My favourite place has to be the wonderful, sleepy village of Micheldever where I am lucky enough to live and work in a beautiful white thatched cottage with my studio in the back garden. Micheldever lies in the Dever Valley between busy Basingstoke and ancient Winchester. It’s on the London Waterloo mainline, but if no one has told you the secrets of Micheldever’s charms you might never think to visit, but truly, it would be your loss.

The friendly and welcoming people make the village a joy to live in or visit. Stand still too long and you’ll have been affectionately roped into changing scenery at the village panto. Or take a walk along Church Street or Northbrook and you could fill your basket for free with fruit and veg glut offerings. Whether you come in summer and visit the vibrant village fete, or in September for the annual Scarecrow Festival, Micheldever’s charms are around every corner.

There’s a fabulous local pub called the Half Moon & Spread Eagle which I love all the more as the nights draw in. The lovely owners Millie and Jon serve some great food and local ales. My advice is to go for the delicious homemade burger, followed by one of their tasty desserts. My favorite currently is the locally made Winter Warmer Ice Cream.

And if you visit during the day and the sun is shining then you must venture along the Coffin Walk for beautiful views over the Dever Valley. Oh and do call in at the village shop to buy a paper and Delia will be sure to share some more local gems with you.

Image courtesy of Neilalderney123 on Flickr