
Where will you visit next?
Discover lots of gardens, historic houses, days out at the coast and more.
A former Tudor ‘power house’ visited by Henry VIII, a 1930s country retreat and famous rose garden, a Georgian mansion with panoramic views, and an ancient working watermill in the heart of a city. These are yours to discover in Hampshire, together with acres of wildlife-rich downland, crystal-clear chalk streams, and ancient New Forest heaths.
Once a medieval priory, today you’ll find a romantic house with 1930s interiors and an art gallery, nestled in beautiful riverside gardens.
Explore a former Tudor powerhouse turned 18th-century family home, set in formal gardens, with walks to woodlands and wildlife-rich wetlands.
An elegant country house with exquisite collections, and picturesque gardens surrounded by an estate that’s perfect for walks.
An ancient working watermill in the heart of the city, with visiting otters, an island garden, and cosy indoor and outdoor café.
20th-century chapel and garden in a peaceful Hampshire village that houses an unexpected treasure – an epic series of wall paintings by world-famous war artist Sir Stanley Spencer.
A colourful mosaic of blooming heather and gorse, braided wetlands and ancient woodland pasture
Chalk downland with far-reaching views, a variety of wildlife and archaeological features
Wherever you visit us in Hampshire, you’ll find family adventures big and small, from natural play areas to acres of gardens, meadows and woods where kids can safely roam and let off steam.
19 July to 2 November: this summer, step into the magical world of flying car Chitty Bang Bang, with Mottisfont’s new exhibition and activities. The story, which celebrates its 60th birthday, was written by Ian Fleming for his son Caspar, and became a famous Disney film. Gallery rooms are transformed into colourful, creative spaces featuring artist John Burningham’s original illustrations, cosy reading areas and a custom-built Chitty front end you can climb into for family photos. Outside, an interactive trail takes families on a Chitty adventure through the gardens, with games inspired by the book’s characters. On set dates there are lively free storytelling performances too.
19 July to 7 September: join us at Hinton Ampner where kids can become the world’s most famous caterpillar, from Eric Carle’s best-selling book The Very Hungry Caterpillar™. Wiggle along the trail to spot juicy fruits and tasty snacks before emerging as a beautiful butterfly. Along the way you’ll digest fascinating facts and enjoy games and activities in the gardens.
There’s acres of space to run and explore, at our places around Hampshire. Hunt for mini beasts in nearby meadows and woods. There are Wild Play balancing beams, wetland bird hides, and parkland with trees you can squeeze inside (if you’re little). When it’s time to take a break, you’ll find mini lunches, café colouring sheets, and plenty of ice cream for warm sunny days.
As 2025 marks 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen, The Vyne is celebrating this milestone with a variety of Austen-inspired events. Uncover Jane’s links to the family at The Vyne with exhibition Regency Revisited and biweekly tours of the house. Until 2 November, take a stroll to the neighbouring village of Sherborne St John. On select dates, don't miss outdoor theatre and cinema. Read on to note key dates for the diary.
The Festival of Archaeology (19 July to 3 August) is the biggest archaeological celebration in the UK. Whether you’re an archaeological amateur or the next Indiana Jones, join us for exciting discoveries this summer, at places across the South East
Discover the hidden landscape beneath Hinton Ampner with our packed week of archaeology activities for the whole family, from guided parkland tours to our English Civil War weekend with The Sealed Knot Society (26 July to 3 August)
There’s lots more to enjoy, across the South East, with live excavations, guided walks and after hours graffiti tours, plus kids’ Heritage Explorer trails and treasure to dig for!
For the first time, you can experience the full glory of The Vyne’s Tudor Oak Gallery, as it may have appeared when King Henry VIII visited. The most highly decorative gallery of its kind in Europe, this 82 foot long space has completed a six month long conservation project. Cleared of portraits and furniture, all 406 of its finely carved herald panels running floor to ceiling can be seen. Find out more about its history and the conservation project to safeguard it, when you visit.
Mottisfont is shining a light on four collection artworks by fascinating female artists at the centre of 20th century avant-garden art. Some, such as Vanessa Bell, had Mottisfont connections. The display marks the launch of a beautifully illustrated new book Women Artists and Designers at the National Trust. 25 Jan to 2 Nov.
There are a number of sustainable travel options for travelling to and from the places in our care in Hampshire, whether you're looking to travel by train, bus, bike or foot.
Find out how to join a supporter group near you. There are several supporter groups located throughout Hampshire, and their members have access to a range of benefits including special interest talks, volunteering opportunities, fun social events and organised day trips to properties around the country.
Get beneath the surface of Sir Stanley Spencer’s paintings on a 45-minute bespoke tour of the chapel.
In a landscape familiar to Jane Austen, follow a 3.9 mile route leading from The Vyne to the neighbouring village of Sherborne St John. Free trail map available from Visitor Reception, or download a PDF version. Normal admission applies.
Sat 19 Jul - Sun 31 Aug | 10am-4pm Young adventurers can get active with eight fun family games and challenges hidden in The Vyne’s sprawling gardens.
Join us for an enchanting journey inspired by Eric Carle’s beloved children’s book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar™. Through this captivating trail, little ones can experience one of nature’s greatest transformations.
This Summer, Hinton Ampner is proud to offer a programme of events and activities to celebrate the nationwide Festival of Archaeology. Join us 26 July – 3 August for an inspiring day out with all the family.
Help yourself to tea, coffee and biscuits in the pop-up tea-room, where tables are set with floral cloths and vintage cups. Available until the end of August. There is a small charge for drinks and biscuits.
Free shuttle service between Basingstoke Train Station and The Vyne. Pre-booking essential.
Discover Jane Austen’s links to The Vyne, her views on the Chute family and what Regency life, and love, was like for those living here at the time.
Discover lots of gardens, historic houses, days out at the coast and more.