found some inspiration. I enjoy sharing these special moments and places in Hampshire, and I hope they add a bit of joy to your week.

Until next time,

Hannah

P.S. If you made it this far, thank you! You are the reason I write this weekly newsletter, and it would be nothing without you.

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