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.
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.
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.
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.
Number of results: 163
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Towns & Villages
Barton-on-Sea
Barton-on-Sea boasts superb coastal walks, including the start of the Solent Way which spans the length of Keyhaven Nature Reserve.
Towns & Villages
Located in the heart of the New Forest National Park situated between Lyndhurst and Lymington, Brockenhurst is a bustling village, one of the largest in the area.
Towns & Villages
Milford-on-Sea
Milford-on-Sea is a traditional village with spectacular views, great beaches and thriving wildlife. Part of the New Forest National Park, this area is perfect for exploring cliff top walks and wildlife.
Towns & Villages
Keyhaven
This small, quiet village overlooks the Solent and has lovely views of Hurst Castle and the Isle of Wight. Although there are no shops, there are two sailing clubs and a small pub.
Towns & Villages
Burley
The picturesque village of Burley lies in the heart of the New Forest. With its pretty thatched cottages, old fashioned shops and cosy tea rooms, the village is a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Museum
HM Naval Base, Portsmouth
The Royal Navy has helped to shape the world. It made Britain a dominant sea power, protected its trade in troubled times and defended Britain from invasion or carried the attack overseas. The Royal Navy has touched the lives of millions of people…
Historic House / Palace
Stansted Park is home to stunning weddings, forest walks, afternoon teas and some of the best events in the south! Visit the Mansion for a real sense of a bygone era.
Windmill
Bursledon
Bursledon Windmill is currently closed for restoration until November and so not currently open to the public.
Museum
Alton
Historic house and garden, home of Gilbert White, author of 'The Natural History of Selborne'. Exhibition on Frank Oates, explorer and Capt Lawrence Oates of Antarctic fame.
Historic House / Palace
Alton
Chawton House Library is an internationally respected research library with a unique collection of early English women's writing from 1600 to 1830. Access to the Library's collection is for the benefit of academics, scholars, students and the general
Towns & Villages
Lymington
The Georgian market town of Lymington is set on the coast in the beautiful New Forest National Park, between Southampton and Bournemouth. Famous for its sailing history, there are two large marinas filled with fishing boats and yachts, as well as…
Museum
Lyndhurst
Find out what makes the Forest so special at the New Forest Centre. The Museum is great for families and there's a Gallery, Library, Visitor Information Centre and Gift Shop too!
Animal Collection / Zoo
Ashurst, Lyndhurst
Make friends with the sika and fallow deer who follow you around or marvel at the watchful wolves or the cheeky otters. Enjoy the amazing Go Wild! adventure playgrounds as well as the other wonderful wildlife.
Towns & Villages
Situated on the River Test and surrounded by picturesque rolling countryside, Whitchurch is Hampshire’s smallest town; it is also the first Walkers are Welcome town in North Hampshire. Early settlements here date from around 400BC, and there is also…
Towns & Villages
Escape to the South Downs and become revitalised in this peaceful and relaxing part of Hampshire. Hampshire’s South Downs has quite a different feel from the rest of the new National Park. With its steep wooded hills and hidden valleys of watercress…
Nature Reserve
Hill Head
Wetland nature reserve with varied habitats including river, marshland and scrapes. Excellent birdwatching with easy access to the viewing hides. Good views of other wildlife.
Museum
Petersfield
A selection of fascinating paintings of local interest by local artist.
Distillery
BASINGSTOKE
Nestled in the beautiful Hampshire village of Upton Grey, Gorilla Spirits Co.’s distillery is where they make their range of small-batch, award-winning spirits – all while donating £1 from every bottle to The Gorilla Organization.
Towns & Villages
The village of Wickham in the Meon Valley is home to the second largest medieval square in England. The bustling village centre is filled with interesting buildings and a selection of tea rooms, restaurants and independent shops.
Activity Organiser
Winchester
Forest Ranger activities at Blackwood Forest are a great way to explore with the forest. The rangers know the forest like the backs of their hands. Their enthusiasm is hard to resist and you can’t fail to be swept along as you learn about the…
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