Hampshire is an excellent choice for a holiday if you enjoy beautiful countryside, coast, walking, wildlife and outdoor adventures. From the ancient city of Winchester and the wild landscapes of the New Forest to the rolling hills of the South Downs, there is plenty to discover on a Hampshire holiday.
The county is home to some lovely places to stay, from the historic market town of Fordingbridge on the edge of the New Forest to the charming coastal town of Lymington. Add pretty villages, country lanes, ancient woodland, sandy beaches and a wealth of walking and cycling routes, and Hampshire offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, get outdoors and enjoy the best of southern England. Read more
A modern stylish Four Star Gold self-contained annex in the Hampshire village of Godshill within the New Forest National Park. Close to Fordingbridge, Wayside is an ideal place for enjoying all the forest has to offer including fabulous walking, cycling and horse riding. Family swimming passes for the pools and gym at the nearby Sandy Balls leisure centre are provided. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
A picturesque thatched holiday retreat on the edge of the New Forest National Park providing a superb self-catering base for exploring the forest, and also the many attractions of the area including Winchester, the South Coast and Stonehenge. The county town of Fordingbridge with a good choice of shops and eateries is just half a mile away. It is just 25 mins from Peppa Pig World and 25 mins from beaches. Dogs are welcome (up to 2 in Wishing Well). Late offers sometimes available - see owners website for details - www.burgatefarmhouse.co.uk EV charger now installed (shared use with the other cottage wing at Burgate Farmhouse)
A pretty thatched self catering holiday cottage on the edge of the New Forest, providing very comfortable holiday accommodation and an ideal base for touring the area being just a few miles from world famous Stonehenge, Bournemouth and beaches. Just half a mile from Fordingbridge with a good choice of amenities close by. Just 25 mins to Peppa Pig World and 25 mins from beaches. Dogs welcome (up to 3 in Little Thatch) - secure back garden/yard area leading off from the kitchen door. Late offers sometimes available - see owners website for details. www.burgatefarmhouse.co.uk EV charger now installed (shared use with other cottage wing at Burgate Farmhouse)
Offering the perfect blend of rustic charm, cosiness with log burner and modern day conveniences to ensure a high standard of comfort, Barn Cottage sits on the outskirts of Alderholt in Dorset. A pretty village with pub for meals out, a mill serving cream teas at the weekend, and a shop for forgotten provisions, Alderholt is just three miles from the county town of Fordingbridge and a five minute car ride into the New Forest National Park with an abundance of forest tracks to satisfy the keenest of walkers, cyclists and horse riders. This welcoming holiday cottage is a perfect self-catering base for exploring both Dorset and Hampshire including the Forest and South Coast.
Located on the edge of the Dorset village of Alderholt is this pretty holiday cottage for two with log burner and romantic double bedroom. The Hampshire riverside county town of Fordingbridge is just three miles away and the New Forest National Park is five minutes in the car with miles of forest tracks and trails for cyclists, walkers and horse riders.
It's hard not to be wooed by this idyllic romantic retreat set in beautiful rural surroundings on the outskirts of the New Forest National Park. Located in the charming village of Alderholt, Shepherd's Retreat is a cosy bolthole for two. The artisan built hut has everything you need for a self-catering holiday, including a hand built kitchen, wood burning stove, WiFi and a village pub just a short walk away. Enjoy walks and bike rides from the front door or lazy days on the beach, just half an hour away.
Newly built using traditional techniques and featuring a separate bedroom and shower room, this charming Shepherd's Hut offers couples space and comfort in an idyllic location close to the New Forest National Park and within walking distance of a country pub. Enjoy walking and bike rides through the forest and countryside, and with the coast only half an hour away plus plenty of picturesque towns and villages to explore, your self-catering holiday can be as exciting or relaxing as you choose.
Enjoy a peaceful New Forest break at 14 Gatehouse, a beautifully renovated former railway gate keeprs cottage on the edge of Ringwood. Sleeping 6 in 3 bedrooms, this eco-friendly holiday home has open-plan living, a log burner, enclosed garden with a wildlife pond, and direct access to the Castleman Trailway for walking and cycling. Walk to a local pub, farm shop and Ringwood’s shops and eateries. Family attractions, beaches at Bournemouth, and day trips to Salisbury, Lymington and the Isle of Wight are all within easy reach. Ideal for families or couples wanting comfort, character and countryside charm in the New Forest. Contact us for early season discount. Possible shorter breaks may be available on some weeks.
Sitting in an acre of grounds, this well presented holiday home is perfect for families, friends and pet owners. Located on the Wiltshire/Hampshire border in the village of West Tytherley with good pub within walking distance, there are a multitude of attractions within easy reach including Salisbury, The New Forest, Winchester and Stonehenge. Whether you want to simply relax or explore, this welcoming cottage is an excellent choice.
Chapel Lodge is a peaceful studio retreat for two in the New Forest village of Sway. Ideal for couples and dog owners, it features a king-size bed, comfortable sitting area, well-equipped kitchenette, and a modern en-suite shower room. Outside, a sunny enclosed patio offers a quiet space to relax after exploring the forest trails just moments from the door. The Hare and Hounds pub is a ten-minute walk, and Brockenhurst, Lymington, and the coast are all within easy reach. Dog-friendly, private, and perfectly placed, Chapel Lodge is one of three charming cottages available for individual or group bookings.
The Old Chapel is a beautifully converted studio cottage in the New Forest village of Sway, just a short walk from pubs, shops and forest trails. Ideal for couples or small families, it features a king-size bed, a day bed that transforms into two single beds, a well-equipped kitchen, a modern bathroom, and a cosy sitting area with an electric stove. Outside has a private seating area where ponies and donkeys often wander past. Located close to Brockenhurst, Lymington, Lyndhurst, and the coast, it’s perfect for walking, cycling and day trips. One of three cottages on site, you can book The Old Chapel with Chapel End or Chapel Lodge for group stays. Further details can be found here - www.oldchapelsway.co.uk
Located in the New Forest National Park midway between Lymington and Brockenhurst, this spacious holiday home provides a good self-catering base for families and couples to explore the areas many attractions. Spout House Studio is a great choice for walkers and cyclists.
Kingfisher Cottage is ideal for couples and families visiting the New Forest National Park. Only a mile from Fordingbridge and within walking distance of The George pub, the holiday cottage is on a private 230-acre farm beside the banks of the Avon River, surrounded by meadows and fields. There is space for four people in two bedrooms, with a double sofa-bed that opens out to sleep up to two more adults. Paulton's Park, the National Motor Museum and Moors Valley Country Park are all within easy reach, as are miles of footpaths, traffic free cycling routes and bridleways. With its pretty thatched cottages, free-roaming ponies and ancient forests and woodland, the New Forest is a beautiful holiday destination at any time of the year.
Couples and families love Grebe Cottage, which offers 4-star accommodation in 230 acres of private farmland in the north of the New Forest National Park. There is space for four people to sleep in two bedrooms, and the holiday cottage can be booked on its own or reserved with one of several other lovely cottages on Burgate Manor Farm to accommodate larger groups of family and friends. Fordingbridge's medieval arched bridge and The George pub are only a mile away, while popular New Forest attractions like Beaulieu and Moors Valley Country Park are nearby. There are miles of beautiful footpaths, cycling trails and bridleways to help you explore the New Forest and enjoy being close to nature in this incredible ancient landscape. Tourist board rating: 4 Star
Beautifully presented throughout, Park Farm Cottages offers 5 Star luxury self-catering amongst the scenic beauty of the Hampshire countryside. Sitting on the edge of the South Downs National Park, guests can enjoy peace and tranquility with the River Itchen opposite adding to the charm. Park Farm Cottages is close to the city of Winchester and a popular choice with large groups sleeping up to ten guests who want to holiday or celebrate together. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
Perfect for couples and small families, West Cottage sleeps three guests and offers 5 Star self-catering in a beautifully peaceful part of Hampshire on the outskirts of the South Downs National Park. Close to Winchester, this fabulous architect-designed eco-build holiday home sits opposite the River Itchen and offers all the right ingredients for a relaxing break. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
An award winning single storey 5 Star holiday home situated in Hampshire on the edge of the South Downs National Park, near Winchester. East Cottage enjoys a wonderful tranquil position opposite the River Itchen and is ideal for a relaxing break. Tourist board rating: 5 Star Gold
The Blue House is a characterful holiday cottage in Lymington on the edge of the New Forest, sleeping six guests across three bedrooms. Built in the 1840s and instantly recognisable by its distinctive blue brick exterior, this self-catering holiday home blends period charm with modern comforts, including a well-equipped kitchen, stylish living space and a secluded courtyard garden. Situated within easy walking distance of Lymington’s bustling quay, independent shops and famous Saturday market, it offers an excellent base for exploring the New Forest, the Solent coastline and nearby Dorset. With beaches, sailing, forest walks, and nearby ferry trips to the Isle of Wight, it suits families, couples, and small groups.
Chapel End is a cosy studio cottage for two tucked at the end of a converted chapel in the New Forest village of Sway. Perfect for couples, it features a king-size bed, well-equipped kitchenette, private bathroom with bath and separate shower, and an enclosed courtyard garden. The village shop, bakery, and Hare and Hounds pub are just a short stroll away, and open forest trails begin at the gate. Explore nearby Brockenhurst, Lymington and Lyndhurst, or head to Milford-on-Sea and Barton-on-Sea for beach walks and clifftop views. Dog-friendly and full of charm, it’s ideal for a relaxing New Forest escape. Further details can be found here - www.oldchapelsway.co.uk
The spacious bedroom with a view onto the an open field has a supering zip link bed with either organic cotton sheets or Irish linen. There's a small double sofa bed on the landing suitable for children under 12. We can provide a travel cot and high chair. There is a log fire with complimentary logs and kindling. There is a down stairs loo and a shower room upstairs.
Popular towns in and around The New Forest:
AlresfordAltonBeaulieuBoldreBrockenhurstBurleyCatheringtonChichesterEast BoldreExburyFarehamFordingbridgeFordinghamGosportHampshireHayling IslandHighcliffeHydeHytheLockerleyLymingtonLyndhurstMeon ValleyMilford on SeaMilford-on-seaMinsteadNew MiltonNomanslandNr LymingtonPetersfieldPoolePortsmouthRingwoodRomseyRydeSouthamptonWinchesterWinsorSome local suggestions:
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Hampshire is a great choice if you want to fit plenty of variety into one holiday. You can spend your days exploring the New Forest, walking through ancient woodland, cycling quiet country lanes, relaxing on the coast or discovering pretty towns and villages, often without having to travel far between them.
There is plenty to appeal to history and culture lovers too. Winchester's medieval heritage, along with its castles, historic houses, museums and beautiful countryside, provides plenty to explore when you want a change of pace. Whether you're looking for an active break, a coastal escape or a peaceful countryside retreat, Hampshire offers plenty of choice.
There are plenty of things to do in Hampshire, whether you enjoy exploring the outdoors, discovering history or spending time by the coast. Walk or cycle through the New Forest and South Downs, explore historic castles and country houses, or swap your walking boots for flip flops and spend a day by the sea.
With so much variety, it's easy to combine active days outdoors with history, culture and relaxing days by the coast.
Explore medieval castles, historic forts and country houses across the county. Winchester Cathedral and the city's medieval heritage are among Hampshire's most notable historic attractions, while Beaulieu and its historic estate provide another fascinating glimpse into the county's past.
Hampshire has strong literary connections. Visit Jane Austen's former home in Chawton, where she wrote and revised some of her best-known novels, or discover Charles Dickens' birthplace in Portsmouth.
Hampshire's coastline offers beaches, harbours and opportunities for sailing, kayaking and other watersports. Lepe Country Park is a particularly attractive spot, combining a beach with countryside and views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.
From the open landscapes of the South Downs to the woodland tracks of the New Forest, Hampshire has routes to suit all abilities.
Hampshire has several distinct areas, each offering something different. The New Forest is ideal for countryside, wildlife and outdoor activities, while Winchester combines fascinating history with attractive streets, independent shops and plenty of places to eat.
On the edge of the New Forest, Lymington is a picturesque harbour town with Georgian streets, independent shops and easy access to the coast and countryside. The South Downs offer a very different landscape, with rolling chalk hills, sweeping views and miles of walking and cycling routes.
Whether you are looking for a countryside escape or a coastal holiday, Hampshire has plenty of beautiful places to explore.
One of Hampshire's most distinctive landscapes, the New Forest is known for its ancient woodland, open heathland, wildlife and free-roaming ponies. It is particularly popular for walking, cycling and exploring traditional villages.
Fordingbridge is a charming market town on the western edge of the New Forest, centred around the River Avon. Its attractive riverside setting, historic buildings, independent shops and traditional pubs make it a lovely place to explore at a slower pace.
The town is also ideally placed for discovering the New Forest, with woodland, heathland, walking routes and cycling trails all within easy reach.
Lymington is a charming Georgian market town on the edge of the New Forest, with a picturesque harbour overlooking the Solent towards the Isle of Wight. Its cobbled streets, independent shops, cafés and restaurants give it a lively atmosphere, while the harbour is a popular starting point for sailing and other watersports.
Its location makes it easy to combine days exploring the New Forest with time on the coast, while the town itself has plenty to enjoy.
Romsey is a historic market town in the Test Valley, known for its impressive medieval abbey, attractive streets and riverside setting. Surrounded by beautiful Hampshire countryside, it is a good base for exploring the Test Valley, while the town itself has independent shops, cafés and traditional pubs to enjoy.
The historic city of Winchester was once the capital of England and is home to Winchester Cathedral, the Great Hall and numerous reminders of its medieval past. The city makes an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Hampshire countryside.
The Hampshire section of the South Downs offers rolling chalk hills, sweeping views and miles of walking and cycling routes. It is a good choice for a quieter countryside escape.
Hampshire is perhaps best known for the New Forest, its beautiful countryside, varied coastline and rich history.
The county is also known for its pretty market towns and villages, historic houses and castles, and a long maritime heritage. From the harbour and Georgian streets of Lymington to the riverside setting of Fordingbridge and the historic city of Winchester, Hampshire offers plenty of character and variety.
Hampshire has a wide choice of places to stay, from rural villages and countryside retreats to historic towns and coastal locations. The best area depends on the type of holiday you are planning.
The New Forest is ideal for walking, cycling, wildlife and exploring traditional villages, with Fordingbridge and Lymington offering very different experiences within easy reach of the national park. Winchester is a good choice for history, culture and city attractions, while Romsey provides a quieter base surrounded by Hampshire countryside.
For walkers and outdoor enthusiasts, the South Downs offers rolling countryside, scenic views and plenty of opportunities to explore on foot or by bike.
If you are looking for a Hampshire holiday cottage, you'll find everything from cosy countryside retreats to larger cottages suitable for families and groups.
Hampshire is a year-round destination, with something to enjoy in every season. Spring and summer are particularly good for walking, cycling and exploring the coast, while the countryside is at its most colourful and the longer days give you more time outdoors.
Autumn brings beautiful colours to the New Forest and surrounding countryside, while winter can be a peaceful time to explore Hampshire's historic towns and villages before returning to a cosy cottage.
A long weekend is enough to explore one particular part of Hampshire, while a week gives you more time to experience the county's varied landscapes and attractions.
For a short break, you could explore the New Forest from a base such as Fordingbridge or Lymington, discover Winchester and the surrounding countryside, or enjoy a relaxing stay in the South Downs. With a week or more, you can combine several areas and enjoy a mixture of countryside walks, historic attractions and days by the coast.
Hampshire is a great choice for a family holiday, with plenty of attractions and outdoor activities to suit children of all ages. The New Forest offers opportunities for cycling, walking and wildlife spotting, while the coast provides beaches, watersports and plenty of seaside fun.
There are also some excellent family attractions, including Paultons Park near Romsey, home to Peppa Pig World, as well as Marwell Zoo near Winchester and Bealieu in the New Forest. Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium is another popular choice, particularly for a day out when the weather isn't on your side.
With theme parks, animal attractions, museums, castles, beaches and plenty of countryside to explore, Hampshire makes it easy to mix active days outdoors with family-friendly attractions.
Hampshire is a great destination for a dog-friendly holiday, particularly if you enjoy walking and exploring the outdoors. The New Forest, South Downs and Hampshire's country parks offer plenty of space to explore, while many villages, pubs and attractions welcome dogs.
Hampshire is easy to reach from across southern England and the rest of the UK. The M3 provides a direct road connection from London, while the M27 links destinations across the south coast.
There are regular rail services to Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth, with direct connections from London and other major towns and cities. Southampton Airport also provides an option for travellers arriving by air.
A car gives you the greatest flexibility if you want to explore the New Forest, South Downs and Hampshire's smaller towns and villages, although Winchester and the county's larger towns and cities are well connected by public transport.
The best part of Hampshire depends on the type of holiday you are looking for. The New Forest is ideal for countryside, walking, cycling and wildlife, while Lymington combines the coast with easy access to the New Forest.
Fordingbridge is a good choice for a quieter countryside stay, while Winchester offers history, culture and city attractions. Romsey provides a relaxed base for exploring the surrounding Hampshire countryside, and the South Downs are particularly appealing for walking, cycling and scenic views.
The cost of a holiday in Hampshire varies depending on where you stay, the time of year and the type of accommodation you choose. Popular areas such as the New Forest and the coast can be more expensive during peak periods, particularly during the summer holidays.
Choosing a self-catering cottage can provide greater flexibility, especially for families and groups. Travelling outside the busiest periods can also make it easier to find better-value accommodation while still enjoying Hampshire's countryside and attractions.
