Activity Holidays & Adventure Breaks in Hampshire

Discover Hampshire: Coast, Countryside & Outdoor Adventures

Escape to Hampshire, where ancient forests, rolling hills and a scenic south coast create the perfect setting for your next UK activity break. From peaceful woodland walks to coastal adventures and riverside paddling, Hampshire offers a wide variety of outdoor experiences.

Whether you're planning an active getaway or a relaxing countryside escape, there’s plenty to explore.

Top adventures to try in Hampshire

Hiking in Hampshire – Wander through the ancient woodlands of the New Forest, follow sections of the South Downs Way, or enjoy scenic riverside walks along the Itchen and Test valleys.

Cycling in Hampshire – Discover traffic-free trails and quiet country lanes, especially in the New Forest, as well as longer-distance routes across the South Downs.

Horse Riding in Hampshire – Explore the New Forest on horseback, with dedicated bridleways, open heathland, and guided rides offering a unique way to experience the landscape.

Kayaking & Canoeing – Paddle along the River Itchen, River Test, or the Beaulieu River, with calm waters ideal for beginners and scenic surroundings.

Coastal Walks – Explore the Solent shoreline with routes around Hayling Island, the coastal paths near Portsmouth, and quieter stretches along the Hampshire coast.

Water Activities – Try paddleboarding, kayaking, and other watersports along the coast and in sheltered harbours and estuaries.

Sailing on the Solent – Experience one of the UK’s most famous sailing areas, with opportunities for lessons, day sails, and yacht experiences from hubs like Portsmouth, Hamble, and Lymington.

Wildlife & Nature Experiences – Spot New Forest ponies, deer, and a wide variety of birdlife across nature reserves, heathlands, and wetlands.

Historic & Cultural Experiences – Visit Winchester Cathedral, Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, and charming market towns rich in heritage.

Wellness & Countryside Retreats – Unwind in cosy villages, country inns, and rural retreats set within peaceful landscapes.

Top regions in Hampshire

New Forest National Park – Ancient woodland, open heath, wild ponies, and some of the best walking, cycling, and horse riding routes in southern England.

South Downs & Winchester – Rolling chalk hills, panoramic views, and historic Winchester at the heart of the region.

Hampshire Coast & Solent – Beaches, harbours, and maritime heritage, with excellent opportunities for coastal walking and watersports.

Test Valley & Itchen Valley – Scenic river valleys known for clear chalk streams, wildlife, and picturesque walking routes.

North Hampshire & Basingstoke Area – Gentle countryside, woodland trails, and quieter rural escapes.

Plan your Hampshire adventure

Hampshire blends coast, countryside, and history into one of the South’s most varied outdoor destinations. Whether you're walking through ancient forest, cycling across open downs, horse riding in the New Forest, sailing the Solent, or exploring the coastline, it’s an ideal choice for a memorable UK activity break.