The urban guide to the countryside -
Little Black Book
Party
Kings Arms, Christchurch
Muddy says: This beautiful Georgian manor makes the perfect pied-à-terre to discover the delights of Christchurch and even has its very own award-winning restaurant.
Mad Hatter’s Gin Rummy
Muddy says: Introducing the most brilliantly bonkers spirit we've ever had the chance to quaff, we LOVE Mad Hatter's Gin Rummy.
Gin Tin Bar
Muddy says: This isn't just any old tin van... this is an old tin van with added GIN! Woohoo!
Solent Forts
Muddy says: Ahoy there! Set sail out to sea for possibly the most unusual hotels in the UK... if not the world!
Owl & the Pussycat
Muddy says: Woven into the heart of the pretty town of Stockbridge, The Owl & The Pussycat is a one-stop shop for beautiful gifts for kids and adults alike.
New Place Hotel
Muddy says: Situated in a leafy part of the south coast, this Grade I listed hotel comes complete with a croquet lawn, family rooms eisure facilities and 32 acres of woodland to explore.
ChalkStream™ Trout
Muddy says: Sustainably produced and from the purest of Hampshire waters, ChalkStream™ Trout is a fillet above the rest.
Thorpe Confectionery
Muddy says: Put down that boring old bar of choc and eat some of the fabulous hand-crafted chocolate and confectionery from Alton based Thorpe Confectionery. And, no, you don't have to share.
Little Kitchen Company
Muddy says: Big party or intimate picnic, Muddy award winner The Little Kitchen Company will create delicious food for ANY occasion.
GatesBakes
Muddy says: Super-talented cake creator GatesBakes can turn your dreams into decadent, tasty cakes whatever the occasion.
Hotel Du Vin, Winchester
Muddy says: With its gorgeous Bistro and opulent rooms, the original Hotel Du Vin in Winchester, ticks all the boxes for understated luxe.
Twilight Trees
Muddy says: Fancy bringing the great outdoors indoors? Twilight Trees specialise in amazing faux trees to take your event or home decor up several branches.
Penton Park
Muddy says: An award-winning wedding venue tucked away in the Test Valley, Penton Park is a grand, yet homely, spot where you can say 'I do'.
W. J. French & Son
Muddy says: With over 200 years of shoe knowledge under its laces W.J. French & Son of Southampton know a thing or ten about the perfect pump.
Pylewell Park, Lymington
Muddy says: If you haven't got your very own stately home to hand, then why not borrow this one? Pylewell Park is a gorgeous New Forest location for weddings, parties and functions.
soho, Christchurch
Muddy says: Taking you from day to night, one of the hippest spots in Christchurch serves up a gorgeous breakfast, gourmet pizzas and will keep you dancing till the small hours.
Jewellery Moves
Muddy says: Gather your dearest girls, be they friends or family, to make professional pieces that will tell their story for years, nay generations to come. Your teacher, the Royal College of Art trained Fiona Dowling, is a calm and deeply knowledgeable guide to the art of jewellery making.
The Myers Touch
Muddy says: Is it a kitchen designer? A supperclub? A super cool event space? Yes, yes, yes - The Myers Touch is so much more than a kitchen designer.
The Enchanted Manor, Niton
Muddy says: This historic B&B has won fame for its super romantic vibes and excellent location.
Sian Storey Art
Muddy says: Bringing a rainbow of colour to the natural world, talented artist Sian Storey captures creatures and flowers in her beautiful vivid paintings.
Chewton Glen Hotel, The New Forest
Muddy says: We love this super-luxe yet family-friendly hotel where tradition meets 21st century edge — a hard balance to maintain, but this New Forest institution manages it with aplomb.
Boho Betty
Muddy says: Boho Betty is an Andover based jeweller that designs fashion-forward bracelets, necklaces and accesories for all tastes and budgets.
Knackered Mother’s Wine Club
Muddy says: Life's too short for bad wine and author, journalist and wine expert Helen McGinn of the Knackered Mother's Wine Club is here to make sure you drink well.
Thyme
Muddy says: Rhona Everard is the saviour for many a weekend dinner party and mid-week freezer. Think uber-scrumptious home cooked meals with zero hassle — and yes, that does mean no washing-up.
Hampshire Pop Up Studios
Muddy says: Featuring the absolute best of Hampshire's crafters and creators, the Hampshire Pop Up Studio events are a must visit.
The Point, Eastleigh
Muddy says: Bringing a bit of that showbiz sparkle to Eastleigh, The Point opens its doors on a regular basis to amazing theatre shows, dance performances and other cultural pursuits.
Bombay Sapphire Distillery
Muddy Says: Home to one of the most famous gins in the world. Not only do they make the legendary drink here, but you can take a fascinating tour and even hire it out as a venue. Cheers!
Greedo, Lymington
Muddy says: This hip little eatery in Lymington brings a bit of that London-metropolitan vibe (and rather fantastic food) to the Hampshire countryside.
KookyTwo Jewellery
Muddy Says: Fashionable, understated and ideal for any occasion, the team behind KookyTwo jewellery have their fingers firmly on the style pulse and at a brilliant price point.
Michael Turner Studios
Muddy says: This New Forest-based sculptor has made a name for himself creating incredible pieces of nature-inspired art that are popular the world over.
Kempton Branson
Muddy says: Turning shopping into a truly social occasion, Kempton Branson are a pop-up boutique bringing fresh and fabulous fashion direct to you and your gal pals.
Lime Wood Hotel, Lyndhurst
Muddy says: The perfect forest escape that oozes with laid-back luxury, not to mention a kitchen complete with celebrity chefs.
Berry Bros & Rudd Wine, Basingstoke
Muddy says: Our award-winning wine merchant is a grape-lover's dream; all Champagne, fine wines, spirits and the very best, phew-the-kids-are-in-bed, easy-drinking bottles.
Hattingley Valley Wines
Muddy says: Park that prosecco, we're English Sparkling Wine girls all the way. Curious? Hattingley Valley produces some of the world's finest fizz... from grapes grown on Hampshire chalk. #proud
