Home to the Royal Navy & to the Army, Hampshire has played a long role in the defense of England's realm.

Hampshire is a unique county of rolling green hills with tranquil chocolate box villages and ancient forests. It's beautiful countryside and rich cultural heritage has a varied coastline and unspoilt beaches making Hampshire an ideal short break destination.

Hampshire is just one hour's drive from London and the excellent transport system makes it a very easy to reach destination. You can get there by bus, rail or air and enjoy the timeless treasures of North Hampshire, East Hampshire and the Test Valley.

Find out how to obtain money-vouchers for attractions and eateries in the cities and check out the latest discounts for accommodation. The beautiful countryside offers an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities.

So if you are looking for a gentle stroll, and somewhere to walk, you will find some excellent views in Hampshire. You can have a picnic or barbeque or go horse riding or walking and cycling in this very beautiful county.

Hampshire's biggest country park has 20 miles of trails for walking, cycling and horse riding. There is a working farm of bygone age that is set in a scenic landscape of farmland and ancient woodland on the banks of the river Hamble.

Please do visit Titchfield haven for a peaceful walk and to see a variety of wildlife, especially birds up really close.

On the Hampshire Downs a few miles west of Winchester, the views from the monument are probably the best in Central Hampshire.

Also discover the world of llamas, giant water lilies and a devilishly tricky maze, when you visit there is a complete world of fun for the whole family.

Here you should also visit the Wyndhams Pool surrounded by heath land and woodland in 193 acres. The Lepe occupies a narrow stretch of land with superb views of the Solent and Isle of Wright.

Then you can also visit the Royal Victoria which spreads across 200 acres of the most scenic delightful area of South Hampshire, providing ideal facilities for the whole of family.

Also go to Alice Holt Forest which is famous for it's oak trees which once supplied timber for the Royal Navy ships. The nearest station here is Bentley. Then cycle, walk, ride and play in Bedgebury Forest. Experience the National Pinetum with the world's finest collection of Conifers. It is open everyday except Christmas.

Hampshire offers you a treasure of rolling countryside, unspoilt beaches, glorious gardens and pretty villages bustling market places, historic ships and imposing castles.

If you are walking, cycling, horse riding or like water sports, there's plenty to do which will keep you amused for a long time.

For shopping food and drink, military heritage and award winning attractions Hampshire tops the list for various reasons in entertaining, relaxing short breaks and fun family holidays.

Hampshire's countryside captivates the imagination.