If you want to go for your daily exercise in beautiful scenery in Basingstoke, or enjoy some of North Hampshire's history, then you are well and truly spoilt.

Whether it be The Vyne, War Memorial Park or Basingstoke Canal, the area has plenty of places for you to enjoy the outdoors.

But there is one special place in Basingstoke that we certainly hadn't heard of before.

Nestled in the Down Grange Sports Complex, next to the hockey and rugby pitches and not far from the athletics track, is the Walled Garden.

The council-owned space, hidden behind large ornate front gates just off a car park, boasts a tranquil walking spot in the heart of the town.

Open normally from 9am to sunset, the gardens can, during non-Covid lockdown times, be hired out for private events such as weddings.

But the space if far from just a pretty walk, boasting an impressive history too.

The Walled Garden is a described on the council's website as a "delightful secret garden dating back to the 1800’s, when it once served as a kitchen garden to Down Grange House".

"Today it operates as a public garden and wildlife area," it continues. "The garden is an idyllic location for wedding receptions and private functions and hosts a series of popular family events throughout the year."

The garden is an enclosed area of approximately 2 acres, with a wildlife pond and dipping platform, a Bothy building, show allotments, beehives and colourful herbaceous borders.

Original features still remain in 2021, such as the formal yew hedges and gothic gate.

There is also a level grassy area large enough for a marquee, whilst the Bothy includes toilets and kitchenette area, which is available to book for events.

And there's good news for dog owners too, as dogs on leads are allowed in The Walled Garden.