Over the weekend we stayed in Ropley, which is a stone’s throw away from the Watercress Line in a safari tent. Part of the Watercress Lodges & Campsite complex, it is a steam trains enthusiast’s dream. Located right next to the heritage railway, in a lovely peaceful rural setting in the Hampshire countryside. Making it ideal for a weekend away or a longer stay. Already big fans of the Watercress Line having visited when the boys were young for a day out with Thomas. As well more recently their Christmas experience – Watercress Line Santa we were excited to stay in one of two luxurious safari tents they have at the Watercress Line campsite.
AD – We were invited to stay at the Watercress lodges & campsite in return for this review. All words and opinions are my own
Where is the Watercress Line Campsite?
Watercress Lodges & Campsite is located at Ropley railway station. Ropley is a small village in rural Hampshire and one of the four stations on the Watercress Line that runs between Alton and Alresford. So-called the Watercress Line because the area is one of the only places where watercress is grown and farmed commercially in the UK. We stumbled across some fields by accident while driving back from New Alresford during our stay. Which the boys thought was quite cool. It sparked numerous conversations about how it grows.
You drive up a single-track road to reach the campsite (Bighton Hill) we found that the postcode easily brought you to the correct location. Although when you arrive make sure you keep an eye out for the accomodation sign as you do not want to park in the main car park. Instead, follow the entrance around and then to the left to access the free private parking for those staying overnight. The Watercress lodges & campsite are placed between rolling hills of wheat which were turning golden when we visited. Making it a very peaceful place to stay. Use postcode SO24 9SQ in sat nav.
Our Safari Tent at Watercress Lodges Ropley
There are two safari tents at Watercress Lodges & Campsite named after two well-known characters from Thomas the Tank Engine. Annie and Clarabel (the carriages). Placed at the far end of the camping area they are in a great location, quiet and secluded. With only those staying in the lodges passing by. The Safari tents measure 4.5m x 4m and have one main living and sleeping area.
As you walk into the tent there is a wood-burning stove to the left. We did not need to use this during our stay since it was really hot (and a little bit thundery). A basket of logs is provided in the price with more avaliable from reception if needed. There is also a very comfortable king-size bed and a sofa bed. Although the sofa bed is on the small side so we also had a camping bed added for Harry. They would have just about squeezed onto the sofa bed together. Although the camp bed worked much better for us since it meant that Harry could come up closer to us. One thing I really like is that bedlinen is provided. To arrive to the bed made is really convenient when travelling with kids. Towels are not included.
There are also several plush blankets and cushions. And electrics much to the boy’s relief since they could charge their devices. Albeit we had such a busy weekend they hardly used them. The lights were useful and the twinkly fairy lights made great night lights for the boys. The safari tent can be locked up with a padlock if needed when you are not there.
Outside area
There is a veranda with a bench and a cooking station. The bench doubled as a dining area which we used for breakfast both mornings. The cooking station has a fridge and gas hob. Inside there is a large unit which has everything you need to cook and prepare meals. We only ate breakfast in the tent since our schedule meant we were out for most of the day. And we chose to eat out in the early evenings, returning to the tent to play cards outside. However, with two hobs and plenty of pans, it would have been easy to make a simple family meal. There is a Tesco Express a couple of miles away which is a reasonable size and perfect to pick up essentials. Also outside you have a fire pit which doubles as a BBQ.
Facilities at the Watercress Line campsite
Staying in a safari tent means that you are located very close to both the shower block and toilet block. Which I was very grateful for when Harry woke in the middle of the night. One of the same there were eight toilets and five showers in the ladies. I also noticed disabled facilities. The toilets are used by people who visit the Watercress Line and Ropley station. However, they were cleaned each evening I found them to be a good standard. The shower facilities are hot and a good size, although not technically family showers there is ample room.
There is also a reception building as you enter the Watercress Line campsite. This was not open during our visit but it looked to sell key items also with soft drinks. Plus right next door are the bins and washing area. Which also included a washing machine. The campsite is dog friendly although I would check on the Watercress Lodges and Safari Tent.
Other types of accomodation
As well as the safari tents there are several other ways you can stay next to the Watercress railway:
Camping at the Watercress Line campsite
The first area you come to as you pull into the car park is designated for camping. A long stretch of grass with a brick-built BBQ and several points for running water. Those camping have access to the same facilities as we did staying in the safari tent. Tent pitches start from £25 per night
Bell Tents
Also known as Tipi Tents. If you do not want to mess about erecting your own tent. Or you want to hire a tent and everything you need including air beds. Then Watercress Lodges and Campsites also have two bell tents available. With prices from £60 per night, you can add in options to make your life even easier such as inflatable air beds.
Holiday Lodges
There are also six unique watercress lodges in Ropley. Each can sleep up to six people, with a fully equipped kitchen and modern appliances. The newly built self-catering accommodation is modelled on railway cottages with plush furnishings. They also have a separate utility room, a spacious master bedroom and their own outdoor seating area. The open plan layout lends itself to intergenerational stays and the free wifi and Freeview TV keeps older kids happy. They also have designated parking. Prices start from £80 with lower cost per night being in low season or for longer stays.
What to do near the Watercress Line campsite
If you are planning a stay at the Watercress Lodges & Campsite then you will be pleased to know there is so much to do in the local area which borders the South Downs National Park and Test Valley. I think you could easily stay for a week and still have plenty of things to do. I have made a note below of some of the things we have done nearby that you may want to add to your plans.
Historic Watercress Line
- How far – on your doorstep
- Address – Ropley Station, Watercress Line, Station Rd, Ropley, Ropley Dean, Alresford SO24 0BL
- Of course, you can not stay at Watercress Lodges & Campsite and not visit the iconic Watercress Line. We spent the whole day travelling up and down the line and enjoying all the things to do at Ropley station itself. We had such a brilliant day. It is like travelling back in time, which in turn seems to make you want to slow down and take it all in.
- Cost – Ropley station itself is free to enter. But if you would like to travel on the steam railway then you can save money by booking in advance via their website. A family of four booked online costs £59.85 or £69 on the day.
- For more Info – see Watercress Line
- Read More – 12 Things to do with kids on the Watercress Line
The Millennium Trail
- How far – Alresford is not far around 5 miles. This is where the trail starts that takes you past Frensham great pond.
- The Millennium Trail links footpaths around the town with illustrated boards that give information on the history of Alresford, its inhabitants, wildlife and countryside setting. The walk is about one mile and is suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs. The Arle Valley Trail branches off the Millennium Trail and then rejoins it about one and a half miles later. It lets you see at closer hand some of the lovely surrounding countryside. Wheelchair access is difficult after the Eel House.
- Cost-free
- You can also consider other local walks such as – Alresford Eel House Walk or Alresford Watercress Trail Circular.
Visit Old Alresford
- How far – 5 miles
- We visited mainly to get food in the evenings. But the picturesque village is definitely worth a wander. With its cute colourful houses. Vintage pubs and little shops. If you are catching the Watercress Line then you can get off at the end of the line. Stop and wander and then return to the campsite. There is also a Lavender barn on the outskirts which is a wonderful place to visit for a coffee and a wander amongst the various varieties which they use in their product.
- Cost-free
- For more Info – see the Visit Hampshire website.
Hinton Ampner
- How far – between 10-12 miles depending the route you take
- Hinton Ampner is an elegant country house situated in the rolling hills of Hampshire. The property is owned and managed by the National Trust with its elegant rooms, picturesque gardens, and fascinating collection of antiques and art. Hinton Ampner is a must-visit for anyone interested in British heritage and culture.
- Cost-free for National Trust members. Prices vary depending on if you want just garden tickets or house tickets as well. House and garden tickets for a family of four costs from £37.50.
- More Info – see Hinton Ampner
Jane Austen’s House Museum
- How far – 6.5 miles
- Jane Austen House Museum is a charming and historic building located in the village of Chawton. It was the home of the famous author Jane Austen, where she spent the last eight years of her life and wrote some of her most beloved novels. Today, the museum is a popular destination for literature enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Austen’s life and work through a collection of personal artefacts, letters, and manuscripts. Visitors can explore the house’s interior, which has been preserved to reflect the Regency era and learn about Austen’s family, friends, and literary influences.
- Cost – A family ticket for 2 adults and up to 3 kids costs £30
- For more Info – see Jane Austen’s House Museum
Winchester
- How far – 8 miles
- Winchester city centre is a vibrant and bustling area with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. One of the most popular attractions is the Winchester Cathedral, where children can explore the medieval architecture and history of the building, and even take part in a family trail. The Winchester City Museum is another great option, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that bring the city’s history to life. For younger children, the Westgate Museum is a fun and interactive museum that tells the story of Winchester’s past through a range of exhibits and displays. The city centre is also home to a variety of parks and green spaces, including the tranquil Abbey Gardens and the sprawling Winnall Moors Nature Reserve.
- Cost – if you use park and ride then parking is from £3.50 for the day. Individual attractions are priced separately\
- For more Info – see Visit Winchester
- Read More – Winchester Christmas Market
Marwell Zoo
- How far – 18 miles
- One of our favourite zoos, it is home to over 140 species of animals from around the world, including giraffes, tigers, penguins, and meerkats. Visitors can explore the zoo’s wide variety of exhibits, which are designed to replicate the natural habitats of the animals and provide an immersive experience. Children will love the daily animal talks and feeds, as well as the opportunity to get up close with some of the smaller animals in the zoo’s petting farm. Harry for one also loves the large adventure playground. In the Summer months, there is also a mini train. We have visited several times and always had a good day out.
- Cost – Adult tickets cost £26 and children’s £22
- More Info – See Marwell Zoo
- Read More – Marwell Zoo a complete guide
Birdworld
- How far – 18 miles
- The park is home to over 2,000 birds from around the world, including parrots, flamingos, penguins, and owls. Throughout the day, children will love the daily bird displays and shows and the opportunity to get up close with some of the smaller birds in the park’s interactive aviaries.
- Cost – Adult tickets cost £18.95 and children’s £14.95
- For more Info – see Birdworld
- Read More – Our visit to Birdworld
Alice Holt Forest
- How far – 16 miles
- Close to the market town of Farnham. One of the most popular attractions is the Alice Holt Forest, where children can explore the woodland trails, play in the adventure playgrounds, and even try their hand at orienteering. Another great option is the Go Ape treetop adventure course, which offers a range of high ropes challenges and zip lines for kids and adults alike. The park is also home to a variety of picnic areas and cafes, making it the perfect spot for a family day out. There is normally a Julia Donaldson-style trail for younger kids which has always been on
- Cost – Parking costs £12 for a whole day
- For more Info – see Alice Holt
- Read More – The Gruffalo Trail Alice Holt
Hawk Conservancy Trust
- How far – 30 miles
- The trust is dedicated to the conservation of birds of prey and their habitats and offers a range of educational programs and experiences for visitors of all ages. The trust is home to over 150 birds of prey from around the world, including eagles, hawks, and owls, and visitors can watch daily flying displays and demonstrations showcasing the incredible skills of these magnificent birds. The trust also offers a range of hands-on experiences, including the chance to handle and fly some of the birds, making it an unforgettable experience for bird lovers of all ages. We visited during our stay at the Watercress Lodges & Campsite and had a brilliant day out. See the blog post below for more information.
- Cost – Adult tickets cost £18.50 and children’s £14.25
- More Info – See the Hawk Conservancy Trust website
- Read More – Complete Guide to the Hawk Conservancy Trust
Watercress Lodges & Campsite – Conclusions
We had a great time staying so close to the railway. The boys love steam trains which really helps and so got very excited. But there is so much to do in the local area you could easily make a longer break. We are considering returning to try out the self-catering lodges for an inter-generational stay with some other fans of steam engines. If we do I will update this post with more information.
Have you visited the Watercress Line campsite? Or stayed next to s steam railway? Let me know how you got on – I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.
Alternatively, if you have any questions about our visit that I have not covered then please do let me know in the comments below and I will do my best to answer them.
If you’ve liked this post please follow me on my social media channels:
Mudpie Fridays: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest |LinkedIn
PIN for later – Watercress Lodges Campsite Ropley
