The Barn (near Winchester)

Suitable for two adults and two young children.

The Barn at Barford Farm House is in the village of Medstead located between Alton and Alresford and, at almost 700 feet above sea level, enjoys panoramic views towards Winchester and across Hampshire's South Downs. Escape from all the hustle and bustle of the daily grind and relax and unwind in this highly regarded rural retreat set within some of Hampshire's finest countryside.

Enjoy a drink on the terrace or dine al fresco and listen to the hum of insects, or watch the aerobatics of a profusion of butterflies which enjoy the scented herb beds in the colourful gardens.

Watch gliders as they ride the thermals and make their way back to the local airfield at Lasham.

Sit in the comfort of the Garden Room and enjoy the views across the gardens and over the paddocks to the woods beyond.

Indulge in one of the many varied titles available from The Barn's own library.

Chill out watching DVDs available at The Barn, choosing from a good range of titles, or simply watch TV with the added benefit of Freeview.

Take advantage of good bird watching (buzzards, kestrels, skylark, woodpeckers, owls, finches, pheasant and quail etc) and other wildlife spotting opportunities (roe deer, badgers, foxes, rabbits, bats, butterflies, crickets etc) from The Barn itself, with its 10 acres of private wildflower meadows and ancient woodland. Binoculars to borrow.

Enjoy the sight and perfume of an abundance of bluebells found in our ancient woodland, Hook Wood, in spring.

Work up an appetite cycling along Route 23 or stroll along the particularly good local network of footpaths, with some renowned pubs en route. Several chalk streams are well within reach, as are the South Downs and New Forest National Parks. Local maps and other literature are available to help you plan your route.

Experience a new sport. Try horse riding, fly-fishing, clay shooting, gliding or golf which are all available locally, though some might require advanced booking.

Learn to drive the steam trains on the Watercress Line (10 minutes).

Visit Jane Austen's House, Chawton (10 minutes), the picturesque Georgian market town of Alresford (10 minutes) or visit the varied shops and museums to be found in the historic market town of Alton (10 minutes).

Visit National Trust properties including Hinton Ampner (20 minutes). The Vyne (30 minutes) and Mottisfont (45 minutes).

Visit the historic cathedral cities of Winchester (20 minutes), Salisbury (50 minutes) or Guildford, Chichester and Wells.

Research your personal schedule via WiFi access.

Help groom Tiffany our pony.

Feed the hens and collect the eggs.

Feast on home-grown produce from our kitchen gardens.

Experience local cuisine from the many excellent pubs in the area or have it delivered to your door!

Take advantage of the help and assistance available from the friendly team at Barford Farm House. No problem!

Just a few ideas whilst staying at The Barn!