Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive From Chavey Down, England to Rushmoor, England

Driving from Chavey Down to Rushmoor takes you through breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and bustling towns. Along this route, there are hidden gems that many travellers overlook. In this article, we have compiled five unexpected places that you should stop and explore while on this journey.

Halfway Point: Ascot, WNM

Before we dive into our hidden gems, we must first mention the halfway point, Ascot. Ascot is renowned for its racecourse, which draws large crowds every year. But there's more to Ascot than just the races. You can immerse yourself in the local history by visiting Ascot Life Church, where you will learn about the establishment of the church and see beautiful architecture. Ascot also boasts a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants that cater to all tastes.

1. Virginia Water, WNM

Virginia Water is a small village situated slightly south-west of London. Virginia Water Lake is the biggest attraction in the area, and people come from far and wide to stroll around the lake and take in the magnificent views. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery which makes for a tranquil atmosphere. In Virginia Water, visitors can indulge in a selection of cakes and pastries at the Caffè Nero located near the entrance of the park.

2. Blackbushe Market, Rushmoor

Blackbushe Market is a fun and unique destination that's perfect for people who crave something a little off the beaten path. The market is open on Sundays and bank holiday Mondays, and visitors can buy everything from fresh produce to second-hand goods and cheap clothing. The atmosphere is vibrant, and it's a great place to browse and hunt for bargains. After a morning of shopping, visitors can enjoy hot dogs and burgers, which are readily available from vendors.

3. Reading, WNM

Reading is a buzzing town that's roughly halfway between Chavey Down and Rushmoor. With an impressive history dating back to the medieval era, Reading has plenty of things to see and do. The town is home to the Reading Abbey Ruins, where visitors can walk around and immerse themselves in history. Another must-visit attraction is the Reading Museum, which showcases the town's rich culture and connects visitors to the past. Reading town centre is full of diverse cafes, and visitors can treat themselves to some delicious crepes at Crepeaffaire.

4. Farnham Castle, Rushmoor

Farnham Castle is a stunning spot that's not to be missed. It's a medieval castle that was first built in 1138, and it has a rich history that dates back over 800 years. Visitors can learn about the castle's past, walk through the castle grounds, and take in the beautiful views. The highlight of this attraction is the great hall, which is a stunning display of medieval architecture. You can enjoy excellent coffee and pastries in this charming location at walk-in coffee shop Cafe Verdi.

5. Petersfield Museum, Rushmoor

Our final stop is the Petersfield Museum, located in the pretty market town of Petersfield. At first glance, the museum looks small, but it houses an impressive collection of artefacts that showcase the town's history. Visitors will learn about the town's literary and artistic heritage and how it was impacted by the industrial revolution. The focal point of the museum is the lavishly decorated Victorian parlour, where visitors can imagine themselves in the 19th century. Before leaving Petersfield, why not stop by Chocolate Craft, where you can buy exquisite handmade chocolates.

Conclusion

So there you have it, five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chavey Down to Rushmoor. You might have previously bypassed these locations, but now you know that they are brimming with hidden gems that are worth exploring. Take the time to visit these sites, taste the wonderful food on offer, and gain insight into the local histories. Don't miss out on discovering these exciting and captivating destinations.