Ower

Ower is a small hamlet in Hampshire's New Forest district, tucked where the A36 crosses the M27 a few miles northwest of Totton and southwest of Romsey. It is split between two civil parishes, Copythorne and Netley Marsh, and has none of the bustle of its larger neighbours — just ribbon development along the main road, mature hedgerows, a scattering of Grade II listed buildings, and open farmland running down towards the forest edge.

What Ower lacks in size it makes up for in location. It sits within easy striking distance of the New Forest National Park to the south and west, the market town of Romsey to the north, and Southampton to the east, making it a handy, low-key base for exploring this corner of Hampshire without paying city prices.

Top things to do near Ower

• Paultons Park — home to Peppa Pig World, this is Ower's best-known landmark and one of the region's biggest family attractions, with rides, animals and themed lands right on the hamlet's doorstep.
• New Forest National Park — ancient woodland, open heath and free-roaming ponies begin just a short drive south, with walking and cycling routes for all abilities.
• Romsey — a handsome market town a few miles north, built around the Norman splendour of Romsey Abbey, with independent shops and cafes around the market place.
• Southampton — the city's waterfront, SeaCity Museum and shopping at WestQuay are within easy reach to the east.
• Ower Golf Course — a local course for a round without travelling far from base.

Getting to Ower

Ower sits directly on the A36 Southampton to Salisbury road, right by a junction with the M27, so it is straightforward to reach by car from across the south coast and beyond. Southampton Airport and Southampton Central station, both with regular rail links to London and the rest of the country, are a short drive away, and Romsey station is also nearby for local connections.

Best time to visit Ower

Spring and summer are busiest, largely thanks to Paultons Park's opening season, and bring the best weather for exploring the New Forest on foot or by bike. Autumn is quieter and scenic as the forest colours turn, while winter suits those after a peaceful countryside break rather than theme park crowds.

Where to stay near Ower

Ower itself is tiny, so most visitors base themselves in or around Romsey, Totton or the New Forest villages nearby, or opt for a campsite or holiday park close to Paultons Park. Options range from countryside B&Bs to family-friendly holiday parks geared up for theme park visitors.

Food and drink near Ower

The hamlet has long been known for its pubs, including the Mortimer Arms, a local landmark on the A36. Beyond that, Romsey offers a good spread of cafes, restaurants and traditional pubs, and Southampton adds a wider choice of dining for those happy to travel a little further.