Blog (December 2024) - Visit Hampshire

Crisp mornings, snug evenings, wholesome fresh air outside, and cosy indoor activities: embrace the colder days and delight in all things brumal with our 50 things to do this winter in Hampshire.

Twixmas doesn’t have to be uneventful, we’ve rounded up the events and openings between Christmas and New Year to get out and about and make the most of those last days of 2024.

We all love a day out and what makes it even better is when it’s free! Whether you are looking for some low cost days out for the family or just fancy getting a little more cultured, there are some great museums in Hampshire which are free to visit.

Panto season has arrived – oh yes it has! – and with it a warm welcome of cheerful characters, sparkling stage sets, and joyful singalong music to brighten the winter days and nights. Join the fun of the great British pantomime pastime – here are five of our faves in Hampshire.

Get your skates on, ice rink season is here! Nothing says winter wonderland like gliding across a sparkling ice skating rink with friends. From frozen pop-ups to permanent ice-covered surfaces, Hampshire has a great selection of places to lace up those skates and take to the ice.

Illuminate your imagination with neon trains, glowing gardens, and twinkling woodland – these winter light trails in Hampshire are sure to bring beaming smiles all around, just add hot chocolate and woolly hats.

Countdown to Christmas with us with festive treats to look forward to every day this December in Hampshire.

From Christmas markets to ice skating, and wintry trails to light trails, there’s a Santa’s stocking full of goodies to enjoy this advent in Hampshire.
 

Sitting between Andover and Basingstoke, Whitchurch makes for a great day out with gorgeous river walks, some lovely coffee spots and some fascinating history. What’s more? Whitchurch has excellent rail and bus links, making it easy to get to.

Is that the sound of sleigh bells? It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Santa Claus is coming to towns across Hampshire this December with plenty of cheerful opportunities to meet the man himself.

Looking for unique gifts that are guaranteed to fill the recipient with festive joy? Hampshire has just the ticket.

Wander wooden chalets, pick out some lovingly made local gifts, and savour the smells of mulled wine and roasting chestnuts filling the air. Nothing says Christmas quite like a festive market – here are five of our faves in Hampshire.

Stock up on stocking fillers in Stockbridge, pick up some presents in Petersfield, and shop ‘til you drop in Southsea – these places in Hampshire are sure to deliver unique and thoughtful gifts to go under the tree this Christmas.