Meadowbrook Farm

If you need to stretch your legs (and those of any accompanying dogs of course), the verdant water gardens and woodland trails at Sir Harold Hillier Arboretum (five minutes’ drive) couldn’t be more convenient. If you have a bit more time on your hands, climb up to the triangular monument in Farley Mount Country Park (10 minutes) for spectacular views across woodland right to the Solent. There are more hikes to be had in the New Forest National Park, where you can keep an eye out for native ponies running wild and encounter endangered otters at New Forest Wildlife Park. Wind up a day in the park with afternoon tea at New Forest Lavender Gardens (all 20 minutes) before plundering their gift shop for lavender-themed souvenirs. A whistle-stop tour of ancient Winchester (20 minutes) can include a guided tour of the splendid Gothic-era cathedral (spot Jane Austen’s tomb in the nave) and the vaulted Great Hall constructed at the order of William the Conqueror. Travel back to present day to learn about the cosmos at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium (also 20 minutes).