THE Test Valley will host a large number of events for the coming festive season, it has been announced.

A wide range of activities will be put on, including arts and crafts workshops at Romsey’s Forest and Cove gallery and Sir Harold Hillier Gardens from late October to early December, music and performances at Romsey's Plaza Theatre, and the opportunity to buy locally-made produce such trout, cheeses and chutneys, and sparkling wines.

On sale are more relaxed getaways, such as Fishing Breaks vouchers and their limited number of cottages in the valley, as well as high-energy experiences, such as the opportunity to race around the Thruxton circuit.

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In addition, the Army Flying Museum at Middle Wallop will be hosting two fairs in late November - the annual Christmas Fair on November 25, and the Aircraft Enthusiasts Fair and Model Show the following day. The Cholderton Rare Breeds Farm will also host an event, a festive murder mystery night on December 9, with overnight stays and breakfasts available.

The rural setting will also be home to a number of animal events, such as at the Hawk Conservancy Trust, where you will be able to spend an evening with Owls on December 2 and 9, as well as at Finkley Down Farm Park’s ‘Christmas at Finkley’, where visitors can make ‘Magical Reindeer Food’ and meet Father Christmas across December.

A number of accommodation sites with dining experiences are also available this Christmas, such as at the White Horse Hotel and Potters Heron Hotel in the Romsey area, as well as the historic Grosvenor Hotel, Greyhound on the Test in Stockbridge and The Peat Spade Inn in Longstock. 

These sites can offer meals on a number of dates, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day, though there are limited spaces and some hotels, like the Greyhound on the Test, do not open between December 24 and 26. 

Therefore, to ensure your space on a number of these events and stays, it is best to check when there is availability and book as soon as possible.

For more information on tourism in the Test Valley, visit: testvalley.gov.uk/communityandleisure/tourism.