Attractions and Places To See around Bentley - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Bentley offer a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and unique engineering. This region features a variety of outdoor activities, including walks around ponds and along canals. Visitors can explore ancient castles, literary homes, and significant natural areas. The area provides opportunities for both historical exploration and nature immersion.
Best attractions and places to see around Bentley
- The most popular attractions is Odiham Castle Ruins, a historical site located down the Basingstoke Canal. This 13th-century ruin is one of King John's castles and is associated with the signing of the Magna Carta.
- Another must-see spot is Frensham Little Pond, a lake surrounded by pine trees and sandy hills. A circular walk around the pond is under 3 km, making it suitable for families.
- Visitors also love Farnham Castle Keep, a motte and shell keep castle founded in 1138. The ruins of the keep are free to explore and offer a viewpoint of Farnham.
- Bentley is known for historical sites, natural ponds, and engineering marvels. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to tranquil lakes.
- The attractions around Bentley are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 100 upvotes and more than 40 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Odiham Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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Farnham Castle Keep
Highlight • Historical Site
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Jane Austen's House Museum
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Frensham Little Pond
Highlight • Lake
There as been a lake here since the 13th century when the Bishop of Winchester decreed a dam be built. The resulting pond provided fish for when he was staying at nearby Farnham Castle.
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All Saints Church and The Pest House, Odiham
Highlight • Religious Site
By the 11th century there was a church on this site, as recorded in the Domesday Book. The oldest visible parts of the present church are the chancel and the base of the tower, dating from the early 13th century. Between the chancel and tower, the nave has been altered and extended into side aisles, in two stages, and the upper parts of the tower completely rebuilt in the 17th century.
The present church has a nave with gabled aisles of similar height, which extend to flank the western tower. The chancel projects to the east, and is flanked with gabled chapels. The walls are of flint with some rubble included, with the later parts, including the upper stages of the tower, being red brick. The roof is of tiles.
Cit. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints_Church,_Odiham
The church underwent some internal renovation work a few years back, with some opposition from locals concerned about the potential impact on the historical and architectural perception of the church. See basingstokegazette.co.uk/news/14957690.all-saints-church-in-odiham-given-a-modern-look-after-consistory-court-ruling
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Tips from the Community
Generally quiet lanes around this area with sandy paths to jump on and off.
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In quarter-hour film segments for a German-language television series, Tilmann Spengler introduces the lives and works of important writers and authors from all eras to culture-loving viewers. One of the women he honors as "classics of world literature" is the British author of "Pride and Prejudice" (to name her most famous work): * JANE AUSTEN (1775 to 1817). The segment (in German) can be found in the ARD Media Library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/jane-austen-stolz-und-vorurteil/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvL2NiOGJhYTI3LTkxYzMtNDRiNi05NjNlLTRlYzg2NDNmY2E5Ng
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In the lovely village of Chawton - great pub and coffee shop
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In 15-minute film contributions from a German-language television series, Tilmann Spengler introduces the culture-loving viewer to the life and work of important writers and authors from all eras. One of the ladies he honors as a "classic of world literature" is the British author of "Pride and Prejudice" (to name her most famous work): * JANE AUSTEN (1775 to 1817). The contribution (in German) can be found in the ARD media library at the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/jane-austen-stolz-und-vorurteil/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvL2NiOGJhYTI3LTkxYzMtNDRiNi05NjNlLTRlYzg2NDNmY2E5Ng
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Frensham Little Pond is more tranquil and offers a greater variety of walks and scenery than its nearby neighbour the Frensham Great Pond. Although the circular walk around the Little Pond can become a little busy at weekends there are plenty of other quieter paths to explore!
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A great viewpoint of Farnham from above is from the Keep at the Castle.
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Frensham Little Pond is a glorious place to hike. It is surrounded by pine trees and sandy hills so makes the perfect location for a longer jaunt taking in the local area or a hike round the pond is under 3km so is perfect for families with children or for a shorter, largely flat, hike. There is some sand and it can be quite rooty by the car park. There as been a lake here since the 13th century when the Bishop of Winchester decreed a dam be built. The resulting pond provided fish for when he was staying at nearby Farnham Castle.
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Opening hours: Wed to Sun 10:00 - 17:00 last entrance at 16:00.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Bentley?
The Bentley area is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Odiham Castle Ruins, a 13th-century castle associated with King John and the Magna Carta. Another significant historical site is Farnham Castle Keep, a motte and shell keep castle founded in 1138, offering free exploration and views of Farnham. For literary history, visit Jane Austen's House Museum, where the famous author lived and wrote.
Are there any castles to explore near Bentley?
Yes, there are two notable castles. Odiham Castle Ruins is a 13th-century ruin located along the Basingstoke Canal, offering a glimpse into medieval history. Additionally, Farnham Castle Keep, founded in 1138, allows visitors to freely explore its historic ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the town.
Where can I find natural beauty and scenic walks around Bentley?
For natural beauty, Frensham Little Pond is an excellent choice. It's surrounded by pine trees and sandy hills, offering a tranquil circular walk of under 3 km, perfect for families. The wider area also features numerous trails through woodlands and along canals, providing diverse natural landscapes to explore.
Are there opportunities for hiking or cycling near Bentley's attractions?
Absolutely. The Bentley area offers a variety of outdoor activities. For cycling, you can find routes like the 'Alice Holt Forest and Chawton Woods loop' or the 'Clay’s Lane – Holy Cross Church, Binsted loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Alice Holt Forest, Noor Hill Hanger and Selborne Common loop'. For hikers, there are easy trails like the 'Alice Holt Lodge Pond – Alice Holt Forest Cafe loop' and the 'Bentley Station loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the cycling guide, MTB trails guide, and easy hikes guide for Bentley.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Bentley?
Yes, many attractions in the Bentley area are suitable for families. Frensham Little Pond offers an easy, largely flat circular walk perfect for children. Both Odiham Castle Ruins and Farnham Castle Keep are free to explore and provide engaging historical experiences for all ages. Jane Austen's House Museum also welcomes families interested in literary history.
What unique engineering marvels can I see in the area?
The Ash Aqueduct is a fascinating engineering feat. It carries the Basingstoke Canal over the busy A331 road. Walking or riding along the towpath allows you to appreciate this structure, where a body of water is suspended above a major highway, a concept that often surprises visitors.
When is the best time of year to visit attractions around Bentley?
The Bentley area's attractions, particularly its natural sites and outdoor trails, are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for walks around Frensham Little Pond and exploring castle ruins. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some cafes might have reduced hours. Indoor attractions like Jane Austen's House Museum are suitable for any season.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for beginners or families near Bentley?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. The circular walk around Frensham Little Pond is under 3 km and largely flat, making it ideal for families and beginners. Additionally, the easy hikes guide for Bentley lists routes such as the 'Alice Holt Lodge Pond – Alice Holt Forest Cafe loop' and the 'Bentley Station loop', which are designed for easier exploration.
What are the parking options for attractions around Bentley?
Parking availability varies by attraction. For example, Frensham Little Pond has a car park, though it can get busy on weekends. For other sites like Odiham Castle Ruins, parking might be available nearby along the canal or in designated areas. It's advisable to check specific attraction websites for detailed parking information before your visit.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, you can find places to eat near some attractions. For instance, near Jane Austen's House Museum, there's Cassandra's Cup, a tearoom/cafe, and Chawton House (a mile up the lane) also has an amazing tea room courtyard. For other attractions, local villages and towns in the Bentley area offer various pubs and cafes.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Bentley area?
Visitors particularly enjoy the blend of historical exploration and natural beauty. The free access to historic sites like Farnham Castle Keep and the tranquil walks around Frensham Little Pond are highly appreciated. The unique engineering of Ash Aqueduct also often surprises and delights those who discover it.
What literary connections does the Bentley area have?
The Bentley area has a strong connection to one of England's most celebrated authors. Jane Austen's House Museum is located nearby, where Jane Austen lived and wrote many of her famous novels. Visitors can explore her former home and learn about her life and work.
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Most popular attractions around Bentley
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