3 day itinerary for Hampshire

Itinerary

Hampshire is a beautiful county in southern England, rich in history, stunning landscapes, and charming towns. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Hampshire has to offer. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Explore Winchester

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a cozy café in Winchester. Try the The Corner House for some delicious homemade pastries and a good cup of coffee.
• Winchester Cathedral: After breakfast, head to the magnificent Winchester Cathedral. This stunning Gothic structure is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe and has a fascinating history. Don’t miss the beautiful stained glass windows and the tomb of Jane Austen!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Old Vine: Enjoy a lovely lunch at this charming pub, which is just a stone's throw from the cathedral. They serve traditional British fare with a modern twist.
• The Great Hall: Post-lunch, stroll over to The Great Hall, home to the legendary Round Table of King Arthur. The hall is surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for a leisurely walk.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Black Rat: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at this Michelin-starred restaurant. The menu features locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes.
• Evening Stroll: If you have the energy, take a gentle evening stroll along the River Itchen. The views are lovely, especially as the sun sets.

## Day 2: The New Forest National Park

Morning:

• Breakfast in Winchester: Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local café before heading out.
• Drive to the New Forest: It’s about a 30-minute drive to the New Forest National Park. Once you arrive, take a moment to appreciate the stunning scenery and the wild ponies that roam freely.

Afternoon:

• Explore Lyndhurst: Stop by the village of Lyndhurst, the park’s main hub. Visit the New Forest Heritage Centre to learn about the area’s history and wildlife.
• Lunch at The New Forest Cider: Enjoy a rustic lunch at this charming spot, where you can also sample some local ciders.
• Outdoor Activities: After lunch, consider renting a bike or going for a hike. The New Forest has numerous trails that cater to all levels. Keep an eye out for the famous New Forest ponies!

Evening:

• Dinner in Brockenhurst: Head to Brockenhurst for dinner at The Pig, a lovely restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach. The atmosphere is cozy, and the food is simply divine.
• Relaxing Evening: If you’re up for it, take a short evening walk in the forest to enjoy the tranquility of nature.

## Day 3: Coastal Charm in Portsmouth

Morning:

• Breakfast in Brockenhurst: Start your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to Portsmouth.
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard: Arrive in Portsmouth and head straight to the Historic Dockyard. Explore the HMS Victory, the Mary Rose Museum, and the HMS Warrior. There’s so much maritime history to soak in!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Still & West: Enjoy a lovely lunch with views of the harbor at this pub. The seafood is particularly good!
• Spinnaker Tower: After lunch, take a trip up the Spinnaker Tower for breathtaking views of the Solent and the surrounding area. It’s a great photo opportunity!

Evening:

• Dinner at Gunwharf Quays: Head to Gunwharf Quays for dinner. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, whether you fancy Italian, Asian, or classic British cuisine.
• Shopping and Strolling: After dinner, take some time to explore the shops and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this waterfront area. If you’re lucky, you might catch some live music or events happening in the square.

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary in Hampshire that combines history, nature, and coastal charm. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! If you have any specific interests or preferences, feel free to let me know, and I can tailor the itinerary even more for you!