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Attractions

From wildlife centres, theme parks, nature reserves and stately homes to family trips, sports activities and gardens - Hampshire's countryside has it all.

If you like historic homes and gardens, visit Broadlands, the home of Lord and Lady Brabourne by descent from Viscount Palmerston and the Earl Mountbatten of Burma; Houghton Lodge Gardens, a popular TV and film location; Uppark, set in the rolling South Downs; Gilbert White's House, home of the famous naturalist, or The Vyne near Basingstoke, a Tudor mansion built for Henry VIII's Lord Chamberlain.

Hampshire's countryside also has important historic sites, such as the Iron Age Danebury Hill Fort, as well as fascinating museums and galleries, such as the atmospheric Milestones, where you can walk through Victorian streets, Bedales Gallery, near Petersfield with its cutting edge art exhibitions, and the Museum of Army Flying, with its hands-on activities for children.

For countryside parks, look no further than the Queen Elizabeth Country Park, with its 20 miles of trails for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, or Wellington Country Park, with its play areas, lakes and miniature railway.

Hampshire's wildlife centres and nature reserves are among its main attractions, from the penguins, parrots, owls and flamingos at Birdworld to the award-winning Hawk Conservancy Trust with its magnificent birds of prey.

Industrial and craft premises make for a fascinating visit and include Grayshott Pottery, where you can also buy crystal, jewellery, and gifts.

For family fun and activities try the Watercress Line steam railway or our Leisure and Activity Centres, such as the fun-filled Basingstoke Aquadrome or hair-raising Romsey Rapids.

Sports lovers will appreciate Hampshire's sports activities, such as fly fishing in the River Test, horse riding in the South Downs, or teeing off at one of our many top class golf courses.

Trips and tours are also available, including The Hidden Hampshire Tour of Mid-Hampshire, which explores the Candover and Itchen valleys.

And don't forget Hampshire's water-based activities, such as a trip on the John Pinkerton canal boat along the Basingstoke Canal.