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Places to Visit
Watercress beds
Alresford
With its gorgeous countryside, rich heritage, lively cities and appealing coastline, Hampshire has many attractions. This diversity is reflected in its food, from the traditional beers in Test Valley pubs to the cosmopolitan menus of Southampton and the fresh local seafood in Portsmouth.
In Hampshire, food is something to celebrate. The annual Watercress Festival, which takes place in Alresford in May, pays tribute to this locally-grown crop. The one-day festival features not only watercress but other delicious local foods and is accompanied by cookery demonstrations, market stalls, street theatre, music and dance.
The hearty New Forest Breakfast, sourced from local produce, is the ideal way to begin a visit to this vast expanse of ancient woodland. In beautiful Test Valley, renowned for the trout that swim in its clear chalk streams, there are many country pubs and tea rooms to tempt you on your way.
Emsworth, with its long association with seafood and oysters, is full of charm, and offers beautiful views across the Solent as well as many pubs, restaurants and cafes. In Southampton, Winchester and Portsmouth you’ll find a wide choice of bistros, bars and brasseries along with some top class restaurants and delicatessens.
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Winchester
Winchester is the ancient capital of England and also the foodie heart of Hampshire. It is home to some very fine restaurants and the largest farmers’ market in the UK.
Hampshire South Downs
The glorious Hampshire South Downs stretch from Winchester to Petersfield and beyond, taking in sweeping views of chalk hills, farm land and wooded valleys. What better way to enjoy the South Downs than with a welcoming inn, a refreshing beer and delicious local food?
Portsmouth & Gosport
With their stunning waterside locations, Portsmouth and Gosport offer an eclectic mix of bistros and restaurants together with traditional pubs and fresh seafood.
Test Valley
Test Valley is a hidden gem of chocolate box villages, rolling hills, meandering chalk streams and picturesque valleys. Nestled away in this lovely countryside you’ll also find welcoming inns, elegant restaurants, cosy tearooms and producers of fine local food.
Southampton
Southampton has a vibrant social scene with many pubs, clubs and bars and a great choice of cosmopolitan restaurants. Oxford Street and Bedford Place are noted for their nightlife and dining and in nearby Hamble you can relax in one of the riverside pubs.
The New Forest
For ponies, pubs and local produce -along with some top class restaurants and lovely tea rooms - the New Forest is an ideal stopover on your culinary tour of Hampshire.
Emsworth & Hayling Island
Emsworth is a very pretty fishing village on the edge of Chichester Harbour. It retains its own special character and old world charm and is home to many good restaurants, cafés and pubs.
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