Top 10 History & Heritage Days Out in Hampshire

Hampshire is steeped in history and it has retained many of its important historical sites.

We have selected 10 of the best historical places of interest within the county:

The Great Hall & The Round Table - Winchester

Located in central Winchester, the Great Hall is one of the only surviving parts of Winchester Castle and it is also home to King Arthur's Round Table.

Find out more about The Great Hall

Portchester Castle - Fareham

This former Roman fort is well preserved and offers fantastic views over the city of Portsmouth. Built in the late 3rd century, visitors can learn about the castle's history through an exhibition in the keep.

Find out more about Portchester Castle

Bursledon Brickworks - Southampton

Learn about the history of brickmaking at Burseldon Brickworks, a museum based in a Victorian steam-driven brickworks. From 1897 to 1974 the factory was still making bricks using Victorian techniques and machinery. During your visit you can even have a go at making your own brick.

Find out more about Bursledon Brickworks

Royal Armouries - Fort Nelson - Fareham

Dating back to the 1890s, Fort Nelson offers panoramic views over Meon Valley and Portsmouth Harbour. Visitors can explore the visitor centre, galleries, café and shop during their time at the fort.

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Southampton Tudor House & Garden - Southampton

Built in 1495, this museum has had many functions including being used as a home and a dye-house. As well as looking around the house, visitors can also explore its pretty garden.

Find out more about Southampton Tudor House & Garden

Roman Silchester - Silchester

Silchester is around 2,000 years old and excavations take place for six weeks each summer. Visitors are able to go along and see some of these excavations when they take place. Year-round, people will be able to visit the amphitheatre and the Town Walls.

Find out more about Roman Silchester

Southsea Castle - Portsmouth

Built for Henry VIII in 1544, this castle still guards the entrance to Portsmouth Harbour. Henry VIII was at Southsea Castle when his beloved Mary Rose sank not far from the shore.

Find out more about Southsea Castle

Winchester Cathedral - Winchester

Winchester Cathedral dates back more than 1,000 years and it is Europe's longest Cathedral. Throughout the year it holds various events, including the Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market. It is also the final resting place of author, Jane Austen.

Find out more about Winchester Cathedral
 

Basing House - Basingstoke

Dating back to the 12th century, Basing House used to be a Tudor Palace and Castle. Now only ruins remain but the site also houses a café, shop and exhibition. Basing House is also very well known for its historical re-enactments.

Find out more about Basing House

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and The Mary Rose Museum - Portsmouth

This dockyard is home to some of England's most famous ships - HMS Victory and HMS Warrior. Visitors can explore these and other fascinating museums on the site. Also located in the dockyard is the Mary Rose Museum, which is home to Henry VIII’s favourite ship. 

Find out more about Portsmouth Historic Dockyard

Find out more about The Mary Rose Museum

Discover other historical places to visit across Hampshire