Things to do in Winchester
One of the best things about Winchester is the citys proximity to so much of the rest of England. Just a stone's throw away are the New Forest, one of England's largest national parks, and the white cliffs of Dover. Theres also lots of local attractions to enjoy in Winchester itself, including Great Hall - home to King Arthur's legendary round table and Candlemass Close. The historic city of Winchester, former capital of England, has a wealth of attractions to explore, from its magnificent Cathedral to its superb military museums.
The Great Hall is home to King Arthurs legendary Round Table and is the only surviving part of Winchester Castle, Hampshire List (hampshire-list.co.uk). On the outskirts of Winchester you will find 120 acres wildlife park at Marwell Zoo. What is the best way to enjoy the county's wealth and heritage? Well it's not all about visiting the attractions. It is also great fun to explore Winchester city centre on foot, relax by the river or enjoy a local farm shop for fresh produce.
Things to do in Portsmouth
Portsmouth is a great little city with some interesting history. Its origins go right back to the Roman era when it served as a military base for legions. In more recent times, it's played an important part in Britain's naval heritage and acted as a magnet for tourists, serving as home to the Mary Rose and HMS Victory. There are heaps of things for people new to the area to do with its historic waterfront areas and bustling shopping centres buzzing with life.
. Portsmouth is a historic city boasting an illustrious heritage. A place where you can find the Mary Rose Museum, the Museum of the Royal Marines and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. For those that have visions of sailing ships and parts of Nelson's Victory, a trip to Portsmouth should be top of your list for things to do in the UK. Here are just a few attractions that Portsmouth has to offer when you're visiting.
Things to do in the New Forest National Park
New Forest National Park, boasting one of the most expansive and varied landscapes in southern England, is located on the south coast of Hampshire. The gorgeous park offers extensive coastal areas between Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight, a large amount of inland woodland and slightly more inland areas. It is also part of the world heritage listed sites as well as an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). The New Forest National Park stretches into Hampshire from the county border just south of Southampton right up to Lyme Regis in Dorset.
It’s well known for its beauty, particularly around one of its villages, Brockenhurst - often voted one of the prettiest villages in England. But within this wondrous area lies a host of fantastic places to go and things to see that will appeal to all ages. If you are planning a weekend down south to explore the New Forest National Park, why not have a snapshot of everything to do for when you get there.
The New Forest National Park is a beautiful area stretching from Lymington to Christchurch. This post covers all that you and your family can enjoy in this fantastic part of England. Stretching for 160 square miles between Southampton, Bournemouth and Christchurch, the New Forest National Park is one of the largest open spaces in England. Visitors can explore the park on foot or go horse riding through its extensive network of bridleways. The city of Portsmouth has been inhabited for nearly 1000 years, and despite many changes to the layout of the city, remains a treasure trove of history.
Things to do in the South Downs National Park
South Downs National Park is a beautiful area of land in England which encompasses a range of different activities to suit every type of holidaymaker. Whatever your interests, the South Downs can provide something for you to enjoy. If you're looking for an adventurous holiday, there are loads of outdoor activities available here. There is an abundance of wildlife around meaning you could go bird watching or even have a chance to spot a red squirrel.
If you're searching for a more relaxing trip, East Hampshire District offers some local attractions such as Gilbert Whites House & Garden and Birdland Park & Gardens. People who are looking for things to do in the South Downs National Park might be interested in visiting attractions that pay tribute to their favorite novelists. The Jane Austen Centre (Chawton House) allows visitors to walk through the gardens and visit the signature red barn where the writer wrote her novels.
Other people who appreciate English literature may prefer a visit with a natural history twist by visiting Gilbert White's House and The Oates Collection. East Hampshire and the South Downs National Park showcase the most varied types of scenery. In the borderlands of Surrey and Hampshire, visitors can walk amongst beech woodland; stroll coastal paths; or gather wild flowers in open chalk downs – truly one of England’s best kept secrets. East Hampshire and the South Downs National Park offer more than just Jane Austen however.
From walking trails that allow you to follow in her footsteps, museums dedicated to natural history to a country house with a garden, there are plenty of things to do here for visitors. Lovers of fine food and British countryside can book an escape to The Grove in East Hampshire, one of the most luxurious hotels in the region. Treat your tastebuds with seasonal, locally sourced, organic food at award-winning chef Raymond Blancs Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons.
Things to do North Hampshire
Mill Lane Mill, a working silk mill, can be found just off the A343 between Whitchurch and Sherfield. It is situated on the banks of the River Test in the valley of North Walkely Wood. It provides a wealth of history about the local area through the stories and recollections of those who worked there. The mill road runs alongside the Test Way, a cycle path that runs along the river from Aldershot to Stockbridge.
One of the many things I absolutely love about North Hampshire is the fact that we have the UKs only working silk mill. It’s a historic site (dating back over 180 years). Like many of the other sites in North Hampshire it has fascinating history and makes for a great little day out for all ages. The most popular things to do in North Hampshire include Basingstoke, the world famous Whitchurch Silk Mill and Goodwood Road Racing Circuit.
But did you know that there are some lovely National Trust properties in the area?. Sweet memories on this excellent site for visitors to the North Hampshire area. Also a good place to get information on nearby attractions like Basingstoke, Winchester and The Holt Heath National Nature Reserve. Plunge into Portsmouth and you'll happen upon no end of places to go and things to do. Here are just five things you could be doing with your time in Portsmouth.
Things to do in the Test Valley
Test Valley is famous for its beautiful countryside, and the population tends to be just as beautiful. The Test Valley welcomes you to explore its many towns and villages, which also offer a wealth of history and natural beauty. You can visit the fascinating Royal Military Canal at Durford and Whitsbury, visit the home of one of the greatest writers in English history – Jane Austen; or you can take the family to see a play or musical at South Downs Planetarium.
Test Valley is a fertile valley that covers an area of 751 square kilometers and contains four major towns, as well as a number of charming villages, hamlets and historic sites. Test Valley is divided into five townships; Stockbridge, New Alresford, Totton, Romsey and Redbridge. There are many things to do in the Test Valley. The picturesque landscape has many great attractions, including the prized collections of the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens near Romsey and the world favourite rose gardens at the National Trust property Mottisfont.
Hampshire Countryside
First of all, Hampshire is a county in England. However, it’s not the only country (I mean county) in the UK worth visiting. If you have a few days to spare and happen to be staying in central London, why not get out and about and explore some beautiful countrysides. We visited Hampshire which is just on the south coast of England. It was so beautiful! It is full of hills, lush green pastures and gorgeous lakes.
I will fully admit that I know very little about all things country – but I'm slowly learning!. You're not looking at a real photograph of a cow, but one that was drawn in. The part of Hampshire where I live is very beautiful, and so it's good to see something that is beautiful being recognised for once by "The Daily Telegraph" rather than those other things we're quite known for. Thank you "Daily Telegraph" for appreciating our cows!.
Hampshire Coast
A large area of the county, including the New Forest, was designated a national park in 2005. The National Park is largely rural in nature and offers plenty of space to stretch your legs and enjoy all that nature has to offer. You will also find some great places to stay with accommodation ranging from campsites and family resorts to trendy hotels or self-catering cottages. Hampshire is an amazing place to live. From the stunning South Downs to the Solent, that melds with the English Channel.
There's something for everyone in this part of East Sussex. But sometimes we need a reminder of what we have on our doorstep. So we've picked ten amazing things to do through this East Hampshire website blog post. One of the things that attracted us to Hampshire was how beautiful the country side in our part of the world is. We have some stunning villages, and a wonderful landscape with everything from rolling hills to farm land.
Shopping in Hampshire
Hampshire is a region in the United Kingdom that is home to lot of small towns and big cities. Hampshire is a place you can go to relax, unwind, and of course look for shopping deals. If you are looking for stores selling different products, you will find a retail store that deals with what you are looking for. You can go for shopping in an outlet store or flea market where products are offered at discounted rates.
Shopping here means a trip to a beautiful landscape that has some of the best stores where you can find clothing items, fashion accessories, arts and crafts, food products, movies and CDs among others. If you’re hoping to find shopping malls in Hampshire, you won’t be disappointed. Hampshire is home to a number of huge shopping centres, including Gunwharf Quays and Westquay in Portsmouth, Festival Place in Basingstoke and the huge retail district that is Eastleigh.
Along with this there are many independent shops to be found across the county, allowing you to spend hours getting lost in local stores and boutiques. West Quay. West Quay…West Quay…West Quay Southampton. That shopping centre that you can never remember the name of and was there before Sail Loft, the crumpet sandwich shop somehow fit into an old boat, and the thousands of awesome independent traders that have come along since. There are plenty of opportunities to indulge in shopping across Hampshire.
Jane Austen in Hampshire
There’s a lot of Jane Austen in Hampshire. From Basingstoke to Winchester and from Southampton to Bodmin – you can immerse yourself in the places and landscape that inspired some of her most loved novels including Mansfield Park and Emma. Some guidebooks tell you about the pretty towns, villages, churches and gardens in the area, but none of them will allow you to discover a different side to Jane Austen’s life; a side with which she was not entirely comfortable.
A tour guide by the name of William Benn has created an interesting map that outlines the locations visited by Jane Austen in Hampshire. The guide has also included details about her life and some popular areas of Hampshire. This includes the beautiful place of Winchester, her fathers home at Steventon, Chawton House and many other notable places. Hampshire's Jane Austen literary heritage lies firmly in the county town of Winchester where two of the author’s homes remain perfectly preserved and open to visitors, as well as two biographical museums dedicated to her.
The city of Winchester and the surrounding area is home to some of Englands most picturesque and important national heritage sites. One of those sites is Jane Austens house in Chawton. Hampshire is home to some fabulous department stores, designer boutiques and supermakets as well as exceptional independent retailers and online stores that will meet every wish and budget. One of the prettiest areas we live in is called Itchen Valley. This valley is not really a valley at all but a.
Walking & Hiking in Hampshire
There are fourteen linear long distance paths, and a number of 'offshoot'routes recommended for walking or hiking in Hampshire. One of the most popular trails is the South Downs Way which stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne and has a network of bridleways, byways and local roads that take you through the wonderful scenery of the South Downs National Park. The South Downs Way follows the chalk ridge which runs across southern England from east to west.
Walking & Hiking in Hampshire is a collection of 160,000 square kilometres which stretches from Winchester to the New Forest with my personal favourite being the New Forest National Park. You could be walking through woodland trails, coastal paths or those that lead you into history itself. There are pubs, cafes and restaurants as well as hotels where you can overnight to ensure you have a wonderful time when hiking the trails in Hampshire. Walking and hiking in Hampshire is a great way to experience this varied county.
From the spectacular coastline of the New Forest, the chalk escarpments of the South Downs National Park and the historic Studland Heath where according to legend Henry VIII hunted for deer, as well as Herefordshire, Dorset, Oxfordshire and Berkshire are all within easy reach. Walking and Hiking has never been more popular. The National Footpaths of England & Wales cover a vast area and include some of the most recognisable landscapes. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, walking is the perfect way to get out there and discover everything walking has to offer.
So how do you choose from the thousands of paths in Hampshire?. Walking and hiking is my favourite hobby. And I’m always keen to discover new places which can be done by following one of Hampshire’s 3,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways or byways across two National Parks; beautiful countryside; a coastline offering views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight and through hamlets, towns and cities. Walking and Hiking in Hampshire is a website that will be edited by people who live and work in Hampshire (people who know the area).
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
The level of COVID-19 activity in Hampshire, coupled with the nationwide spread of cases and subsequent grounding of public transport, means that Central Government has activated Article 10 of The Defence (Emergency) Act 1964 (as amended). This authorises emergency measures to be introduced to prevent the spread of infection. These measures include a geographical quarantine affecting parts of the counties of Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire. The Government has confirmed that a new influenza strain, known as ‘Coronavirus (COVID-19)’ (the same virus that caused problems in the Arabian peninsular in 2014) is currently spreading throughout Britain and beyond.
The virus is being spread through coughing and sneezing but can also be transmitted by contact between hands and mouth, contaminated surfaces and airborne droplets caused by sneezing etc. Coronavirus (COVID-19). Following the Government announcement on Monday 4 January 2021, Hampshire is in National lockdown: Stay at Home. Some of our services are affected by the pandemic. Visit our COVID-19 webpages for the latest updates and changes to services, as well as for information and guidance.
Hampshire County Council and our partners remain alert to the risk of a flu pandemic occurring in England. To ensure we have the best possible response, we are participating in the Department of Health’s Pandemic Influenza Risk Assessment Committee (PIRAC). Authorities in the UK have confirmed today (4 January 2021) that a new strain of Coronavirus (COVID-19), has entered the country. In common with other governments, we are advising people to ‘Stay at Home’ and not travel unless their journey is essential.
Creative activities to do at home with kids during lockdown
I totally understand how frustrating it can be to try and keep children entertained during ‘lockdown’ periods. Often the kids are asking for their tablets or phones but when those are confiscated, what can you do? I’ve gathered together a bunch of great activities that will keep free your kids right through until the end of lockdown!. When you are stuck inside during lockdown it can mean one of two things, either there is some unusual weather going on or there has been a terrorist attack and the buildings are being secured accordingly.
In either case, there is a lot of boredom to be dealt with until you can get back to work. My kids are baaaaaack! And the bummer is they are going to spend a week being bored as we have tornado and cyclone warnings and school is closed. This post has a range of activities to keep them entertained if you are in this situation too. I have been in lockdown twice now and it can change the perspective you have of your home.
As a parent I was worried about the impact on my baby but also wondered what I could do to keep busy and stop us from being bored out our minds. Perhaps you’re wondering why you would need to enjoy a lockdown session? Of course, it’s unlikely – but there are worse things in life than taking a day off work to just hang out with your kids. We have put together a range of guides with ideas for creative things to do with children of different ages.
Attractions and days out for all the family
Paultons Park has a huge range of rides from magical flying unicorns to high-speed rollercoasters and water rides. Paultons Park is great for those who love speed! There are plenty of rides for children – even baby rides too. If you’re looking for something more settled, you could always head over to the Peppa Pig World and splash around with Peppa Pig in her wading pool or on her slide. They have recently introduced a new mini railway ride which looks so much fun!.
At Peppa Pig World you and your family will have a world of fun. You can see the animated Peppa Pig character come to life in this exciting theme park, ride for miles and enjoy many entertainment attractions which include a carousel, flying rockets, go-kart rides, slides, submarines and many more. Plus everyone's favourite characters are there to meet and greet including Peppa Pig, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and all their friends. Also combing Hampshire is Citipark, home to Europe's largest collection of Nickelodeon Land rides and attractions.
This popular family attraction boasts over 50 fantastic rides and attractions including Laser War, Spongebob Squarepants 4D and the Park's simulator ride, Big Red Run. The Park combines a large selection of rides with live entertainment daily from Nick stars including Charmz & Jorge. But that’s not all! The New Forest is an area with so much to do, you’ll definitely be making your way out to the forest more than once! In fact, when you book into one of our fantastic holiday cottages in the New Forest, it’s likely that you’ll spend the majority of your holiday exploring what we have on offer.
Indulge your senses
If you’re looking for a perfect spa day experience, you’ll want to get pampered in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The New Forest is one of the south coasts most exclusive regions, with some of the best views in England. It’s a place that is full of contrasts; on the one hand it has stunning coastline, beaches and coves. On the other you have forested countryside, which is home to roaming deer, eagles and some fabulous walks!.
Despite the temperate weather and abundant outdoor activities, the New Forest has no shortage of day spas that offer everything from hot stone therapy to pampering treatments for enhanced well-being. Some spa hotels, like The Milverton in Beaulieu with its stunning views are ideal for indulgent spa breaks. The New Forest is blessed with a range of spas, which each have their own individual appeal. Come in and indulge yourself at one of these award-winning centres, experience an array of treatments from the region’s best therapists, and unwind in our peaceful surroundings.
Are you looking to relax in style? Indulge your senses at some of the finest relaxing spas in the New Forest. Sign up to our newsletter and be the first to hear what’s new or sign up to our social networks and share your favourite experiences with us. Millbrook offers the perfect destination for anyone who wants to pamper themselves. Visit us to unwind at one of our luxurious day spas in the New Forest, stay at a spa hotel and enjoy treatments in some truly stunning surroundings.