Pylands Lane, Southampton

I love visiting this picturesque country park, which runs along the west bank of the River Hamble, between the villages of Botley and Bursledon. There are miles of paths, lined with trees and wild flowers. Along the routes you will encounter many wooden benches dedicated by family members to their lost loved ones. This nature reserve has a variety of pursuits from exploring historic buildings and mixing with friendly farm animals at Manor Farm, with its obligatory gift shop, café and animal feed which can be purchased for your inquisitive little ones. The farm offers themed events, trails and activities which run during the school holidays.

There are several car parks, one of which sits alongside a children’s play area and houses a newly built cafeteria. Although the park charges for cars, all the money goes back into the maintenance of this wonderland, we happily paid £2.50 for the hour we were there. Both cafes are dog friendly, both serve good coffee, lunch and snacks and of course yummy cakes! A great day out for your two legged and four-legged family members.