Hampshire Travel Tips
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Alton
Gilbert White House and Oates Museum. Once home to the Rev. Gilbert White, the 17th century naturalist and author of the world-famous Natural History and Antiquities, the house has many displays including the original manuscript. It also houses the Oates Museum with artefacts of Captain Lawrence Oates on Scott’s Antarctic exploration. 18th century garden, follies and tea room. - Carol
Andover
Andover is a lovely market town of some 52,000 people located in the North West of the county. Andover has grown quite substantially since the 1960's and the town has a modern shopping Centre, leisure centre, theatre and college. A new multi screen cinema is due to open in early 2008. Andover has a fascinating history and boasts some fine buildings in the old town centre, St Marys Church and its fine church tower can be seen from most parts of the town. Andover is constantly changing and has in the past been labelled with a bad reputation most often by people who have never visited our town. I love living hear with the countryside on the doorstep and all the facilities of a modern small town; i'm proud to say I live in Andover! Come and visit and see for yourself....Martin Belcher
Barton Stacey
Barton Stacey is a village with links as far back as Neolithic times, that sits in the Test Valley in Hampshire, home to 900 people. The church of All Saints has many treasures to share and has graced many an Artists page. The village is a Rod Danglers delight with either the River Test or Dever Springs to try. Or perhaps Museums are more for you, with the varied choice on offer it will be hard to decide, maybe the Balfour Museum, detailing the fascinating story of the Red Cross, or the Gurkha Museum which has thought provoking exhibits from many battles, or there is always the splendid Georgian Masterpiece of the Whitchurch Silk Mill, this working Museum where silk is still woven is set on the River Test, for tired feet perhaps a cup of something in the riverside garden or why not bring a pic nic. For lovers of animals Finkley Down Farm offers an invitation to feed the Ducks, stroke a Pony and see the pigs, with a promise of Mini Tractors and Trampolines what more could be asked for ∑ or how about the flying prowess of Birds Of Prey at the Hawk Conservancy Trust, set in 22 acres of woodland and home to 250 Birds of Prey including Owls and Hawks, with flying displays of Vultures and Eagles∑.perfect.
Basingstoke
Remains of Basing House which was once the country's largest private house, belonged to William Paulet, Marquess of Winchester. A servant of great wealth of Tudor kings, his palace extended to 10 acres, the earthwork banks of the castle still dominating the ruins. Take a riverside walk along the banks of the River Lodden to visit the Tudor Great Barn, another feature of Basing House. - Carol
Crondall
Crondall is an attractive village peppered with cottages and old houses a few miles from Farnham in the county of Hampshire, and is home to 4,000 people. The village links back in history as far as Neolithic times, and is edged by the North Downs, making it a sure winner for lovers of the great outdoors either walking or cycling. Whether visiting historical landmarks such as Waverley Abbey where parts of the 12th Century Monastic buildings and their stunning architecture survive, or maybe the ruins of 13th Century Odiham Castle is more for you, or how about Barley Pound which is a Ring Bailey Fortress dating back to the 11th Century. Or for an insight into the colours of Mother Nature a trip to Birdworld and Underwater World has amazing sights to share that are found in Amazonian Streams and Indian and Caribbean Oceans, not to mention Penguins and birds from around the globe such as Emerald Doves, White Eared Catbirds and even Eyton’s Whistling Duck. If that’s not enough there is always the thrill of Alpine Snow Sports and Dry Ski Slopes ensuring the adrenaline pumps whether you ski or Snowboard on one of the three floodlit slopes or why not try a thrilling ride on a Do-Nut.
Fareham
Portchester Castle is set to one side of the village of Portchester and on three side is surrounded by water.The castle is over one thousand years old.The grounds of both the out as well as the inside are grass cut short and are tidy.Inside the castle there is a saxon church which is a working church and in the summer many wedding are held there which adds to the beauty.It does cost to enter the Keep area,but there is a very helpful gentleman or some times a female there to give any info you may want as well as bookets.It has to be said to wear a good shoe if you wish to go to the top of the keep and it is not advised not to take very small chidren as the steps can be slippery at times and it is a long way to the bottom. The views are second to none and will take your breath away on a clear day.
Date visited: married here in church inside grounds - Vanessa....visitor
Gosport
Gosport Saturday market is one of the largest and busiest South Coast markets set in the High Street near ferry terminal and bus station with ample cheap parking. Smaller but very busy Tuesday market - Nula
Hamble
Hamble is a pretty village set at the mouth of the River Hamble, only five miles from Southampton and is home to 4,000 people. Ships and boats have been built here since the 13th Century, and the nautical influence continues today with the Colourful yachts, and boats that are often seen. Add the thrill of windsurfing, riverside walks and fishing opportunities, together with the fabulous views of the Marina makes a recipe for success. The church of St Andrew’s links past history, from the Norman archway to the colourful Victorian stained glass windows. Or there is always Wickham Vineyard which share the intricacies of wine making from grape to bottle, after the tour why not explore the Nature Reserve where woodland walks lead her visitor on a journey of discovery. Or maybe Marwell Zoological Park is more for you, set within 100 acres of Parkland where impressive animals live, or be amazed at the Tropical Rainforest under glass, where stunning plants jostle for attention with green tree snakes, coloured frogs and butterflies, what more could be wished for… perhaps the chance to shop at Lakeside where 300 shops will lighten any purse. A visit to Hamble will set you on a steady course for magical memories.
Hartley Wintney
Hartney Wintney is a large picturesque village in Hampshire, home to 5,000 people complete with Village Green, Duck pond, and Coaching Inns from Centuries past. The River Hart edges the village that is surrounded by a patchwork of countryside. For lovers of all things military a visit to the Aldershot Military Museum unravels many secrets from times past, the thought provoking exhibits include a 1953 Ambulance, and even an Air Raid Warden’s Shelter from the 40’s, why not ride in a Tank or even be shouted at by a Drill Sergeant….. Perhaps the great outdoors is more for you, Wellington Country Park has 350 acres of Woodland and Meadows, complete with Animal Farm, and Nature Trails full of wildlife. Or there is always the Look Out Discovery Centre where the inquisitive can explore why not build a Wobbly Bridge, crawl through a Giant Mole Hole or learn how to take fingerprints. If that’s not enough then Legoland has 50 Rides, Live Shows, or climb aboard the Orient Expedition as it journeys through exotic landscapes home to snakes and a Chinese Dragon. Of course the 35 million bricks that make stunning scenes of Europe must not be forgotten, and for Brave Hearts there is always the adrenaline pumping rides of Dragon Coaster, and Pirate Falls.
Havant
Stansted Park, situated near to Rowlands Castle, Havant, was home to the Earls of Bessborough. Re-built in replica in 1903 after a fire, rooms open to the public include the Library, the Main Hall and the Music Room with family portraiture, tapestries, silver, crystal and dining objects on display. Its 1750 acres of park and woodland consist of garden centre and arboretum, a light railway and the Pavilion tea rooms in the walled gardens. - Carol
Hayling Island
Hayling Island is a small Island that’s linked to the Mainland by a Bridge in the county of Hampshire. This beautiful Island is home to 16,900 people who enjoy the miles of coastline edging the Solent. The traditional Seaside feel is a perfect back drop for Sailing, Swimming, Kite Surfing and Wind Surfing. Boasting two churches St Peter’s built in 1140 and St Mary’s which dates back to the 13th Century. A visit to the Life Boat Station and Museum situated on Sandy Point explains the bravery and history, whilst the views across to the entrance of Chichester harbour can be enjoyed and perhaps captured…….. Or if you fancy a round or two why not Tee off at Hayling Golf Club, established in 1865, the 18 holes will test any golfer, set in a stunning location looking out across the Solent towards the Isle Of White, complete with Club House and of course the 19th Hole….or perhaps the intriguing treasures on display at the Royal Marines Museum wont fail to impress, with their displays of Landing Craft, Uniforms, Silver and Manuscripts dating back centuries. Or be transported back in time with a visit to Southsea Castle built on the orders of Henry V111, now home to a fascinating Museum and to the fabulous ‘Over Lord Tapestry’ which commemorates D Day.
Heckfield
Heckfield is a small village in the county of Hampshire that’s bordered by the Rover Loddon, and is home to 350 people. The church of St Michael was built on an earlier Saxon site and has many treasures to share. Or let Wellington Country Park blow away the cobwebs with 350 acres to explore, with enchanting woodland and parkland that is home to interesting wildlife including Red Deer, for smaller visitors the Animal Farm will put smiles on faces, it will be hard to chose from the Nature Trails, Crazy Golf, Miniature Railway Sandpit or Lake……. Or how about a fascinating insight into the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers at the REME Museum, where the interesting exhibits include a Provo Sergeant’s Guard Room and Cells, twenty vehicles and even a helicopter…. Or there is always the spectacular feeling of time reversing at Silchester Roman City Walls and Amphitheatre. Or perhaps the beautiful Tudor House ‘The Vyne’ is more for you, this red bricked wonder is a Tudor masterpiece, once inside the impressive paintings and fabulous Oak Gallery will beguile all who gaze, the Staircase Hall with it’s icing sugar like decoration will truly impress, the house stands majestically overlooking a Lake….
Horndean
Horndean is a large village in East Hampshire . Close by is the beautiful Staunton Country Park which is set in acres of ancient woodland and parkland, there is a Victorian Coach House where cycle hire is possible, for smaller visitors the Ornamental Farm is home to enchanting creatures. If that not enough open space there is always the fabulous Queen Elizabeth Country Park that covers 20 miles, with trails that entice walkers, cyclists and horse riders on a voyage of discovery. For lovers of ancient history Fishbourne Roman Palace will fulfil any wish, with stunning exhibits of Ceramics, and Mosaics, ……….. Or perhaps Buster Ancient Farm is more your thing, this intriguing place is where you can explore a Great Round House, and understand Iron Age Farming, there is also a Roman Villa here. If Maritime and Nautical things are more for you, there is always Henry the V111’s favourite War Ship Mary Rose, or climb aboard HMS Warrior and experience the four decks just as the Victorian sailor would have. Or why not see ‘Action Stations’ which is the modern experience of the Royal Navy, perhaps best of all is the stunning ‘Victory’ where Lord Nelson planned his tactics during that famous battle.
Petersfield
Uppark - This late 17th century National Trust property, once home to the first Earl of Tankerville, has commanding views of the South Downs. Largely destroyed by fire in 1989, the house was re-built, its collections including the renowned Grand Tour Collection and a Georgian Doll’s House complete with original fixtures, many items saved from the fire. Tour also the restored underground servants’ quarters, H G Wells’ mother Uppark’s housekeeper.
Portsmouth
Charles Dickens Museum, Portsmouth
The birthplace of the author, a faithful recreation of his parents house in the Regency style of 1809, contains furniture, ceramics, glass and household objects laid out in three furnished rooms and the bedroom where Dickens was born. Dickens’ memorabilia. Near the ferry terminal. - Carol
The Historic Naval Dockyard is a very exciting part of Portsmouth, that has much on offer, including HMS Victory, The Mary Rose Museum, HMS Warrior, historic buildings from the Georgian period and, of course, the great remains of Henry the Eighth's favourite warship, the Mary Rose - Pete
Romsey
Broadlands, the Mountbatten family home now owned by Lord Brabourne, is an elegant historic Palladian building dating from 1767, its estates lying on 4 miles of the River Test. The garden, designed by Capability Brown is just one of its many treasures on the estate. Open for guided tours with car parking for up to 700 cars. Nearby is Romsey Abbey, dating back to the 10th century. - Carol
Southampton
The Medieval Merchants House, a National Trust property and one of the earliest surviving English merchants’ houses dating back to the 13th century, is vividly brought to life in the Middle Ages by a free audio tour. The house was once the property of John Fortin, a wine merchant and his family. - Carol
Southampton Maritime Museum has records of the city’s maritime history with exhibitions, displays and provides educational information.- Carol
Southampton Museum of Archeology. Gods House Tower, at the southeastern corner of the town’s walls, is home to the city’s archeological riches with prehistoric, Roman, Saxon and Medieval artefacts within the 13th century gatehouse and 15th century gallery and great tower.- Carol
Winchester
Lunch at Hotel du Vin was worth the visit alone. Great Food at reasonable prices. Very nice city though very busy and traffic not great - Nick
Wykeham Arms - you can't get a better place with nice and historic rooms, friendly staff and very good food in the very old pub and the restaurant. It was a five minutes walk to the fabulous Winchester Cathedral - Cheryl
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