Things To Do in Hampshire

There are so many top things to do in Hampshire, a county famous for the home of Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle to one of the UK's tallest publicly accessible buildings outside of London at Portsmouth's Spinnaker Tower.

From the picturesque rolling countryside of the New Forest to the lively coastal cities of Portsmouth and Southampton, you'll never be short of ideas of what to do in Hampshire. The New Forest stretches across 140,000 acres of ancient woodland and unspoilt grassland. It's one of the most beautiful national parks in the UK and home to dozens of fascinating historic villages. 

Hampshire is also home to Winchester. Most famous for one of the country’s oldest cathedrals, Winchester Cathedral, this ancient city was once the capital of England. Find out more about the county's towns and villages with our interactive map of Hampshire.

With its clear chalk streams, thatched cottages and cosy pubs, Hampshire’s countryside is a hidden gem for visitors. Here you’ll find historic buildings, fascinating interactive museums and bustling market towns, together with delicious local produce and gentle scenic walks.

Things to do in Hampshire this weekend

Many of Hampshire's tourist attractions and points of interest are open all year round so find something to do today with activities listings each showing a map and opening times for your convenience. Or why not browse our events guide to find out what's on in Hampshire today or this week.

If you love to shop, Gunwharf Quays is one of Hampshire's best days out and is far more than shopping. With over 90 premium retail outlets and up to 60% off the RRP, plus over 30 delicious restaurants, Gunwharf Quays really will leave you spoilt for choice.

Visit today to experience the idyllic South Coast setting while you save on your favourite designer brands. But it doesn’t stop there…on top of late-night shop and restaurant opening there is a Vue Cinema, Bowlplex and Grosvenor Casino. You many come for the shopping, but you’ll stay for the views.

Top 11 things to do in Hampshire

• Marwell Zoo, Winchester 
• Emirates Spinnaker Tower, Portsmouth
• Mid-Hants Railway 'Watercress Line', Alresford 
• Winchester Science Centre & Planetarium, Winchester
• Bombay Sapphire Gin Distillery, Whitchurch 
• Mayflower Theatre, Southampton 
• Beaulieu National Motor Museum, New Forest
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth 
• Forest Leisure Cycling, Burley
• Hawk Conservancy Trust, Andover 
• Jane Austen's House Museum, Alton 

From period dramas such as the hit ITV show Downton Abbey to action movies including James Bond, Hampshire has set the scene for a wide variety of productions. Take a tour and find out more about some of the county's best known film locations.

For ideas and inspiration on where to stay, what's on and things to do in Hampshire visit the official website, Visit-Hampshire.

List of things to do & places to visit for days out in Hampshire

For more information about Hampshire, including ideas for days out, attractions and events, view the list below for information on things to do and towns and villages in Hampshire. Use the 'map view' button to find something near you.