As the sun stretches its rays across the patches we call home, painting the countryside in hues of gold and orange, and the gentle breeze carries the scent of fresh herbs and the sound of buzzing bees, it can only mean one thing… summer is here, and it's the perfect time to make some memories!
To really make this summer one to remember, our PIG people have shared their favourite places to visit around our PIGs in the South (after all, they know the area like the back of their hand!).
THE PIG, Hampshire
You’re right in the heart of the New Forest at THE PIG, surrounded by miles of ancient woodland that you can explore on foot or bike – you might even bump into a few wild horses, donkeys and, sometimes, pigs! Within a short drive (or bicycle ride!) you’ll find stately homes, picturesque seaside towns, chocolate box villages, and pebbly beaches.
Meander the forest paths
Getting some country fresh air and exploring the surrounding area is not to be missed! Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is just down the road from us and is a hot spot for deer spotting. Amidst the forest paths, you’ll find a purpose-built platform that overlooks a large meadow where the deer graze the day away.
Head down to the coast
Not many people who visit The New Forest realise just how close the coastline is, and Milford-On-Sea is a local scenic gem. This pebble beach features spectacular views of The Needles and the Isle of Wight, Hurst Castle, as well as a protected wildlife reserve renowned for its diverse water and bird life.
Sweet pickings
Not too far from THE PIG is the quaint town of Lymington and Goodalls – a place to come to pick your own strawberries! The farm shop also sells a range of great products including fresh jam!
Spot signs of magic
Furzey Gardens is a great place to explore, especially for kids! They’ve got a lovely little tearoom, play area, and stunning garden to wander around. Plus, there are dozens of little fairy doors to be found throughout the gardens - see if you can spot them hiding in tree trunks, flower beds, and more.
Step back in time
For history lovers and animal lovers, we’ve got the perfect spot for you. Manor Farm Country Park has plenty of animals to see, historic buildings to explore, play areas for kids and a wildlife garden to wander around – there really is something for everyone!
THE PIG-in the wall, Southampton
Neatly tucked away within the ancient medieval walls of Southampton, THE PIG-in the wall is the perfect base for immersing yourself in the city's bustling high streets, colourful nightlife and long and illustrious history!
Stroll through ancient history
There are lots of nooks and crannies to explore along the Medieval City Wall in Southampton – a 3-minute walk around the corner from THE PIG-in the wall. With medieval boats also nestled right outside the wall, there’s plenty of history to immerse yourself in.
Tour the big city
Leave your car with the friendly team at THE PIG-in the wall and explore Southampton on foot. Ask at reception for a map of local attractions and our Southampton Sightseeing Tour, which will take you step-by-step around the city, so you don't miss any monuments.
Hop across the pond
We’re just a short stroll from the Red Funnel ferry terminal, which runs regular, everyday crossings to Cowes over on the Isle of Wight. With plenty of scenic coastal routes for road-tripping, strolling or cycling, you can spend a day on the island - and still be home in time for tea!
A ‘roar-some’ day out
Marwell Zoo is a firm favourite for animal lovers and great for all ages! Enjoy a day out seeing hippos, giraffes, zebras, flamingos, penguins, meerkats, tigers, lemurs, cheetahs and so much more.
Paddle in the sun
If you fancy some Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP), then take a trip to The Paddle Centre at Swanwick Marina, just a short drive from us. Along the Hamble River, they offer SUPs, Kayaking, SUP Yoga, and more.
THE PIG-on the beach, Dorset
Staying at THE PIG-on the beach puts you in close proximity to beautiful natural attractions, allowing you to maximise the gorgeous beaches, stunning views and abundance of wildlife.
Take a stroll to a striking stone
Take a walk to Agglestone Rock – one of Purbeck’s curious and quirky landmarks that has been delighting (and puzzling) people for generations. It is not known how the huge, iron-rich sandstone came to be sitting on its small hill in the Purbeck landscape, but the rock quite literally looks like it fell from the sky! It’s estimated to be around 400 tonnes.
Spot some renowned landmarks
THE PIG-on the beach is spoilt for picture-perfect scenery on the Dorset coastline, so you can’t pay a visit without venturing to Old Harry Rocks, just a 6-minute stroll away. It’s one of the most famous landmarks on the south coast – the rocks are part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site and Sir David Attenborough himself recently introduced his Wild Isles series on this cliff top!
Make a splash
For the adventure-seekers, the Dorset Water Park is a floating inflatable assault course that is so much fun and, in our opinion, the perfect way to spend the day!
Adventure over to the isle
Poole’s famous yellow boats… Yellow Ferries offers boat trips to Brownsea Island, famous for its red squirrels! Brownsea Island is a great place to venture into the woodland and spot some of the island’s wildlife.
Journey along the tracks
If trains are your thing, you can hop on the Swanage Railway for a nostalgic escape into the Purbeck Hills, with journeys winding through the rolling landscape, over a 12-mile return trip. The steam train runs from Swanage, passing over the viaduct at Corfe Castle, and beyond.
Or you can just stay put with us…
Daily Kitchen Garden Tours
A must at any PIG this summer is joining our friendly team of Kitchen Gardeners for a tour of our grounds! Happening every day at 11am these tours are free to attend and offer a great opportunity to speak to THE PIG's gardening team, peek into our polytunnels, discover our greenhouses, and see what we're growing in our fruit cages.
Potting Shed Treatments
If you’re after something a little more relaxing at THE PIGs, why not book yourself in for a bespoke treatment in the Potting Sheds – our seriously relaxing, rustic treatment rooms, tucked away in the Kitchen Gardens. Whether you opt for a facial or a massage, they make for the perfect space to switch off, melt away and unwind.
Acoustic Music Nights
If long lazy evenings with chilled acoustic music are your thing, we've got you covered! Head to your favourite PIG this summer for some live local music - the perfect way to unwind at the end of the week. No need to book these events, just swing by – entry is free. Find the next date here.
Whether you’re looking for a last-minute road trip, or the chance to wallow in comfort at your favourite PIG by staying a little longer for less – check out our latest offers across the litter.
