Staunton Country Park

About

Staunton Country Park is the perfect green getaway. Based in the heart of Havant, the park is a peaceful idyll away from busy city life. Whether you’re looking for a gentle ramble in the countryside or a place to hop on your bike and race along a trail, we’ve got something to suit all paces.

Not only is Staunton steeped in centuries of history, but the listed Regency estate is also surrounded by beautifully landscaped parkland. So, you can visit the beautiful walled Storey Gardens, take in the sights, sounds and smells of the sensory garden or enjoy a stroll.

Food and Drink
The café is located in the Coach House and stocks locally sourced food, offering simple sandwiches, cakes and treats. You are more than welcome to enjoy your own picnic, but these cannot be eaten inside the Café itself. Benches can be found in the courtyard and on the lawn as well as dotted around the walking trails. 

Walking, Cycling and Orienteering
Staunton Country Park offers the perfect venue for keen walkers and cyclists. Trails are available online and from the visitor centre. If you’re up for a challenge, then try the orienteering course. Ideal for beginners and children, the course is fun to do with friends to see who completes it first. Head out through the park and into the woodland beyond to find the 24 stations (wooden posts) - each has a number and letter. Collect all 24 letters as proof that you made it all the way around. 

Angling 
Staunton's lake offers angling from the central island in exceptionally beautiful surroundings.
Twenty-five angling permits are released each year around the first of April and can be purchased from the Visitor Services Desk in the Coach House. Angling without a permit is not permitted.

History
The venue was once part of an estate owned by Sir George Staunton, who is said to have introduced Earl Grey tea to England from China in the late 18th century. Tea-themed events are held every year to celebrate its history, with talks, tea tastings and children’s activities. There are several other historic structures to find around the park. The first is the Shell House, built in 1828 of finely patterned flint. The second is the Beacon, a small ionic temple built in 1830 from materials from the demolished Purbrook House. And there’s the Chinese Bridge, constructed in 1831.

Events
A packed calendar of activities is held throughout the year, with nature trails, educational classes for children, history talks and tea-themed events. This is on top of the usual seasonal events that you would expect at Easter, Halloween and Christmas. Please visit their website for dates and details.