Christmas the Hampshire Way
Choose to buy your festive feast locally this Christmas and reap the rewards. Buying from Hampshire’s independent shops will not only mean you avoid depressing supermarket queues but it will also bring a sense of community spirit to your preparations. And then there’s the unbeatable flavour of lovingly grown, made and reared local food and drink.
For the traditionalists in search of a quality Hampshire turkey, try Ashford Farm near Petersfield, Fernworth Farm near Newbury, Bushfield Farm near Winchester or Cobley Wood near Ringwood where thousands of turkeys have been reared responsibly with plenty of fresh air and views of the idyllic Hampshire countryside.
For those on the hunt for a meaty alternative to turkey visit your local butchers shop where they will have plenty of advice and suggestions, Trout from the beautiful clear waters of the River Test and Itchen makes a delicious change from meat. Order hot or cold smoked trout online from Chalk Stream Foods based near Romsey.
Fresh seasonal vegetables taste better the less miles they have travelled. Pick them up from a local farm shop such as Newlyns, Sunnyfields, The Good Life, Wellington Farm Shop or Stansted Farm Shop. Hampshire Farmers’ Markets run right up until Christmas with a wide range of produce perfect for Christmas. Another option is to arrange for a veg box delivery from a company such as Boxxfresh, Bitterne Box Co or Riverford.
Adorn the table with a selection of tempting locally made condiments. The Hampshire Jam and Chutney Company has a delicious Redcurrant Jelly and for with those leftovers try Charlotte Brown’s award-winning piccalilli.
Blackberry Cottage produces beautifully presented Christmas puddings, a perfect gift for the host if you are being treated to your festive feast. Order online for delivery. Local company Caymanas Rum Cake, make a treaty golden and chocolate rum sponges which are a delicious alternative.
Round off your Christmas indulgence with award-winning cheese from Lyburn, Beau Farm, Hampshire Cheese, Briddlesford Farm and Two Hoots. For the sweet-toothed try a box of chocolates from Winchester Cocoa, Thorpe Confectionary, Chocolate by Miss Witt, Chocolate Craft or New Forest Chocolates.