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With summer round the corner, are you still scratching your head for ideas? Well we have a few suggestions for you and the family. With various fun events, a tonne of activities and top attractions, unforgettable moments are waiting for you in Hampshire. So sit back and relax as we show you the top essential summer moments Hampshire has to offer.
Be inspired in Austen Country
Starting things off are Jane Austen’s bicentenary celebrations - it will be 200 years since the death of the country’s most revered author, and Hampshire which is famously dubbed as Austen Country is where you can be at one with Jane.
Experience the romanticism and beauty of Austen Country in Chawton, where you can visit the 17th century cottage Ms Austen spent the last eight years of her life. Be nostalgic as you are transported back in time with Regency Week in Alton. Be moved in Winchester where the story comes to an end and walk Jane Austen’s Funeral Procession which will eventually lead you to her resting place at Winchester Cathedral.
Find out more about Jane Austen in Hampshire
Sleep under the stars and lose yourself in the beauty of the New Forest
You simply can’t visit Hampshire without bearing witness to the sheer beauty that awaits in the New Forest, and the best way to experience it is by camping or glamping – whichever helps you sleep at night!
Staying in the New Forest is your chance to experience Hampshire’s untarnished countryside. An opportunity to spot some deer on the heathlands whilst taking a leisurely stroll, encounter new forest ponies, relax on the beach at Lepe Country Park enjoying a BBQ with your nearest and dearest and finally, sleeping under the stars with the sound of owls in the background. What a picture!
Find out more about the New Forest
See all campshires in Hampshire
Get splashy with it and try some water sports in the Solent
The Solent is famed for its water sports – from sailing to paddle boarding there’s something for all ages. There’s no better way of discovering the Solent than sailing with the giant cruise ships that dwindle in and out of the Port of Southampton. If the idea tickles your fancy why not try Escape Yachting which has been voted Hampshire’s No.1 sailing experience by trip advisor – this way you can truly see Hampshire’s coast from the waves. Should you prefer a more extreme experience on the water, why not opt for the various paddle boarding tours and Kite surfing centres that fringe the Solent’s coast.
Find out more about water sports in Hampshire
Find out more about Hampshire's coastline
Tantalise your taste buds with anticipation
Hampshire’s local produce is second to none – world class chalk streams mean formidable trout and the rolling hills and abundant vegetation in the South Downs National Park provides the perfect environment for livestock farming and let’s not forget Hampshire’s award winning English Sparkling wine.
Prepare for your taste buds to be taken on a journey as you sample Hampshire’s finest food and drink at the annual month long Hampshire Food Festival which returns this summer in July. Events will include ‘Vineyards of Hampshire Festival for your inner connoisseur, Smoked and Uncut Festival which will entail food, drink and music, along with many more events that will take place throughout the Summer months.
Find out more about food and drink events in Hampshire
Cycle one of Britain’s most famous routes
The South Downs Way, which starts in Hampshire and ends in Sussex is without a doubt the ultimate cyclist’s paradise. Whether it’s a leisurely ride with the family or a rapid scenic cycle you are after, the South Downs way will not disappoint. Accompanied with views stretching for miles and traditional pubs lining the route, it is imperative to squeeze in a cycle in the South Downs this summer.
Find out more about Cycling in Hampshire
Revel in the music and mud at a festival
Everyone loves a music festival, whether it’s sunny or wet there’s always an element of fun – a place where you can enjoy the atmosphere in the company of those who know and those you will eventually befriend. With over six music festivals in Hampshire which include big names like Boom Town Fair, Victorious and Common People – organised by the same people responsible for Bestival you’re sure to find a festival suited to you.
See all summer events and festivals in Hampshire
Expand your knowledge
Not only is Hampshire famed for its city, country and coast – the county is also rich when it comes to heritage and history. From the most important docks in British Naval History at Portsmouth Historic dockyard all the way to Beaulieu where the past and the present diverge, with the National Motor Museum and a Mile long monorail set in the beautiful grounds and gardens of the Beaulieu Estate which also houses a 19th century country home and the ruins of a 13th century abbey – a hive of knowledge and picture perfect opportunities.
Bringing your four legged friend anywhere with you
Hampshire is a dog friendly county, instead of leaving your pooch back home wallowing for your return you can bring them with you. With dog friendly accommodation, dog friendly pubs and even dog friendly beaches – you and your four legged friend are in for a paw-tastic summer.
See all dog friendly accommodation in Hampshire
Find out more about dog friendly places to visit in Hampshire
Getting Here
By Road
Hampshire is the perfect place for a summer break break, easy to get here by road with M3, M27 and A3 quick access.
New Forest: 1hr 45 from London
South Downs: 1hr from London
By Rail
With an extensive rail network across Hampshire makes it easy to get here by train.
Best trains stations for New Forest
Brockenhurst: 1hr 30 from London Waterloo
New Milton: 1hr 40 from London Waterloo
Beaulieu Road: 1hr 40 from London Waterloo
Best train stations for South Downs
Winchester: 1hr from London Waterloo
Alton: 1hr 10 from London Waterloo
Petersfield: 1 hr from London
Start planning your summer trip or day out and find out what's going on in Hampshire
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Make sure you tag us in your summer photos on Instagram using #VisitHampshire.
