Hampshire is one of the most beautiful and historical places in Southern England, offering scintillating coastlines, charming villages, modern restaurants, and much more. This culturally rich county is also known for once being the home of the famous novelist Jane Austen and the port city of the infamous Titanic.
If you’re visiting Hampshire, UK, for the first time, here are all the things you need to know.
Must-Visit Places
Jane Austen’s House Museum
Hampshire is home to the literary powerhouse Jane Austen. She is arguably one of England’s most celebrated romance fiction authors with great works such as Emma, Mansfield Park, and Pride and Prejudice. Sources reveal that she spent her last years in a cottage in Chawton that’s become a museum now, known as Jane Austen’s House Museum.
The museum features first editions of some of her novels, her personal items like clothes and jewellery, and many other fascinating objects. There’s a manicured garden outside where you can enjoy some tea.
Jane Austen’s House Museum is a great example of 13th-century architecture and has many charming and historic cottages around it.
Naval History in Portsmouth
Visiting Portsmouth is like walking through different time periods. This port city is the only island city in the UK that has served as an important maritime centre. This city has a lot of history to explore, and it’s worth visiting during your trip to Hampshire.
National Parks
If you like national parks, Hampshire has two of the best parks in England. New Forest National Park is perfect for cycling around and watching ponies and other animals grazing (while ensuring their safety). The second park is South Down National Park, filled with winding footpaths, rolling hills and even bridleways for horse riding.
Outdoor Adventurous Activities at Hayling Island
Hayling Island is a popular tourist destination in Hampshire, UK. It has three popular beaches where you can enjoy adventurous activities like windsurfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and much more. You can also visit Funland Hayling Island, an adventure park with over 20 exciting rides, a golf course and an arcade.
Picturesque Villages
Hampshire has some of the most picturesque villages in the UK, and the best part is they are easily accessible from any major city, such as Southampton or Portsmouth. From thatched cottages to period homes, countryside vistas to medieval churches, these villages are filled with beautiful places to explore.
Here are some villages you should go to on your trip:
Milford on Sea
A scenic, coastal village, Milford on Sea offers its traditional charm with old buildings and castles. Its pebble beach has many colourful beach huts, and you can also spot the Isle of Wight on a clear day. The streets are lined with tearooms, pubs and shops.
East Meon
Hike the hills in this village to enjoy the breathtaking views of the South Down National Park. East Meon has many ancient buildings dating back to the 13th century and charming thatched cottages.
Beaulieu
This beautiful village has everything to please your nature-loving soul, from sightings of rare birds like the Eurasian Hobby and the Dartford Warbler to a gothic country major called Palace House. It’s a popular tourist destination and has many attractions to offer.
Wickham
Wickham is England’s second-largest medieval square with Georgian terraces, 15th-century cottages, and various pubs and restaurants. You’ll also find many local shops offering antiques and crafts, clothes, and much more.
Burley
Burley is another popular tourist spot where you’ll see cattle and ponies roaming freely around the village. Explore antique shops, quaint art galleries, and parks while enjoying picturesque country lanes.
What to Eat and Where
The Little Gloster
A nautical-themed restaurant on the Isle of Wight, The Little Gloster is a must-visit. It’s known for its Scandinavian and British cuisine with a contemporary flair offering slow-cooked lamb breast, courgette pakora, and many vegan options. If you like a chill, relaxed atmosphere with amazing views, this restaurant sits on the sea’s edge in the quiet town of Gurnard.
Thompson’s
This restaurant is perfect for you if you need a fine-dining experience without spending a fortune. Thompson’s is run by a Michelin-star chef offering a variety of contemporary British cuisine. This luxurious restaurant also prepares an 8-course tasting menu so you can order a dish you like.
Pendleton’s
Pendleton’s is the perfect place to chill and drink the night away if you prefer a laidback ambience and rustic restaurants. It’s a cosy and welcoming place offering cocktails, wine and local beer.
Tramezzini
Tramezzini is a well-known seafood restaurant offering European and Mediterranean dishes at affordable rates. It uses locally sourced, fresh ingredients to create mouth-watering dishes and desserts.
Where to Shop
Portsmouth and Southampton are the top destinations for shopping in Hampshire. You’ll find unique little antique stores with vintage goods, impressive shopping centres and marketplaces offering freshly baked pastries. Here are some places to shop from.
Westquay Shopping Centre
Westquay is the leading retail destination in Southampton, Hampshire. This mall has over 100 high-street brands and boutique stores, all in one place. When you’re done shopping, you can also find many restaurants offering Italian cuisine, Asian food and classic British dishes.
Sally Antiques
No trip to Portsmouth is complete without visiting Sally’s Antiques. The store offers historical collectables like maritime antiques, silverware, military-like uniforms and weapons, fine art, and numerous other items. Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir or want to browse the unique nautical treasures of Portsmouth, Sally Antiques is the place to go. You can also grab a delicious meal from Sally Port after your shopping.
Beatnik Emporium
An independent shop specialising in traditional clothing from the 1940s to the 1990s, Beatnik Emporium is a must-visit place in Southampton. Besides vintage clothing, they also offer jewellery, hats, and accessories.
Book Premium Taxi Services for Comfortable Travelling
You’ll need reliable, affordable and comfortable transportation to visit all these amazing places. At Go Comfort, we offer a wide range of vehicles and skilled drivers who will drive you around all the destinations in Hampshire. You can choose any car according to your preference and space needs.
Go Comfort offers Southampton taxi service, offering many services, including executive chauffeurs, cruise transfers, premium taxis for hire, and much more. Contact us to book a car now.