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Bourne Valley Inn

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Overview

Tucked away in a sleepy valley within the rolling green hills in north Hampshire, this rustic country inn is a great place for a relaxing country escape, with easy access from the A303.

Bare boards, beams, chill-out sofas, roaring winter fires and a mix of wooden dining tables and chairs set the scene in the country-rustic bar and dining rooms, plus there's a deli-counter for ordering coffee and cake, afternoon teas and picking up your picnic hampers to enjoy on the banks of the Bourne Rivulet.

Nine contemporary cottage-style rooms are cosy and welcoming with home-from-home comforts and the menu features fresh fish caught in nearby gin-clear trout streams, and produce from local farms and estates. Stunning barn for weddings and events, and a super alfresco terrace for summer sipping.

Close to the world's greatest chalkstream, the River Test, it's the perfect base for a relaxing fly fishing break. For more glamorous days out, try the Victorian majesty of Highclere Castle, the "real Downton Abbey", or gin lovers can take a tour of Bombay Sapphire's distillery, which is a 15-minute drive away.

Rooms from

Classic: £100


Good to know

  • All major credit cards accepted
  • Disabled access
  • Alfresco & private dining
  • Parking available
  • Dog stay: £15

Water and waves
The inn is close to the River Test, one of the world's greatest chalkstreams, perfect for a spot of fly fishing, or simply relaxing by the waterside.

Events and celebrations
For big celebrations, the renovated barn can accommodate up to 80 guests, while for more intimate affairs, their private dining room is suitable for up to 16 guests.

Work-friendly
Reserve the barn for either a half day or full day meeting - it's fully equipped with flipcharts, flat screen TV and a projector so you can present, brainstorm, or workshop as required.

Rooms

The nine elegant rooms decorated in calming tones of pale green, creams and greys, and all are named after the lakes, brooks and rivers in this beautiful corner of rural Hampshire.

Quirky details, such as colourful lamps and bold wallpaper, add interest, while little welcoming touches such as the mini blackboard 'Do Not Disturb' signs and tea trays with Teapigs and proper cafetiere coffee add to the homely feel. For a restful sleep, flop onto the sumptuous Feather & Black pillows and bedding, and refresh yourself in the smartly tiled en suite bathroom with power showers and natural Bramley soaps and lotions. The twin Keepers' room and double Priory room can be connected to provide extra privacy and space - perfect for families or large groups.

All the bedrooms are dog-friendly with beds and water bowls provided, plus there are biscuits on the bar and Snuffle beer to make your furry friend's stay just as memorable.

Restaurant & bar

Being close to trout-rich rivers, you will certainly find freshwater catches on the specials menu. Local game is also a mainstay on the seasonal menus, so expect classic pub food with a farm-fresh countryside twist.

Food is served in their elegantly restored barn, which has the feel of a luxury countryside farmstead, complete with leather chairs and restored wooden tables. Typical choices may include ham hock, plum and ginger chutney with toasted brioche, followed by pressed lamb shoulder, haricot bean casserole, buttered greens and salsa Verde, and dark chocolate truffle torte. The family Sunday roast lunches are very popular.

If the weather's fine, you can head to the terrace or the adjoining beer garden with a drink in hand. As well as local ales and fine wines, the bar serves an array of exceptional whiskies and offer cigars to accompany a wee dram in toast of a special event, or simply to relax after a magical day's fishing on the Test.

Private dining

For larger events, the renovated barn, which includes a bright and spacious dining area and huge windows overlooking the garden, is suitable for up to 80 guests. There's even a retractable dancefloor, making it perfect for weddings and birthday parties. For more intimate affairs, such as a dinner party or family celebration, there is a private dining room available for up to 16 guests.

Experiences
Things to do

With its countryside location, the Bourne Valley Inn is a great spot to get away from it all and only a short stroll away from the postcard pretty village of St Mary Bourne. Nestled on the southern edge of the North Wessex Downs, it is also very well placed for all kinds of adventures.

Gin lovers shouldn't miss the Bombay Sapphire Distillery at Laverstoke Mill for tours, tastings or a relaxing drink in the cocktail bar. For a spot of heritage and culture, head to Winchester - England's ancient capital, former seat of King Alfred the Great and home to Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Or learn about Britain's industrial past by visiting Whitchurch Silk Mill, the oldest silk mill in the UK still in its original building.

For a dose of fresh country air, take a stroll through Micheldever Wood, famous for its bluebell displays in the spring and its soaring beech trees, or get on your bike and follow the 23-mile circular Whitchurch Cycle Route, which goes right by the front door.

Getting here

Directions

Nearest train station: Whitchurch
Taxi from station: 8-10min
Drive: Andover 15min; Newbury 20min; London 1hr 30min

Address

St Mary Bourne, Andover, Hampshire SP11 6BT

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