A Visitor's Introduction to Hook, Hampshire

Why is Hook Worth a Visit?

Hook is worth visiting for its peaceful rural charm and its central location in Hampshire, making it a great base for exploring nearby natural beauty and historic landmarks. Though small, Hook has easy access to stunning countryside, including local nature reserves, walking paths, and charming nearby towns. The village's relaxed atmosphere offers visitors a chance to unwind, while nearby attractions provide plenty to explore.

Whether you’re interested in walking, discovering local history, or simply enjoying a quiet weekend in the countryside, Hook offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. The village's excellent transport links also make it an ideal stop for those travelling through the region, while its tranquil atmosphere provides a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Hook Highlights: Things to See and Do in Hook

1. Bassetts Mead Country Park Bassetts Mead Country Park is a beautiful 20-hectare park located just outside the village of Hook. The park is an ideal destination for a relaxing day out in nature, with walking trails, peaceful meadows, and a lake that attracts a variety of birdlife. It’s perfect for a scenic stroll, a family picnic, or some quiet birdwatching. Dogs are welcome, and the park is a great spot for a leisurely dog walk.

2. Odiham Castle A short drive from Hook, the ruins of Odiham Castle are a must-see for history buffs. This medieval castle, also known as King John’s Castle, was built in the early 13th century and played a significant role in English history, including its use during the signing of the Magna Carta. Though now in ruins, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it an excellent spot for a walk or a picnic by the Basingstoke Canal. Entry is free, and it's a peaceful and scenic site to explore.

3. The Basingstoke Canal The Basingstoke Canal, which runs near Hook, offers visitors a chance to enjoy a leisurely walk, bike ride, or boat trip along its tranquil waters. Stretching for 32 miles, the canal is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way. For those who enjoy the water, renting a narrowboat or canoe can be a great way to explore the canal at a slower pace. Walking or cycling along the towpath is also a popular option, with plenty of scenic spots to stop for a rest or a picnic.

4. Hook Common Hook Common is a beautiful natural area right on the edge of the village, perfect for those who love walking and wildlife. The common features open heathland, woodlands, and ponds, offering a serene place to explore. It’s particularly stunning during spring and summer when the wildflowers are in bloom. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds, deer, and various butterflies.

5. Wellington Country Park Just a short drive from Hook, Wellington Country Park is a fantastic destination for families. This 350-acre park offers a range of outdoor activities, including adventure playgrounds, a miniature railway, animal enclosures, and beautiful walking trails around lakes and woodland. It's an ideal spot for a family day out, with picnic areas and plenty of space for children to run and play. The park also hosts seasonal events, such as Halloween trails and Christmas festivities, making it a great year-round destination.

6. West Green House Gardens For those who appreciate beautifully landscaped gardens, West Green House Gardens is a stunning attraction located just a few miles from Hook. These delightful gardens are a blend of traditional English style and contemporary design, featuring topiary, vibrant flowerbeds, and ornamental lakes. Visitors can wander through the gardens, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and even stop for tea in the on-site café. The gardens are especially beautiful in the spring and summer, when the flowers are in full bloom.

7. The Raven Hotel One of Hook’s landmarks, The Raven Hotel is a traditional coaching inn dating back to the 19th century. It’s a great spot to stop for a meal or a drink, offering classic pub fare in a cosy setting. The pub's historic charm and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular choice among both locals and visitors. If you’re staying overnight in Hook, The Raven also offers comfortable accommodations, making it an excellent base for exploring the area.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Hook is well-connected by both road and rail, making it easy to reach from surrounding areas. By car, Hook is located just off the M3 motorway, making it a convenient stop for travellers between London and the southwest. It’s about an hour’s drive from London and around 20 minutes from Basingstoke. For those travelling by train, Hook has its own railway station on the mainline between London Waterloo and Basingstoke, with regular services running to both cities. The train journey from London takes just under an hour.

Parking:
Parking is generally easy to find in Hook, with several free car parks available around the village. The Raven Hotel has its own parking facilities, and there are also public car parks near the train station and local parks, such as Bassetts Mead Country Park. Parking is generally free in the village, though some areas may have time restrictions.

Dining:
There are several good dining options in and around Hook. The Raven Hotel offers traditional pub meals with a warm and welcoming vibe. For those looking for fine dining, Tylney Hall has a fantastic restaurant offering high-end British cuisine in an elegant setting. There are also several local pubs in nearby villages, such as The Hogget in nearby Hookwood, which serves modern British dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. For something more casual, Hartlett’s Café in Hook is a great spot for coffee, cakes, and light lunches.

Shopping:
Hook has a small selection of local shops and supermarkets, including a Tesco Superstore for everyday essentials. For more extensive shopping, nearby Basingstoke offers Festival Place, a large shopping centre with a wide range of high street stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, the local farm shops in the surrounding villages are great for picking up fresh produce, local meats, and homemade goods.

When to Visit:
Hook is a pleasant destination year-round, though the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild, and the countryside is at its most beautiful. Spring brings blooming flowers to the nearby gardens and commons, while summer is perfect for outdoor activities like walking, cycling, and picnicking. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, and the cooler months are ideal for cosy pub lunches by the fire.

Local Events:
While Hook itself is a quiet village, there are several events in the surrounding areas that are worth attending. Nearby Odiham hosts an annual Fire Show in November, complete with fireworks, bonfires, and a fair. West Green House Gardens also holds events throughout the year, including concerts, theatre performances, and garden tours. Keep an eye on local listings for seasonal activities, especially during summer and around Christmas.

Exploring Beyond Hook:
Hook’s location makes it a great base for exploring nearby attractions. A short drive will take you to the historic town of Basingstoke, where you can visit the Milestones Museum or enjoy shopping at Festival Place. Nature lovers can head to the South Downs National Park, about 40 minutes away, for stunning hikes and countryside views. For something more relaxing, Hartley Wintney, a nearby village, offers lovely tea rooms, antique shops, and a traditional cricket green, providing a quintessentially English village experience.