Attractions and Places To See around Candovers - Top 20

Candovers offers a rich historical experience. You can explore the Old Church of St Mary the Virgin in Preston Candover, a medieval church with a flagstone floor and 18th-century memorials. While not publicly accessible, Preston House (a Grade II listed Georgian house) and North Hall (another Grade II listed building) contribute to the village's character. Nearby, you can also visit St John the Baptist Church, Itchen Abbas, a fine Victorian building with Norman-era architectural remains, and St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford, an elegant 13th-century church.

Yes, Candovers is nestled within a gently rolling landscape, offering picturesque views. The name 'Candover' itself refers to 'clear waters' from local springs. You can enjoy the scenic countryside along various walking and cycling routes. Avington Park Mansion and Lake is a notable spot, featuring a serene lake close to the historic manor house, offering beautiful views, sometimes with highland cows.

The area around Candovers is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various walking and cycling paths, including sections of the Wayfarer's Walk and the Oxdrove Way. For specific routes, consider exploring the cycling routes around Candovers, such as the 'Northgate Lane – Grammarsham Lane loop from Preston Candover', or the MTB Trails around Candovers, which include routes like 'The Drove, Farleigh Wallop – Trail Through Swallick Farm loop'.

Absolutely. Candovers offers several easy walking trails. For instance, you can find routes like 'The Woolpack Inn loop from Northington' or 'St Peter’s Church loop from Brown Candover' which are part of the easy hikes around Candovers. These provide a great way to experience the English countryside without strenuous effort.

Beyond the natural landscapes suitable for family walks, several attractions nearby cater to families. While not directly in Candovers, a short drive can take you to the Milestones Museum in Basingstoke, an interactive living history museum, or the Mid Hants Railway Watercress Line in New Alresford for steam train rides. The Alresford Spy Mission Treasure Trail also offers an engaging outdoor activity for families.

The village green in Preston Candover features the Purefoy Arms pub, serving as a central point. If you're visiting St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford, you'll find no shortage of cafes and shops on Broad Street where you can take a break and grab a bite to eat.

The Old Church of St Mary the Virgin is a significant cultural site, despite being largely rebuilt after a 1681 fire. Its remaining chancel features an impressive flagstone floor with medieval tiles, 18th-century memorials, and a brass memorial to Katherine Dabrigecort from 1607. Traces of 18th-century wall paintings and a 12th-century lancet window are also present. It is now cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust. You can find more details at visitchurches.org.uk.

Beyond the main highlights, the charm of Candovers lies in its tranquil village character and historical details. The village green with its war memorial and old water pump offers a glimpse into local life. The gently rolling landscape itself, with its 'clear waters' (as suggested by the name Candover), provides a serene backdrop for exploration, often revealing hidden paths and scenic spots away from the main routes.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural beauty. For example, the serene lake and historic manor at Avington Park Mansion and Lake are highly regarded for their beautiful views. The historical significance of churches like St John the Baptist Church, Itchen Abbas, and St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford, also draws interest, with many enjoying the architectural details and peaceful atmosphere.

Yes, Alton Abbey, an Anglican Benedictine monastery founded in 1895, is located near Alton, not far from Candovers. It was established to work with merchant seafarers and later adopted the Rule of St Benedict. The current buildings, designed by Sir Charles Nicholson, feature local flint construction. The Abbey church, dedicated to 'Our Lady and Saint John', was built between 1901-07. The community now runs retreats and courses for the public.

The gently rolling landscape of Candovers and its surrounding areas are beautiful throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn (April to October). During this period, the weather is generally more favorable for walking, cycling, and exploring the historical sites and natural features. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage.

Yes, the area is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes, including the 'Grammarsham Lane loop from Dummer' which is an easy option, or more challenging ones like the 'Candover Valley Store – Abbotstone Down loop from Preston Candover'. These are part of the broader cycling routes around Candovers, offering diverse experiences for different skill levels.

The Grange at Northington, a short drive from Candovers, is a significant example of Greek Revival architecture in England. This impressive building is set within a beautifully landscaped park, making it a notable landmark for those interested in architectural history and design.