Test Valley Secrets
The COVID pandemic has been a difficult time for everyone. Our bespoke Test Valley Secrets programme enables teams to spend time together away from the work environment to rebuild team morale, resilience, and wellbeing. We understand that group activities have been limited for many months and therefore alongside the workshop element of this programme we include the opportunity to unwind and celebrate success together.
The River Test is a chalk stream designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest that arises at Ashe near Basingstoke in north Hampshire, flowing south for 40 miles towards Southampton. Near the upper reaches of this tranquil waterway lies the pretty town of Whitchurch where your programme begins.
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We gather at 0900 in the car park of the Gill Nethercott Centre, next to the historic Whitchurch Silk Mill. Here toilet facilities will be available and you will meet your facilitators for the day.
Relax
Unwind
Reflect
From the Gill Nethercott Centre we walk 2 miles upstream along the flat river bank path to the quaint village of Freefolk where we stop off at the redundant St Nicholas' Church for our wellbeing workshop.
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Here your facilitators will sensitively explore team dynamics and resilience, including the opportunity to discuss emotional issues in a safe and respectful environment. Wellbeing will be the focus, with everyone having the opportunity to speak openly or confidentially if needed.
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Refreshments will be provided by local coffee experts from Kudos coffee shop based in Whitchurch and Stockbridge.
From Freefolk we continue on foot a further half mile to the world-renowned Bombay Sapphire Distillery. Here we take the guided Discovery Experience tour to learn more about the history of the famous gin, Laverstoke Mill and the influential Portal family.
This part of the day is focused on enjoying yourselves as a team, celebrating all the hard work and challenge that you have overcome together.
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Food is also available in the Mill Bar: this is not included in your programme price.
The tour includes entry to the Botanical Dry Room where you can identify your perfect flavour combination to enjoy later in a complimentary drink in the Mill Bar.
Non-alcoholic drink options are available - remember you will have to drive home later!
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After the efforts of the day you will be transported back to your cars at the Gill Nethercott Centre where we say goodbye at 1630.