Around The Area
From world-famous gin distilleries and Downton Abbey castles to championship golf courses and peaceful countryside trails — discover the best of Hampshire right on our doorstep.
The Perfect Countryside Haven for Hampshire Explorers
Located in the picturesque village of Dummer just half a mile from Junction 7 of the M3, The Sun Inn has served as a welcoming Hampshire coaching inn and gathering point for over two centuries. Whether you’re heading south towards Southampton and the New Forest or planning a weekend day out with the family, our doorstep is surrounded by rich English heritage, iconic landmarks, and idyllic countryside walks.
Below, we’ve handpicked our team's favorite local destinations, complete with drive times, postcodes, and our recommendations on how to pair your day out with an unforgettable meal at The Sun Inn.
Must-Visit Local Attractions
All situated within 1 to 20 minutes from our pub doors.
Bombay Sapphire Distillery
World-Class Gin Craftsmanship at Laverstoke Mill
Set within a conservation area in the heart of rural Hampshire, Laverstoke Mill combines 1,000 years of history with state-of-the-art cocktail alchemy. Marvel at the stunning botanical glasshouses designed by Thomas Heatherwick, explore the River Test heritage, and take part in interactive cocktail masterclasses.
Stop by The Sun Inn afterwards for our Hampshire-sourced dinner mains and a refreshing gin & tonic by our roaring log fireplace.
Highclere Castle & Gardens
The Real-Life Filming Location of Downton Abbey
Highclere Castle is one of England’s most celebrated Victorian country castles, famous worldwide as the real-life setting for Downton Abbey. Stroll through 5,000 acres of Capability Brown landscaped parkland, explore the 5th Earl of Carnarvon's Egyptian antiquities exhibition, and view breathtaking historic staterooms.
Combine your royal castle morning with our traditional 3-course Sunday Roast at The Sun Inn, complete with towering Yorkshire puddings.
Milestones Living History Museum
Victorian Cobbled Streets & Nostalgic Hampshire Past
Step back in time at Hampshire’s premier museum of living history. Walk through vintage cobbled streets, hop aboard historic steam trains and buses, weigh traditional confectionery at the authentic 1930s sweet shop, and immerse the whole family in interactive retro exhibits.
A favorite for families! Join us afterwards for our popular Free Kids Meals offer or a fireside gastropub lunch just 5 minutes down the road.
Dummer Golf Club & Country Trails
Championship 18-Hole Fairways & Rolling Downland Walks
Nestled right beside The Sun Inn in the rolling chalk downland of Dummer, this picturesque 18-hole parkland course offers a welcoming experience for golfers of all abilities. The surrounding countryside paths connect to the historic Wayfarer's Walk, perfect for dog walkers and weekend ramblers.
The 19th hole! The Sun Inn is literally next door — the quintessential spot for a cold pint of cask-conditioned ale and a classic pub burger.
Jane Austen’s House Museum
The Inspiring Country Cottage of England’s Greatest Novelist
Located in the idyllic nearby village of Chawton, this 17th-century house is where Jane Austen lived, wrote, and revised her timeless masterpieces: Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, and Emma. See the walnut writing desk, treasured family letters, and peaceful English cottage gardens.
Indulge in our artisanal coffees, warm puddings, and seasonal cakes after soaking in Hampshire's rich literary history.
The Vyne (National Trust)
500 Years of Tudor Grandeur & Peaceful Lakeside Grounds
Originally built for Lord Sandys, King Henry VIII’s Lord Chamberlain, The Vyne hosted royalty including Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. Marvel at Renaissance stained glass, exquisite tapestries, ancient walled gardens, and peaceful wetlands teeming with birdlife.
Relax after your National Trust walk with our freshly prepared lunch specials and fine wines in our beer garden or cozy hearth.
Suggested Hampshire Itineraries
The Heritage & Roast Sunday
Morning: Highclere Castle ➔ 1:30 PM: 3-Course Sunday Roast at The Sun Inn ➔ Afternoon: Dummer Downland Stroll
The Gin Craft & Gastropub Tour
Midday: Bombay Sapphire Distillery Tour ➔ 3:30 PM: Fireside real cask ales & chef specials at The Sun Inn
The Family Adventure Day
Morning: Milestones Living History Museum ➔ 12:30 PM: Family Beer Garden Lunch & Kids Play Park at The Sun Inn
Getting to The Sun Inn
Conveniently located directly along Winchester Road (A30) in Dummer, Basingstoke RG25 2DJ — less than 2 minutes from Junction 7 of the M3 motorway. Ample free on-site guest parking available.