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Towns and cities

 With its central location on the south coast, getting to Hampshire couldn't be easier. Only one hour from London and with excellent transport links, it's the ideal destination for short breaks and family holidays.

Choose a location on our map for details of what to see and do, or click on the towns listed below. You can also download our map for free.

Aldershot
Probably best known as the home of the British Army, the town of Aldershot offers a fascinating insight into our military history.

Alton
The thriving market town of Alton in East Hampshire offers a delightful mix of historic buildings and modern shops and arcades.

Andover
The picturesque market town of Andover in the Test Valley, with its attractive high street and narrow walk ways, dates back to Saxon times.

Basingstoke
Basingstoke is an interesting combination of old and new with old buildings, pavement cafés and bistros nestling alongside one of the best contemporary shopping and leisure centres in Hampshire.

Emsworth
Emsworth is a picturesque old fishing village nestling on the north end of Chichester harbour, with narrow streets, Georgian houses and walled gardens.

Gosport
Gosport's beautiful south facing beaches look out towards the Isle of Wight and the Solent. A short hop by ferry from Portsmouth, it is home to the Royal Navy Submarine Museum.

Hayling Island
Hayling Island combines all the attractions of a traditional seaside holiday with excellent sporting and leisure facilities.The island's miles of unspoilt coastline and countryside also offer a haven of peace and tranquillity.

The New Forest
Step back in time and discover the charm and natural beauty of this unique destination. The New Forest is England's newest National Park and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror.

Petersfield
Set in the glorious countryside of the South Downs, Petersfield is an ancient market town originally built as a Norman 'new town' at the end of the 11th Century.

Portsmouth
A city surrounded by the sea, Portsmouth's history is strongly linked with the Royal Navy. The city houses some superb military and maritime museums including the Historic Dockyard, home to HMS Victory.

Romsey
The ancient and prosperous market town of Romsey sits on the banks of the River Test, one of the finest trout and salmon rivers in Europe. Medieval streets cluster around the magnificent Norman Abbey.

Southampton
The historic city of Southampton is much more than just a cruise stop or shopping destination. Its appeal lies in its diverse nightlife, exciting retail opportunities, varied leisure facilities and maritime past and present.

Stockbridge
Lying in the heart of the Test Valley, Stockbridge offers an abundance of traditional groceries, tea rooms, pubs and restaurants, many serving local produce, as well as galleries and antique shops.

Winchester
An unspoilt cathedral city on the edge of the rolling South Downs, Winchester is England's ancient capital and former seat of King Alfred the Great.

South East England
If you're travelling further afield, the regional tourist board offers inspirational holiday ideas, online brochures and accommodation with destinations including Oxford, Brighton, Isle of Wight and Windsor.