The National Trust in Hampshire
Mottisfont Abbey and Gardens in the Test Valley was founded in the 12th century, but of the church and buildings erected by Sir John Mautravers only one arch remains. It housess sculputre by Andrea del Sarto. West Dean House has a beautiful collection of Chinoiserie porcelain and furniture. Hinton Ampner is a particularly pleasant place to visit - awash with ponds and good trees, the landscaping of 18th-century formal gardens contrasts with the artfully created informal spaces.
West Green House & Garden near Hook has serene, informal gardens, laid out in perfect shape to blend in with local trees, Hampshire List (hampshire-list.co.uk). The National Trust has been looking after the green and pleasant land for over 100 years and now runs touching, spectacular and educational sites across the country. No matter where you live in the UK you’ll no doubt be no more than a couple of hours drive away from one of its properties.
Membership is great value at £53 a year and allows access to all its sites. It also adds an extra dimension if you are a resident of England, Wales or Northern Ireland, allowing free entry to hundreds of our best loved castles and gardens. Hampshire houses and gardens have been part of the National Trust’s heritage since the first property in Hampshire, Clavell Tower in Southsea, was opened to the public on 7 June 1925.
The National Trust aims not only to preserve and protect historic houses, museums and gardens for everyone to enjoy but also works alongside its community of volunteers to bring alive the past through archaeological research, landscape walks, gardening and crafts. The National Trust looks after many beautiful and historic places. Each is unique and has its own story to tell. There are lots of places to visit in Hampshire, from Mottisfont Abbey and Gardens to Uppark near Petersfield.
Join us for a look at what the National Trust has to offer, from stunning gardens to historic houses open for visitors to enjoy as they were meant to be enjoyed – as homes. The National Trust cares for more than 350 stunning properties, landscaped gardens, historic coastal sites and coastline, and some significant pieces of infrastructure including the White Cliffs of Dover. Keen to pass on its heritage from one generation to another and to make the past accessible to all, the trust also cares for many thousands of varied and unique items.
The National Trust was originally created in 1895 as a response to the threat that so many of England's country houses might be reduced to the use of a single dwelling. This is the perfect opportunity to rediscover these great houses, beautiful gardens and natural landscapes for yourself. In it he wrote:. Go to Winchester, spend a happy half-hour in the cathedral, and then wander into the old city, where you will stumble upon Jane Austen's grave.
English Heritage in Hampshire
One of the most beautiful areas of Hampshire for English Heritage is the New Forest. This area is brilliant if you’re looking for a real taste of the countryside. The New Forest is historically important and was used as common land and wood pasture. This was also where Henry VIII hunted, keeping deer in an area that remained undeveloped. It wasn’t until 1598 that a law was passed restricting access to the King’s deer. But this doesn’t mean the locals can’t have some fun with their own animals.
. The history buffs amongst us might now be considering a trip to see the Hengistbury Head, the oldest human settlement in England dating back more than 7500 years. There’s a significant amount of World War II history to be seen including the Bembridge Target and R. A. F. Thorney Island which was once home to Spitfires, Hurricanes and Lancaster bombers. English Heritage properties are all over Hampshire and it’s a fantastic way to see some of the best historical places in our county.
Castles in Hampshire
There is something special about England’s castles, as most are majestic and have interesting history that dates back hundreds of years. Hampshire is one of the counties in Britain which has the highest number of castles. Here follows an article that showcases various historical castles found in Hampshire. Hampshire contains vast majority of the south coast, including the Solent. In particular, it has the popular tourist towns of Portsmouth and Southampton. It is also home to hundreds and hundreds of castles, with much more history than London for example, because you are literally walking upon its past.
Hampshire is one of the most beautiful counties in England, and it’s not hard to see why. With a wide range of excellent castles around the county, all with different history, you’re guaranteed to have an exciting and entertaining time getting to know them. Hampshire is an historic and culturally rich county that boasts a wide variety of castles. Many different styles of architecture can be seen throughout the region, with some dating back to the 12th century.
10 Castles to visit in Hampshire
Although Britain was no longer under threat from the French or Spanish, Henry VIII (and Elizabeth 1) still saw it as necessary to have a well defended coastline. In 1539 the King devised a plan for eight new forts, seven of which were eventually built. The scheme included blockading Portsmouth and Southampton Harbours by blocking the Solent with a chain of huge stone forts on the shoreline. This was a vast undertaking at the time and Calshot is unique in that it was one of the only two which was actually constructed as designed; Salthouse being the other.
As a result Calshot has remained similar to its original design and is much as it would have been, looking out towards Spithead, Portsmouth and ultimately. Calshot Castle has undergone many changes since it was built in 1539 during the reign of Henry VIII. It was once the largest and most technologically advanced sea fortification of its day, but gradually fell out of use until it was almost completely buried under shifting sands. In the 19th century there were plans for it to be demolished, but instead under the ownership of Sir John Thornycroft, this historic gem was resurrected.
On the Hampshire coast amongst the white cliffs, lies a seaside fortress known as Calshot Castle. Architecturally it is one of only two regular pentagon shaped castles in England and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent castle was built during the reign of Henry VIII between 1540-1547 and was constructed by Sir John Williams to defend Britain against attack from France, Spain and Holland. Calshot Castle was built during Henrys’ reign as part of the castles associated with his coastal defense program.
Such a program was necessitated by a number of factors. First, he was facing considerable threats from rivalry between the French and Spanish who were in open combat on the high seas. This fighting would lead to conflict on land when England got dragged into siding with either France or Spain. Calshot Castle is located 5 miles south of Southampton on the mainland and across from the historic village of Calshot where it’s been home to British royalty, military officers, and their families since its construction.
1. Calshot Castle
Calshot Castle, which houses England’s oldest naval dockyard, dates back to 1540 and was built as part of Henry VIII's ambitious coastal defense scheme. Calshot Castle served as a base for the Royal Navy for over 400 years and is said to have seen the launch of some of the most famous British Warships including Francis Drake’s Golden Hind and Nelson’s HMS Victory. Calshot Castle sits at the very end of the Isle of Wight, UK and was constructed as part of Henry’s Device programme between 1539-45 after France invaded England in 1538.
The castle formed part of a chain of devices and fortifications known as Sconce along the southern coast to protect against an invaders landing. 2. The Lincoln Memorial. Located in Washington, DC, this iconic structure was designed by the American architect Henry Bacon. It became the focus of the civil rights movement after Martin Luther King Jr made his famous ‘I have a dream’ speech to an estimated 200,000 people on August 28 1963. Built between 1540 and 1544 Calshot is one of the best surviving examples of an artillery castle, which were built along the coast to protect England from invasion by French and Spanish forces.
2. Odiham Castle
There has been a castle at Odiham since at least the 8th century when Wessex was ruled by King Ine, who had his court there. The castle is first mentioned in 1211 when King John visited. It was garrisoned during the First Barons War but fell into disrepair soon after. A partial excavation of the castle's remains was undertaken in 1921. Attempts to preserve the remains have been made by English Heritage but these are largely restricted to footpaths and gardens around the ruins.
The castle was attacked several times by the French in the late 13th Century (1347 for example). In 1351 it was leased to Sir John de Ow and his family, who were responsible for continued construction on the fortress. In the 15th century Odiham became a Royalist stronghold during the Wars of the Roses but with no money available for restoration the castle fell into disrepair. John's castle was built of clay and timber, possibly because his more favoured residence, Windsor Castle, was just down the road.
It had a hall, two towers, and an outer wall. It endured just 18 years before it was attacked by King Stephen in 1223. The Knights Templar who owned the property defended it against a much larger force for days until they were defeated. The castle was well positioned along a pathway between London and Winchester and used by the king for his travels. It was burnt down in 1377 along with the church in Odiham after the townspeople took part in a rebellion against the taxes that have been imposed upon them.
The site is now located in the grounds of a Victorian, Gothic revival house built over much of the castle ruins, so it's not possible to see all of them. Odiham Castle is a dimple to visit if you're in the vicinity. You can see them all at www. heritage. org. uk/visit/hampshire. English Heritage have done a great job keeping the ruins of Titchfield Abbey in good condition. The royal blue hue of the stone contrasts perfectly with the green surroundings.
4. Hurst Castle
Hurst Castle is located on the beach near the village of Hurst, at Hampshire, and although it is commonly known as a castle it was actually never one. It was always just a fort which offered protection to the country’s coast from attack during the military events that took place in England in 1539. The construction of the castle, however, took place during Henry VIII’s time when a huge number of castles were constructed. The remains of the castle are situated on Hurst Spit in Hampshire, overlooking the Solent.
It is the spit that protects the entrance to Southampton Water. The site was selected along with Calshot Castle and further fortifications including Palmerston forts were constructed in the 19th century to defend Southampton against potential attack by foreign foes. Calshot Castle was our first stop in our southern tour of the United Kingdom. We then went on to explore Hurst Castle, which is 7 miles further down the coast from Calshot Castle. Both are really cool medieval sea forts that were built in a time when England was going through times of tumultuous change that eventually led to it becoming a world power.
A brick-built sea fort, Hurst Castle is an unusual surviving example of the Henrician Castles built in the early 16th century to protect England’s southern coasts from invasion. Its survival, virtually intact, makes it a unique historical monument. Hurst Castle is located on the east side of the Solent, opposite Calshot Castle and dates back to 1540. The castle was built to defend against any threats by the French. It has been through many wars, and been altered over time.
5. Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle is home to the eighth earl of Carnarvon and his family and is a listed English Heritage property. The castle and grounds are open to the public on certain days throughout the year, for example; July and August Bank Holiday Mondays, Spring Bank Holiday Monday, Father’s Day (Sunday closest in June) and September (except Monday). Entry to Highclere Castle is £10. 80 per adult with accompanying children under 16 going free – though do check their website for special offers and seasonal event times as well as directions to the castle.
There is plenty of free parking on site. Highclere was described by the Guardian as “the most perfect house in England a masterpiece of Palladian architecture”. It has also been used in films such as ‘The Wings of the Dove’ and ‘Shadowlands’. The latter is fitting for a house that became the family home of C. S. Lewis, writer of The Lion, the Witch and The Wardrobe. If you visit Highclere Castle today, you will find yourself dazzled by a real Cinderella Castle with plenty of history behind it.
_ >>MORE. Highclere Castle is perhaps the most famous building on this list. It served as the setting for the popular PBS (USA) show Downton Abbey. The castle itself was built in 1679, and since that time has changed hands multiple times. Its best known architecht is Charles Barry, who went on to design Lancaster House in London and serve as supervisor of design for much of the reconstruction works following the great fire of London in 1666.
Highclere Castle is a National Trust property that has been in the Carnarvon family since 1679. The castle is now owned by George Herbert, the 8th earl of Carnarvon. He took over ownership of Highclere Castle after his father died in 2001. His older brother, Porchester, had been killed in an accident while alter-egoing as James Bond for a charity event at Highclere Castle. Highclere Castle is a stately home in the English county of Hampshire.
It’s located about 12 miles from Newbury and Winchester. Despite its name, Highclere Castle is not actually in the village of Highclere, but sits on an unclassified road between the villages of Great Chart and East Wellow, two miles southwest of Newbury, and six miles east of Winchester. The first written records of Highclere Castle date back to 749AD, but the building before you today is a little more modern than that. It is perhaps most famous for its staterooms, which are centre stage in the TV series Downton Abbey.
6. Southsea Castle
One of the finest examples of an 18th century military fortification in Europe, built as a coastal artillery battery to protect Portsmouth harbour. The massive three-storey Horse Shoe shaped ramparts that enclose three sides of the moated Southsea Castle have massive D-shaped towers at each end and bastions along the front face. There are decorative raised gun platforms and musketry galleries inside on the Parade and adjoining West Park. Along with Netley Castle, Southsea Castle is one of two surviving artillery forts on the south coast of England.
The fort was built between 1544 and 1547 to defend Portsmouth Harbour against a possible sea-borne attack. Most people visit Southsea Castle for its extensive views across Portsmouth Naval Base as well as its close proximity to the historic Mary Rose ship, which sits within Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Southsea Castle was built shortly after Portsmouth became an important naval base. It was designed by Henry VIII and his master engineer, Wimbledon, in 1544, and construction started in 1545.
The design was unique for its time, with no military fort having been built anywhere like it before. This revolutionary style would become the model for many of England's coastal artillery forts during the 17th century. It’s easy to imagine Henry VIII like the king of the Seven Kingdoms from Game of Thrones. Growing obsessed with artillery towers, he started building forts along the Solent (Between England and France). It began with Hurst in 1544 followed by Calshot Castle in 1545 and finally Southsea Castle in 1549.
The castle was meant to defend English shipping from attack by Anne of Brittany and Francis I of France. The castle was built between 1544 and 1545 following the success of Henry VIII’s artillery forts at Hurst, Pendennis and St Mawes (Pendennis still survives). It underwent many changes during its lifetime. Through the Civil War, the days of sailing ships, the First and Second World Wars and eventually into modern times when it became home to Trinity House.
7. Portchester Castle
Built on a strategic position overlooking the mouth of the River Meon, Portchester Castle is situated just outside Portsmouth in Hampshire. The castle was originally founded by the Romans but was later captured by William the Conqueror in 1066 and then went to Henry II and his successors for many years. In fact Portchester Castle was held by Henry II’s wife, Eleanor of Aquitaine, here for six months after Henry II's death. As a military fortress, Portchester played an important role during the second world war against Nazi Germany as part of the "Hellfire Corner" along with other castles such as Arundel and Pevensey.
Below is a short history timeline chart showing an outline of its development through ancient history:. If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle, Portchester is the perfect spot. It’s just beautiful and very quiet. Portchester castle was recommended by my friend. He and his girlfriend came here to see the graves of his favourite musicians, which also happens to be located on site. The couples beautifully carved tombstones are easy to miss but our guide pointed them out to us.
It wasn't until I noticed a woman stopping to read Elizabeth Fisher's tombstone that I realized how significant it was to us, her fans. And it really was moving, as often people meeting their idols can be disappointing, not this time though. It is interesting because my friend said he likes their music. The castle was built over the Roman fort, as they put walls around the large ditches that already existed. Its purpose was more for protection from raiders from the sea on the English Channel than to ward off a coastal invasion.
When William the Conqueror came to England in 1066 and he bypassed Portchester Castle because of its size. It wasn't until Henry I in 1100 that it was considered to be one of the most significant castles in Western Europe. By then it was in a very poor state, but then so was a lot of this country. For castles, Portchester is one of the more preserved examples you will come across in England. If you are lovers of history and architecture then you will really appreciate this.
Most people love exploring old buildings, but when they are full of history it makes it that much better. When it comes to this castle, there is no doubt that the history is interesting because of how old it is. In 1848 the castle was converted into residential apartments for the families of military officers. The last family left in 1996 and since that time it has been open to visitors, but only as a part of visit packages from London places and portchester castle.
Portchester Castle in Portchester, Hampshire was built by Henry II in the 12th century. It has had lots of functions over its extensive history, so it is a must see for anyone with an interest in castle history!. Hurst Castle is the best preserved fortress of its kind, and offers plenty of different areas to explore. English Heritage in Hampshire are experts who look after and provide access to hundreds of historic buildings and monuments on our behalf.
8. Southampton Castle
The castle was first constructed by Osmund, the Bishop of Salisbury, using earth and timber, hence its nickname, "the Castle in the Mud. " The bishop of Southampton had originally asked Osmund to build a fortification in the city as protection from Viking raids. However, no evidence exists to suggest that it achieved this purpose. Henry I ordered a stone keep to be built in 1140 and gave the city some additional land to support the cost of construction.
In 1142, King Stephen took over Southampton Castle as he made his way towards London to claim the throne. It was during this time that Henry II made some additions and improvements. In the early years of its existence, Southampton Castle was manned by a small number of men tasked with protecting the South Coast from invading forces. But, as the years progressed and more coin and manpower was dedicated to building the castle, it became a majestic and mighty fortress that could withstand attacks from the sea.
It became such an important fortification that William the Conqueror gave it to Richard de Redvers as part of his reward for helping him claim England in 1066, but after only 18 years of occupation, it fell into disrepair – possibly due to faulty design. The castle stood for nearly 300 years but it was demolished in the late 1300s during the 100 Years War. This came about because a new fortification, Southampton Castle, had been built on the opposite bank of the River Itchen in 1293 to protect the city from sea attacks.
Its design was based on its larger cousin in Windsor Castle, and consisted of an inner bailey protected by an earthen motte. The outer bailey was protected by another moat. The whole castle was surrounded by a defensive wall. The most famous siege of Southampton Castle came in 1415 during the Hundred Years War. The castle was besieged by the army of Henry V (yes, that Henry V), and was captured after a month of attacks.
Barges were sunk in the river to prevent supplies from reaching the castle, and barrels were thrown over the walls to cause havoc amongst those defending it. This led to a breach in the curtain wall which eventually allowed for an assault on the castle. Like most of England, Southampton Castle was first built during the Norman period. It was in 1068 that William the Conqueror began his campaign to conquer England after a disagreement with the Pope.
9. Netley Castle
Built in the Tudor period, Netley Castle was turned into a fortress by Henry VIII. Historians believe the castle was constructed to protect Southampton from French invasion. However, what makes this castle unique is that it was converted into one of the most luxurious private residences in the area during the 18th century. The conversion was completed between 1758 and 1781, and besides having a more comfortable interior design, the new owner also added in Gothic features to modernise the structure.
When Charles Herbert purchased Netley Castle in 1899 he went far beyond mere modernisation. He transformed the building into a luxurious home with intricate designs and Gothic additions; these can still be found throughout the property today despite it falling into disrepair. The coast-line of Southampton was of huge strategic importance to Henry VIII. No less than 4 fortification towers, walls and forts were constructed to protect the Solent and prevent enemy attacks on his ports, towns and navy ships.
Netley Castle was one of these coastal defence forts and was completed in 1543. It formed part of Henry's southern entry strategy into Hampshire, the shifting sands of which threatened to undermine its structure cladding. Netley Castle defended Southampton against seaborne enemy attacks in a similar way to Hurst Castle; by firing bolts towards approaching ships from out-dated guns mounted on scaffolds (you can see where the holes on the stone are from these holes).
The year was 1543 and England was at war. The King had a plan to defend English shores but he needed money. He amassed tributes and in return for this money, the King promised to protect England from foreign attack. Henry VIII built coastal Forts all along the coast which are still visible today. The most impressive of these is undoubtedly Netley Castle which lay in ruins until 1998 when it was transformed into a private home.
The Netley Castle is also referred to "The Needle" castle, and little is known about its history. It was built in the 16th century to protect Southampton's town harbour and Old Portsmouth from marauding pirates, but was decommissioned as a fort at the end of the Civil War. The remains of the castle still consist of two semi-circular bastions and curtain walls. Built in 1539, Netley Castle was amongst one of the many forts Henry VIII built to protect the south coast from attack.
Towards the end of 16th century, Sir George Gage converted Netley into a private home, and the house passed on to several hands over the years. The remnants of Netley Castle now lie in the village of Netley on the Solent in Hampshire. Built by Henry VIII, it was one three forts built as a defence against attack from the French. After defeating the English at the Battle of Hastings, William, as part of his victory celebrations, ordered for this castle to be built on a hill next to the River Itchen.
10. Wolvesey Castle
All that remains of this palace built by Henry de Blois, Bishop of Winchester to rival his brother's palace at Kings Worthy, is Wolvesey tower. The massive keep was built in 1110. Three bishops are buried here, and there were important monastic buildings: the Old Infirmary, which dates from the twelfth century and still has its medieval roof; and a Chamber which dates from the fourteenth century; with beautiful vaulting (probably added by Henry Chichele) and an Elizabethan fireplace.
Since 1971 the part containing the Infirmary has been used as a museum - originally run by the Friends of Wolvesey but now owned by Hampshire County Council. The rest of the complex is leased by Winchester City Council as a. Wolvesey was founded by Henry de Blois in 1129 as a palace for the Bishopric of Winchester. It was built on land that had belonged to his family for over three centuries. The robust stone tower was a refuge from the riotous motes that would disrupt the churchs work.
Wolvesey was valued by other rulers because it was deemed safe from attack, particularly after it withstood a siege during the Baron's War of 1173. The walls of Wolvesey Castle were ten feet thick at their base and there were four towers each reaching twenty-five feet high. The Watergate Tower was an impressive forty feet high and until the modern age this stone building remained one of the city’s most noticeable landmarks. Wolvesey was first constructed in the 11th century, although the exact date is not known.
It was originally a grand wooden palace, and was expanded over the years until it became a colourful and sumptuous palace made up of four courts: the bishop’s hall, or great chamber; the green court, for entertainment and sport; the red court, for administration; and the white court for private rooms. It was ruined by Oliver Cromwell during the English Civil War in 1648 and rebuilt in stone in 1377 but sank into disrepair again before being finally demolished by Bishop Matthew Wren in 1780.
". Snaking high are the remains of Wolvesey Castle, the Winchester episcopal palace of bishops and kings. Founded by Henry de Blois in the early twelfth century, the castle was frequently expanded to provide accommodation for all those who sought sanctuary there – including monks and scholars. The ruins of Wolvesey tower are situated in Winchester City, a medieval cathedral city with a fascinating history. The tower was part of the original Benedictine Priory of St Peter.
Built in the 12th century it survived for over 400 years until Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. The ruins of Wolvesey castle are found near Winchester cathedral and are surrounded by other church buildings. Wolvesey was once a beautiful medieval palace that stood proud against the skyline of Winchester. The motte (mound) is surrounded by a manmade bulwark made of stone. Today, the entrance to this type of castle is referred to as a gateway.