THINGS TO DO IN HAMPSHIRE: A CHAUFFEURAI GUIDE
Hampshire, a county in Southern England, offers a wealth of attractions, beautiful scenery, stunning coastline, excellent shops, lively markets, and fine food. It’s a must-visit destination for those seeking a relaxing holiday, short break, or day out. This guide will take you through the best things to do, places to visit, and where to eat and stay in Hampshire.
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PLACES TO VISIT IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is home to a variety of fascinating places to visit, from historic sites to picturesque villages.
VILLAGES IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire’s picturesque villages are a must-visit. In the Test Valley countryside, you’ll find chocolate box villages, thatched cottages, meandering chalk streams, and cosy country pubs. Explore the antique shops, restaurants, and tea shops in Romsey, Stockbridge, and Andover, or visit lovely gardens and museums, such as rose-scented Mottisfont Abbey and Sir Harold Hillier Gardens.
In East Hampshire, the tranquil water meadows and clear chalk streams of the Meon Valley will take your breath away. With popular walking routes and pretty villages, this area is ideal for taking in the views and escaping from the crowd. Nearby, you’ll find a wide choice of places to visit, including Jane Austen’s House at Chawton, the Watercress Line at Alton, and Gilbert White’s House at Selborne.
DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is teeming with activities for all ages and interests. From exploring historic sites to engaging in outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone.
OVERVIEW OF ACTIVITIES
Hampshire’s top attractions include the legendary King Arthur’s Round Table, Nelson’s flagship, and the tragic story of Titanic. The county’s acres of beautiful scenery and two National Parks are a delight for nature lovers. If it’s coastline, castles, or cannons you’re after, Hampshire’s beaches and heritage sites are second to none. From award-winning country parks to independent shopping in historic market towns to cosy pubs serving delicious local produce, a short break in rural Hampshire will leave you feeling refreshed.
THINGS TO DO IN HAMPSHIRE TODAY
If you’re in Hampshire today, consider visiting the historic city of Winchester, the former capital of England. Explore its magnificent Cathedral and The Great Hall, home to King Arthur’s legendary Round Table. Or, you could visit the maritime city of Southampton, which has strong links to RMS Titanic. Walk the ‘Titanic Trail’ and explore key locations in the city that played a part in the infamous tragedy.
- Marwell Wildlife: A visit to Marwell Wildlife is a must for animal lovers. Here, you can see giraffes, lions, tigers, meerkats, and marmosets, among many other animals. The park is located at Thompson’s Ln, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1JH, UK. You can contact them at +44 1962 777407 or visit their website.
- New Forest Wildlife Park: Make friends with the deer, otters, wallabies, and wild boar at the New Forest Wildlife Park. The park is located at Deerleap Ln, Colbury, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 8029 2408 or visit their website.
Longdown Activity Farm: Children will love feeding the baby animals at Longdown Activity Farm. The farm is located at Deerleap Ln, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 8029 2837 or visit their website.
THINGS TO DO IN HAMPSHIRE THIS WEEKEND
Planning a weekend in Hampshire? Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the UK’s only working silk mill in Whitchurch. Discover how 19th-century machinery weaves English silk fabrics. If you enjoy living history, visit Milestones in Basingstoke and stroll along period streets with traditional shops and houses. And step back in time at Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey was filmed.
- The Hawk Conservancy Trust: Marvel at the spectacular daily flying demonstrations at The Hawk Conservancy Trust near Andover. The trust is located at Sarson Ln, Weyhill, Andover SP11 8DY, UK. You can contact them at +44 1264 773850 or visit their website.
- Southampton City Art Gallery: Immerse yourself in the impressive collections in the Southampton City Art Gallery. The gallery is located at Commercial Rd, Southampton SO14 7LP, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 8083 3007 or visit their website.
- Milestones Museum: Step back in time and explore the historic streets, shops and buildings in a life-size Victorian and 1930s Hampshire at the Milestones Museum. The museum is located at Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke RG22 6PG, UK. You can contact them at +44 1256 639550 or visit their website.
FUN THINGS TO DO IN HAMPSHIRE
For a fun-filled day, embark on a tour around one of the county’s award-winning vineyards and learn about the wine-making process while tasting some of the region’s finest wines. Explore the world-famous Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery and learn how to make the perfect gin cocktail in one of their cocktail-making masterclasses. Discover Hampshire’s fine beer and ale on one of the county’s brewery tours. For a more unusual experience, go on board the real ale train on the Watercress Line, which serves ale from a restored bar carriage pulled by a steam locomotive.
- Paulton’s Park: Don’t miss Paulton’s Park the home of Peppa Pig World, at Ower for a great family adventure. The park is located at Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 8081 4442 or visit their website.
- Explosions! in Gosport: Get hands-on and interactive at Explosions! in Gosport. The museum is located at Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Haslar Jetty Rd, Gosport PO12 2AS, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 9251 0354 or visit their website.
- Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from Portsmouth’s Spinnaker Tower. The tower is located at Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth PO1 3TT, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 9285 7520 or visit their website.
THINGS TO DO IN HAMPSHIRE FOR ADULTS
Adults can enjoy a variety of activities in Hampshire. Visit the Hawk Conservancy Trust in Andover, set in 22 acres of woodland and wildflower meadows, and see over 150 birds of prey. Or, head to Calshot, home to one of the south’s biggest outdoor centres, Calshot Activities Centre. If you’re a fan of outdoor activities, you’ll find plenty of options, from golf to horse riding and watersports to fishing.
- Sir Harold Hillier Gardens: Follow the art trail at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey. The gardens are located at Jermyns Ln, Ampfield, Romsey SO51 0QA, UK. You can contact them at +44 1794 368787 or visit their website.
- Southampton City Art Gallery: See the impressive collections in the Southampton City Art Gallery. The gallery is located at Commercial Rd, Southampton SO14 7LP, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 8083 3007 or visit their website.
- Winchester Science Centre: Get hands-on and interactive at the Winchester Science Centre. The centre is located at Telegraph Way, Winchester SO21 1HZ, UK. You can contact them at +44 1962 863791 or visit their website.
PLACES TO VISIT IN HAMPSHIRE AND DORSET
Hampshire’s proximity to Dorset means you can easily explore both counties during your visit. In Dorset, visit the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore the charming market towns and villages.
- Jane Austen’s House: Take in Jane Austen’s house at Chawton. The house is located at Winchester Rd, Chawton, Alton GU34 1SD, UK. You can contact them at +44 1420 83262 or visit their website.
- Gilbert White’s House: Visit Gilbert White’s home at Selborne. The house is located at The Wakes, High St, Selborne, Alton GU34 3JH, UK. You can contact them at +44 1420 511275 or visit their website.
- Dickens’ Birthplace: Explore Dickens’ birthplace in Portsmouth. The house is located at 393 Old Commercial Rd, Portsmouth PO1 4QL, UK. You can contact them at +44 23 9282 7261 or visit their website.
CITY-SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES
Hampshire is home to several vibrant cities, each offering unique attractions and activities.
THINGS TO DO IN SOUTHAMPTON
Southampton is a city rich in maritime history. Visit the SeaCity Museum to learn about the city’s connection to the RMS Titanic. Don’t miss the chance to stand on the glass viewing area of the 170-metre-tall Spinnaker Tower, which offers fantastic views across Portsmouth Harbour and the Isle of Wight. Find out more at chauffeur.co.uk/things-to-do-Southampton.
THINGS TO DO IN PORTSMOUTH
Portsmouth, a naval city, is a treasure trove of museums with a buzzing, vibrant atmosphere. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard is a must-see, home to the HMS Warrior, The National Museum of the Royal Navy, Lord Nelson’s HMS Victory, and the newly revamped, multi-million pound Mary Rose Museum.
THINGS TO DO IN BASINGSTOKE
In Basingstoke, stroll along period streets with traditional shops and houses at Milestones Museum. Or, visit The Vyne, a red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century, located just outside the city.
THINGS TO DO IN WINCHESTER
Winchester, the ancient capital of England, is a city steeped in history and brimming with attractions for visitors of all ages. You can walk in Jane Austen’s footsteps, explore the impressive collections in the City Museum, or take a trip into outer space at the Winchester Science Centre. For those interested in military history, the Royal Armouries at Fort Nelson and the Museum of Army Flying at Middle Wallop offer fascinating insights. And don’t miss the chance to visit Winchester Cathedral, one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Find out more at chauffeur.co.uk/things-to-do-winchester.
ACCOMMODATION IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. From top-quality luxury hotels to charming country houses, guest houses, bed and breakfasts, camping and caravan sites, cottages, glamping, and holiday centres, you’ll find something that suits your needs.
LUXURY HOTELS IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is home to several luxury hotels that have been awarded five stars by the AA or Quality in Tourism. These properties pride themselves on excellent service, food, and comfort. They are ideal for special occasions or an indulgent getaway. You can view a range of luxury hotels in Hampshire here.
BOUTIQUE HOTELS IN HAMPSHIRE
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider staying at a boutique hotel in Hampshire. These hotels are intimate, quirky, and luxurious, with plenty of personalised service and individual style. A couple of examples include:
- Limewood Hotel: Once a mediaeval hunting lodge in the 13th century, this beautiful New Forest manor was reclaimed for royalty by the Duke of Clarence in the 1740s. Lime Wood hotel has now had another extravagant makeover funded by billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, giving this stately home grace and opulence with landscaped grounds, beautifully designed interiors, a super spa and a renowned restaurant. The hotel is located at Beaulieu Road, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7FZ. You can contact them on +44 23 8028 7177 or visit their website.
- Hotel du Vin: Located in Winchester, Hotel du Vin is elegant and unpretentious. The hotel offers 24 timeless bedrooms each with luxurious handsprung mattresses, fine Egyptian linen, powerful drench showers, deep baths, and plasma TVs. The hotel is located at 1 Southgate St, Winchester SO23 9EH, UK. You can contact them at +44 1962 841414 or visit their website.
COUNTRY HOTELS IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire boasts some of England’s loveliest countryside and is home to a selection of highly recommended country house hotels, all set in glorious grounds and combining history with modern comfort. You can view a range of country hotels in Hampshire here.
WELLNESS AND RELAXATION IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is also known for its wellness and relaxation offerings. The county is home to several spas and spa hotels, providing a perfect getaway for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate.
SPA HOTELS IN HAMPSHIRE
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, consider staying at one of Hampshire’s fabulous spa hotels. From beauty treatments and massages to saunas and exercise classes, these hotels offer a range of services to help you unwind and rejuvenate. You can view a range of spa hotels in Hampshire here.
FOOD AND DRINK IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is well known for its great selection of local produce, fine dining restaurants, friendly cafes, and cosy pubs. The county is proud of its fine food, from the exquisite dishes in its gourmet restaurants to the top-quality produce in its farmers’ markets, including fresh trout and watercress.
PUBS IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is home to numerous cosy pubs serving delicious local produce. Enjoy a pint of local ale or a glass of Hampshire wine in a traditional country pub or a trendy city bar.
RESTAURANTS IN HAMPSHIRE
From traditional British cuisine to international dishes, Hampshire’s restaurants cater to all tastes. The county is home to several Michelin-starred and celebrity chef restaurants, offering an exceptional dining experience.
WINE TASTING IN HAMPSHIRE
Take a tour around one of the county’s award-winning vineyards and learn about the wine-making process while tasting some of the region’s finest wines.
SPARKLING WINE IN HAMPSHIRE
Hampshire is renowned for its sparkling wine. Visit one of the local vineyards to taste the exquisite sparkling wines and learn about their production.
BREWERY TOURS IN HAMPSHIRE
Discover Hampshire’s fine beer and ale on one of the county’s brewery tours. Learn about the brewing process and taste a variety of locally brewed beers.
GIN TOURS IN HAMPSHIRE
Explore the world-famous Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery and learn how to make the perfect gin cocktail in one of their cocktail-making masterclasses.
LUXURY HAMPSHIRE TRAVEL WITH CHAUFFEURAI
To make your Hampshire experience even more memorable, consider booking a luxury chauffeur-driven travel with ChauffeurAi. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a private vehicle, allowing you to explore Hampshire’s attractions at your own pace. Whether you’re planning a day out, a weekend getaway, or a longer holiday, ChauffeurAi offers a range of services to meet your needs.
Book your luxury chauffeur-driven travel with ChauffeurAi today and discover the wonders of Hampshire in style and comfort.
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