I’ve always had the travel bug and a desire to seek out unique experiences. So, growing up in the county, I had a lot of time to seek out unusual things to do in Hampshire.

The big attractions in Hampshire are well known. From Paultons Park and National Motor Museum. To historical sights such as Winchester Cathedral and Highclere Castle. As well as the big days out, such as Portsmouth, where you can explore the Mary Rose and HMS Victory.

But what if you want to visit somewhere a little more unusual while in Hampshire?

I put this guide together for anyone visiting the region who is looking for something a little different from their stay. Maybe a memorable experience or venturing off the beaten track to a hidden gem.

You might also want to check out my Hampshire Glamping Guide!

#1 Have an Owl or Birds of Prey Experience

Location: Andover

The award-winning Hawk Conservancy Trust offers unique courses and experiences that allow you to get up close and personal with owls and birds of prey.

#2 Abseil Down the Spiniker Tower

Location: Portsmouth

The Spinnaker Tower is great to visit for views across Portsmouth. But if you’re really looking for a unique experience in Hampshire, how about abseiling down this 100m landmark?!

#3 Experience a night like no other at Spitbank Fort

Location: Portsmouth

If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, then book yourself a night’s stay at Spitbank Fort. Arrive by boat and spend the night marooned in the middle of the ocean in complete luxury!!

#4 Knock back a few on the Bombay Sapphire Tour

Location: Whitchurch

Gin lovers should head to Whitchurch and join a tour where you learn how Bombay Sapphire is made. You’ll be pleased to hear the tour includes a few tasters!

#5 Visit the Grave of Thomas Thetcher

Location: Winchester

The grave of Thomas Thetcher is significant for its epitaph, which inadvertently influenced the creation of Alcoholics Anonymous, demonstrating the enduring impact of historical inscriptions on modern culture. For more information, you can visit The Vintage News.

#6 Join a gentle Alpaca Walk

Location: Eastleigh

Alpacas Hampshire offer one of the more unusual things to do in Hampshire – get up close and personal with these furry animals on an alpaca walk.

#7 Have an adventure at GoApe

Location: Southampton

Test your head for heights on the GoApe course in Southampton which includes a high-rope course and zip lines. Great fun for all the family.

#8 Ride a steam train

Location: Winchester

Go back in time and take a ride on the Watercress Line, New Alresford, via one of their restored steam and diesel engines.

#9 Stay in a luxury Yurt on the South Downs

Location: Petersfield

Adhurst Yurts offer one of the best glamping experiences in Hampshire. Stay in a luxury yurt surrounded by nature. You can also book yourself onto a course during your stay to learn bushcraft or fly fishing skills.

#10 Fly high at the Portsmouth International Kite Festival (July)

Location: Portsmouth

The Portsmouth International Kite Festival is one of the more unusual things to do in Hampshire that guarantees a fun and memorable day out!

#11 Hire a Canal Boat

Location: Basingstoke

Galleon Marine in Basingstoke hires out canal boats, either for a day or for longer if looking for something a bit more adventurous.

#12 Head to the Isle of Wight – on a hovercraft

Location: Southsea

The Isle of Wight is a great destination to head to for hikes and beaches. But make sure you arrive in style….by catching the Hover Travel hoverboat from Southsea.

#13 Experience a Vineyard Wine Tour

Location: Andover

Is there a better way to pass the time on a summer’s day than with a vineyard tour, accompanied by wine and cheese tasting?

#14 Go on Safari in the New Forest

Location: New Forest

Three bus routes cover the entire New Forest National Park. Hop on and off, while enjoying commentaries along the way about the animals and places you pass.

#15 Travel back in time at the Milestone Museum

Location: Basingstoke

This hidden gem of a museum can be found tucked out the way in Basingstoke. Step back in time, in this interactive and impressive museum.

#16 Go Indoor Skydiving

Location: Basingstoke

If you’re on the lookout for unusual things to do in Hampshire, then iFLY in Basingstoke offers indoor skydiving experiences. Get the thrill of flying without needing to throw yourself out of an airplane!

#17 Enjoy a day out at Dogstival (June)

Location: New Forest

Dogstival is a festival where our four-legged friends are the VIPS. A great day out with dog shows, food and live music.

#18 Picnic in style

Location: Fareham

Grab a picnic on a sunny day and find a spot in the Portchester Castle grounds for a historical picnic to remember.

#19 Canoe down the Beaulieu River

Location: New Forest

Join a relaxing Kayaking or Canoeing tour of Beaulieu River Nature reserve where you can spot all sorts of incredible wildlife.

#20 Visit the house of Jane Austin

Location: Alton

Visit the enchanted cottage where Jane Austin lived and wrote many of her famous novels.

#21 Get spooked on a Supernatural Tour

Location: Portsmouth

Join one of Portmouth’s well-known ghost tours to hear about the gruesome history of the area. Expect a few jumps along the way!

#22 Discover Southampton’s Hidden Vaults

Location: Southampton

Join a tour to visit Southamptons vaults that lay hidden underneath the city.

#23 Ride the Steamship Shieldhall

Location: Southampton

Take a trip on Britain’s largest working steam train – the Steamship Sheildhall.

#24 Spend the day in Luxury on a Yacht

Location: Lymington

Jump on board a luxury yacht for a day sailing around the Solent. The tour includes a 2-course meal and champagne.

#25 Get Spacey at the Planetarium

Location: Winchester

Winchesters Science Centre makes for a great day out for the family, although make sure to book yourself a show at the planetarium.

#26 Go back in time at The Nostalgia Show (June)

Location: Romsey

If looking for something a bit different, The Nostlgia Show is a celebration of British eccentricity at Broadlands Estate in Romsey, with classic cars, retro fashion, and nostalgic music.

#27 Discover the Lavender Fields (July and August)

Location: Alton

Nothing is more spectacular than seeing lavender fields in full bloom. The Lavender Fields in Alton are one of the best places to see them in season and also have a great little shop where you can buy all sorts of goodies.

I hope you found my list of Unusual Things to do in Hampshire helpful.

Can you think of anything I’ve missed? Let me know in the comments below – and don’t forget to follow on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube channel for more travel inspiration and advice!