With so much to explore in Hampshire, it’s difficult to know where to start. You could spend a whole week in the New Forest; ponies, deer and cattle still roam free across the heaths and through the ancient woodland, there are miles of footpaths and, for the energetic, cycle hire is available at Burley and Brockenhurst.

Portsmouth’s historic dockyard is home to Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory, the Royal Navy Submarine Museum, and much more; tour the harbour, still the home of the modern Royal Navy.

The Georgian town of Lymington and the Isle of Wight are on the international sailing calendar; visit during Cowes week and soak up the excitement of high speed racing and daring tactics. The Island has wide sandy beaches, masses of things to do and hosts a fabulous music festival every summer.

 

Inland Hampshire has the stunning South Downs, a chalk ridge which runs from Winchester through to Eastbourne, recently awarded National Park status in order to preserve the views and historical context. The many picturesque market towns dotted throughout the county offer a chance to enjoy fine food, beautifully kept village greens, and browsing through the many inviting independent shops. From The Watercress Line you can appreciate the Hampshire countryside aboard a luxury steam engine.