Overton is a large, picturesque village on the River Test, which is renowned for its trout fishing. Situated west of of Basingstoke, and east of Andover and Whitchurch the village contains smaller hamlets of Southington, Northington, Ash
There is evidence of habitation since the Stone and Bronze Ages with interesting finds and barrows located nearby. The area has a history of banknote paper manufacture starting in the 18th Century and Overton Mill still produces banknotes for the Bank of England as well as the high-security paper for over 120 national currencies. Laverstoke Mill is now used by the world famous Bombay Sapphire and the local Southley Farm hosts the annual fundraising event Carfest over August Bank Holiday weekend.
Overton Travel links
Overton is well-connected by train to other major cities and towns in the UK. There are direct train services from London Waterloo, and the journey typically takes around 55 minutes.
Trains also run from other major centres like Basingstoke.
Before travelling , make sure you check Overton railway station’s facilities.
Overton Attractions
Bombay Sapphire Distillery
Based at Laverstoke Mill, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is in a conservation area with over 1000 years of history. The distillery showcases the care, skill and artistry behind every drop of Bombay Sapphire, and allows you to discover the flavours of the botanicals which make Bombay Sapphire gin so unique.
Learn about the ten botanicals which make Bombay Sapphire so exquisite in the iconic glasshouses designed by Thomas Heatherwick. Chart hundreds of years of Laverstoke Mill's illustrious history, married with the fascinating heritage of gin and Bombay Sapphire. Watch the production of gin behind the scenes in the Dakin Still House, and uncover the secrets of Bombay Sapphire's unique vapour infusion distillation process.
Park Farm
Park Farm is situated in the village of Oakley. There have been horses on the farm since the days of the horse and plough and as farming has changed over the years, the farm has diversified and is now not only a working arable farm, but also an equestrian centre and large country clothing store.
There are over 80 horses on the farm, with a full time professional team of trained staff to care for livery horses, and provide lessons at the riding centre. The centre caters for both novice and experienced riders. There are indoor and outdoor riding arenas and hacking on private farm land. Park Farm Equestrian centre, tack and feed store supply all things equestrian, pet and livestock supplies, either to be collected or be delivered to your door.
Whitchurch Silk Mill
Whitchurch Silk Mill is the oldest silk mill in the UK still in its original building. A gem of industrial heritage in beautiful, rural Hampshire, Whitchurch Silk Mill is a Georgian water mill that weaves silk using 19th century machinery. Whether you're machine-mad, an admirer of silk fabrics, a child learning about the Victorians, or just looking for a delightful day out in Hampshire, Whitchurch Silk Mill has something for you.
Eating out in Overton
Glasshouse Restaurant
Enjoy fine dining at the elegant yet relaxed 2 AA Rosette Glasshouse Restaurant. The Glasshouse is set in the Oakley Hall Hotel. The restaurant follows a ‘field to fork’ philosophy and pride themselves on using local produce sourced from within a 50-mile radius. Some produce even comes from their very own Kitchen Garden, where they grow a fantastic variety of vegetables & herbs and plenty of fruit.
The Overton Gallery Tea Room
The Overton Gallery Tea Room not only serves some of the best cakes around, but it is also a gift shop and picture framer to boot! During the winter months customers can enjoy a cosy open fire and during the summer a stunning courtyard, which is surrounded by fig trees and other beautiful plants. All cakes and sandwiches are made daily on the premises, with fresh ingredients sourced locally. During the summer season, all of the salad is home grown at the bottom of our garden and sometimes picked twice daily! What more could you want?
The Watership Down Inn
A trip to North Hampshire wouldn't be complete without a nod to those famous bunnies that scarred many of our childhoods. The Watership Down Inn is a traditional family run country inn, dedicated to serving good quality food & drink. Providing a friendly & welcoming atmosphere as well as plenty of vegetarian options.
Hotels in Overton
Peak House Farm
Get away from it all at Peak House Farm. Peak House Farm is a 120 year old farmhouse with unspoiled country views in the North Hampshire Downs, an area of outstanding natural beauty. A successful and sought after B&B for over 20 years. Offering a warm welcome, delightful, well-appointed en-suite rooms and a traditional farmhouse breakfast.
The White Hart
The White Hart has been lovingly restored, retaining its glorious character and charm, but enriched by a few quirky and luxurious touches. Set in Overton for over five centuries, The White Hart now offers 12 stylish, individually designed en-suite bedrooms as well as fabulous food and drink and all in the stylish surroundings of this fabulous historic inn.
Oakley Hall Hotel
Oakley Hall Hotel has a sweeping driveway, pretty tiled hallway and an impressive & beautiful 315 acres of grounds, this property truly is a hidden treasure in the rolling countryside of Hampshire. The building dates back to 1795 and was formerly owned by the Bramston Family who were close friends of Jane Austen. It is mentioned fondly in Austen’s letters to her sister Cassandra at the turn of the 19th century.
Having undergone an extensive refurbishment in 2014 the hotel now offers 47 elegant bedrooms in Oakley Hall Hotel has a sweeping driveway, pretty tiled hallway and an impressive & beautiful 315 acres of grounds, this property truly is a hidden treasure in the rolling countryside of Hampshire. The building dates back to 1795 and was formerly owned by the Bramston Family who were cloboth the main house and converted 19th century stable block along with a three bedroom gingerbread style cottage. All bedrooms have been individually designed and furnished to a very high standard complete with every modern convenience and home comfort.
