Coast’s choice: Hampshire

After a guided tour of our home county’s top attractions, we’re hopping over the Sussex border into Hampshire for our second edition of Coast’s Choice.

Here are some of the Coast team’s recommended places to visit in Hampshire – home of the New Forest and the birthplace of the British Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy.

Canoeing and kayaking in the New Forest

The New Forest is one of Britain’s greatest natural treasures, with tens of thousands of people flocking to the area each year for challenging walks and scenic views. If you prefer a bigger adrenaline injection, however, New Forest Activities runs a number of high octane events from Beaulieu Estate. From canoeing and kayaking to archery and combat games, there is plenty to keep even the biggest thrill seekers entertained! Visit New Forest Activities to find out more.

Nearest caravan site: 7.7 miles

Eling Tide Mill

Southampton’s Eling tide mill is one of the only tide mills in the UK that produces flour on a daily basis using 900-year-old production methods. Only four of these mills remain open in the country and visitors to this historic site have the opportunity to find out how its three types of local flour are produced. Open Wednesday-Sunday during the winter months and seven days a week in peak season, the mill also has its own tea rooms selling cakes and biscuits baked using its own flour. Entry costs from £3.05 for adults and £1.80 for children. Click here to access the Eling Tide Mill website.

Nearest caravan site: 6.1 miles

Finkley Down Farm

If you have young children to entertain, this family-run children’s farm is an ideal place to spend an afternoon. Visitors are invited to feed the farm’s ducks and lambs, groom a pony or cuddle a rabbit. As well as a host of animals, the farm features an adventure playground with trampolines, miniature tractors and a sandpit. Open from March until November each year, the farm has both a tearoom and an outdoor picnic area. Tickets cost from £7.95 for adults and £6.95 for children, with family discounts and reduced after school rates available. For more information visit the Finkley Down Farm website.

Nearest caravan site: 1.5 miles

Royal Navy Submarine Museum

Hampshire’s rich military history comes alive at this interactive museum. Located in Gosport, the Royal Navy Submarine Museum features a guided tour of World War II submarine HMS Alliance, an in-depth history of Britain’s submariners, hands-on science based games and the chance to view a rare X-craft midge submarine, which saw action during D Day in 1944. There is also a café and gift shop. Entry costs £10 for adults and £5 for children, the museum is open seven days a week all year round – visit the official website to find out more.

Nearest caravan site:  14 miles

When you’re travelling in the UK this summer, taking out a dedicated touring caravan insurance policy will protect against many eventualities such as damage caused by weather conditions and accidental damage. To find out more about Coast’s caravan insurance offering, call our sales team on Freephone 0800 614 849 or get an instant quote through our Quotation Page.