Carlo Simone

The Bridge Inn in Shawford, near Winchester, ranked fourth in a Spiritfilled analysis of the UK's best pub gardens. The study examined five-star Tripadvisor reviews of 552 pubs across 76 cities and found 93 reviews specifically praising The Bridge Inn's garden. The riverside pub offers seasonal and classic food, local cask ales, a dog-friendly outdoor space, heaters and covered seating. It holds a 4.3/5 Tripadvisor rating from 1,950 reviews, with visitors highlighting its garden, welcoming staff, food and service.

Alan Titchmarsh recommends the Bonica rose for borders in his Surrey garden, where it performs well in sandy, free-draining soil that has been improved with well-rotted manure. He particularly values its pale-pink flower clusters, repeat flowering, healthy foliage and attractive hips, while acknowledging that its fragrance is weak. He also describes successful combinations involving Geranium Patricia, Nepeta racemosa, Alchemilla mollis and Hidcote lavender.

Paultons Park near Ower has been ranked the UK's most grandparent-friendly theme park in a CareCo analysis assessing mobility scooter hire, flat terrain, internal transport, cafés and ride-access provisions. The park, which has more than 70 rides and attractions across 140 acres near the New Forest, was praised alongside Drayton Manor and West Midlands Safari Park for its accessibility and family-oriented facilities. Its attractions include Peppa Pig World and the new Valgard: Realm of the Vikings area, while Tripadvisor users give the park a 4.5/5 rating and commend its cleanliness, range of rides, food and suitability for multigenerational visits.

Hill Cottage Farm Camping and Caravan Park near Fordingbridge has been included in Campsites.co.uk’s list of the UK’s 150 Outstanding Sites for 2026. Located close to the New Forest National Park and within walking distance of Alderholt, it offers serviced pitches, camping and glamping accommodation, a Thai restaurant, a shop, and dog-friendly facilities. Visitors have rated the site 4.81 out of 5 from 334 reviews, praising its cleanliness, spacious pitches, facilities, location and staff.

The Wykeham Arms in Winchester was selected by The Telegraph as one of England’s top 500 pubs for 2026, chosen for its lively atmosphere, strong food offering and historic character. Reviewer Will Hawkes highlighted its vibrant mix of diners and locals, distinctive interior, and focus on quality food and drink. The pub promotes seasonal, locally sourced menus, serves several ales, and offers guest rooms. Ratings on Tripadvisor and Google Reviews are strong, with customer comments praising the atmosphere, service and beer quality.

Alan Titchmarsh received planning permission to build a greenhouse at his Surrey home, which he and his wife purchased after moving from Hampshire. The couple bought the property from Omaze winner Rachael Reid, and the approved plans include a greenhouse and an extension to an outbuilding. Representatives said the structure is needed for storing gardening equipment and will fit the character of the area.

Hayling Island beach has been ranked ninth in the AA’s list of the UK’s best and safest beaches, scoring highly for search popularity, sunshine hours, water safety, and proximity to a lifeboat station. It was also rated the best beach in the South East. The beach is recognised for its views, water quality, and award-winning cleanliness, with long stretches of shingle and sand and strong swimming areas such as West Beach.

Alan Titchmarsh explains that he left his long-time Hampshire home for a smaller property in Surrey due to the difficulty of maintaining a large garden as he ages and to be closer to his daughters. He reflects emotionally on leaving the four-acre garden where his family made memories, noting he wants to move by choice rather than necessity. He also acknowledges needing help to continue writing and broadcasting while managing such a large space.