Top 10 Free Days Out in Hampshire

Limited budget? No problem. You can still explore some of the fabulous, fun and free things to do in Hampshire.

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Hampshire Country Parks
Hampshire has a fabulous selection of country parks to explore, from deep in the heart of the county to right on the edge of the coast. Whether you want to relax with a picnic or explore by bike, there is plenty to discover in these open spaces.

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Deer viewing platform at Bolderwood - New Forest
Deer are shy creatures but at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary there's a chance to spot fallow deer from a specially-constructed viewing platform. Walks and cycle routes nearby make for an enjoyable day out.

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Jane Austen Walks & Trails - Hampshire
There are several free walks and trails tracing literary heroine Jane Austen's footsteps in Hampshire. Whether you want to explore the pretty village of Chawton or the market town of Alton, there are plenty of important places of interest along the way.  

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Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson - Fareham
The Royal Armouries Museum was opened in 1984 for the first time, and today is one of the largest artillery museums in the UK. Experience live balck-powder gun firings daily and discover the history of the fort and the people who shaped it's stories.

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Southampton City Art Gallery - Southampton
With a permanent collection of over 3800 works of art, this gallery offers an exciting programme of events throughout the year, from contemporary exhibitions to kids activities.

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Discover the South Downs by Foot or Bike - South Downs
The South Downs National Park is free to explore and its many pathways and trails make it the perfect place for a walk or cycle. Dotted with pretty villages and market towns, there's lots to discover during a visit here.

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Hampshire Farmers Markets - Hampshire
Each week Hampshire Farmers' Markets take place across the county. Celebrating the very best of local produce, visitors can explore the food stalls, watch cookery demonstrations and even sample some of the products! Winchester Farmers' Market is also the largest in the UK.

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Explore The Coastline - Hampshire
Take a trip to the seaside! Hampshire has several beaches including Beachlands on Hayling Island which holds a European Blue Flag beach award. So on a hot summer's day, why not go for a swim in the sea?

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Southsea Castle - Portsmouth
It was from Southsea Castle that Henry VIII watched his beloved Mary Rose sink in the 16th century. Since then the castle has stood through several wars and it played an important role as a military base for hundreds of years. Today it offers great views across the harbour and there is a friendly cafe which is open to visitors. Entry to the castle is free.

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Netley Abbey & Cruise Ship Spotting - Southampton
Netley Abbey is the most complete surviving Cistercian monastery in southern England. Visitors can explore the ruins, a place which have inspired many poets in times gone by. Across the road from the abbey sits the popular pebbled beach of Weston Shore. It is here you find avid cruise ship spotters watching ships sail along the Solent, one of the best viewing points along the coast. 

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