With many of us wanting to keep costs down, but not compromising on a holiday, having some days out for free is most welcome! There are plenty of things you can do in the area with minimal or no expense, and often these care free days can be the most memorable.
Out into the Local Area
Being surrounded by beautiful countryside as well as being close to the coast, there’s plenty to do for free on the doorstep of your cottage.
Country parks
There are several country parks in the area, all with free access. Pack a picnic and take a day out to either the Queen Elizabeth Country Park near Petersfield, Royal Victoria Country Park near Southampton and Staunton Country Park near Havant. Find out more about local country parks here.
Meon Valley Trail
This is a disused railway line that has been converted into a path for walkers, cyclists and horse riders between Wickham and West Meon. It’s great place to take the kids and just down the road from Wallops Wood. You can find out more here.
Forest of Bere Walk
Just up the road from Wallops Wood is a circular route you can take around the Forest of Bere. It’s a great place for nature spotting, so get the kids to explore and spot birds and other animals while walking. You can download a leaflet about the walk here.
A day at the seaside
There are some great beaches for a day out on a warm sunny day, so get out to the coast and have some free fun with the kids. Local beaches include Southsea, West Wittering and Lee on the Solent. Find more ideas for a day at the seaside on our blog here.
Dog walks
There a number of walks you can take straight from the doorstep of your cottage. The walks vary between 30 minutes and two hours and you can always treat yourself to a stop off for refreshments at a local pub. You can download the walks here and you’ll also find them on laminated cards in your cottage.
Stargazing at Old Winchester Hill
Old Winchester Hill is a walk or short drive from Wallops Wood. It’s a wonderful place for a walk and after dark, perfect for stargazing. Since the South Downs National Park is a Dark Skies Reserve, you’ll get a much better view of the stars than in more populated urban areas.
King Alfred’s Way Cycle route
King Alfred’s Way is a 350km circular off-road adventure route through 10,000 years of history, connecting some of England’s most iconic sites. The name of the trail is inspired by Alfred the Great, who ruled the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex. The trail starts and ends at King Alfred’s statue in Winchester, where he is buried. Some of the trail is in the South Downs, so you can cycle part of it while staying with us. Find out more about the trail here. Don’t forget we have a secure cycle store at Wallops Wood where you can store your bicycle while staying with us.
Museums & Galleries
Many museums, galleries and historic buildings are free to visit and there are a number you can visit locally. These include Southampton City Art Gallery, Portsmouth Museum, Southsea Castle, Winchester Cathedral, Chichester Cathedral and Fort Nelson. At Fort Nelson you can explore the underground tunnels and Victorian ramparts. The Fort is home to the Royal Armouries national collection.
Activities at Wallops Wood
If you fancy staying much closer to your cottage, you can use the on-site facilities at Wallops Wood. Why not get the family together and go to the games room for a pool, air hockey or table tennis competition! Make full use of the meadow for outdoor games or a picnic in fine weather. You could also use your swim slot at our indoor swimming pool for a swimming race, or if that sounds far too strenuous, relax in the jacuzzi or enjoy the steam room and sauna.
If you simply want a day of relaxation at your cottage, then make the most of the hot tub in your garden to simply enjoy the views or stargaze while enjoying a glass of your favourite tipple!
