BEAUTY AWAITS IN THE TEST VALLEY N
estling between Winchester, Salisbury and the New Forest, Test Valley occupies a tranquil corner of Hampshire boasting lush water meadows, charming chocolate box cottages, stylish village inns and Hampshire’s longest river, the famous River Test with its crystal-clear waters. The beautiful countryside is home to the market towns of Andover, Stockbridge and Romsey, each with their unique identity and all offering a warm Test Valley welcome. Test Valley is an outstandingly beautiful area and the idyllic setting for a riverside amble or picnic on the riverbank. It’s also an angler’s paradise; famous for its clear chalk streams the tranquil River Test is one of the most renowned fly fishing rivers in the world. Steeped in captivating stories of times gone by and boasting an abundance of historic architecture, it has more Iron Age forts than anywhere else in Hampshire. The earliest record of Andover’s watermills dates back to the Domesday Book. Trace the area’s rich history through the selection of works in the many art galleries found in the Test Valley.
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If you have a nose for fine wine the region is ripe with vineyards. Start your journey with a wine-tasting tour at award-winning Cottonworth Vineyard or sample the award-winning sparkling and still white wine at Danebury Vineyard. If you have an appetite for locally grown, mouth-watering food, fine wines and casked ales, you’re going to enjoy a taste sensation. Enjoy a traditional country pub such as the Three Tuns in Romsey, or a taste of the test at The John O’Gaunt located between Stockbridge, Kings Somborne and Romsey. The beauty of Test Valley’s wonderful landscapes means there is no end of outdoor fun to be had. Explore by bike and cycle your way around the woodlands and winding country roads or tee off at one of the number of golf courses. There are many horse riding schools waiting to offer you horse trekking experiences through the many miles of tranquil bridleway, and there are play parks aplenty which offer something for every age. As well as history and culture, glorious gardens and stunning landscapes, amazing restaurants and local breweries, Test Valley provides a fantastic range of attractions including, Finkley Down Farm, The Hawk Conservancy Trust, and Paultons Park.
Riverside Bowl in Andover is operated by the charitable organisation Valley Leisure Ltd. With (8) Ten Pin Bowling lanes, Glo-Golf, Small Arcade with Pool Tables there’s plenty to do. Our American Diner serves a variety of food including Burgers & Sausages from Weyhill Farm Shop. Visit www.riverside-bowl.co.uk for more information.
