Map Of England Hampshire Travel Guide

Introduction

Located in the south of England, Hampshire is a county known for its picturesque countryside, charming towns, and rich history. Its proximity to London makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With so much to offer, Hampshire is the perfect place to explore and discover new experiences.

Top Attractions

Stonehenge

One of the most famous landmarks in the world, Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument that attracts thousands of visitors every year. Located near Salisbury, it is a must-visit attraction when in Hampshire.

Winchester Cathedral

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. With its rich history and beautiful stained glass windows, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Home to the Royal Navy, the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a fascinating attraction for anyone interested in maritime history. Visitors can explore historic ships, such as the HMS Victory, and learn about life on board a naval vessel.

Hidden Gems

While Hampshire has many popular attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are a few:

The Vyne

A charming Tudor mansion located in Basingstoke, The Vyne is a hidden gem that’s perfect for a day trip. Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and grounds, and learn about the history of the house.

Farley Mount Country Park

A peaceful park located just outside Winchester, Farley Mount Country Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. With its beautiful views and walking trails, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

Food Scene

Hampshire is known for its delicious local produce, including cheese, seafood, and wine. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Hampshire Cheese

From tangy cheddar to creamy brie, Hampshire has a variety of delicious cheeses to try. Be sure to visit a local cheese shop to sample the best the county has to offer.

Seafood

With its coastal location, Hampshire is the perfect place to try fresh seafood. Be sure to try the local catch of the day, whether it’s fish and chips or a seafood platter.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? Hampshire has plenty of affordable options. Here are a few tips:

Visit Free Attractions

Many of Hampshire’s top attractions, such as Winchester Cathedral and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, offer free admission for children under a certain age. Be sure to check before you go.

Eat Local

While Hampshire has plenty of high-end restaurants, there are also plenty of affordable options. Look for local pubs and cafes that offer traditional British fare at reasonable prices.

Outdoor Adventures

Hampshire is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few activities to try:

Hiking

With its rolling hills and beautiful countryside, Hampshire is a great place to go hiking. There are plenty of trails to choose from, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker.

Cycling

The county has a variety of cycling routes, from scenic country lanes to challenging off-road trails. Be sure to bring your bike or rent one locally.

Family-Friendly Activities

Looking for activities the whole family can enjoy? Hampshire has plenty of options. Here are a few:

Marwell Zoo

Located near Winchester, Marwell Zoo is home to a variety of animals, from tigers to penguins. It’s a great day out for families with young children.

Paultons Park

A theme park located in Romsey, Paultons Park is home to Peppa Pig World, a popular attraction for young children.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a bit different, Hampshire has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences. Here are a few:

Spinnaker Tower

A striking landmark in Portsmouth, the Spinnaker Tower offers stunning views of the city and the Solent. For an extra thrill, try the Sky Walk, a glass floor walkway 100 metres above the ground.

The New Forest

A beautiful national park located in Hampshire, the New Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including ponies, deer, and birds. It’s a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride.

Natural Wonders

From stunning beaches to rolling hills, Hampshire has plenty of natural wonders to explore. Here are a few:

The South Downs National Park

A beautiful national park that stretches across Hampshire and Sussex, the South Downs is home to stunning views and a variety of wildlife. It’s a great place to go for a hike or a picnic.

The Isle of Wight

A beautiful island located off the coast of Hampshire, the Isle of Wight is home to stunning beaches, charming towns, and beautiful countryside. It’s a great place to go for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Vibrant Nightlife

Hampshire has a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs, making it a great destination for nightlife. Here are a few places to check out:

The Hobbit

A popular pub in Southampton, The Hobbit is a must-visit for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien. The pub is decorated with Lord of the Rings memorabilia, and serves a variety of beers and pub food.

Popworld

A popular nightclub in Portsmouth, Popworld is known for its cheesy music and fun atmosphere. It’s a great place to dance the night away.

Local Markets

From fresh produce to handmade crafts, Hampshire has plenty of local markets to explore. Here are a few:

Winchester Market

A bustling market located in the heart of Winchester, Winchester Market is home to a variety of stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Southsea Market

A popular market located in Southsea, Southsea Market is home to a variety of stalls selling vintage clothing, handmade crafts, and more.

Beaches and Mountains

From stunning beaches to rolling hills, Hampshire has plenty of natural beauty to explore. Here are a few places to check out:

The Solent

A beautiful stretch of coastline that separates Hampshire from the Isle of Wight, the Solent is home to stunning beaches and beautiful views.

The South Downs

A range of hills that stretches across Hampshire and Sussex, the South Downs is home to stunning views and a variety of wildlife.

Cultural Immersion

Hampshire has a rich cultural heritage, with plenty of museums, galleries, and cultural events to explore. Here are a few:

The Mary Rose Museum

A museum located in Portsmouth, the Mary Rose Museum is home to the remains of the Mary Rose, a Tudor warship that sank in 1545. Visitors can learn about the ship’s history and see artefacts recovered from the wreck.

Theatre Royal Winchester

A beautiful theatre located in the heart of Winchester, the Theatre Royal Winchester hosts a variety of productions, from plays to musicals.

Art and Music Scene

From galleries to music venues, Hampshire has a thriving arts scene. Here are a few places to check out:

The New Art Centre

A contemporary art gallery located in Salisbury, the New Art Centre is home to a variety of exhibitions and installations.

The Wedgewood Rooms

A popular music venue in Portsmouth, the Wedgewood Rooms hosts a variety of live music events, from up-and-coming bands to established artists.

Walking Tours

From historic tours to foodie tours, Hampshire has plenty of walking tours to choose from. Here are a few:

The Winchester Ghost Tour

A spooky tour of Winchester’s haunted past, the Winchester Ghost Tour is a must-visit for anyone interested in the paranormal.

The Portsmouth Food Tour

A delicious tour of Portsmouth’s food scene, the Portsmouth Food Tour takes visitors to some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes.

Architectural Marvels

From historic buildings to modern architecture, Hampshire has plenty of architectural marvels to explore. Here are a few:

The Spinnaker Tower

A striking landmark in Portsmouth, the Spinnaker