Idyllic retreat, Harewell Cottage, Wherwell

Harewell Cottage is a beautiful Grade II listed thatched cottage perfectly located in the pretty village of Wherwell. Bursting with character, this two-bedroom cottage is just steps away from the famous chalk streams of the River Test: the ideal country retreat for those seeking the invigorating fresh air of the country after being stuck in the city. With scenic walks, fishing, cycling, Stonehenge and Highclere (Downton Abbey) nearby, Harewell Cottage warmly welcomes guests all year round. Located in the heart of the picture postcard village of Wherwell, the sheer beauty and serene quietness come as a shock to those used to the hustle and bustle of city living. A beautiful back garden and patio complete with an outdoor table setting is the ideal place to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea on a sunny day or wander down to the nearby stream. Traditionally decorated, with antique furniture, this self-contained, centrally heated cottage comfortably sleeps 4 guests. The master double bedroom and a large second twin bedroom share a bathroom and lie tucked away from all noise upstairs. There is a double sofa bed available for an extra 2 guests downstairs. Enjoy some well-earned peace and quiet and time away from the world in the traditional wooden-beamed sitting room, complete with a small bureau as well as a TV. A fully-fitted modern kitchen with a state-of-the-art induction hob, full-size oven, microwave and all the essentials you will need during your stay makes cooking a true pleasure and the large dining room invites you to enjoy home dining in style. Another bathroom downstairs has a shower, WC and basin. Towels, bed linen and a hair dryer are included as well as an iron and ironing board. No matter what time of day you arrive, you will be greeted with a delicious welcome basket with goodies and treats so that not a moment of your precious holiday will be wasted. Wherwell offers a whole range of walks depending on how energetic you are feeling and with the White Lion pub at the end of the road you will never be far from a hearty meal and drink. The River Test is one of the best fishing spots in the country so pack your rod! The nearby village of Stockbridge is another picturesque village and is full of independent boutique stores as well as a whole host of pubs and restaurants. Make sure to visit the historic city of Winchester which is just a 20 minute drive away and see the legendary King Arthur's Round Table at the museum. We hope you’re a foodie as Winchester is crammed with cafes and restaurants and hosts the UK’s largest farmers’ market! Every season is festival season in Winchester with the bustling Hat Fair in the summer and the festive and magical German inspired Christmas Market in the Cathedral Close, topped off with one of the most picturesque open air ice rinks in the country. Someone will be here to welcome you and answer any questions you might have. The owner lives close by so can be contacted for any further queries that you might have! It may come as a shock, but when you’re wandering around exploring Wherwell, everyone will greet you with a nod and a smile, knowing that you’re experiencing a small slice of their idyllic life. Whether you prefer Waitrose, Lidl, Sainsbury’s, or Tesco, all of these sit just 10 minutes away in Andover. Make sure you pop into the family-run butchers in Stockbridge on the way home. A must is a lunch stop at The Mayfly, an iconic riverside pub near Stockbridge. The large outdoor seating area is the perfect pit stop for walkers and cyclists or for those who are looking for the perfect backdrop to a traditional pub lunch. Late checkout (up to 7pm) is available for an extra charge of £60.