Basingstoke
Basingstoke and Deane
Basingstoke and Deane
Basingstoke is not, as is commonly thought, a “new town” - in fact it's an expanded market town with origins that can be traced right back to the Iron Age.
With a rich history and in an excellent location, Basingstoke and Deane offers the perfect blend of a vibrant town and scenic countryside. The town offers a great shopping experience with plenty to explore and is surrounded by characterful rural villages like Whitchurch and Overton, each with their own story to tell.
Places to visit
Basingstoke has a rich variety of cultural and heritage attractions. In the surrounding areas you’ll find the backdrop to Downton Abbey at Highclere Castle, the home of Bombay Sapphire, the UKs oldest working silk mill, Watership Down made famous in Richard Adam’s book of the same name and not forgetting the birthplace of Jane Austen.
Other towns and villages near Basingstoke make this area of north Hampshire ideal for a relaxing short break
Overton (7 miles)
Alton (9 miles)
Fleet (10 miles)
Chawton (10 miles)
Things to do in Basingstoke
As for tourist attractions, Basingstoke is well-stocked with shops, restaurants and bars. The Festival Place Shopping Centre is the focal point for most shopaholics, with over 200 stores and 31 different restaurants.
Visit the remains and wander the gardens of Basing House – at one stage the largest private house in England. Today you can see the earthworks of a medieval castle, which predates the house.
See ancient artefacts and modern artwork in the Willis Museum on Market Place.
Visit The Vyne, a 16th-century house and a treasure trove of history - during her lifetime, the acclaimed author Jane Austen often attended dances at the house.
Step back in time at the Milestones Museum, a living history museum made up of a network of streets that recreate the Victorian era and 1930's Hampshire.
Basingstoke Leisure Park is located just outside of Basingstoke town centre and offers a great day out for all the family. You can get your adrenaline fix at iFly Indoor Skydiving, glide along the ice, play a game of bowls, splash about at the Aquadrome, catch a film and lots more.
Find out what's on in Basingstoke this weekend with our guide to events in Hampshire.
Basingstoke is about 50 miles south west of London, is easily accessible via the major motorway networks of the M25, M3 and M4 and is well served by public transport.
Discover Basingstoke and Deane’s past, from the rich archaeological heritage beneath our…
Hidden Britain Tours offer three full-day, Hampshire tours, the most popular of which is…
The War Memorial Park is an historic Georgian park which is within walking distance of…
Located just a short walk from Basingstoke town centre, this popular park includes a…
This was originally part of the Hackwood Estate. Evidence of the historical significance…
From cobbled streets to a seaside pier, teddy bears, vintage vehicles, an operating pub,…
Whether you are looking to spend the day or a quick time out, Basingstoke Leisure Park is…
iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Basingstoke is the perfect destination for a day out with the…
Discover the many stories of Basing House, a nationally important historical site. This…
Manydown Family Fun is an amazing day out for all the family! The attraction is open…
he Vyne is a warm red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century for Lord Sandys,…
Andwell Brewing Company brewed its first pint in October 2008. Since then, Andwell’s has…
Home of the Dukes of Wellington since 1817. Unique collection of paintings, furniture and…
Known locally as ‘King John’s Castle’, Odiham Castle is located within a tranquil site…
Pottery handmade and decorated stoneware by Lesley and Michael Dixon. Commemorative ware…
Wonderful countryside sites, both hosting a wide varierty of plants and animals and…