Mother’s Day is about celebrating Moments That Matter with all kinds of mums, mother figures, or people who are important to us. Whether it’s a shared experience, a gift opened from afar, or a bottle of wine enjoyed over fond memories, it’s all about spending quality time together. Experiences are often our favourite gifts to give, so we’ve put together a guide to some of our top recommendations for this year.
Candle-making classes are one of our favourite things to do; they offer a completely different experience from the usual afternoon teas or Mother’s Day brunches. Not only do they allow you to create a beautifully scented keepsake from your time together, but they also provide an opportunity to learn how different essential oils and scents combine to create the aromas you love. If you’re local, why not try a class with Hampshire Wick or The Stores?
A Wine Tour & Tasting is, of course, something we’re biased toward here at Hambledon. However, we genuinely believe it’s one of the best ways to escape to the English countryside and enjoy an extraordinary experience with a loved one. Discover how wine is made—from grape to glass—as you explore vineyards nestled in rolling English hills and learn about the artistry behind crafting the finest sparkling wines. And, of course, finish with a tasting of the final product—the perfect way to end your experience.
Take some me-time with a Wellness Day. This could be as simple as taking a couple of hours to enjoy a relaxing yoga class, bringing a sense of calm to your regular routine. Or, why not go all out and book a luxurious spa day to truly pamper your loved one? Enjoy a peaceful escape and indulge in a well-deserved day of self-care.
Cheese and wine tastings are a classic for a reason! This quintessential pairing comes together in a deliciously educational experience, where you’ll sample a variety of wines and cheeses from around the world. Dive deeper into the art of pairing as you learn about acidity, fat, tannins, texture, sweetness, and how to balance these elements to create harmonious flavor combinations. It’s the perfect opportunity to expand your cheese and wine knowledge in a relaxed, enjoyable setting.
Spending time outdoors together can be a wonderful way to celebrate. A Botanical Garden Visit is a relaxed yet engaging experience, perfect for discovering both local and international flora and fauna. Across the UK, botanical gardens offer a beautifully accessible day out for all fitness levels—especially for the gardening enthusiasts in your life. In our local area, we have a range of choice including the Harold Hillier Gardens and Exbury Gardens.
For those seeking a more high-tempo experience, explore one of the many breathtaking hikes the UK has to offer. In our area alone, the South Downs National Park provides stunning routes, with local beauty spots such as Old Winchester Hill and Butser Hill just a stone’s throw away. The best part? It’s a completely customizable experience—whether you're a mountain climber or a leisurely rambler.
For the wine connoisseur in your life, a WSET Level One Course is an incredible way to spend the day fully immersed in the world of wine. Explore the main types and styles of wine—including common grape varieties and their characteristics—through sight, smell, and taste. You’ll also gain fundamental skills to accurately describe wines and create perfect food and wine pairings. When taking the course at Hambledon Wine Estate, you’ll also enjoy a two-course lunch in The Restaurant—what’s not to love?!
Whether you decide to go all out this year or keep the celebrations low-key, the most important thing is taking the time to say thank you for everything they’ve done over the years.
