With its strong military connections and as home to the British Army, Aldershot is not only home to a number of military-related attractions but also offers some other amazing days out and things to do.
Take a look at our top ten recommendations of things to do in and around Aldershot:
Aldershot Military Museum
Housed in the only surviving brick-built barrack blocks left in Aldershot, Aldershot Military Museum tells the story of daily life for both soldier and civilian in the town since 1854.
Children will love testing out their skills on the assault course challenge or joining in with some of the museum’s hands-on activities.
Keep your eye out for special events running during school holidays too.
Aldershot Lido
A perfect place to cool off on a warm summer’s day, Aldershot Lido is the largest open-air pool in Hampshire.
It comes complete with three waterslides, a toddler splash pool and diving board.
Alpine Snowsports Centre
Improve your skiing skills or learn snowsports from scratch at Alpine Snowsports Centre. Book onto skiing, donutting or snowboarding sessions or slots in the centre’s holiday camps.
West End Centre
This small arts centre, a former Victorian school, is a great venue for performing arts. Look out for comedy nights, intimate gigs, craft workshops and theatre performances.
Alice Holt Forest
A short distance from Aldershot is Alice Holt Forest. This extensive Forestry Commission woodland is home to bike trails, walking routes and Go Ape Alice Holt.
Younger visitors will love seeking out the wooden Gruffalo sculptures dotted along a trail.
Royal Army Physical Training Corps (RAPTC) Museum
With interactive and static displays, the RAPTC tells the story of the RAPTC from the 1860s to present day.
Free to enter (but ID required), this museum houses an extensive collection of medals, uniforms, weapons, paintings, sporting and Olympic memorabilia.
Birdworld
Again, just a few miles from Aldershot is this colourful attraction. Be in awe of the different species of exotic bird, burn off steam in the play areas and wander through the beautiful gardens.
The Museum of Military Medicine
Continuing with the military theme, The Museum of Military Medicine explores the history of army medicine, military nursing, veterinary and dental care from the 1600s to the present day.
Discover some of the stories behind the men and women who have dedicated their lives to improving the health and wellbeing of others.
Runway’s End Outdoor Centre
Located in quiet woodland, just outside Aldershot and a stone’s throw from the Basingstoke Canal, Runway's End Outdoor Centre site offers kayaking and canoeing as well as a range of indoor and outdoor activities.
Accommodation can also be found on site including a lodge, camping and glamping options.
Sample some Asian cuisine
With strong links to the Gurkha community, it’s no surprise that there are a couple of Gurkha restaurants worth trying in Aldershot including Gurkha Village and Gurkha Kitchen.
Nepali treats await at Panas restaurant or venture over to Sushi Moto for some Japanese fare. There are lots of places to choose from!
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