We wanted a getaway that felt different. My eldest daughter had been pretty persistent about going camping for her 7th birthday. But to please the adults too we wanted something cosy, simple, and surrounded by nature. After much AirBnB searching (I booked this fairly late into summer), we got lucky and found availability and what looked like the perfect compromise.
Our stay at the Shepherd’s Hut at Hilltop Farm in Romsey delivered exactly that. Nestled in woodland and fields, this little hideaway became the perfect backdrop for slowing down and reconnecting as a family.
First Impressions: A Woodland Hideaway
Arriving down a winding country lane, we were greeted by the kind of scenery that makes you instantly relax. Trees, fresh air, and even a friendly Shetland pony called Hector nearby – he was a hit with our girls! The hut sits on a peaceful 10-acre property, and from the moment we stepped out of the car, we felt tucked away from the busy world, which admittedly, felt really surreal at first, coupled by the fact the phone signal was a little hit and miss.
Rustic Comforts in the Shepherd’s Hut
Inside, the hut felt like a blend of rustic simplicity and thoughtful touches. With two double bedrooms and a luxurious bathroom setup, it was snug but perfect for our family of four. We decided to divide and conquer, and take one child to one adult for bedtime and the let the dog decide who he felt safest with! The highlight? The separate bath hut with a roll-top tub—a whimsical twist that turned bath time into an adventure.
The little kitchenette gave us just what we needed to prepare simple family meals, which we were enjoyed outside, often around the campfire, listening to the sounds of nature or K-pop demon hunters soundtrack (IYKYK). Evenings were all about bundling under blankets, telling stories, and enjoying the lantern glow – it was a little slice of magic.
Play, Explore, Repeat
The property itself was a playground – woodland swings, a fairy garden for little imaginations, and plenty of room to roam. When we wanted to venture further, the New Forest National Park was just a short drive away, offering forest walks, berry picking and endless family adventures. This might just be our favourite adventure yet!
Evenings by the Firepit
One of our favourite rituals quickly became gathering around the fire pit: roasting s’mores and gazing up at the stars sparkling above—it was simple, but those are the moments that stay with us.
Our stay at Hilltop Farm Shepherd’s Hut reminded us of the joy of slowing down. With no constant Wi-Fi or distractions, we spent our days exploring, laughing, and making memories we’ll treasure forever – check out my reel to see what I mean.
It was an unforgettable stay – not just for the cosy retreat, but for the extraordinary timing: the birth of our host’s newest grandchild on the very day we arrived! Moments like these remind us why I love what I do – bringing people together through photography. So I’ll most certainly be back, and maybe to photograph their newest addition.
Let me help you capture the magic of your own family adventures, creating memories you’ll treasure forever.
