Why we love glamping in Hampshire

From ancient woodland in the New Forest to quaint villages and deserted nature reserves, the walks in Hampshire do not disappoint. A gentle walk for all the family and home to some of England’s tallest trees, the Rhinefield Forest is a sensory overload, in a good way. Carpets of pine needles crunch underfoot and perfume the air whilst you stomp under redwoods and new firs, while you keep your eyes peeled for roe deer and New Forest ponies. For one of many pleasant days out in Hampshire, choose a section of the Clarendon Way to tackle. The 26-mile footpath stretches from Salisbury to Winchester and hikers can wander past water meadows sprawling across the valleys or pass through charming villages and woodlands.

If you’re glamping in Hampshire and looking for a moderate trail, take the Lyndhurst Circular Walk and spot birdlife along the paths and livestock grazing in the woods. Starting in the village, the route passes through varied terrain including bogs and farmed lands so keep your wits about you. Surrounding The Solent Way is a veritable selection box of varied trails; choose from seaside promenades and hustle and bustle or deserted marshland and peace and quiet.

You’ll find more than trees in the New Forest. A tapestry of ancient and ornamental woodland, rivers and valleys, coastal mudflats and saltmarshes mean the area teems with wildlife and nature. The stories of wild ponies in the New Forest have been delighting little and big kids for generations. For over 2000 years, ponies have roamed here and one of the best spots to spot them is at Beachern Wood. Remember, there are strict bylaws prohibiting touching or feeding the ponies. East of Borden, you will find Shortheath Common; vast swathes of wetland make this spot the perfect home for many creatures. There are 23 species of dragonfly here, including the rare Nightjar.

Glamping in Hampshire might mean having more than a tent to go back to, but you can’t always avoid the English weather so it is good to have some ideas of things to do on rainy days out in Hampshire. Luckily, at Burbush Waterfall heavy rain transforms an already beautiful walker’s spot into Hampshire's only waterfall. Another must-visit spot are the Ancient and Ornamental Woodlands, where a mix of native and exotic bushes and trees bring the peace and solitude only nature brings.

Historically famous for not much more than lamb, beef and watercress, things have gotten a little tastier in Hampshire since the 1800s. Local producers have put Hampshire on the foodie map with wines, cheeses and meats in the area receiving national awards. You’ll find a fantastic selection at Hampshire farmers markets, organic delis, restaurants, butchers and cafes. When glamping in Hampshire, there are plenty of chance to stumble upon that perfect meal. The quintessential Hampshire town of Milford on Sea offers more than the obligatory fish and chips and ice cream. Head to The Lighthouse for epic tasting platters and delicious dishes from breakfast till supper, all served with a seaside view.

You’ll find your favourite cake in local hotspot The Paddle on the Green, served alongside locally roasted coffee. Just up the road, the Hampshire town of Lymington is a real treat to wander. Earn your dinner by exploring the cobbled streets and learning of its rich maritime history. Dip into the East End Arms for seared scallops and foraged New Forest wild mushrooms. Hampshire vineyards are amongst the best in the UK and Hambledon Vineyard flies the flag for top-notch English sparkling wines. Spend the afternoon on a vineyard and winery tour before celebrating your success with a sparkling afternoon tea.

Sometimes, admiring art and culture is only for the brave. There have been reports of those glamping in Hampshire experiencing neck pain from admiring beautiful buildings, blisters from wandering the prettiest streets, and one famed man severely burnt his tongue on a toasted teacake in Winchester. Go careful out there. Mottisfont House ticks all the National Trust boxes with beautiful gardens and woodland to explore. The top floor houses a permanent 20th-century art collection as well as visiting major exhibitions. Explore both with your favourite drink from the cafe.

A visit to the charming village of Beaulieu (pronounced Be-ooh-lee) is a must when glamping in Hampshire. The name itself translates to ‘beautiful place’, and they’re not wrong. Grab yourself a spot on the riverside with a picnic or head to the world-famous National Motor Museum and see legendary vehicles from all over the globe. The pretty town of Winchester is a lesson in the history of Britain. Admire the cathedral, pay homage to King Arthur’s Round Table at The Great Hall and explore the independent shops. History buffs make haste to seaside Hurst Castle to hear stories of Henry VIII and famous 17th-century captives.

Glamping in Hampshire

What do you get when you mix wood-fired hot tubs, birdsong and the smell of woodsmoke? A Canopy & Stars glamping holiday, that’s what. Escape in nature with a touch of luxury when glamping in Hampshire, our spaces are specially selected and a stone's throw from national parks, coastline and heritage sites.

What glamping means to us

Escaping the every day, immersing yourself in nature and spending some of that elusive quality time with loved ones; glamping is food for the soul. Glamping in Hampshire is camping without the wet tent and wondering where to put your walking boots. Think luxury shepherds huts, cosy bell tents and one of a kind treehouses.

How we choose our places

Standout, unique places in nature are at the heart of what we do. Our Owners are the opposite of bland; people passionate about sustainability and the world around them. A member of the Canopy & Stars team visits each and every place to go glamping in Hampshire to truly experience it.

About Canopy & Stars

Canopy & Stars are an independent travel company and proud advocates of sustainable travel. All our Owners live and build their businesses sustainably, and we do too. Proudly employee-owned since 2018, we also run a charitable trust that owns 24% of our business. We see responsible travel and sustainability as imperative to the future of our planet.