Whether you’re feeling a little lethargic from the short days and long nights of winter, or you just love to explore the various pockets of countryside around the Home Counties when nature re-awakens in spring, there’s plenty of reason to dust down your overnight bag for a few days of relaxation and adventure, staying overnight in a cosy pub with rooms.
Nestled in the quintessential corners of Hampshire, resides Odiham, a charming market town steeped in history and offering a wealth of attractions for visitors. Whether you’re seeking historical insights, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, Odiham has something to offer everyone.
The Red Lion in Odiham
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the comforting embrace of a cosy pub stay, from just £125 per night, in one of our 7 boutique rooms here at The Red Lion in Odiham. Step into a world of warmth and inviting atmosphere, where the aroma of good company mingles with the savoury scents of lovingly prepared dishes and smells of fresh ale. Soak up the engaging camaraderie, and hearty laughter of those around you, as you relax to the flickering flames of the log burner as it casts a warm glow that belies the comforting feels of a Great British pub.
Pictured, Bedrooms at The Red Lion, Odiham
History of Odiham
Odiham’s rich history is evident throughout the town, with a number of notable landmarks to explore. Don your walking shoes and head over for a visit to the 12th-century Odiham Castle, that was once the seat of the Bishops of Winchester, and wander through the ruins of the once-imposing structure. Step back in time at the Odiham Heritage Centre, located on the high street, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts and exhibits that bring to life the town’s colourful past, and visit The Pest House, which dates back to 1622.
Delve into the world of aviation at the Hampshire Gliding Centre in nearby Alton, where you can witness gliders soaring through the skies and even try your hand at gliding yourself. Perhaps steam trains are more your thing, in which case you must pay a visit to the Watercress Line in Alresford, which features steam trains, and special events throughout the year.
Odiham is surrounded by stunning countryside, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking leisurely afternoons walking, or cycling along the picturesque Basingstoke Canal, you will find footpaths and bridleways striking out in every direction with plenty of fantastic hikes from Odiham’s village centre. To the north, cross the canal and seek the beauty of Forest Park and Odiham Wood with Butter Wood lying to the west. Also to the west is Greywell, and its nature reserve Greywell Moors. This wet fen area is staggering in the summer months, packed with vibrant flora and fauna.
Pictured, Visit local vineyards | special events taking place in 2024 | local walks in and around Odiham
Our top local event recommendations
Why not take in one of the following events taking place in and around the local area in 2024, and stay an extra night or two – it would make the perfect gift for a loved one.
Stay overnight at The Red Lion, Odiham from £150 per night
We’ve chosen our top recommendations, and will try to keep these updated throughout the year:
January 2024
6 Jan: Make your own: Hand-thrown water bowl and paint palette – The Maltings, Farnham
21 Jan: Farnborough Winter Half Marathon – Farnborough
26 Jan: Jonathan Pie: Heroes & Villains – The Anvil Theatre, Basingstoke
20 Jan: Introduction to Pyrography – The Maltings, Farnham
February 2024
16 Feb: Sleeping Beauty, Performed by Varna International Ballet – The Anvil Theatre, Basingstoke
16 Feb: National Theatre Live: Dear England – The Cross Barn, Odiham
14 Feb: Après Ski at Penn Croft Vineyard – Crondall, Fleet
17-18 Feb: Turf Games, UK Winter Festival – Farnborough International
22 Feb: Live Music: Young Elton (tribute act) – The Castle Pub, Farnham
March 2024
2-3 Mar: The Big One Show (Fishing Event) – Farnborough Five International
6 Mar: Farnham Castle Literary Festival – Farnham Castle
24 Mar: Giovanni Pernice: Let Me Entertain You – The Anvil Theatre, Basingstoke
27 Mar: An Evening with Rick Stein – The Anvil Theatre, Basingstoke
April 2024
14 Apr: Tour of the Worthy’s (30 mile| 50 mile cycle event) – Winchester
18-20 Apr: Farnham’s Beerex – The Maltings, Farnham
19 Apr: Photography Workshop – Polesden Lacy, Guildford
27 Apr: Jumbo Arm Knitting – The Maltings, Farnham
May 2024
1 – 31 May: Walk Alton Festival – In and around Alton (Dates TBC)
7 May: An Evening with Sir Tim Rice: My Life in Musicals, I Know Him So Well – The Anvil Theatre, Basingstoke
19th May: Alresford Watercress Festival – Alresford, near Alton
June 2024
29 Jun: Bands in the Bury – Odiham
29 Jun: The Importance of Being Earnest; Outside Theatre – The Vyne, Basingstoke
July 2024
7 Jul: Shakespeare on the Lawn at Farnham Castle – Farnham Castle, Farnham
14 Jul: Tour of Silchester (30 mile | 50 mile cycle event) – Yateley to Silchester
22 Jul: Flackstock Festival – Englefield House, Pangbourne
22-26 Jul: Farnborough International Airshow, Farnborough International
August 2024
15 – 18 Aug: Weyfest Festival – Rural Life Living Museum, Farnham
15-18 Aug: The British Motorshow, Farnborough Five International
23-25 Aug: Car-Fest South – Laverstoke Park, Overton
26 Aug: Odiham Food Fayre – Odiham
September 2024
1 Sep: Tour of the Candovers (20 mile | 40 mile | 60 mile cycle event) – Odiham
14 Sep: Hop Harvest Festival at Hogs Back Brewery, Tongham
17 Sep: Sir Ranulph Fiennes: Mad, Bad & Dangerous – The Anvil Theatre, Basingstoke
21 Sep: Twilight Runway Challenge (3k | 5k | 10k Run event) – Blackwater Airport, Camberley
October 2024
14 – 20 Oct: Walk Alton, Walking Festival – In and around Alton (Dates TBC)
November & December 2024
14 Nov – 2 Jan: Windsor Illuminated – Saville Gardens, Windsor
15 Nov – 19 Dec: Winchester Cathedral Christmas Markets – Winchester
24 Nov – Odiham Christmas Extravaganza – Odiham
So, there you have it – our top recommendations for why Odiham should be your next destination for a weekend escape. Whether you’re seeking historical intrigue, outdoor adventure, or simply a charming escape from the everyday, Odiham has something for everyone. With its picturesque streets, friendly locals, and endless activities, it’s the ideal place to unwind and recharge. And when it comes to choosing your home away from home, look no further than The Red Lion. With its cosy and welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect place to experience the best of Odiham, and surrounding villages.