For many of us growing up, England’s history is the stuff of legends. Never-ending pastures of green, quiet little streams cutting through flourishing forests, the excitable fluttering of chubby robins and spirited finches filling the air, light gushing through the canopy of trees. For us, these small moments encapsulated all the beauty to be found in the world.
Now, as studies have shown, many of our kids' outdoor access go as far as their town or city parks. Some of our forests are shrinking, making access to woodland even more restricted. On the other hand, for many of us, this is the busiest we have been, and planning vacations is both time consuming and expensive. Yet there are many precious pockets of land which are still unspoiled and particularly close to London. What this means is that you can organise a last-minute weekend break with your family, without burning a hole in your pocket and with a minimum of fuss. Here’s some of our favourite things to do when seeking a spontaneous nature retreat in Hampshire and West Sussex.
1. Jane Austen’s House in Chawton. If you have joined us before on our favourite things to do in the UK, then you will know how we enjoy Jane Austen. So, you won’t be surprised to know that this is one of our recommended places to visit. It’s a great sensory playground for the kiddos while they get to step back in time.
🚸 Enjoy the dedicated Family Fun Area, where your little ones can get creative with Regency letter writing, miniature self-portraits, and dressing up! Make a point to take advantage of the Family Trail when visiting to discover many wonderful stories about Jane Austen’s life.
🏡 Make sure to smell the stunning rose beds, housing 30 ancient varieties of Gallica, Alba, Centifolia and Moss roses as you bask in the sun in the impeccable maintained garden. Roam around, see whether you can identify some of the herbs, many of which were used for medicinal and culinary purposes.
2. South Downs National Park. The fact that South Downs is less than an hour and a half away from London will never stop being mind-blowing to us. Famous for its rare chalk grassland, chalk hills, and Woolmer forest (the only biological site to have all 12 of the UK’s native amphibian and reptile species, mind you), England’s newest park actually has some of the most scenic views, historic buildings, and diverse wildlife in the country.
3.🏰 Petworth House and Park. Don’t miss the wonderful market town of Petworth while exploring the South Downs. Having been voted the Best Antiques Town, this fantastic destination has links with one of our most famous and revered artists, JMW Turner. Then, make your way towards Petworth House and Park where you can wander the 700-acre deer park or admire the marvellous 18th century Pleasure Garden. The house itself is, of course, a jaw-dropping tour de force that will excite young minds with its otherworldly grandiosity!
4. Glamping pods with hot tubs in Hampshire and West Sussex? Yes, please!
Remember when we told you that you really could plan a short break with no hassle? You probably raised an eyebrow – a nature retreat, close to home, and yet away from people and no planning, how is that even possible? Well, allow us to let you in on a little secret. Just on the border of the South Downs National Park, there is a perfectly preserved little gem called Manor Farm which provides you with comfortable glamping pods. With nature on your doorstep, you’ll find a hot tub (you heard that right!) and a dog-friendly setting. All the amenities you need (and so much more) can be found right here, on this rustic and picture-perfect farm.
5. Frensham Ponds. For a spot of wild swimming, then Frensham Ponds is an unmissable option. Being part of a wildlife sanctuary and a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area, and a Special Area of Conservation, this excellent locality will provide you with many hours of fun and relaxation.
🌊Some activities you can enjoy with your little ones are (among sailing and wild swimming) walking, cycling, or horse riding along the South Downs Way. Best of all, the stunning Frensham Ponds is less than 20 minutes away by car from Manor Farm!
6. Alresford and the Watercress Line. Last but not least, if you are staying at Manor Farm, then you really ought to swing by Alresford. Famous for its Watercress Line with its vintage steam trains, your little one will love the immersive, one-of-a-kind experience of travelling back in time. Who knows, if you are lucky enough, you might even spot Alresford’s A-List celebrity, Thomas the Tank Engine. For some Harry Potter extravaganza, your youngsters can walk the King’s Cross footbridge which was used in one of the Harry Potter films. A memorable conclusion to another fun-filled family break!
