Budget-friendly trips within an hour's drive of Basingstoke

From woodland walks to coastal breezes, Hampshire has so much to offer this winter. Pack a thermos, gather your loved ones, and enjoy these free and memorable adventures during the festive season. 

Here are five fantastic winter days out to inspire your plans.

Jane Austen walks and trails

Wrap up warm and step into Jane Austen’s world with a series of picturesque walks across Hampshire’s countryside. Though the trees may be bare, the frosty landscape has its own serene beauty, and these trails provide a peaceful escape during the festive season.

Chawton Circular Walk (4.5 miles): This charming route starts at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton and winds past Chawton House Library and the quaint village of Farringdon. The frost-kissed fields and hedgerows make for an idyllic winter walk.

Alton to Chawton (1.5 miles): A shorter walk perfect for a crisp afternoon, this trail explores the market town of Alton, a place Jane Austen and her sister Cassandra often visited. Marvel at the historic buildings decked with festive decorations.

Winchester Austen Trail: Discover landmarks connected to Jane’s life in Winchester, including her grave at Winchester Cathedral and the house where she spent her final days on College Street. This self-guided trail is perfect for those who want to combine history with a brisk winter stroll.

The Jane Austen Dancing Years Tour: Run by Hidden Britain Tours, jump aboard one of their people carries and be taken to explore North Hampshire. You’ll be driven through villages and shown houses where Jane would have danced, visit her birth place and experience the places she spent her first 26 years. Find out more.

Winchester Cathedral Jane Austen Tours: Be taken on a guided tour and explore Jane Austen’s connections with Winchester Cathedral and see Jane’s grave. The tour will include a walk through the Cathedral’s historic Inner Close to the house in College Street where she died. 

For more information on the trails click here.

Woodland picnics in frosty glades

While bluebells won’t be gracing the woodlands until spring, Hampshire’s forests offer a magical winter wonderland. A quiet picnic in Micheldever Wood or another local woodland is the perfect way to savour a thermos of hot chocolate while surrounded by nature. Blankets of frost, misty mornings, and the occasional robin make these woods enchanting at this time of year.

Cycling through the South Downs

The South Downs National Park remains a treasure even in winter. With its rolling hills, ancient trails, and picturesque villages, it’s an ideal destination for a bracing family cycle ride.

The Meon Valley Trail: Follow the path of the former railway line from Wickham to West Meon. The crisp air and quiet countryside make this trail a winter favorite. Stop for a flask of mulled cider in Droxford, where Churchill and Eisenhower once met, or pause to enjoy the festive charm of the villages along the route.

Winter walks along the coast

The south coast may be chilly, but it’s still a fantastic place to explore in December. With fewer crowds and the invigorating sea air, it’s the perfect spot for a bracing winter walk.

Our recommended beaches include:

• Lee-on-the-Solent: Ideal for a peaceful winter’s day stroll.

• Lepe Country Park: Enjoy the sea breeze and views of the Isle of Wight.

• Calshot Beach: A mix of history and nature, with views of Calshot Castle.

• Highcliffe Beach: Perfect for a quiet moment by the waves.

Explore historic ruins and landmarks

Hampshire’s rich history is on full display year-round, and winter offers a unique opportunity to see these landmarks framed by frosty landscapes. Bundle up and step back in time at these sites:

• Odiham Castle: Known locally as “King John’s Castle,” this atmospheric ruin is especially striking in winter.

• Southampton’s Medieval Walls: Take a self-guided walk through the city’s history, complete with festive lights nearby.

• Bishop’s Waltham Palace: Explore the ruins of this medieval bishop’s residence.

• Wolvesey Castle: A peaceful and historic spot for a winter’s day.

• Netley Abbey: The hauntingly beautiful ruins of this Cistercian monastery are especially serene in December.