Nature / Wildlife
Farley Lodge and Little Farley are situated within Bentley Woods, a 2,000-acre Site of Special Scientific Interest and important nature reserve for butterflies (including the rare purple emperor).
The area is perfect for nature lovers, with deer often to be found grazing in the woods opposite the properties, birds nesting in the hedgerows behind and buzzards gliding on the thermals above.
Dog walking
The location is perfect for dog walkers with miles of deserted tracks accessible straight from the front door. The ancient byways of the Clarendon, Monarch and Test Ways are also all within easy reach. The New Forest with its vast swathes of unspoilt heath and woodland, where ponies, cattle and sheep roam free, is 6 miles away.
Cycling
Unbridled cycling opportunities on your doorstep. Whether you prefer to be on or off road, you’ll find miles of routes direct from the door. National Cycle Route 24 runs along the southern boundary of the woods and the routes of the SAMS Ride 100 and Wiggle New Forest 100 Sportive both pass the end of the track. OS maps are available at the properties and owners Megan and Tim, both keen walkers and cyclists, are very happy to advise on suitable routes.
Fishing
The properties are set in the heart of Wessex chalk stream country, with the Test, Itchen, Nadder, Avon and Anton, some of the finest fly fishing rivers in the UK, all within easy reach.
History
For lovers of history, the medieval city of Salisbury, whose cathedral boasts the tallest spire in England and is the home of the Magna Carta, is only 9 miles away. The ancient prehistoric standing stones of Stonehenge are a pleasant half hour drive as are the fascinating yet lesser known archeological sites of Woodhenge, Avebury Ring and Old Sarum. The historic cathedral city of Winchester and Portsmouth historic dockyard are also within easy reach.
Adventure
There are plenty of other local activities on offer including Paultons Park (with Peppa Pig World), the New Forest Water Park and TreeRunners zip line and treetop adventure park, all within a half hour drive.
