Adventures in Hampshire

Written By Jon Ingarfield

If you have a quick look on social media for posts about adventure, you will inevitably see posts from around the world showing crystal clear seas, snow capped mountains or tropical rainforests. You don’t normally see Hampshire.

Let me tell you why Hampshire is and under appreciated county when it comes to adventure.

Let’s start off with the big guns. We have two, yes TWO, National Parks in Hampshire!

Enjoying a dog walk in the New Forest

Firstly, the gem in Hampshire adventures - The New Forest.

The New Forest has something for everyone. Hundreds of miles of accessible paths for walking or bike riding, views to take your breath away and amazing nature around every corner.

Our top New Forest adventure include:

  • Fritham

  • Blackwater Arboretum

  • Hurst Castle

  • Bucklers Hard

  • Lepe Beach

Then you have The South Downs. This vast area of Southern England is slightly more rugged than the New Forest but still plenty of adventures to be had.

Sunset on Old Winchester Hill - South Downs

Our top South Downs adventures include:

  • Old Winchester Hill

  • Petersfield Pond

  • Queen Elizabeth Country Park

  • Butser Hill

  • Church in the Woods

Now, if these two National Parks don’t float your boat, let’s talk about some places that could “float your boat”. Being on the South Coast means there’s also a load of adventures to be had near the water.

Check out some of these waterside adventures:

  • Southsea Beach

  • Hill Head

  • Hayling Island

  • Mean Shores

  • Barton-on-Sea

So if this hasn’t converted you to thinking Hampshire is one of the best counties for adventures then let me add in a few more gems like the three chalk rivers - Test, Itchen & Meon. The crystal clear water from these rivers make for some spectacular rivers in the country. Did you know, Hampshire has 85% of the world’s chalk streams!

River Itchen near Winchester

Ok I know you are coming round so I’ll throw in some random adventure hotspots.

  • Queen Victoria Country Park - Spectacular country park on the banks of Southampton water steeped in war time history.

  • St Catherine's Hill - And iron aged fort overlooking Winchester

  • Mean Valley Trail - A disused railway line converted into a 12 mile walk and bike riding route

  • Danebury Iron Aged Fort - One of the best forts ever, stat!

  • Beacon Hill - Overlooking Highclere Castle, home of Downton Abbey

  • Basingstoke Canal - Great to walk along the banks but even better to paddle board

Right, thats it, I can’t list anymore as the need to get out and have and adventure is too much.

I hope you enjoyed this account of why Hampshire is amazing for adventures. What’s your favourite Hampshire adventure?

Jon Ingarfield
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