Blog (things to do) - Visit Hampshire

From challenging off-road rides to scenic countryside roads, these autumn cycle routes will have you wheeling under golden canopies of leaves, and most can be shortened into smaller and more leisurely route segments for easier adventures.

Walking and pubs make the perfect pairing and never more so than in autumn when warm greetings and cosy food welcome you in from the crisp autumnal air after a wholesome hike.

Christmas can be an expensive time of year, but keeping everyone entertained over the festive break doesn’t have to cost a fortune. From winter walks and twinkling Christmas lights to free museums, festive events and days out in the great outdoors, there are plenty of free things to do in Hampshire over the Christmas holidays.

Discover 24 of the best things to do in Hampshire this Christmas 2026, from Christmas markets and light trails to Santa visits, pantomimes and festive family days out.

Illuminate your imagination with neon trains, glowing gardens, and twinkling woodland – these winter light trails in Hampshire are sure to bring beaming smiles all around, just add hot chocolate and woolly hats.

Step into Christmas with these festive light switch on celebrations and events taking place in Hampshire's cities and towns this November and December.

Many people will have seen the news and images of the ongoing wildfire in the New Forest, which has affected heathland to the north of Ringwood and resulted in the closure of the A31. Discover ways in which you can support businesses in the New Forest National Park. 

Get your skates on, ice rink season is here! Nothing says winter wonderland like gliding across a sparkling ice skating rink with friends. From frozen pop-ups to permanent ice-covered surfaces, Hampshire has a great selection of places to lace up those skates and take to the ice.

Splish, splash, splosh – summer is here, and if you’re in need of a dip to cool down, lido back and enjoy these Hampshire swimming pools, water parks, and splash pads.

With summer heatwaves becoming more common, knowing where to escape the hottest part of the day can make all the difference. Fortunately, Hampshire is home to a fantastic selection of indoor attractions where you can stay cool while enjoying everything from fascinating museums and historic buildings to hands-on family attractions and exciting indoor activities.

Beat the heat with these cool Hampshire escapes, from splash parks and ice rinks to shady forests, underground forts and air-conditioned museums.

School’s out for summer and a month packed full of festivals, events, sport, and activities lies ahead throughout awesome August in Hampshire.

Here are our top picks of what’s on and things to do in Hampshire this August.