Discover Hampshire: A Guide to England's Maritime County
Just an hour from London by train, Hampshire is a gem in England's crown, boasting historic cities like Winchester, Southampton, and Portsmouth. It's a place rich in maritime history and coastal charm.
Maritime enthusiasts will revel in the historic dockyards of Portsmouth, home to legendary naval ships, while Southampton's bustling port offers a glimpse into transatlantic travel history, including the story of the Titanic.
Here's a curated list of the top things to do in Hampshire, England.
1. Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard is a treasure trove of naval history, featuring the Mary Rose, Henry VIII's flagship, and the formidable HMS Victory. The dockyard offers a free entry to certain areas, with separate tickets for the historic ships.
Address: Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, Hampshire
2. Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth
The Mary Rose Museum showcases the preserved remains of Henry VIII's flagship, offering insights into Tudor naval warfare and life at sea.
Address: No. 3 Dock, Main Road, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, Hampshire
Official site: maryrose.org
3. Winchester Cathedral
Winchester, Hampshire's county town, is home to the magnificent 11th-century Winchester Cathedral. Nearby attractions include the Great Hall with King Arthur's Round Table and Winchester College.
Address: 9 The Close, Winchester, Hampshire
4. HMS Victory, Portsmouth
Explore the HMS Victory, Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle of Trafalgar, and delve into naval history at the National Museum of the Royal Navy.
Location: Main Road, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth
Official site: hms-victory.com
5. Solent Sky Museum, Southampton
Solent Sky celebrates Hampshire's aviation heritage, including the iconic Spitfire fighter plane.
Address: Albert Rd. South, Royal Crescent, Southampton, Hampshire
Official site: solentsky.org
6. Highclere Castle, Newbury
Highclere Castle, known to many as Downton Abbey, is a stunning 17th-century estate open for tours and events.
Location: Highclere Park, Highclere, Newbury, Hampshire
Official site: highclerecastle.co.uk
7. Isle of Wight Ferry
A ferry ride to the Isle of Wight is a delightful day trip, offering scenic views and attractions like Nunwell House and the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary.
8. Paultons Park, Romsey
Paultons Park is a family-friendly theme park featuring Peppa Pig World and other exciting attractions.
Address: Ower, Romsey, Hampshire
Official site: paultonspark.co.uk
9. SeaCity Museum, Southampton
SeaCity Museum delves into Southampton's maritime history, including the Titanic Story.
Address: Havelock Road, Southampton, Hampshire
Official site: seacitymuseum.co.uk
10. Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth
Enjoy panoramic views of the south coast from the Spinnaker Tower's observation decks.
Location: Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth, Hampshire
Official site: spinnakertower.co.uk
11. HMS Warrior, Portsmouth
Visit HMS Warrior, the world's first iron-clad warship, at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
Location: Victory Gate, HM Naval Base, Portsmouth, Hampshire
Official site: hmswarrior.org
12. The D-Day Story, Southsea
The D-Day Story in Southsea offers an interactive experience of the Normandy invasion.
Address: Clarence Esplanade, Southsea, Hampshire
Official site: theddaystory.com
13. Milestones Museum, Basingstoke
Milestones Museum brings Victorian to 1930s Hampshire to life with its living history exhibits.
Address: Basingstoke Leisure Park, Churchill Way West, Basingstoke, Hampshire
Official site: milestonesmuseum.org.uk
14. New Forest National Park, Lymington
New Forest National Park is a haven for wildlife, including wild ponies, and offers picturesque landscapes to explore.
Address: New Forest National Park Authority, Lymington Town Hall, Avenue Road, Lymington, Hampshire
Official site: newforestnpa.gov.uk
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a family adventure, Hampshire's diverse attractions are sure to delight.
