Summer Food at Meon Springs: Taste the Best of the South Downs During Your Glamping Stay

There's something special about eating outdoors on a warm summer evening. Whether it's breakfast overlooking the meadow, a leisurely picnic by the river, or firing up the barbecue as the sun sets, food always tastes better when you're surrounded by nature.

When you stay in our luxury self-catering glamping accommodation at Meon Springs, you're perfectly placed to enjoy some of the finest local produce that Hampshire and the South Downs have to offer. From award-winning local butchers to fresh seasonal vegetables, artisan cheeses and locally brewed drinks, your holiday can be as much about discovering incredible food as it is about relaxing in the countryside.

Waiting for the BBQ to fire up

Shop Local and Eat Well

One of the joys of self-catering is creating your own meals using fresh, local ingredients. The South Downs National Park is home to an abundance of independent producers who take pride in supplying high-quality, locally sourced food.

Planning the perfect summer barbecue? You're spoiled for choice when it comes to sourcing exceptional meat.

Smiths of West Meon

Just a short drive from Meon Springs, Smiths of West Meon has built an excellent reputation for supplying high-quality locally sourced meat. Whether you're looking for handmade burgers, premium steaks, sausages or marinated chicken, you'll find everything you need for a memorable BBQ.

McInnes Meats at Wood Farm, Bramdean

Only around 10 minutes from Meon Springs, McInnes Meats at Wood Farm in Bramdean offers fantastic locally produced meats, perfect for outdoor cooking. Their range includes traditional cuts, barbecue favourites and locally reared produce, making it easy to support local farmers while enjoying outstanding quality. There is also The Wood Shed Farm Shop there too with a wide selection of local produce.

Can you hear the sizzle?

Discover the Flavours of the South Downs

The South Downs is renowned for its rich farming heritage and exceptional local produce. During your stay, why not build an entire meal using ingredients sourced from nearby businesses?

You could enjoy:

• Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables grown across Hampshire.

• Award-winning artisan cheeses from local dairies.

• Free-range eggs from nearby farms.

• Freshly baked bread from independent village bakeries.

• Local honey produced from South Downs wildflowers.

• Hampshire-made chutneys, preserves and pickles.

• Locally brewed ales, ciders and sparkling wines produced in the South Downs wine region.

The Perfect BBQ at Meon Springs

Our self-catering glamping accommodation offers the ideal setting for relaxed outdoor dining. Imagine spending the day exploring the South Downs before returning to your accommodation, preparing a delicious barbecue and unwinding under a star-filled sky.

Whether you're staying as a couple, with friends or enjoying a family getaway, cooking together outdoors is all part of the experience.

BBQ Safety During the Summer

Long, dry spells can increase the risk of accidental fires, so it's important to barbecue safely while enjoying the outdoors.

A few simple tips can help keep everyone safe:

• Position your barbecue well away from dry grass, hedges and trees.

• Never leave a lit barbecue unattended.

• Keep children and pets a safe distance away while cooking.

• Have water or a bucket of sand nearby in case of emergencies.

• Allow the barbecue to cool completely before disposing of ashes.

• Never dispose of hot coals onto grass or into bins.

• Always follow any local fire safety guidance, particularly during periods of hot, dry weather.

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By taking a little extra care, everyone can continue to enjoy Hampshire's beautiful countryside throughout the summer.