周辺の湖・トップ4

Lovely quiet roads, watch out for the cattle grids

Quiet and peaceful - lovely!

These trout fishing ponds at Meon Springs make for a nice scenic, tranquil break. Especially so, as there is a cracking little cafe here with views out over the ponds. I had a great little snack here and found the staff and fishermen to be very friendly. It made my day!

Avington Park is a historic country estate with rich history that dates back to the 10th century, with the current manor house being constructed in the late 17th century. The estate has been owned by several prominent families throughout the centuries, and it remains a privately-owned property. It's also famous for its serene lake, situated close to the manor house and Avington Park Lane which is part of National Cycle Network route 23.

Swelling Hill pond (formerly know as Swan Hill pond) is a picturesque spot on Swelling Hill Road on Swelling Hill just outside Ropley in Hampshire. It can be traced back to the beginning of the 18th century and is believed to be man-made. It’s situated just off St Swithin’s Way so would have been a vital watering place for the horses of travellers taking this historic path.

Avington Park is a private country estate available for private bookings. It dates back as early as 961 and was a priory until Henry VIII took the estate for the crown. Later King Charles II lived here for around 10 years. Occupied by the US army during WW2 it was rescued and restored by the Hickson family after the war.

Water tap along the SDW is just outside the sign to Meon Springs Trout Fishery, where you an also purchase a coffee.

Behind these trout fishing ponds at Meon Springs is a little camp spot perfect for walkers of the SDW. There are power points by the pitches (yay!), but not showers (boo!). It's right on the way, so there's no need to detour the route, which was a big plus for us. It was also quite quiet with only two other pitches in use, but that might be a sign of the times.