Conveniently situated between the historic towns of Romsey and Winchester this attractive property is the ideal base for exploring the picturesque Test Valley.
Potters Heron is situated in its own leafy enclave in the village of Ampfield, off the main road between Romsey and Winchester. The large thatched building offers both a hotel and a separate restaurant and bar. As it is set back from the road guests have the convenience of easy access without traffic noise. Its small back garden is surrounded by bedrooms with balconies.
Hotel bedrooms are situated on one side of the building and a large restaurant, bar, and bar on the other. The latter is open to both guests and members of the public. Both areas have separate exterior entrances, but there is an internal entrance between the hotel and the restaurant area.
Potters Heron is in Ampfield, a small village in the popular Test Valley in Hampshire. This valley is famous for the chalk rivers that flow through it and a haven for fishermen. In particular, the River Test which is one the finest chalk streams in the area offering world-famous trout fishing. Some lovely walks through the Test Valley start in this village. And the privately owned Ampfield Golf and Country Club boasts one of the most beautiful short golf courses in the country.
A regular, local bus service stops outside the hotel so guests can leave their car in the spacious parking area and travel to either Romsey or Winchester without having to worry about parking in these busy towns.
Who For
Fishermen, walkers and golfers find this a convenient hotel from which to pursue their favourite activities. The layout of this hotel and restaurant also favours family gatherings, small group holidays, meetings and conferences.
Accommodation
The fifty-five bedrooms all include free WiFi, a hospitality tray and free parking. Guests can choose from a Cosy King Double Room, a Standard King Double Room with Sofa Bed, a Standard Super King Double or Twin Room and a Premium Super King Double or Twin Room (balcony or terrace overlooking the grounds and Business Lounge access). All the rooms are well-appointed and have all the facilities necessary for a comfortable stay. Smokers are welcome as there are smoking rooms are available but pets are not allowed.
Facilities
There is a Business Lounge and rooms are available for meetings and conferences. Secluded corners of the large restaurant accommodate private dining for small groups, and there are also some small, cosy sitting rooms around the spacious bar area.
Food and Drink
The light, spacious restaurant and bar area include some private corners for guests who prefer some privacy. Guests requiring an exclusive dining area must pre-book, and it is subject to a minimum of ten.
Executive Chef, Gary, bases his menus of local and seasonal produce. Menus are subject to change depending on the produce available. The restaurant is open for breakfast, morning coffee and cake, lunch, afternoon tea (bubbly available) and dinner. On Sundays a selection of roasts is on offer.
How Much
Prices at Potters Heron start at £109 for one night
What’s Nearby?
Potters Heron is very close is the famous Sir Harold Hillier Gardens, accessible by public transport or car. These gardens include formal flower beds and a large parkland area. Colours vary with the seasons, but there is always something to look at, including sculpture exhibitions. There is a permanent exhibition, and temporary exhibitions are also featured. The garden complex includes a nursery, a shop and two cafés.
The historic town of Romsey is just three miles from the Potters Heron and easily accessible on public transport. Highlights of Romsey include Memorial Park and the Abbey. A new installation in the Abbey is an unusual stained glass window featuring Florence Nightingale. Cafés and independent shops surround the busy square in this town. A popular beauty spot is Sadler’s Mill on the River Test
Winchester lies in the other direction, on the same bus route. This county town, once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Wessex, has a stunning cathedral at its heart. It is on the grounds of the cathedral that its famous Christmas Market takes place every year.
Getting There
Potters Heron is on the A3090 road just off the M3. There are regular trains from London Waterloo via Southampton Parkway to Romsey.
