Alderbury Hill Cottages
Things to Do
Alderbury is a charming village located just a few miles from Salisbury, nestled in the picturesque countryside of Wiltshire. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Alderbury offers a blend of rural charm and convenient access to the historic city of Salisbury. The village features a mix of traditional and modern homes, along with local amenities that cater to residents and visitors alike. Its proximity to the stunning landscapes of the New Forest and the iconic Stonehenge makes Alderbury an ideal base for exploring the rich heritage and natural beauty of the region. With a strong sense of community and a welcoming environment, Alderbury is a delightful place to experience the quintessential English village lifestyle.
Places to Visit
Stonehenge
Stonehenge, an enigmatic marvel of prehistoric engineering, has stood for over 4,500 years as a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of ancient civilizations. This iconic stone circle, composed of massive sarsen stones and bluestones, is believed to have served as a ceremonial site, an astronomical observatory, and a burial ground, reflecting the complex relationship between humanity and the cosmos. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Stonehenge draws visitors from around the globe, inviting them to ponder its mysteries and witness the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscape. A visit to Stonehenge is not just an exploration of history; it is an opportunity to connect with the past and experience the profound sense of wonder that this extraordinary site inspires.
Located just thirty minutes from our guest houses, this destination is a must-visit for all.
Salisbury Cathedral is less than a twenty minute drive form our Guest Houses.
Salisbury Cathedral
Salisbury Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a breathtaking sight that commands admiration with its soaring spire, the tallest in England, reaching 123 meters into the sky. Completed in the 13th century, the cathedral is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and the remarkable Chapter House, which houses one of the four surviving copies of the Magna Carta. A visit to this historic landmark offers not only a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the medieval period but also a serene atmosphere that invites reflection and inspiration. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a moment of tranquility, Salisbury Cathedral is an essential experience that will leave a lasting impression.
The New Forest
The New Forest, a stunning national park in southern England, it is a captivating blend of ancient woodlands, heathlands, and picturesque villages, offering a serene escape into nature. Established as a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, this enchanting landscape is home to free-roaming ponies, deer, and a rich diversity of wildlife. Visitors can explore miles of scenic walking and cycling trails, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings. With its charming thatched cottages, vibrant flora, and opportunities for outdoor activities, the New Forest is a perfect visit for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
The New Forest National Park is just a sixteen-minute drive from our guest houses.
Hurst Castle
Hurst Castle is a hour drive from our guest houses.
Hurst Castle, located at the western end of Hurst Spit in Milford-on-Sea, is a historic coastal artillery fortress that dates back to the late 19th century. Its strategic position offers stunning views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight, making it a popular destination for visitors. The castle features impressive Victorian architecture and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including sandy beaches and lush greenery. Today, Hurst Castle is managed by the National Trust and serves as a fascinating site for history enthusiasts, offering insights into its military past and the role it played during both World Wars. Visitors can explore the castle's interior, enjoy scenic walks along the spit, and take in the breathtaking coastal views, making it a perfect spot for a day out.
Longleat House
Longleat House, the residence of the 8th Marquess and Marchioness of Bath, is an exquisite example of Elizabethan architecture and houses one of the most important private collections in Britain. Strolling through its expansive corridors and magnificent rooms feels like stepping back in time. Once you’ve taken in the grandeur of the House, be sure to explore the stunning gardens and the beautifully landscaped grounds designed by Capability Brown that encircle it.
Embark in a walk or drive through the Safari at Longest House, where you can count cheetah spots, interact with giraffes, and meet the attraction's new residents, the African painted dogs. Lace up your walking shoes—it's time to encounter furry, scaly, and feathery friends up close. From resting Southern koalas to snapping Cuban crocodiles, challenge yourself to see how many animals you can spot on the Walking Safari.
Longleat House is a fifty-minute drive from our guest houses.
Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World is just a twenty-minute drive from our guest houses
Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World
Explore Peppa Pig World, the UK’s exclusive Peppa Pig-themed Park, featuring 9 exciting rides! Meet Peppa and George and enjoy splashing in muddy puddles. Ideal for toddlers, plus children under 1 metre get in for free! Meet beloved characters Peppa Pig and George, who make daily appearances for photo opportunities with fans on the schoolhouse veranda. You may also spot Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, Zoe Zebra, and Suzy Sheep during special seasonal visits!
The New Forest Paddle Sports Company
Open all year round, Paddle Boarding and Kayaking on the New Forest’s breathtaking coastline:
Discover the beauty of the New Forest’s stunning shoreline with their range of paddle boarding and kayaking experiences. Whether you’re a beginner looking to take a lesson, an enthusiast wanting to hire equipment, or seeking a more immersive adventure, the company offer a variety of unique experiences to suit all skill levels. Located in the charming seaside village of Milford on Sea, the friendly, family-run business invites you to book your session and enjoy a memorable day on the water.
The New Forest Paddle Sports Company is a twenty-five minute drive form our guests houses.
Cholderton Charlie's at the Rare Breeds Farm
Originally a dairy farm, our Rare Breeds Farm opened in 1985 with the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) and was purchased by the McConnell family in 2002. In 2016, we established Bluestone Vineyard, now producing award-winning English Sparkling Wine, including the Classic Cuvee and a Rose released in 2021.
During your visit, enjoy quality time with your favorite animals—pigs, goats, sheep, donkeys, ponies, and more. Explore our play areas, daily activities, farm shop, and don’t miss a tour or tasting at our stunning Bluestone Vineyard, perfect for families or special occasions.
Cholderton Charlie's at the Rare Breeds Farm is a thirty - minute drive form our guests houses.
New Forest Water Park
The New Forest Water Park offers the thrill of wakeboarding! Whether you're a beginner or an expert, the park has something for everyone—from kickers to sliders, you’ll be hooked. They offer both wakeboarding and knee boarding on two cable systems: the Rixen 5-pylon main cable and the Sesitec System 2.0 straight line cable.
Don't miss out on their inflatable aqua parks, 'Poseidon' and 'Neptune,' packed with trampolines, monkey bars, slides, and more— a fantastic adventure for the whole family! You can also rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards and explore our peaceful freshwater lake. Perfect for an hour or a full day of fun!
The New Forest Water Park is a twenty-five minute drive form our guest houses.
Exbury Garden
The Exbury Gardens are a forty-mintue drive form our guests houses.
Exbury Gardens is a registered charity (Charity Commission for England and Wales, number 801349) founded by Lionel de Rothschild in 1919, and still lovingly cared for by his family today.
Visitors can enjoy beautiful woodland walks, renowned displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias, as well as seasonal art and sculpture exhibitions. Since 2001, the miniature steam railway has offered a scenic journey through previously hidden areas of the gardens.
They continue to grow and develop our plant collections, with an extensive propagation program and a detailed plant database, ensuring the gardens remain a vibrant and evolving destination.
River Bourne Community Farm
The farmyard is open daily from 10am to 1pm and free to visit—no booking required! Donations are greatly appreciated. You can feed the animals using feed provided by the farm, available for purchase on the premisses. The Farm offers volunteering opportunities, events and workshops, education and an onsite café. Children should always be supervised, and visitors remain calm and quiet around the animals. Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
The River Bourne Guests Houses are less than a ten-minute drive form our guests houses.
The Army Flying Museum is a twenty-five minute drive form our guests houses.
Army Flying Museum
The Army Flying Museum, located at Middle Wallop near Andover in Hampshire, showcases the history of British Army aviation, from early military ballooning to the modern Army Air Corps. Originally established in 1946 at RAF Andover, the museum moved to its current site in 1974 and now features two large aircraft halls, a learning centre, a 1940s house display, and a play park. The collection spans five key branches of Army Aviation, with over 40 aircraft on display, including a World War I Sopwith Pup and the record-breaking Lynx helicopter from 1972.
Beaulieu
Beaulieu is a renowned family-friendly attraction located in the heart of the New Forest National Park, boasting over 800 years of rich heritage. It offers a diverse range of experiences for all visitors, whether you have a keen interest in automobiles or a deep appreciation for history. Be sure to explore all the compelling reasons to visit Beaulieu today!
Beaulieu is a forty-mintue drive form our guests houses.
Places to Eat
The Beckford Arms
Wine and dine in at The Beckford, you can savor exceptional wines, traditional local ales—including there signature Beckford Phoenix—and timeless cocktails. The beers are sourced from nearby breweries, the gin comes from local distilleries, and the wines are provided by our very own merchant, The Beckford Bottle Shop. The inviting pub offers an ideal setting for leisurely lunches, delightful dinners, and a welcoming place to recharge after a day spent exploring the beautiful British countryside.
King John Inn
Situated in the picturesque Cranborne Chase, straddling the borders of Wiltshire and Dorset, The King John is a quintessential British country inn featuring an acclaimed restaurant and a cozy, well-stocked bar. It’s all about classic pub fare made with the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, featuring some of the best Sunday roasts in the region. Behind the bar, you’ll discover an excellent selection of cask ales and craft beers, along with local ciders and a superb wine list.
Lime Wood Hotel Restaurant -
(Hartnett Holder & Co)
Hartnett Holder & Co is a cozy and inviting restaurant, brimming with character and a laid-back atmosphere. Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder from Lime Wood, along with their team, craft Italian dishes using locally sourced ingredients, thoughtfully inspired by the changing seasons.
The Montagu Arms Hotel Restaurant
Each dish they present is a tribute to fresh produce. Drawing inspiration from the abundant offerings of their Hampshire surroundings, the chefs craft flavors that capture the essence of the season and highlight the finest ingredients from the New Forest. The Montagu Arms carefully selects ingredients that celebrate the beauty of the landscape surrounding the hotel, creating dining experiences that delight even the most discerning palates. While the flavors may include beloved culinary classics, they always incorporate an element of surprise.
The Randor Arms Nunton
The Radnor Arms in Nunton is a welcoming free house set in the beautiful Chalke Valley, nestled in the Ebble River valley and overlooked by the ancient Clearbury Ring. Just 3 miles south of Salisbury’s Cathedral City and easily accessible from the A338, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal. The menu offers a range of starters and classic dishes, including homemade pies, ale-battered cod, and the signature Radnor Burger. Vegetarian options and a children's menu are also available. Plus, well-behaved dogs are always welcome!
The Rockingham Arm
The Rockingham Arms, built in 1840, is a charming village pub brimming with character. Known for its traditional values and friendly atmosphere, it offers comforting homemade food, real ales, fine wines, and quality coffee. The pub’s back garden opens directly onto the scenic Canada Common, a National Heritage area. We pride ourselves on being very dog-friendly and are happy to take bookings in the bar area for you and your four-legged companions.
Anokka
For two decades, Anokaa has been a cherished gem in Salisbury, located on Fisherton Street in the town's heart. Celebrated for our contemporary interpretation of Indian cuisine, we've garnered a host of culinary awards, establishing ourselves as a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors.
Wildwood
At Wildwood Restaurants, experience a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere paired with exceptional Italian cuisine. Delight in Wildwoods signature stone-baked pizzas and pastas, alongside fresh salads, burgers, steaks, risottos, and indulgent desserts. Kids will enjoy their fun menu, featuring age-appropriate activities and healthy options that they’ll love!
Cosy Club
Salisbury Cosy Club is just a short stroll from the stunning Salisbury Cathedral, set in a beautiful Grade II listed former arts college. Discover a delightful surprise with a spacious open-plan bar that opens onto a tranquil terrace at the back. To the side, a cozy ground-floor dining room leads to the airy and bright first-floor dining area known as The Mezzanine. Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
The Lamb
Head Chef, James, has crafted a seasonal British menu inspired by the beautiful countryside around the restaurant. The Lamb prioritize bringing you the finest flavours from land and sea for a satisfying all-day dining experience. Whether you’re craving a traditional pub classic, a delightful Sunday roast, or one of their vibrant vegan dishes, the menu is designed to impress.
The pub is perfect for any dining occasion—whether you’re enjoying a hearty Full English breakfast or a brunch dish in the morning, savouring a light lunch in the garden, indulging in succulent meats on Sundays, or relishing every delicious bite in between.
The Sliver Plough at Pitton
The Sliver Plough offerings hold significant value, featuring dishes prepared with local and seasonal ingredients sourced from the South West. Guests can look forward to their classic 'Pub Bangers,' which include hearty options like pies, burgers, and fish and chips. Additionally, The Sliver Plough offers more refined selections, such as venison haunch paired with potato and truffle farl, hogs pudding, hispi, and picked blackberries.
The Goat at Downtown
The Goat at Downton, is your ideal getaway on the edge of the New Forest. The inviting village pub serves a delightful all-day menu, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and beloved traditional dishes. Enjoy a selection of excellent local ales while you relax in the pubs expansive garden, the perfect setting to bask in the sunshine. The Goat is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry companions along for the experience. The Goat at Downton is the perfect destination to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the New Forest.
The Royal Oak, Hyde
Dine and savour, with the talented team of chefs at The Royal Oak. The chefs are dedicated to crafting exquisite seasonal dishes while proudly supporting local producers, farmers, and suppliers. With a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative concepts, the menus are continually evolving.
