7 great days out in Hampshire

If you’re heading to Hampshire on holiday you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to things to see and do. Hampshire offers a wide choice of attractions that cater to both adults and children. So whether you’re travelling as a family, a couple, with friends, or keen for some solo sightseeing, these seven great days out in Hampshire will ensure a very happy holiday indeed.

1. The New Forest and Paultons Park

The truly stunning New Forest is a treat for animal lovers, offering a diverse array of wildlife such as nightjars, bats, deer and reptiles in addition to domestic ponies and cattle that roam freely and help to maintain the area through their grazing. The New Forest is ideal for walking, cycling and horse riding in striking natural surroundings. However, there is exciting manmade fun to be had too at Paultons Family Theme Park. Paultons Park offers an excellent choice of rides and attractions to suit visitors of all ages, as well as a number of animal residents that will quickly enchant visitors.

2. Beaulieu

Petrol heads and fans of historical architecture are sure to get revved up by a visit to Beaulieu, another exciting attraction located in the New Forest. Discover more than 250 cars and motorcycles in the National Motor Museum which boasts the world’s biggest official collection of James Bond vehicles. A number of vehicles that have featured on Top Gear are also on show at Beaulieu. In addition, visitors can learn about the history of Beaulieu Abbey which was founded in 1204 and explore the sumptuous interiors of Palace House as well as stroll through the beautiful grounds and gardens.

3. The South Downs National Park

The South Downs National Park is a picturesque paradise for people who love to roam the outdoors. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a variety of landscapes to explore, from hills and valleys to pastures and woodlands. Diverse outdoor activities can be enjoyed in the national park, such as cycling, horse riding and walking - the South Downs Way is a must for visitors keen to discover this area by foot. There are also a number of captivating villages and enticing towns offering excellent cultural entertainments in the national park.

4. Hawk Conservancy Trust

Taking excitement to new heights, you’ll be flying high with a visit to the Hawk Conservancy Trust. Various fun events happen throughout the day, including flying demonstrations and informative keeper talks and there is a beautiful wildflower meadow for leisurely meandering. The Hawk Conservancy Trust is located four miles from Andover and is open daily except 25 December and 26 December. Adult (age 16 to 59) tickets are £11.59 and child (age 3 to 15) tickets are £7.55.

5. Portchester Castle

Dating from the third century, Portchester Castle is considered the best example of a preserved Roman Saxon shore-fort. There is an informative exhibition in the keep that is great for learning about the history of the castle as well as the village of Portchester. With its rugged appeal the castle makes for an excellent setting to enjoy a picnic too.

6. Netley Abbey

Netley Abbey is a Cistercian monastery that dates from 1238 and is the most complete surviving example of its kind in southern England. It’s free to wander amongst the ruins of the abbey which inspired Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey and are still beautiful to see despite not being whole.

7. Hayling Island

Located between Portsmouth and Chichester harbour, Hayling Island offers a superb seaside retreat for adults and children. The island boasts award-winning beaches with honours including a European Blue Flag award and a Tidy Britain Seaside Award. The beaches are safe and clean for swimmers and are a pretty spot to enjoy a barbeque or get active with beach volleyball. This is also a fantastic location to enjoy windsurfing and sailing and the Funland Amusement Park on the island offers fabulous family fun.

Natural splendours and marvellous manmade enticements

Hampshire’s fantastic range of attractions ensures that there is something for everyone. The incredible national parks in the region will wow nature lovers, while those who are keen for cultural pursuits won’t be disappointed with the striking ancient architecture in the area. With exciting theme parks so thrill seekers are well catered for as well, anyone who visits Hampshire can have a holiday to remember.

Discover camping and glamping sites in Hampshire here.