Love the outdoors? Here are our top four things to do in Hampshire
Summer is here! Whether you’re looking for an ideal spot for a kickabout, or somewhere to have a picnic with the family, Hampshire has a great selection of things to do to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are our top picks…
New Forest National Park
The New Forest is Hampshire’s most popular attractions year-round and 60% of visits to the National Park are visits by people who live in and around the local area. It is also accessible from our homes at St Leonards Park.
Wildlife wander freely in the New Forest, so you can watch animals in their natural habitats. One of the most interesting experiences can be found at the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, where you can watch these shy creatures from a distance on a specially made viewing platform.
The forest hosts a variety of activities for kids and adults to enjoy – including kayaking, cycling, archery and even zip wiring! If you’re looking for a more chilled day out, there’s a great selection of restaurants, pubs, bars, and cafes to choose from. Or, if you’re looking for the perfect place for a picnic in the summer sun, there are plenty of communal areas to choose from. Plus, many are dog friendly, so the whole family can get involved.
Chawton Park and Alton Town Centre
Local to our homes at Alexandra Place, Chawton Park is definitely worth a visit for a weekend stroll. This vibrant park is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers some amazing views of the nearby fields.
Fancy some adventure? Take a short walk to the nearby woodlands, where you can explore the area through accessible walking trails. What’s more, Chawton House is nearby, where you can visit the beautiful gardens. Or, why not take the Jane Austen Trail Walk from Chawton to Alton and see this famous town through the eyes of its most famous residents?
The mix of historic buildings, modern shops and restaurants in the town centre is sure to grab your attention. As a well-known market town, you might even find stalls set up around the square.
Portsmouth and Southsea
Just a short drive from our homes at The Orchards in Emsworth, Portsmouth is home to some of the most historic attractions on the south coast. With plenty of natural shoreline to enjoy on Eastney Beach and Clarence Pier, and wide-open space at Southsea Common, these areas have the makings of a great day out.
If you’re into history, look no further. Home to Britain’s largest naval dockyard, Portsmouth has deep roots to the country’s heritage. Visit Southsea Castle, which acted as a military base for centuries, and get a great view over the harbour and the city’s famous Spinnaker Tower. Or why not get closer to the seafront at Rock Gardens, and see the variety of plants, pools, and waterfalls?
Hamble-le-Rice and Royal Victoria Country Park
This charming village nestled on the south coast sits just a short drive from our community at St Leonards Park. Hamble-le-Rice benefits from having lots of local pubs overlooking its picturesque waterfronts. Hamble Point and the nearby port offer stunning views, where you can watch yachts and sailboats coming into dock.
If you’re looking for a day out with the family, a short drive will take you to the nearby Royal Victoria Country Park, where you’ll find wide open fields and a sandy beach. There are also woodland areas to explore, as well as a miniature railway and playground. Or why not get a 360-degree view from the historic chapel?
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