Discover the history

Hampshire holds historical significance, as it was once the home of some well-known literary figures such as Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. The city of Winchester, the county town, was the capital of England during the Anglo-Saxon period and features the famous Winchester Cathedral, a remarkable example of medieval architecture. Additionally, the city of Winchester became the capital of the Kingdom of Wessex and later the capital of England under King Alfred the Great. The county witnessed Viking invasions and conflicts during this time too.

After the Norman Conquest in 1066, Hampshire’s history became intertwined with the broader English monarchy. The county’s strategic location along the southern coast led to the construction of numerous castles and fortifications. Striking Winchester Cathedral was built in the 11th century and stands as a prime example of medieval architecture and history.

More recently, Hampshire has been home to renowned writers such as the iconic Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. Jane Austen’s connections to the county are reflected in her novels, with places like Chawton known for their Austen heritage and charm.

Diverse landscape

Hampshire is home to many diverse and breathtaking landscapes. For example, Hampshire’s southern border is defined by around 45 miles of gorgeous coastline along the English Channel. Coastal areas like Portsmouth, Southampton, and the New Forest coast offer stunning sea views and a delightful day out amongst the waves, enjoying some of the lesser-known areas of Hampshire. 

Of course, Hampshire is also home to the famous New Forest National Park. The area covers a significant portion of southwest Hampshire and is categorised by gorgeous ancient woodlands, heathlands, grasslands, and wetlands. The New Forest is known for its free-roaming ponies, native deer, and other wildlife and animal-centred traditions, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. 

Another gorgeous area of Hampshire is the South Downs National Park. Hampshire’s eastern boundary is marked by the South Downs, a range of chalk hills stretching across several counties. The park offers breathtaking views, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Making it a haven for hikers, cyclists, and those who enjoy indulging in the great outdoors. 

Countryside: Inland Hampshire is characterised by fertile valleys, meadows, and charming farmlands. An assortment of quaint villages and market towns dot the landscape, showcasing the traditional English countryside charm found in beautiful Hampshire. 

Historic cities and towns: Hampshire is home to many vibrant cities like Winchester, known for its medieval architecture, and Southampton, a major port city with a rich maritime heritage. These cities offer a blend of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern amenities that make a visit to Hampshire truly captivating. 

Rivers and waterways: The county is crisscrossed by rivers, including the Itchen, Test, and Avon, which flow through picturesque landscapes and provide plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, and riverside walks.

Woodlands and nature reserves: Hampshire is home to a variety of woodlands and nature reserves, such as Alice Holt Forest and Farley Mount Country Park. These areas offer diverse ecosystems, abundant walks in beautiful areas, and opportunities for outdoor exploration ending in a picnic, or perhaps a drink at a nearby pub. 

Hampshire Downs: The Northern part of Hampshire features rolling hills, expansive farmlands, and plenty of charming villages. This area is a quieter and lesser-known region compared to the South Downs but offers its own unique beauty and gorgeous sights of the rolling, green hills.

Wildlife and nature

Hampshire is abundant in native species. From the leaping deer to the native New Forest Ponies and donkeys, you’ll certainly find something remarkable to admire when visiting Hampshire. 

Beavers: After 400 years of absence in the UK, beavers have now been reintroduced to Hampshire’s wildlife. They live in freshwater habitats, like rivers and streams, and prefer areas surrounded by wetland plants, trees and woodland, digging their homes into the riverbank and accessing it by an underground river tunnel. 

Native beavers can be found by large bodies of water in groups of around 3-5. You’ll spot their chubby, furry bodies on land as they are quite slow. However, in water, they’re incredibly fast and agile. 

Mice: Hampshire is home to several species of mouse, including the Hazel Dormouse, House Mouse and Harvest Mouse. The species of mice are commonly found within fields, reedbeds, hedgerows, within grass, etc. The various species of mice within Hampshire all have slightly different diets, with the nocturnal Hazel Dormouse enjoying berries, hazelnuts and insects. The House Mouse enjoys grains, roots, seeds and fungi, and the Harvest Mouse enjoys small bugs, seeds and fruits. 

Mole: Moles are rarely seen in the UK, but are consistently burrowed underground digging their more widely noticed, mole holes. Identifying a mole is unmistakable with their furry bodies and spade-like feet perfect for digging. 

Moles are essential for healthy soil growth. Their digging airates the soil, which allows more types of plants to grow, and their tunnels allow proper drainage of the soil. 

European Otter: The charming otter is one of Hampshire’s top predators, feeding mainly on fish (particularly eels and salmonids), waterbirds, amphibians and crustaceans within the rivers and waters of Hampshire. Otters have their cubs in underground burrows, known as ‘holts’ and their cubs are in the water from around 10 weeks old. 

It’s incredibly difficult to actually spot an otter, as their holts are hidden in clean rivers with plenty of vegetation. However, if you are keen to spot signs of an otter, look out for small, 5-toed footprints in the mud near the water. 

Deer: Hampshire is home to several species of deer. Namely: Muntjac Deer, Roe deer and Chinese Water Deer. Although the Chinese Water Deer aren’t a native species, they were introduced from China in the nineteenth century and now live within Hampshire, favouring wet, marshy lands. You’ll spot this deer species from their teddy-bear-like face and large displayed canines on the males. 

Muntjac Deer were also introduced from China and are now a common sight in the southeast of England. Muntjac are found predominantly in woodland, parkland and sometimes gardens and have often been dubbed “Barking Deer” because of their dog-like barks. 

The most common native Deer to Hampshire is the Roe Deer. This type of deer lives in areas of mixed countryside that include woodland, farmland, grassland and heathland. They eat buds and leaves from trees and shrubs, as well as ferns, grasses and heathers.

Red Deer and Fallow Deer can also be found populating Hampshire. The Red Deer can be found on Moorlands and grasslands, and Fallow deer prefer deciduous or mixed woodland with large clearings, typically living in small herds.

Red Fox: The Red Fox is the only wild species from the dog family and they roam happily around Hampshire in the forests, fields and even towns and cities. The Red Fox will happily eat anything, from small mammals, birds, frogs, and even from bins when they can. 

Of course, there are plenty of other species that call Hampshire home, including various bird species, insects, reptiles and more. You can find out more about those species here.

Walking in Hampshire

Hampshire has an abundance of gorgeous walking routes within the many towns and areas that make up the counties. 

One of the most beloved routes is the South Downs Way, a long-distance path that stretches across impressive chalk landscapes, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, quaint villages, and charming landmarks. Walkers can expect to encounter vibrant wildflowers, an expanse of ancient woodlands, and the iconic Devil’s Dyke, a colossal dry valley that spans 100 miles. 

For a more coastal adventure, the Solent Way is a trail that winds along the Hampshire coastline, granting walkers access to magnificent seascapes. You’ll also spot marshes teeming with birdlife, and glimpses of the Isle of Wight across the glistening waters. The Hurst Castle Spit, a historic artillery fortress, stands as a highlight along this route. 

The Hayling Billy Coastal Path introduces walkers to the charming Hayling Island and its abundant, rich history. Along the path, you’ll be following an old railway line. This trail promises glimpses of shimmering tidal channels, reed beds, and gorgeous coastal habitats that support an array of bird species that call Hampshire home. As walkers make their way along this route, you’ll certainly catch sights of Langstone Harbour, an area of great ecological importance.

Lastly, the Itchen Way provides an enchanting riverside journey along the River Itchen. Renowned for its clear waters and diverse wildlife, this trail offers a serene escape from the urban bustle. Walkers can enjoy the sight of graceful swans, trout-filled streams, and ancient watermills that evoke a sense of tranquillity and nostalgia.

The Test Way is another of Hampshire’s picturesque trails. This one in particular follows the course of the River Test, known for its clear waters and rich biodiversity. This route meanders through charming countryside, with promised sights of beautiful meadows, watercress beds, and plenty of charming villages. If you’re an avid birdwatcher, this route provides ample opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, including kingfishers and herons. 

Outdoor activities

Abundant in gorgeous outdoor space, with plenty to do, Hampshire is home to a variety of outdoor activities that all ages will enjoy. Whether you prefer to mount horseback, be on two wheels, or simply use your own two legs, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy within Hampshire. 

Fishing: Hatchet Pond in the New Forest National Park is a tranquil and well-known fishing spot, home to various fish species including carp, roach, and perch, perfect for Coarse fishing. Anglers can relax by the water’s edge, surrounded by the serene beauty of the New Forest, waiting patiently for a catch and simply admiring the great outdoors. 

This spot is an ideal place for both beginners and experienced anglers to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing in a remarkable location. 

Bird watching: If bird watching is more your thing, Farlington Marshes is a vital habitat for birds and offers excellent bird-watching opportunities. Farlington Marshes is home to mudflats, lagoons, and wetlands where you can spot a wide variety of species, including waders, ducks, and seabirds.

Horse riding: If the outdoors on horseback sounds like the perfect way to enjoy some fresh air, explore the stunning landscapes of the New Forest on horseback with Burley Villa School of Riding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, favouring an American or English saddle, you can enjoy guided rides through ancient woodlands, heathlands, and the many picturesque trails that make up the New Forest. 

Water sports: Another fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors of Hampshire is through some exciting watersports! Calshot Activities Centre offers a range of sports, including kayaking, windsurfing, and sailing. The centre has a prime location on the coast, overlooking the Solent’s waters. Whether you’re a novice looking for lessons or an experienced water enthusiast, Calshot provides an exhilarating day out for everyone in the family. 

Cycling routes: As mentioned above, there are lots of walking and cycling routes within Hampshire. One of the most notable is Shipwrights Way: a scenic cycling route that spans around 50 miles, passing through picturesque villages and countryside. Cyclists can expect a mix of terrains, from coastal paths to woodland trails. It’s a perfect opportunity to explore the Hampshire countryside and soak in the beauty of the changing landscapes.

Get lost in local villages

Hampshire has plenty of charming and quaint villages that make up the county. Dotted throughout the countryside, situated next to rivers, beautiful greenspaces, next to pubs and charming town centres, there’s lots to see, do and enjoy in Hampshire. 

Winchester: In the county town of Winchester you can expect to experience some real historical charm. With a variety of medieval streets and a stunning cathedral, Winchester is truly beautiful. Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest in Europe, and the Great Hall features historic King Arthur’s Round Table! The town offers a blend of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions such as impressive castle ruins, making it a perfect destination for a slow and relaxed amble around the streets. 

Lymington: On the Solent coast in the New Forest district sits Lymington, a picturesque coastal town renowned for its maritime heritage and vibrant Saturday market. When visiting Lymington, stroll along the quaint cobbled streets, enjoy views of the remarkable Solent, and explore the historic quay. The town is a gateway to the incredible New Forest National Park and is famous for its yacht and sailing culture, making it a must-visit for sailing enthusiasts and those who’d like to appreciate the coastal beauty of Hampshire. 

Romsey: Located in the Test Valley district, Romsey boasts a charming market town atmosphere and is home to the magnificent Romsey Abbey. The town’s delightful streets offer a mix of independent shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The Romsey Rapids Sports Complex provides recreational activities, and visitors can explore the enchanting Sir Harold Hillier Gardens. Romsey’s welcoming ambience and cultural attractions make it a delightful stop for all ages.

Petersfield: Located: In the East Hampshire district. Expect: Petersfield is a market town set within the South Downs National Park. Its Georgian architecture and town square create a pleasant atmosphere. The Heath, a large open space, offers recreational opportunities, and visitors can explore the Flora Twort Gallery for local art. Petersfield’s location within the beautiful South Downs landscape and its artsy character make it a charming getaway.

Alresford: Located: In the city of Winchester, often referred to as “The Capital of Watercress,” Alresford is known for its scenic streets and watercress beds. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the watercress beds, explore the town’s boutique shops, and enjoy traditional steam train rides from the Watercress Line railway station. Alresford’s agricultural history, riverside walks, and unique attractions make it a delightful escape.

Stockbridge: Located: In the Test Valley district. Expect: Stockbridge is a charming town nestled along the River Test, famous for its fly fishing. The town offers art galleries, antique shops, and the stunning Houghton Lodge Gardens. The Test Way walking trail passes through Stockbridge, making it an ideal stop for nature enthusiasts. Stockbridge’s riverside charm, art scene, and access to beautiful countryside attract visitors seeking tranquillity.

Lyndhurst: Located: In the New Forest National Park. Expect: Lyndhurst serves as the heart of the New Forest and offers a mix of shops, cafes, and attractions. Visitors can explore the New Forest Centre, go on forest walks, and admire the Gothic-style St. Michael and All Angels Church. The town’s proximity to the New Forest’s woodlands and its role as a hub for exploring the national park makes it a charming destination.

Emsworth: Located: On the border of Hampshire and West Sussex. Expect: Emsworth is a coastal town with a rich maritime history. Its waterfront is dotted with charming cottages, and visitors can enjoy walks along the shores of Chichester Harbour, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Emsworth’s reputation for fresh seafood, artistic community, and picturesque setting by the sea make it a delightful spot for relaxation and exploration.

Explore the coastlines

Hampshire is known for its wide variety of landscapes. From forests to open heathland, and grassy plains to the coast, gorgeous Hampshire really does have a little bit of everything. 

Hampshire’s coastline stretches from Highcliffe in the west of the county to Chichester Harbour in the east, covering a distance of over 230 miles (370 km). It is a diverse coastline, with a variety of different coasts and beaches, each with some fantastic options to spot the native wildlife. 

The western section of Hampshire’s coastline is part of the New Forest National Park and this area is characterised by beautiful sandy beaches, pine forests, and heathland. The beaches in this area include:

Highcliffe Castle Beach: A sand and shingle beach backed by forested cliffs with stunning views of the Isle of Wight. This is a fantastic spot for a relaxing walk with the family, the dog, or by yourself. If you find yourself lucky to be under blue skies, this beach is the place to be. 

Barton on Sea Beach: Barton On Sea Beach is a fantastic spot, incredibly popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Barton on Sea Beach sits below cliffs that afford breathtaking views of the coastal scenery and across the Solent to the Isle of Wight, as well as to Hurst Castle. Grab a fish and chips or a picnic and enjoy the gorgeous views from this beach. 

East Head Beach: East Head Beach is another stunning spot along the coastline. A shingle beach with stunning views of Chichester Harbour and the Isle of Wight, flowing sand dunes and perfect sunsets. 

Whichever spot along the coast you choose to stop at, there’s so much to do. Grab a book and a blanket and park yourself somewhere scenic, go for a jog or just a relaxing walk with the dog, play sports on the beach, or brave the water and take yourself for a swim. 

Along the coastline, you’ll also be able to spot a huge variety of wildlife. Of course, the common birds and coastal birds, but also if you’re lucky enough, otters and dolphins! 

Sample local cuisine

Hampshire is home to a variety of delicious local foods, especially pork, game, seafood and apple orchards. 

Pork – Hampshire is known for its high-quality pork, which is produced on many farms across the county. Hampshire pork is known for its succulence and flavour and is used in a variety of dishes, such as Hampshire pork sausages, roasted pork belly, and delicious local pork pies.

Game – Hampshire is also a popular destination for game hunting, and the county’s forests and woodlands are home to a variety of game animals, such as deer, pheasant, and partridge. Game is often served in restaurants in Hampshire, and is a popular choice for special occasions.

Seafood – Hampshire has a long coastline, and the county’s seafood industry is thriving. Fresh seafood from Hampshire can be found in many restaurants and cafes across the county and is also available to buy from fishmongers and markets. Popular Hampshire seafood dishes include fish and chips, lobster rolls, and moules frites.

Apples – Apple orchards are dotted across Hampshire and the county’s apples are used to make a variety of products, including ciders, pies, and cakes.

One of the best ways to experience Hampshire’s local food is to visit local pubs and restaurants. Many pubs and restaurants in Hampshire use locally sourced ingredients in their dishes and offer a variety of traditional British classics and modern dishes to choose from. Across Hampshire, you’ll find plenty of choice of great, locally sourced menus filled with seasonal ingredients. Make sure to visit the local pubs, the charming bistros and the quaint cafes to get the best idea of the food and produce grown in lovely Hampshire. 

Below are some reasons to visit the various restaurants, pubs and eateries in Hampshire when visiting: 

You can be sure that the food is fresh and of high quality.

You can support local businesses and the local economy.

You can try traditional dishes that are made with the best local ingredients.

You can learn more about Hampshire’s food culture and heritage.

You can have a unique and memorable dining experience.

Cultural events

Hampshire has a rich and diverse cultural scene, with a variety of fun and unique events taking place throughout the year. Some examples are below:

Southampton Mela Festival: The Southampton Mela Festival is a free annual festival that celebrates the culture and heritage of South Asia. It is one of the largest and most popular Mela festivals in the UK, attracting over 27,000 visitors in 2022! 

The festival is held in Hoglands Park, Southampton on the second Saturday of July and features a wide range of activities and attractions, including:

Live music and dance performances from a variety of South Asian artists

Food stalls serving authentic South Asian cuisine

Craft stalls selling traditional South Asian arts and crafts

Children’s activities, such as face painting and henna tattoos

Workshops on topics such as South Asian cooking, dance, and music

Boomtown Fair: Boomtown is an iconic four-day festival and a unique and immersive experience, with a variety of music, art, and theatre performances. Boomtown is known for its immersive and theatrical atmosphere, with a variety of themed districts to explore and a diverse lineup of music, art, and theatre performances, ranging from jazz music to folk, reggae to hip-hop and beyond. 

Boomtown Fair is set in a fictional world called Boomtown City, which is divided into several different districts, each with its own unique theme and atmosphere. Some of the most popular districts include:

Town Square: The central hub of Boomtown City, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and shops.

Lion’s Den: A district dedicated to electronic music, with several dance floors and stages.

Rumpus Junction: A lively district with a variety of bars, live music venues, and street performers.

Old Town: A district inspired by the Victorian era, with many traditional pubs and music halls.

Paradise Heights: A district with a Caribbean theme, with a reggae stage and a number of food stalls serving Caribbean cuisine.

As far as music and entertainment festivals go, Boomtown Fair is really a sight to behold. 

CarFest South: This family-friendly festival features a mix of fast cars, live music, and tasty food. It is held annually at Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire, on the last weekend of August. The festival was founded in 2012 by Chris Evans and Jody Scheckter and has quickly become one of the most popular festivals in the UK. It is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere and its wide range of activities and attractions.

Some of the things that you can expect at CarFest South include:

Supercar displays and parades

Live music performances from a variety of artists

Food stalls serving a variety of cuisines

Children’s activities, such as face painting and bouncy castles

Car-related attractions, such as racing simulators and stunt shows

CarFest South is a great day out for all the family and there is certainly something for everyone to enjoy, whether you are a petrolhead, a music lover, or simply looking for a fun and family-friendly day out in Hampshire. 

New Forest & Hampshire County Show: This is a wonderful agricultural show with something for everyone, such as livestock competitions, show jumping displays, a funfair, and food halls. This annual agricultural show is held at Brockenhurst Park in Hampshire and is one of the largest and most popular agricultural shows in the UK, attracting over 95,000 visitors over the three-day event. The show is held on the last weekend of July and features a wide range of competitions, displays, and attractions, including a focus on equestrian activities, showjumping, a funfair, etc. 

Romsey Agricultural and Horse Show: This agricultural and horse show is a popular event for both locals and visitors, with a variety of competitions, displays, and attractions to keep everyone entertained. The show is held on the last weekend of August. It is a one-day event that features a variety of competitions and exciting displays:

Livestock competitions, such as cattle, sheep, and horse shows

Showjumping and dressage displays

A funfair

Food stalls

Trade stands selling a variety of goods and services

The Romsey Agricultural and Horse Show is a great day out for all the family. There is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you are interested in agriculture, equestrianism, or food, and the event supports a variety of local businesses too. 

Dogstival: And finally, one for the four-legged family members too! This festival is a celebration of all things canine, with a variety of activities for dogs and their owners, including agility courses, dog swimming, and live music. The festival is held annually at Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire, on the first weekend of June. It is a two-day event that features a variety of activities and attractions for dogs and their owners, including:

Agility courses

Dog swimming

Live music

Food stalls

Trade stands selling a variety of dog-related products and services

Dogstival is a great day out for all dog lovers where you can mix and mingle with other dog owners, meet a variety of breeds and see some fantastic competitions in a great location. 

Below are some of the things that make Dogstival so unique:

Its focus on dogs and everything canine

Its wide range of activities and attractions for dogs and their owners

Its family-friendly atmosphere

Its support for animal welfare charities

Camping is available

Tourist attractions

Hampshire is a beautiful and historic county with a wealth of popular tourist attractions. Aside from the gorgeous landscapes and varied green spaces, coastlines and forestry, there is also a selection of notable landmarks worth visiting when you stay in Hampshire. 

Winchester Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral that is one of the longest in Europe. It is a popular tourist destination for both religious and non-religious visitors. The cathedral is located in the city of Winchester. Visit the gorgeous Winchester Cathedral to admire its stunning architecture, learn about its history, and attend the various religious services.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: A maritime museum that tells the story of the Royal Navy and its role in British history. The dock is a popular tourist destination for families, history buffs, and anyone interested in ships and the sea. The Dockyard is located in the city of Portsmouth with many people flocking to visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard to see the historic ships, learn about the Royal Navy, and have a fun and educational day out.

New Forest National Park: A beautiful area of woodland, heathland, and coastal scenery. It is a popular tourist destination for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. The national park is located in the western part of Hampshire. People visit New Forest National Park to enjoy the beautiful scenery, go for walks and bike rides, and to see wildlife. A real must-see when in this area of the world. 

Beaulieu National Motor Museum: A museum that houses a collection of over 280 vehicles, including vintage cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles. It is a popular tourist destination for car enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in transport history. The museum is located in the village of Beaulieu. When you visit Beaulieu National Motor Museum, you’ll see the collection of vehicles, learn about transport history, and have a fun day out with the whole family. 

Paultons Park: Hampshire’s family-friendly theme park with rides and attractions for all ages. It is a popular tourist destination for families with young children and was the site of Peppa Pig World. The theme park is located in the village of Ower and provides a fantastic day out, especially for young families with small children. 

​​Marwell Zoo: A zoo that is home to over 1,500 animals from all over the world. It is a popular activity spot for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in wildlife. The zoo is located in the village of Ower and the zoo welcomes guests to see the animals, to learn about wildlife conservation, and to have a fun and educational day out.

Hampshire Science Centre and Planetarium: A science museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium. It is a popular tourist destination for families, school groups, and anyone interested in science. The science centre is located in the city of Winchester. 

Hampshire Aviation Museum: A museum that tells the story of aviation in Hampshire. It is a popular tourist destination for aviation enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in the history of flying. The museum is located in the town of Eastleigh and is a fabulous day out in Hampshire. 

Hawk Conservancy Trust: A bird of prey sanctuary that is home to over 200 birds of prey from all over the world. It is a popular tourist destination for bird lovers, those interested in nature and families. The sanctuary is located in the village of Weyhill and people visit to watch the displays and learn more about the birds and how best to care for different wildlife. 

Highclere Castle: A stately home that is best known as the filming location for the popular TV show Downton Abbey. It is a popular tourist destination for fans of the show, as well as anyone interested in history and stately homes. The castle is located in the village of Highclere. People visit Highclere Castle to see the castle and its grounds, to learn about the history of the castle and the family who live there, and to have a fun and educational day out.

Solent Sky Museum: A museum that tells the story of aviation in the Solent region. It is a popular tourist destination for aviation enthusiasts, families, and anyone interested in the history of flying. The museum is located in the town of Southampton. People visit Solent Sky Museum to learn about the history of aviation in the Solent region, to see the aircraft on display, and to have a fun and educational day out.

Butser Ancient Farm: A living history museum that recreates a farm from the Iron Age. It is a popular tourist destination for families, school groups, and anyone interested in history. The museum is located in the village of Chalton. People visit Butser Ancient Farm to learn about life in the Iron Age, to see the farm animals, and to have a fun and educational day out.

Seasons

Hampshire, like the rest of England, has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Spring

Average temperatures: 8-12°C 

Months: March-May

Spring is a beautiful time of year in Hampshire, with the countryside coming to life after a long winter. The weather is generally mild and sunny, with occasional showers, however, you may not mind as the gorgeous landscapes are finally coming back to life after winter and look incredible. 

Things to do in spring:

Visit one of Hampshire’s many beautiful gardens, such as Mottisfont Abbey, Hillier Gardens, or Sir Harold Hillier Gardens

Go for a walk or bike ride in the New Forest National Park

See the bluebells in bloom at Butser Ancient Farm

Visit a farm and see the newly born baby animals

Have a picnic in any local parks or the New Forest National Park

Visit the pubs of Hampshire for a family lunch

Summer

Average temperatures: 16-22°C 

Months: June-August

Summer is the warmest time of year in Hampshire, with long days and plenty of sunshine. The weather is perfect for spending time outdoors, whether you’re relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea, or exploring the breathtaking Hampshire countryside.

Things to do in summer:

Visit one of Hampshire’s many beaches, such as Hayling Island Beach, Southsea Beach, or Hurst Spit

Go for a swim in the sea or one of Hampshire’s many lakes

Play cricket or tennis at one of Hampshire’s many parks or recreation grounds

Visit one of Hampshire’s many castles and stately homes, such as Highclere Castle, Winchester Cathedral, or Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Go to a festival or outdoor event, such as CarFest South, Boomtown Fair, or the New Forest Show

Autumn

Average temperatures: 12-16°C 

Months: September-November

Autumn is a beautiful time of year in Hampshire, with the leaves turning golden brown and red. The weather is generally mild and sunny, with occasional showers. The forests of Hampshire are especially magical this time of year, with the weather turning and the golden hues that surround. 

Things to do in autumn:

Go for a walk or bike ride in the countryside to enjoy the autumn foliage

Visit a pumpkin patch and pick your own pumpkins

Go to a bonfire night event

Visit a farm and see the animals being prepared for winter

Visit a winery or brewery and sample some of Hampshire’s local produce

Winter

Average temperatures: 4-8°C 

Months: December-February

Winter is the coldest time of year in Hampshire, with short days and long nights. The weather can be wet and windy, but there are also plenty of bright days and lots of wholesome, festive activities to enjoy at this time of year. 

Things to do in winter:

Visit a Christmas market

Go ice skating

Visit a museum or art gallery

See a pantomime or other theatre production

Go for a walk in the countryside and enjoy the winter scenery

Go to a local cafe

How to get here

Here is how to get to Hampshire from nearby major cities:

Southampton

Southampton is the largest city in Hampshire and is well-connected to other parts of the UK by road and rail.

By car: Southampton is located on the M27 motorway, which connects it to London, Portsmouth, and Bournemouth. The journey from London to Southampton takes about 2 hours by car.

By train: Southampton has a direct train service to London Waterloo, which takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. There are also regular train services to other major cities, such as Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds.

By bus: There are regular bus services to Southampton from other major cities in the UK. The journey from London to Southampton takes about 3 hours by bus.

Local airport: Southampton Airport is located just outside of the city centre and offers flights to several destinations in the UK and Europe.

London

To get to Hampshire from London, you can take a train, bus, or car.

By train: The fastest way to get to Hampshire from London is by train. There are direct train services from London Waterloo to Southampton, Winchester, and Basingstoke. The journey to Southampton takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, the journey to Winchester takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes, and the journey to Basingstoke takes about 50 minutes.

To book train tickets, you can use the National Rail website or app.

By bus: There are also regular bus services from London to Hampshire. The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

To book bus tickets, you can use the National Express website or app.

By car: The journey from London to Hampshire by car takes about 2 hours. The most direct route is to take the M27 motorway south from London.

If you are driving, it is important to be aware of the parking restrictions in some areas. You can find information on parking restrictions on the Hampshire County Council website.

Birmingham

To get to Hampshire from Birmingham, you can take a train, bus, or car.

By train: The fastest way to get to Hampshire from Birmingham is by train. There are direct train services from Birmingham New Street to Southampton, Winchester, and Basingstoke. The journey to Southampton takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, the journey to Winchester takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes, and the journey to Basingstoke takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

By bus: There are also regular bus services from Birmingham to Hampshire. The journey takes about 4 hours and 45 minutes and services will likely depart from the coach station in Digbeth, Birmingham City Centre. 

By car: The journey from Birmingham to Hampshire by car takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. The most direct route is to take the M42 motorway south from Birmingham.

If you are driving, it is important to be aware of the parking restrictions in some areas. You can find information on parking restrictions on the Hampshire County Council website.

Getting around Hampshire

There are many ways to get around Hampshire, including by car, bus, bike, rail, and boat.

By car: Hampshire has a good network of roads, making it easy to get around by car. However, it is important to note that parking can be expensive in some areas, such as Southampton city centre.

By bus: There is a comprehensive bus network in Hampshire, connecting most towns and villages. However, some bus services can be infrequent, so it is important to check the timetable before you travel.

By bike: Hampshire is a popular destination for cyclists, with a number of cycle paths and trails to choose from. However, it is important to be aware that some roads in Hampshire can be busy, so it is important to take care.

By rail: There is a good rail network in Hampshire, with regular train services to most major towns and cities. However, some train stations are located outside of town centres, so it is important to check the location of the station before you travel.

By boat: There are a number of ferry services that operate in Hampshire, connecting different parts of the county. This can be a great way to get around, especially if you are visiting the Isle of Wight.

Below are some additional tips for getting around Hampshire:

If you are planning on visiting several different places in Hampshire, it is worth buying a Hampshire Explorer ticket. This ticket gives you unlimited travel on buses and trains in Hampshire for a set period of time.

If you are travelling by car, it is important to be aware of the parking restrictions in some areas. You can find information on parking restrictions on the Hampshire County Council website.

If you are cycling in Hampshire, it is important to wear a helmet and to be aware of the traffic. You can find information on cycling routes and trails on the Hampshire County Council website.

If you are travelling by train in Hampshire, it is important to check the train timetable before you travel. You can find information on train times on the National Rail website.

If you are travelling by ferry in Hampshire, it is important to check the ferry timetable before you travel. You can find information on ferry times on the websites of the ferry operators.