A picturesque family day out in the Test Valley

We love a road trip through the scenic Test Valley any time of year. From Chilbolton to Wherewell and Chilbolton Cow Common, this walk and pit stops provide everything you need for a nice day out with the family.

Too long to read and want a quick recap? Jump down to the video below!

Chilbolton Village Shop and Tea Room

Fruit and vegetables in racks at Chilbolton Village Café

We first headed for a coffee to start our day at Chilbolton Village Shop and Tea Room. It was as if we had walked back in time entering as it’s part shop, post office and tearoom! The inside just as marvellous as the outside. After a warm welcome, we sat to enjoy our local moon roast coffee in vintage surroundings. We enjoyed the staff welcoming the local villages by their names which is something of a bygone era in most places these days. ‘Good morning, Mrs Jenkins!’

📍 Chilbolton village shop and tearoom – SO20 6BE

Longstock Farm Shop & Café

Waitrose Farm written on the front of the building

Young girl looking at plants in garden centre

Waitrose have their very own farm in Leckford called Longstock Farm Shop & Café. You drive up a winding road surrounded by trees and find yourself in a countryside oasis with a café and garden centre with plenty of outdoor seating. We went for the full English (they offer both a small and large version, perfect for small and big eaters! Plus they areunder a tenner each) and we had some tasty smoothies too. The large garden centre/nursery is great for the kids to have a run around and explore. You can also find Longstock water gardens opposite if you wanted to extend your day and buy a ticket to visit.

📍Longstock Farm Shop & Cafe Leckford Farm Shop – SO20 6EH

Wherewell & Chilbolton Cow Common

We then drove 10 mins to Wherwell, a village that attracts visitors and photographers from all over the UK as it’s so charming with its traditional thatched cottages, many hugging the banks of the river test.

We parked up at the playing field car park for free and did one of our fave walks which takes you past all the cottages and their unique features, a village pub, and then heads over the magical long wooden bridge and the crystal clear waters of the test to Chilbolton Cow Common.

Autumn & Winter

Man standing on a bridge above the water

The area can be rather muddy at certain times of the year, and sometimes even a bit flooded. Luckily we decided to wear our wellies during our recent Winter trip. But don’t let that discourage you, it’s a beautiful area and has a lot to offer no matter what!

Spring & Summer

Two young girls standing on a rope swing

woman sat down looking at the river Test

This stunning natural beauty spot with small bridges over crystal clear water makes for splashing opportunities for the kids during Summer! There’s a good playground to use up any leftover energy the kids may have, and if you bring some nets, who knows what the little ones may catch.

After some time exploring Chilbolton Cow Common, it’s easy to build an appetite for a riverside lunch at the nearby The Mayfly, Stockbridge which has one of the most scenic views of any Hampshire pub garden. Take a seat alongside the River Test. Amazing food and friendly service, easy to spend a few hours relaxing here.

It’s also dog-friendly, so if you’ve brought your four-legged friend along, there will be water and treats for them to enjoy too.