Thursday September 17th 2026
Bombay Sapphire Distillery and Whitchurch Silk Mill
Our Autumn Joint Outing with Godalming Probuse was to the Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery and Whitchurch Silk Mill on Thursday September 17th 2026 travelling by coach from Milford
Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery
We visited the Bombay Sapphire gin at their historic distillery, nestled in the heart of the Hampshire countryside. We had a fully guided tour of the distillery where we learnt how they make their world-famous gin and the processes they use to make it so unique such as where their 10 botanicals come from. We enjoyed a complimentary Gin & Tonic cocktail during this experience.
Whitchurch Silk Mill
We went on to visit Britain’s oldest working silk mill, where traditional looms still weave silk today. We enjoyed a guided tour of this unique Georgian mill beside the beautiful River Test and learnt about nearly 200 years of textile heritage. Sadly, because of the very hot summer had affected the water wheel which provided power, none of the machines were in action but we learnt a lot about how they were used to weave silk.
Thursday October 9th 2025
Winchester
Our 2025 Autumn joint outing with Godalming Probus, was to Winchester.
Winchester is known for its rich history and cultural significance, particularly as England's former capital and the seat of King Alfred the Great. It is famous for its stunning architecture, including the medieval cathedral, with its 17th-century Morley Library, the Winchester Bible and a Norman crypt as well as the Great Hall (home to King Arthur's Round Table), and Winchester College (where Harry Potter was filmed).
In addition, Winchester is home to five engaging military museums situated in the historic site of Peninsula Barracks, and a sixth Museum located just outside the city. Each museum offers a unique experience and has its own story to tell. There are fantastic collections of medals, paintings and military objects on display across the whole site.
Alternatively, you can walk the Jane Austin trail through the cobbled streets.
The city also boasts a vibrant atmosphere with a bustling shopping scene and a large selection of good restaurants and food outlets
Thursday July 10th 2025
Loseley House and Garden
In place of the July Lunch, our summer visit to a local attraction was to Losely House and Garden.
Loseley House is a striking Elizabethan manor house set in just under 3 acres. There are various gardens including a walled garden, a rose garden and an extensive herb and organic vegetable garden which are comparable with others considered to be national treasures. In July the roses and hollyhocks should be in full bloom.
The story of Loseley Park begins with the purchase of the Manor of Loseley during the reign of Henry VII. As Sheriff of Surrey and Sussex the purchaser, Sir Christopher More, was a man of considerable influence and power, yet it was his son, Sir William More, also a direct ancestor of the current owner, who first began building work in earnest