The Prettiest Villages in Hampshire

Set within stunning surroundings such as the Test Valley, South Downs and the New Forest, Hampshire is home to some of the prettiest villages in England. With historic churches, thatched cottages and timber-framed buildings, these quintessential English countryside villages are well worth visiting. If you’re looking to experience idyllic rural Hampshire, you can’t go wrong with visiting one of these beautiful places.

Beaulieu

A popular destination for visitors to the New Forest, Beaulieu is a riverside village with several attractions to offer. Ponies and donkeys can even be seen grazing the greenery amongst the charming rust-coloured houses and chocolate shops. Palace House is the jewel in its crown, and the historic abbey, as well as the National Motor Museum, are also worth visiting.

Burley

Packed with old world charm, Burley is a unique New Forest village where ponies and cattle roam freely. It’s famous for witchcraft, as a rumoured witch lived here in the 1950s, and the ties live on in the local gift shops. Burley is also great for foodies, with a town food trail leading you to tearooms, pubs, fudge shops and a local cider maker.

Buriton

Credit: Trevor Harris

Two miles south of Petersfield lies Buriton, a quaint village at the heart of the South Downs. Boasting a village pond, two pubs and tennis courts, there is plenty to see and do in the village itself. Meanwhile, there are several beautiful walks to embark on around the village, either onto the South Downs Way, the Sussex Border Path or scaling the heights of War Down, Head Down and Oakham Hill.

Cheriton

Lined with gorgeous thatched cottages, Cheriton is a charming small village set on the edge of the South Downs, close to Winchester. It’s home to a highly acclaimed pub, the Flower Pots Inn, which has received numerous awards for the beer brewed in the pub. A village hall, cricket pitch and tennis court only add to the image of the quintessential English village.

East Meon

High up in the Meon Valley, East Meon was once a royal manor belonging to Alfred the Great and is home to several historic buildings, including the Norman church and the 14th century old Court House. The River Meon runs alongside the village street and two charming pubs can be found in this pretty riverside village.

Hamble-le-Rice

With the River Hamble on one side and Southampton Water on the other, it’s no surprise that the pretty village of Hamble-le-Rice is a haven for yachting. Hundreds of glistening yachts line the water, with bustling pubs and seafood restaurants on the waterfront. Close by, you’ll also find the Royal Victoria Country Park and Manor Farm Country Park.

Wickham

Steeped in history, Wickham has the second largest medieval square in England at its heart, surrounded by medieval cottages and beautifully preserved Georgian houses. An array of independent shops and eateries can be found in the town, and the peaceful Water Meadows are a great place for a relaxing walk. For a truly unique shopping experience, head to Chesapeake Mill, a former flour mill selling antiques, gifts and jewellery.

If you’re looking to explore these idyllic villages for yourself, find somewhere to stay in the area with oue selection of holiday cottages in Hampshire. There’s even the option to stay in some of the beautiful villages mentioned above, where you’re guaranteed to be staying in gorgeous surroundings.