The Three Cups Inn, Stockbridge

The Three Cups Inn sits right in the middle of Stockbridge, one of Hampshire’s most beautiful and historic little towns, in the heart of the Test Valley.

We are an independent free house that has been in the same family since 1978, which probably explains a lot about the feel of the place. A 600-year-old inn that has had plenty of time to become properly itself.

The River Test runs through the village and, rather wonderfully, through our garden too. People come here for the chalk stream fishing, the countryside, the wildlife and that slightly slower pace of life.

Inside, The Cups is exactly what people hope an old inn will be. Low beams, wooden floors, oak tables with a bit of history behind them, fresh flowers and open fires when the weather turns cold. Somewhere you can settle into properly rather than just pass through. The Orangery looks straight onto the garden and fills with light during the day.

Upstairs, our eleven lovely ensuite bedrooms are all individually styled. Nothing identical, nothing corporate. Just comfortable rooms with proper beds, good showers, fresh coffee and the things you actually want when staying somewhere. Breakfast is cooked fresh every morning, as it should be.

In the kitchen, we focus on classic British pub food done properly. No fuss, just good ingredients and dishes people genuinely enjoy eating. Front of house is relaxed and welcoming, so people can take their time and enjoy themselves.

There are plenty of different corners to settle into. Cosy snug-like rooms, candlelit dining rooms in the evening or the Orangery if you want to feel closer to the garden.

Outside is where many people end up staying longer than they planned. The terrace runs alongside the river, with a south-facing garden that catches the sun beautifully. One drink quite often turns into a whole afternoon here.

Come and see us. You are very welcome!