What’s new in Hampshire for 2026

2026 in Hampshire brings landmark anniversaries, world‑class sporting events, spectacular new attractions and unforgettable cultural moments – we’ve rounded up the best of what’s new, just for you.

Portsmouth100: Celebrating a century of city status

The city of Portsmouth marks a major milestone in 2026 as it celebrates 100 years of city status. Expect a packed programme of events, exhibitions and celebrations throughout the year, designed to put the city’s local talents in the spotlight.

Highlights include a concert of music in Portsmouth presented by Portsmouth Cathedral at Portsmouth Guildhall in May and a new Pride of Portsmouth Lion Trail from July to September.
 

Step into Valgard: Realm of the Vikings at Paultons Park

Adventure awaits at Paultons Park as one of Hampshire’s biggest new attractions – Valgard: Realm of the Vikings – launches on 16 May 2026.

This bold new themed land will transport visitors into a dramatic Viking world featuring new thrilling rides, including the intertwined rollercoasters of Drakon and Raven, and the UK’s first epic ‘Vild Swing’ ride.
 

Completion of the King Charles III England Coast Path

The final sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path are due to open in spring 2026, when it will become the world’s longest managed coastal path: a whopping 2,700 miles, running all the way around the coast of England.

Hampshire forms part of the south coast section of the route, from Barton on Sea in the west of the county, to Hayling Island in the east, taking in the coastal cities of Southampton and Portsmouth as well as parts of the New Forest and River Hamble.
 

10 years of the South Downs Dark Skies Reserve

In 2026, the South Downs National Park will celebrate 10 years of being an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Recognised internationally for its low light pollution, the South Downs, which spreads across Hampshire and Sussex, offers incredible stargazing opportunities.

From 12 to 22 February 2026, the South Downs Dark Skies Festival will feature special 10^th anniversary events and celebrations, including a new night-time Constellations and Creatures Trail.
 

Women’s T20 World Cup cricket comes to Hampshire

England is set to host the International Cricket Council (ICC) Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 and Hampshire will be at the centre of the action as Utilita Bowl, Southampton will host six games between 13 and 20 June 2026.

Fans can look forward to world‑class cricket at the Utilita Bowl, with international teams, electric atmospheres and a global spotlight on the county.
 

60 years of luxury at Chewton Glen Hotel

Iconic country house hotel Chewton Glen celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026. The New Forest country estate hotel, which was founded in 1966, is renowned for its timeless elegance, award‑winning spa and exceptional dining. The hotel has recently had a revamp ready for the occasion, so its diamond anniversary year is the perfect time to indulge in a luxury Hampshire escape.
 

A year of art and nature at Winchester Cathedral

Winchester Cathedral hosts two major exhibitions in 2026. Here Comes the Sun (30 January – 1 March) will brighten the winter months with 'Helios', an art installation by Luke Jerram, where visitors can soak up its radiance or bask in the accompanying series of events.

Later in the year, Wild! A Festival of Flowers and Nature (15 – 19 September) will fill the Cathedral with stunning floral displays and botanical art celebrating the natural world.
 

Van Gogh Alive arrives at Winchester Science Centre

Step into the world of Van Gogh at Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium with Van Gogh Alive,  a new immersive art installation that will be in situ from 22 January to 22 March 2026. This immersive exhibition brings the artist’s iconic works to life through large scale projections, music and storytelling, offering a fresh and engaging way to explore Van Gogh’s legacy.
 

Family fun at Birdworld’s new indoor play area

Birdworld has added a new level of family fun with the opening of its brand‑new indoor play area. Designed for all‑weather fun, it’s the perfect addition for families visiting this popular attraction near the Hampshire/Surrey border.

Designed with younger explorers in mind, the play area adds an extra layer of fun to a winter day out, making Birdworld a great option even when it’s wet outside. Combine it with a stroll around the park to spot penguins, flamingos and other resident birds.
 

Take That bring The Circus Live to Southampton

Pop supergroup Take That will be kicking off the return their iconic show The Circus Live at St Mary's Stadium in Southampton in 2026.

The Circus Live tour last took place in 2009, and Gary, Mark and Howard have promised to recapture its original magic along with some new surprises in Southampton on Friday 29 May and Saturday 30 May 2026, alongside support acts The Script and Belinda Carlisle. 
 

Celebrate 25 years of the Harry Potter films

Magic is in the air in 2026 as the world celebrates the 25th anniversary of the first Harry Potter film: Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

Potterheads will love visiting the Watercress Line heritage railway where the steam trains are reminiscent of the Hogwarts Express.

The King’s Cross footbridge – where Harry Potter received his Hogwarts Express ticket – is now located at Ropley Station on the Watercress Line, having been relocated from London's King's Cross station in 2013.

Visitors can follow in Harry’s footsteps and walk over the footbridge to view the steam locomotives below. For the full Potter experience, the Watercress Line holds its popular Wizard Week every October half term.
 

And one to watch for 2027… Mövenpick to open its first UK hotel in Hampshire

Swiss hotel group Mövenpick will be opening its first UK hotel in Hampshire with the development of the 300-acre Old Thorns Estate in Liphook into a 194-room resort.

Expected to open in 2027, the new luxury hotel resort in the heart of the Hampshire countryside will bring major renovations to the hotel, including improvements to the hotel bedrooms and expanding the wellness and leisure offering.
 

Fancy a 2026 break in Hampshire?  Take a look at our huge range of accommodation. Hampshire has something for all budgets including hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering properties, and cosy traditional holiday cottages. 

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