Hampshire isn’t just a great place for families, it’s also the perfect destination for a day out or short break for adults and grownups. Whether you’re looking for heritage, adventure or wildlife, there are plenty of things to do in Hampshire for the adults too!
The perfect adult day out in HampshireInvite your designated driver
Gin has rocketed in popularity in recent years and Hampshire’s Bombay Sapphire Distillery at Laverstoke Mill is the perfect day out for any gin lover. Enjoy a guided or self-guided tour of the impressive facilities and find out about the history of this iconic brand and end the tour with a complimentary cocktail in the Mill Bar. If you have a particular taste for cocktails you can also experience their gin masterclass where Bombay’s gin experts will teach you everything you need to know to make delicious cocktails at home. A great activity that’s strictly adults only.
Take a tour of Ringwood Brewery and find out how one of the UK’s favourite drinks is made! BEER! Even better than that, over 18’s get the chance to sample all of Ringwood’s brews in the bar following the tour, and receive a bottle & glass to take home for FREE! Sorry kids, this is a day out in Hampshire that’s ideal for adults.
Take in the beautiful Hampshire countryside as you travel by steam along the heritage Watercress Line. Your ticket gives you all day unlimited travel allowing you to visit each of the charming stations, with plenty to explore at each stop. Fine dining and Real Ale Trains run throughout the year.
For fun-seekers
If you’re looking for adventure and something a bit more energetic then why not head to Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park? Take to the trees for their treetop adventure taking on Zip Wires, Tarzan Swings, Rope Ladders and a variety of obstacles and crossings. A great day for kids and adults, that challenges a wide variety of experience levels.
Itchen Valley Country Park in Hampshire also has fantastic cycling trails for you to explore so why not take your bike and make a day of it?
Experience the fastest race circuit in the UK. Thruxton Motorsport Centre has something for every petrolhead and is a must for thrill-seeking grown-ups! Drive on the main circuit in the latest supercars or feel like an F1 driver in a proper racing car! People travel from far and wide to Hampshire for this epic activity.
A Paddle to the Pub with New Forest Activities is the perfect activity for adults looking for something a little more adventurous. You’ll paddle through the beautiful Beaulieu River Nature Reserve in stable, Canadian style canoes before enjoying a riverside refreshment at the Masterbuilder’s pub at Buckler’s Hard. All equipment provided. See their website for available session times, open all year round!
Head on up to Riverside Bowl and enjoy their Lane Quencher Deal. 2 games of bowling and a drink (from a selected menu) for only £13.95. Monday-Friday all day! You won’t want to miss it.
For animal lovers
We can’t talk about Hampshire without mentioning one of its top attractions – Marwell Zoo! Let your inner animal lover out and spend some time getting to know the penguins, meet the sloth hanging in its tree or marvel at the meerkats. With 140 acres of beautiful parkland to explore, you’ll soon need to stop for something to eat and drink. Bring along your own picnic and enjoy the indoor and outdoor picnic areas or get something to eat in their restaurant.
Share in the magic of over 130 birds of prey on what will be truly a memorable day at the Hawk Conservancy Trust. With 22 acres of stunning woodland and wildflower meadow to explore and beautiful birds of prey and other animals to meet, this is the perfect place for a relaxing and inspiring day. You will have the opportunity to experience spectacular daily flying demonstrations, each with a promise to immerse you in nature as our birds brush across the top of your head. Plus every adult can fly a bird of prey! A unique Hampshire day our experience.
For historians
Over 35 years after the Mary Rose was raised from off the Portsmouth coastline, Henry VIII’s flagship is looking better than ever, surrounded by thousands of original objects that tell the story of the men who served on board.
Winchester Cathedral is an ideal destination for grown-ups. Explore this ancient Cathedral with an expert guide and discover over 1,000 years of history. The Cathedral Close offers a haven of peace and quiet whilst the Refectory is the perfect place to visit for a sophisticated afternoon tea.
For stunning views and picturesque surroundings
Be captivated by the spectacular Exbury Gardens. Explore 200 acres of gardens, which is home to the world-famous collection of Rothschild rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias with beautiful views in every season. During the summer months, enjoy pretty riverside walks and enjoy a picnic next to the ponds where live carp and dragonflies.
Mottisfont is a romantic house and gallery set in riverside gardens. Spring bulbs, a stunning walled rose garden, rich autumn leaves and a colourful winter garden make Mottisfont a feast for the senses all year round. Inside, discover Rex Whistler’s extraordinary drawing room, and changing exhibitions in the gallery.
The Ageas Bowl’s eforea spa is a place like no other, an oasis of luxury, offering the ultimate relaxation experience. Boasting a multitude of thermal experiences and luxurious journeys, you’re sure to find yourself emerging brighter, refreshed and re-connected. Whether you’re wishing for a little ‘me-time’, a pamper day with friends or a weekend away with a loved one, look no further, allow eforea’s expert team to take it from here.
Hop over to The Isle of Wight and visit Osborne. Once home to Queen Victoria, you can visit their private apartments, their bathing beach and children’s play-cottage, allowing you to get an intimate glimpse of royal family life. Then stroll through the garden terraces where the stunning views across the Solent reminded Prince Albert of the Bay of Naples.
You could visit Chawton House Library, a romantic 400-year-old manor house once owned by Jane Austen’s brother and known to her as the ‘Great House’. It’s full of historical treasures and fascinating stories, and boasts beautiful gardens and grounds.
Need more activities in Hampshire for adults?
We hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to days out in Hampshire for adults. Haven’t seen one that takes your fancy? Then visit our guide on things to do in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight for an even more detailed list. We also have itineraries including days out with grandparents and with dogs.