Hampshire Tourist Guide - Articles
Top Outdoor Activities in Hampshire
The Great British summer is not normally a time for optimism, but the summer of 2009 is all set to be a real scorcher. Indeed, MET Office predictions point to a long, hot and dry period stretching deep into September! Temperatures in June have already matched previous records and the sunshine is set to last for some time yet. Thus, what better way to enjoy the glorious warm weather than with a trip into the great outdoors? In fact, outdoor enthusiasts in Britain are typically not all that concerned about whether it is raining or not – they would not be so enthusiastic if they were – and so the hot sunshine is merely an added benefit. Furthermore, if there is anywhere in Britain that attracts outdoor enthusiasts come rain or shine, it is the spectacular Hampshire countryside.
Hampshire is an ideal location for various outdoor activities, even those which may not be so well-known, such as surfing and wind surfing. Indeed, bordering the South coast of England, there are a surprising number of surfing destinations in Hampshire and wind surfing in particular is popular in Solent. However, Hampshire is better known for its idyllic gentle landscapes, which comprise of picturesque heaths, forests, meadows and woodland set amongst rolling hills, rivers and streams.
Therefore, it is of no surprise at all that mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Hampshire. Indeed, the region offers a fantastic blend of easy, moderate and difficult mountain bike trails that appeal to a range of different people, from those who want a gentle ride through Hayling Billy or the New Forest to those who demand a more extreme adventure. With regard to the latter, Ox Drove Way is one of the most strenuous circuits in the area, comprising 21 miles of off-road fun and 4 miles on tracks that are otherwise used for cattle farming! Likewise, for those who want a challenging bike ride whilst enjoying Hampshire`s most stunning scenery, the Meon Valley route (7 miles off-road) offers exceptional views of the region from Butser Hill.
Horse riding is also a popular outdoor activity in Hampshire and is available at Manor Farm Country Park and South Downs Way among others. However, many people simply enjoy an outdoor barbecue or picnic in one of the many picturesque meadows. In fact, walking is arguably the most popular activity in Hampshire, with numerous short and long distance walks including the Avon Valley Path, The Solent Way, Staunton Way and St. Swithuns` Way.
Whatever outdoor activity is enjoy in Hampshire, it is important that appropriate outdoor clothing and equipment is used at all times. Walkers, runners and mountain bikers should carry a light backpack where possible that contains a first aid kit, replacement clothes, water and a mobile phone. Appropriate shoes should always be worn and cyclists must always wear a close-fitting helmet. Finally, in these warm summer nights, lightweight tents are perfect for camping out under the stars.
Hampshire is an ideal location for various outdoor activities, even those which may not be so well-known, such as surfing and wind surfing. Indeed, bordering the South coast of England, there are a surprising number of surfing destinations in Hampshire and wind surfing in particular is popular in Solent. However, Hampshire is better known for its idyllic gentle landscapes, which comprise of picturesque heaths, forests, meadows and woodland set amongst rolling hills, rivers and streams.
Therefore, it is of no surprise at all that mountain biking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Hampshire. Indeed, the region offers a fantastic blend of easy, moderate and difficult mountain bike trails that appeal to a range of different people, from those who want a gentle ride through Hayling Billy or the New Forest to those who demand a more extreme adventure. With regard to the latter, Ox Drove Way is one of the most strenuous circuits in the area, comprising 21 miles of off-road fun and 4 miles on tracks that are otherwise used for cattle farming! Likewise, for those who want a challenging bike ride whilst enjoying Hampshire`s most stunning scenery, the Meon Valley route (7 miles off-road) offers exceptional views of the region from Butser Hill.
Horse riding is also a popular outdoor activity in Hampshire and is available at Manor Farm Country Park and South Downs Way among others. However, many people simply enjoy an outdoor barbecue or picnic in one of the many picturesque meadows. In fact, walking is arguably the most popular activity in Hampshire, with numerous short and long distance walks including the Avon Valley Path, The Solent Way, Staunton Way and St. Swithuns` Way.
Whatever outdoor activity is enjoy in Hampshire, it is important that appropriate outdoor clothing and equipment is used at all times. Walkers, runners and mountain bikers should carry a light backpack where possible that contains a first aid kit, replacement clothes, water and a mobile phone. Appropriate shoes should always be worn and cyclists must always wear a close-fitting helmet. Finally, in these warm summer nights, lightweight tents are perfect for camping out under the stars.
