Hampshire has a unique and interesting past dating back thousands of years, making it the destination for history lovers and those interested in discovering times gone by. Below, we’ve compiled some amazing historic Hampshire days out for all ages to enjoy.
A proud history in Hampshire
Dive into the depths of maritime history at SeaCity Museum in Southampton where the infamous Titanic began its only voyage, and take a journey through the ages of Southampton’s shipping industry.
Army Flying MuseumWith military-themed museums, you can explore over 100 years of the British Army at the Army Flying Museum, discover restored Victorian fortresses and the ‘Big Guns’ at Fort Nelson, and spend a day out enjoying the 6 regimental museums at Winchester Military Museums.
At over 150 years old, The Watercress Line is one of the most successful heritage steam railways in the country. Your ticket gives you all day unlimited travel allowing you to visit each of the charming period stations, with plenty to explore at each stop.
Perched dramatically at the end of a shingle spit, Hurst Castle boasts a fascinating history spanning centuries. Originally built by Henry VIII as a coastal fortress, it later served as a prison for Charles I. Explore its well-preserved walls, discover its military past, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Solent.
Step aboard the Steamship Shieldhall, a preserved steamship that offers a unique glimpse into maritime history. Explore the engine room, admire the vintage machinery, and learn about the ship’s role in Southampton’s heritage. Take a trip on the Solent and experience the thrill of a working steamship.
Historic Gardens and houses
Experience the grandeur of a bygone era at Stansted Park, a historic estate nestled in the South Downs. Explore the magnificent Stansted House, admire its fine art collection, and wander through the sprawling gardens. Discover the estate’s rich history and enjoy a tranquil escape into the past.
Discover the elegance and charm of Hinton Ampner, a historic estate with beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore the refined interiors of the house, admire the art collection, and stroll through the tranquil gardens. Immerse yourself in the estate’s rich history and enjoy a peaceful retreat.
One of the most historic sites in Hampshire is Mottisfont which has centuries of history buried within its walls. Visit the lower-ground floor to find out how it has changed over the years and step into the 13th-century cellarium. Upstairs, you’ll discover the lives of the last owners the Russell family, who made Mottisfont their artistic retreat in the 1930s.
Visit Houghton Lodge Gardens, a beautiful example of an 18th Century cottage orné, with its unique and romantic gardens. Discover the history of the house, explore the walled gardens, and enjoy afternoon tea in The Glasshouse Tea Rooms. A perfect place to relax and enjoy a step back in time.
Step in Hampshire’s history’s footsteps
Hampshire is where you will also find the world-famous Beaulieu, home of the National Motor Museum. You can easily enjoy a day at Beaulieu wandering around their impressive displays of over 250 vehicles telling the history of motoring in Britain. That’s not all there is, Beaulieu is also home to the Victorian gothic style Palace House, Secret Army Exhibition, and the conserved ruins of Beaulieu Abbey.
Winchester Cathedral is one of Hampshire’s most historic attractions and a key historical site. It has over 1,000 years of history to explore. Admire magnificent medieval architecture, discover priceless treasures, and be captivated by stories of people connected with the Cathedral’s history, from Anglo-Saxon kings and bishops to the much-loved author Jane Austen.
Jane Austen’s HouseThe history of Hampshire is enriched by the story of Jane Austen, Britain’s most-loved writer, who lived in the county for much of her life. Step into Jane Austen’s world at Jane Austen’s House and discover the house where she lived and wrote her much-loved novels.
Discover the beautifully restored Gilbert White’s House & Gardens. The museum hosts collections belonging to Lawrence Oates, who was part of the fateful Terra Nova expedition to the South Pole, and the collection of Lawrence’s uncle, Frank Oates, who was a naturalist. There are interactives, original footage, and children’s activities throughout the museum, along with the extensive 25 acres of 18th-century gardens!
Step back in time to the 18th century at Buckler’s Hard. On the now tranquil banks of the Beaulieu River, this historic village was once a hive of shipbuilding activity, building ships for Nelson’s Navy. Step inside historic cottages and visit the Maritime Museum to discover the village’s fascinating past.
The Great Hall, one of the finest medieval halls in England, and the Westgate, which served as the castle’s primary defence, are now the sole survivors of this once magnificent historical site. Discover age-old stories of heritage, myth and lore, uncover the hall’s battle scars and immerse yourself in the history of ancient secrets at Winchester’s Great Hall.
Travel in time and explore the history of Hampshire
Visit historic Hampshire at Milestones MuseumEver wondered what it would be like to walk through the streets of historic England? Do just that at Milestones Museum as you take a stroll through the old cobbled streets. Buy your favourite sweets from the vintage sweet shop or enjoy a pint in the Baverstock Arms.
Continue your journey back in time and visit the 15th Century Tudor House & Garden in Southampton! Here you’ll discover the fascinating stories of the lives and times of its residents.
Follow the workers as they made 8 million bricks a year in The Brickworks Museum in Bursledon. Now a museum the old factory was one of the first industrialised brick manufacturers in the county. Now the only steam-driven brickworks left in the UK, an important legacy to what was a huge industry!
Delve into the rich and varied history of the Royal Logistic Corps at their dedicated museum. From ancient supply chains to modern military logistics, explore the vital role this corps has played in supporting armed forces throughout history. Discover fascinating artifacts, engaging exhibits, and the stories of the individuals who have served.
Discover what once roamed across Hampshire
Would you like to step on board the last surviving Landing Craft Tank that took part in the D-Day Landings? Well, you can! Right here in Hampshire at The D-Day Story Museum. Learn about the landing craft’s history and the tanks it carried, thanks to interactive touchscreens, video, and sound. A fantastic day out for the whole family.
Fancy time-travelling back through 10,000 years? We bet you do! Visit Butser Ancient Farm for an incredible family day out at a world-famous experimental archaeology site. Explore a Stone Age farm, Bronze Age roundhouse, Celtic village, Roman villa, and Saxon halls, all authentically reconstructed. Enjoy hands-on activities, a free trail, and frequent living history demonstrations.
Isle of wight
Step into the opulent world of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Osborne, their beloved family home on the Isle of Wight. Wander through the state rooms, admire the stunning architecture, and explore the lush gardens. Discover the personal side of royalty and gain insight into their lives and legacies.
Hampshire is home to some amazing historic sites, where you can experience thousands of years of history. Be sure to visit our attractions page to find out days out to explore more of Hampshire. Check us out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok for the latest news, events, and days out.
Updated March 2025.