Local Activities

Step out from Silchester Farm and explore the nearby Roman Ruins, a fascinating piece of local history. This walk takes you through scenic countryside paths while discovering the remains of Calleva Atrebatum, offering a perfect mix of fresh air, gentle exercise, and a touch of heritage.

Silchester Farm is perfectly positioned for exploring the Hampshire countryside by bike, with a variety of scenic routes suitable for all abilities. From gentle rides through quiet country lanes and historic villages to longer routes taking in woodlands, rolling farmland and the famous Roman Ruins of Silchester, there’s plenty to discover on two wheels. Popular local routes range from relaxed 9-mile loops to more adventurous rides of over 25 miles, offering a fantastic way to experience the surrounding countryside at your own pace.

For a quintessential countryside experience, take a stroll from Silchester Farm to The Calleva Arms, a charming village pub nestled in the heart of Silchester. The walk takes you through the surrounding Hampshire countryside and offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down and enjoy the rural setting.

Silchester Farm makes an ideal stopping point for those walking the historic St James’ Way pilgrimage route. Spanning 66 miles from Reading to Southampton, this six to seven-day journey begins at the ruins of Reading Abbey, before continuing south to Southampton. Whether you’re undertaking the full pilgrimage or simply exploring a section of the route, Silchester Farm offers a welcoming place to rest, refuel and recharge in the heart of the Hampshire countryside.

Set within a beautiful 12-acre vineyard in the Hampshire countryside, Penn Croft offers immersive tours that take guests from vine to glass. Enjoy a welcome glass of sparkling wine before exploring the vineyard and winery, learning about the estate’s commitment to sustainability and conservation viticulture. The experience concludes with a guided wine tasting and locally sourced cheese and charcuterie, making for a wonderfully relaxed day out.

Perched on rolling south-facing slopes near Newbury, All Angels is renowned for its award-winning English sparkling wines. Their guided vineyard tours invite guests to stroll amongst the vines, discover the story behind the vineyard and learn how the unique landscape and sustainable practices influence each wine. Every experience includes a tutored tasting of their sparkling wines, with optional locally sourced sharing platters available to enhance your visit.

One of England’s most celebrated wineries, Hattingley Valley offers fascinating behind-the-scenes tours of its state-of-the-art winery in rural Hampshire. Discover the traditional methods used to produce its award-winning sparkling wines, explore one of the UK’s largest working wineries and enjoy a guided tasting of its premium collection. A must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts looking to experience English winemaking at its finest.

Located in the heart of Hampshire, Hawkridge Distillers is where our very own Wingless Eagle Gin is crafted. Specialising in small-batch spirits, Hawkridge combines traditional distilling methods with carefully selected botanicals to create exceptional, locally produced gins and spirits. Visitors can learn more about the distillation process, discover the story behind the spirits and enjoy tasting experiences that celebrate the craftsmanship and character of Hampshire’s thriving drinks scene. For guests of Silchester Farm, it’s a wonderful opportunity to see where Wingless Eagle begins its journey from still to glass.

Silchester Farm is ideally located for exploring some of Hampshire’s most charming villages, each offering its own character, history and local attractions. Within a 30-minute drive, you’ll find picturesque destinations including Silchester, Odiham, Hartley Wintney, Old Basing, Aldermaston and Overton, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing independent shops, discovering historic landmarks or simply soaking up village life in the countryside.

When our restaurant isn’t open, you’ll find a fantastic selection of traditional country pubs nearby, perfect for lunch, dinner or an evening drink. Local favourites include The Elm Tree, The Red Lion, The Rowbarge, The Queens College Arms, The Wellington Arms, The Mutton at Hazeley Heath and The New Inn, each offering their own character, warm hospitality and delicious food and drink. Whether you’re after a cosy fireside pint, a leisurely meal or a relaxed evening with friends and family, there are plenty of great options to enjoy, all within easy reach of Silchester Farm.

Just a short drive from Silchester Farm, Festival Place in Basingstoke offers a fantastic mix of high street favourites, independent retailers, restaurants and cafés. Whether you’re looking for a spot of retail therapy, a leisurely lunch or a little browsing, it’s the perfect destination for a day out before returning to the peace and tranquillity of the countryside.

Located in the heart of Reading, The Oracle is a vibrant shopping and leisure destination just a short drive from Silchester Farm. With a wide range of shops, riverside restaurants, cafés and entertainment options, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring, dining and enjoying the buzz of the town before retreating back to the calm of the Hampshire countryside.

Just a short drive from Silchester Farm, The Vyne is a beautiful National Trust estate steeped in history and surrounded by stunning gardens, woodland and parkland. Once visited by King Henry VIII, this former Tudor palace offers visitors the chance to explore elegant interiors, fascinating collections and centuries of history. Beyond the house, there are miles of scenic walks to enjoy, making The Vyne the perfect destination for a leisurely day out in the Hampshire countryside.

Perfect for families and animal lovers, Miller’s Ark offers a hands-on farm experience just a short drive from Silchester Farm. Home to a wonderful collection of rare breed animals, including sheep, goats, pigs, donkeys and cattle, visitors can enjoy getting up close to the animals, learning about life on a working farm and taking part in seasonal open days and special events throughout the year. With animal encounters, farm experiences and a welcoming café on-site, Miller’s Ark makes for a memorable day out for guests of all ages.

Just a short drive from Silchester Farm, The Living Rainforest offers a unique and immersive day out for visitors of all ages. Step into a tropical world filled with exotic plants, colourful birds, reptiles and fascinating wildlife, all housed within a series of climate-controlled glasshouses. Home to more than 850 species of plants and animals, the attraction combines conservation, education and adventure, allowing guests to experience the sights, sounds and scents of a thriving rainforest right here in Berkshire. It’s a wonderful family-friendly destination and a great option for those looking to explore something a little different during their stay.

Located in the beautiful Hampshire countryside, Pennsport Shooting School offers a memorable outdoor experience for both beginners and experienced shooters. Set within stunning woodland and farmland, visitors can enjoy clay pigeon shooting lessons, tuition and experiences tailored to all abilities, guided by knowledgeable instructors in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Whether you’re looking to try something new, enjoy a group activity or simply spend time outdoors, Pennsport provides a unique countryside experience just a short drive from Silchester Farm.

For a fun-filled day out, Basingstoke Leisure Park offers something for everyone, all in one convenient location just a short drive from Silchester Farm. From indoor skydiving at iFLY and family adventures at Pop-Up Play Village, to bowling, ice skating, swimming, cinema trips and interactive museum experiences, there’s plenty to keep guests of all ages entertained. With a range of cafés and restaurants on-site, along with ample free parking, Basingstoke Leisure Park is the perfect destination for families, groups and anyone looking to add a little adventure to their countryside getaway.

For guests looking to enjoy a round of golf during their stay, Silchester Farm is surrounded by a fantastic selection of golf courses, ranging from welcoming parkland clubs to championship-standard layouts. Nearby options include Bishopswood, Sherfield Oaks, Basingstoke Golf Club, Weybrook Park Golf Club and Test Valley Golf Club, all within easy reach of the farm. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon on the fairways, a competitive round with friends, or simply an excuse to enjoy more of the Hampshire countryside, there are plenty of excellent courses to choose from nearby.

Just a short drive from Silchester Farm, Wellington Country Park is a fantastic family-friendly day out set within 350 acres of beautiful Hampshire woodland. Offering a mix of adventure play areas, nature trails, a miniature railway, animal encounters and seasonal events, it’s a place where children can explore, play and discover at every turn. With scenic picnic spots surrounding a picturesque lake and plenty of space to roam, it’s an ideal destination for families, groups or anyone looking to enjoy a fun-filled outdoor experience in the countryside.