LEISURE time across the board seems to have one thing in common - it costs money.

The cost-of-living crisis is forcing people to save every penny they can. But that doesn’t mean that residents of Andover can’t get out of the house and enjoy their free time, without needing to spend a fortune.

There's a wealth of things to do in Andover, so we’ve compiled a list of free or low-cost activities and events in the local area to keep everyone entertained.

Anton Lakes Local Nature Reserve

Designated a local nature reserve in 1996 Anton Lakes is situated just north of Andover town centre.

The reserve is made up of a range of habitats following its use for gravel extraction.

The River Anton rises from springs within the reserve, flowing down through a series of old watercress beds, providing a habitat for the locally rare long-stalked yellow sedge. The river then flows into the lakes, which are themselves home to a variety of birds.

Other habitats include an area of chalk grassland, and an area of wet fen meadows host an impressive colony of southern marsh orchids.

The lakes make for a beautiful walk, and with lots of interesting nature around, there’s something for everyone.

The Museum of the Iron Age

Andover Advertiser: Andover museum

Situated across two floors, the Museum of the Iron Age tells the story of the Danebury hillfort which lies to the south west of Andover.

Using real artefacts alongside reconstructions based on discoveries made during the excavations, the museum explores life in the hillfort, including defence, home life, farming and religious beliefs.

By attending you could visit the replica roundhouse and handle real Iron Age artefacts, learn about Roman life and explore the Danbury hillfort. From here you could visit the roundhouse, or get a snack and something to drink in the cafe!

Rooksbury Mill

Andover Advertiser: Rooksbury Mill lake [Credit: Julia JF in Andover Advertiser Camera Club]Rooksbury Mill lake [Credit: Julia JF in Andover Advertiser Camera Club]

Rooksbury Mill is situated just off the A303 and south of Andover town centre and adjacent to Watermills Park.

The two lakes which are fed by the River Anton were created soon after the Second World War through gravel extraction.

The mill itself straddles the main channel of the River Anton with smaller streams constructed to drain the floodplain.

The area is beautiful this time of year, and can break up a day nicely with a leisurely walk.

Dogs are welcome, and children will enjoy the vast wildlife and nature surrounding the lakes.

Finkley Down Farm

Andover Advertiser:

Finkley Down Farm was one of the first-ever farm parks in the country to open its door to the public over 40 years ago.

Fast forward, and the farm is now open all year round, with a massive indoor play barn with different areas for different age ranges.

There’s lots of outdoor play as well, including the Little Farmers Driving School. Throughout the day there are animal handling and feeding activities for children to get involved in, with a ‘Meerkat Mansion’ addition being the newest feature on offer.

The farm also runs a fantastic restaurant area, with plenty of food and drink on offer.