Top Attractions in Berkshire and Hampshire: Things to See and Do

Windsor Castle 

The home of 40 monarchs since being built by William the Conqueror over 1000 years ago, Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. You can visit the State Apartments, where official visits by Heads of State from other countries take place, as well as the rooms used by historic British Kings and Queens. St George’s Chapel is also on-site, where eleven monarchs - including Queen Elizabeth II - have been laid to rest. 

Ascot Racecourse

With an extensive 200-year history, Ascot is a famous site for thoroughbred horse racing. It is home to the prestigious Royal Ascot event in the summer, during which every day begins with a Royal Procession as members of the royal family arrive to the fanfare of the national anthem. Truly, it is not an occasion to be missed!

Legoland Windsor Resort 

A children’s theme park and young family resort destination, Legoland has something for everyone to enjoy. There are over 55 rides and attractions, two fully-themed resort hotels and over 80 million Lego bricks, all set in 150 acres of parkland.  

National Trust Basildon Park

Basildon Park is a beautiful 18th century country house estate, lovingly restored from ruin in the 1950s. Today, visitors can roam the lavishly re-created rooms of the mansion, as well as the extensive garden grounds.   

New Forest National Park

Once a royal hunting ground in the 12th century AD, the New Forest is home to a rare mixture of habitats and wildlife. Wild horses, cows and deer are just some of the animals you might come across during a leisurely stroll or an active hike. There are also paths well suited for cycling, if you would prefer to take in the stunning landscape by bike. 

National Motor Museum

Situated in the village of Beaulieu at the heart of the New Forest, the National Motor Museum displays a world-famous collection of 285 motor vehicles alongside many related memorabilia. It tells the story of motoring in Britain, ranging from classic cars and F1 racers to the racing car that inspired Ian Fleming’s novel Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. 

Highclere Castle 

You may recognise this breathtaking architecture from a certain famous television series. As the home of the set of ‘Downton Abbey’, many of the state rooms included in the filming of the show are open for exploration by visitors. The building’s extensive history doesn’t end there, though: it was converted into a hospital for wounded soldiers in the First World War, and also acted as a home to children evacuated from London during the Second World War. Highclere Castle is also the current home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.