AD: Tucked away beside calm waters and whispering reeds, our stay in a Shepherd’s Hut at Avington was exactly the slow-paced reset we needed. This peaceful corner of Hampshire offers the kind of escape that feels both luxurious and totally connected to nature.
The Shepherd’s Hut Stay
We stayed in one of the site’s charming Shepherds Huts, designed with rest and calm in mind. The hut itself was incredibly cosy, with a king-size bed that we both slept so well in. I can imagine it being even more magical in winter with the log burner lit and the countryside quiet all around.
Inside, the hut had everything we needed: a well-equipped kitchen with a Nespresso machine, smart TV, fluffy towels, Wildsmith toiletries and even board games and books if you’re hunkering down for the evening.
The real draw for us though was the private outdoor space, a deck that sits on the water’s edge, a wood-fired hot tub under the stars, and barbecue facilities that make you want to stay put and soak it all in.
On the Water
What really made the trip extra special were the activities available on site. You can paddleboard, kayak, cycle around the estate or even take a wild swim in the lake, which I loved! Next to the water you can also find a sauna, with beautiful views. There’s also the option to book additional curated experiences depending on when you visit.
Where We Ate
In the evening, we drove to the local pub, The Chestnut Horse in Easton, for the most delicious meal. The pub has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and has recently undergone a beautiful refurbishment, keeping its traditional charm with added modern touches.
We started with prawn cocktail and garlic mushrooms on toast, followed by lamb rump and steak for mains. The menu is sourced locally and full of thoughtful touches, perfect for a slow and memorable dinner after a day outdoors.
In the morning, back at Avington, we had a continental breakfast waiting for us in our hut (all from the Chestnut Horse); which included a bottle of milk, granola, fresh bread and local butter, seasonal preserves, fruit, and natural yogurt. It was all delivered in a stylish breakfast box and eaten out on our deck by the water, the perfect slow start.
More Than Just Huts
Avington isn’t just about Shepherd’s Huts. The estate offers a collection of unique stays, from the beautifully converted Stable Cottage, ideal for families, to the elegant Barns with open-plan living and rural views. There’s even a grand Manor House, perfect for weddings and big celebrations. Each property has been designed with the same eye for comfort and countryside calm.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat, a group getaway or something completely off-grid with your family, there’s a space here to suit.
If you’re after a nature-filled escape that still feels stylish and considered, with lots of activities alongside time to slow down, Avington is a place worth bookmarking.
Peaceful, design-led and just a short drive from Winchester, it’s one we’d definitely return to.
Love Sarah x
AD (press trip)
Our Dorset Life 
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