50 things to do in Hampshire this summer 2022

Making plans for the summer holidays in Hampshire this year? Looking for days out with the kids in Hampshire? Or perhaps you’re planning a short break?

From days at the beach, visiting top attractions to outdoor adventure and enjoying local food, here is the ultimate guide to the top 50 things to do in Hampshire this summer.

1.  Visit one of Hampshire’s beaches to soak up the summer sunshine and take a cooling dip.

2. Eat alfresco at one of the county’s pub gardens or best places to eat or drink outdoors in Hampshire.

3. Take the family for a day out at one of Hampshire’s amazing attractions.

4. Meet Peppa Pig and brave the awesome rollercoasters and rides at Paultons Park.

5. Take to the water in a canoe and explore the Beaulieu River with New Forest Activities.

6. Follow the vibrant Hares of Hampshire trail around Southampton and Winchester.

7. Explore some of Hampshire’s glorious gardens like Exbury and Sir Harold Hillier.

8. Discover the county by foot and go walking in Hampshire on some of the 3,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways and byways.

9. Explore the county for less with a free day out.

10. See spectacular birds of prey fly through the summer sky at the Hawk Conservancy Trust.

11. Find the perfect place for a picnic in Hampshire like beside the Beaulieu River at Buckler’s Hard.

12. Be blasted into space at Winchester Science Centre’s Planetarium.

13. Make a splash with a whole range of watersports to try in Hampshire.

14. Create some cooling cocktails and discover the botanicals behind the gin at the Bombay Sapphire Distillery.

15. Have an exciting animal encounter at Marwell Zoo.

16. Explore the New Forest National Park and meet the resident ponies.

17. Climb Butser Hill and walk part of the South Downs Way in the South Downs National Park.

18. Try stand-up paddle boarding to explore Hampshire’s coastline and rivers from the water.

19. Visit a Hampshire vineyard to learn about and taste the county’s award-winning sparkling wine.

20.  Attend a summer event – festivals, family activities, country shows, concerts, exhibitions and much more.

21. Explore England’s naval history with a visit to HMS Warrior and HMS Victory at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and the neighbouring Mary Rose.

22. Admire the views from the top of the iconic Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth.  

23. Get active on the water, climbing walls or velodrome at Calshot Activities Centre.

24. Follow in legendary literature footsteps with a visit to Jane Austen’s House Museum and neighbouring Chawton House.

25. Admire the otters and other inhabitant animals at the New Forest Wildlife Park.

26. Visit Hampshire’s film and TV locations including the real Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle. 

27. Treat yourself to a spa day to relax and unwind.

28. Have a Day out with Thomas and take a ride on a steam train through picturesque countryside on The Watercress Line.

29. Sleep under the stars at one of Hampshire’s campsites or glamping sites.

30. Take in the gorgeous countryside on a bike ride with some cycling in Hampshire.

31. Climb to the top of Winchester Cathedral on an incredible Tower Tour.

32.  See a sunflower field and find your way through the willow maze at Sunnyfields Farm.

33.  Shop the designer brands at outlet prices at Gunwharf Quays followed by lunch or dinner at one of the waterside restaurants.

34.  Explore the wetlands and rich habitats of the Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve to see how many species you can spot.

35. Go sailing in the Solent. 

36. Spectate a summer of sport on the big screen at Westquay Southampton.

37.  Discover the history of the fascinating Eling Tide Mill and go crab fishing afterwards beside the river.

38. Rent a holiday cottage to enjoy a short break and home from home in Hampshire.

39. See the world-famous collection of cars at Beaulieu, Home of the National Motor Museum and cars visiting at special events throughout the summer.

40. Go to the Southampton Boat Show and step inside some of the UK’s most exclusive yachts and motorboats.

41. Hire a BBQ at Queen Elizabeth, Lepe or Royal Victoria Country Park and enjoy some alfresco dining.

42. Take on the New Forest Water Park’s inflatable floating obstacle course.

43. Meet the friendly farm animals at Manor Farm and see them being fed.

44.  Visit one of Hampshire’s National Trust properties – The Vyne, Mottisfont, Winchester City Mill and Hinton Ampner.

45. Visit Hayling Island and enjoy an ice cream whilst watching the windsurfers and kitesurfers.

46. Book a luxury weekend away in Hampshire and stay in some of the county's top accommodation.

47. Take your four-legged friend to one of Hampshire’s many dog-friendly beaches, parks and attractions.

48. Enjoy afternoon tea at one of Hampshire’s hotels.

49. Soak up the atmosphere at a summer festival.

50. Have a cricket-themed break at the Hilton at The Ageas Bowl and take in one of the summer matches.

Start planning your summer in Hampshire

See what events are on in Hampshire this summer

Sign up to our newsletter and stay up to date with the latest news, events and offers

We’d love to see your photos of visiting and enjoying Hampshire on our Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook pages.  Tag us in your pics by using #VisitHampshire.