Hampshire is a historic county on the southern coast of England, known for the port cities of Southampton and Portsmouth, as well as the ancient capital city of England and a vast forest with castles. Travel between the Roman relics of the towns and stunning scenery of two national parks.
Winchester served as England’s capital during Roman occupation about 2,000 years ago. Wander along the main street for its quaint shops and some of the oldest pubs in the country. Attend a recital in the 11th-century Winchester Cathedral, the final resting place of novelist Jane Austen. Learn about regimental history at the Military Museums in the iconic Peninsula Barracks.
A little south of Winchester is the larger port city of Southampton, known as the departure point of the Titanic. Much of the old city was destroyed in the war, resulting in a modern city center. Stroll through the vast green parks and watch a soccer match at St. Mary’s Stadium to learn of their rivalry with Portsmouth F.C.
Southampton is also the gateway to the New Forest National Park, which was established in 1079 by William the Conqueror. Drive along charming roads that meander between the trees and stay overnight at a converted castle hotel. Enjoy fish and chips at one of the old pubs in the serenity of the woods.
A little east is Portsmouth, known for Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Enter the adjacent South Downs National Park for its rolling green hills, cliffs and sea views.
The county covers a vast area a little southwest of London on the southern coast of England. It stands between the coastal cities of Bournemouth and Brighton. Fly to Southampton Airport and get around via railway links. Drive southwest from central London for about 60 miles (100 kilometers) to get to Winchester.
Hampshire has a fascinating military and port history as well as vast national parks filled with old pubs and castles.