20/03/2025
If it weren’t for the bare trees, you could be mistaken for thinking this snap was taken on a hot summer’s day, when in actual fact it was taken this morning on one of our favourite dog walks over the hill to Chawton! I can’t believe it is too warm for a jumper today - just glorious!
And yes, this is me with our younger pooch (our older one is 16 and enjoying a quieter pace, lying in the sunshine at home!).
I can’t quite believe that this is our sixth year of running The Hay Barn and I can honestly say that we have enjoyed almost every minute of it. We have loved meeting such a variety of guests from around the world, some of whom have become friends. To date, we have welcomed guests from Australia, the US, Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Italy, France and of course lots from the UK. Some visit for just a few days and others for two weeks, but for however long, they always receive a warm welcome and never tire of things to see and do.
So why do guests choose to spend time in this gorgeous part of the world? Our proximity to Chawton and all its links with Jane Austen, provides an obvious appeal as well as plenty of National Trust properties close by. The Watercress line from Chawton to Alresford is big appeal for steam train enthusiasts and our younger guests. Downton Abbey (aka Highclere Castle) 40 mins away and Stonehenge, not much further. Local vineyards including the award winning Hattingley Valley whose sparkling wines rival the best champagnes and who offer tours and tastings. The beautiful cathedral city of Wi******er is just down the road and for many, just the pleasure of spending time in a beautiful rural village, with lots of stunning walks from the front door and delicious food and drink in our cosy and atmospheric village pub is enough. Whatever your motivation for a break away, there is something to suit everyone here at The Hay Barn, and we would love to see you!
