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Top things to do in Hampshire this summer
The county of Hampshire is perfect for those who want to enjoy the summer and what it offers. From warm days, long evenings, blue skies and all you can eat ice cream, you can have all that by visiting Hampshire in Kent.
Now, all you need to know are a few facts about Hampshire to make the most of your trip by enjoying it to the fullest. Read on to discover the top things to do in Hampshire and the interesting facts about this coastal county.
Is Hampshire an exciting place to visit?
Take a look below at our top facts about Hampshire in Kent:
1
A Big Deal
Did you know that Hampshire is the largest county in the South East and the 9th biggest in England (by area)? In terms of population, the county ranks 5th overall.
2
Famous Houses
Highclere Castle set in the Hampshire countryside, is one of the main filming locations for "Downton Abbey"! It also played host to the filming of “Jeeves and Wooster” starring Hugh Laurie (now better known as "Dr House") and Stephen Fry.
3
Just Spitting
The Spitfire aircraft is a part of Hampshire history. R. J. Mitchell invented it, and it was first flown from Eastleigh, Hampshire on the 5th March 1936. After it had completed its official trials, the RAF ordered 310 aircrafts! This changed the game for Supermarine (British aircraft manufacturer), as prior to this, their biggest order stood at just 12 machines.
4
It's Elementary
Sir Arthur Conan-Doyle wrote the original Sherlock Holmes story (“A Study in Scarlet”) in Southsea, Hampshire. The character Dr. Watson was based on a real doctor who was president of Portsmouth’s literary and scientific society and was a friend of the author.
5
Keeping Possession
A fun fact for any football fan, Portsmouth Football Club became the longest holding FA cup champions after their win in 1939. This was due to an interruption caused by World War II. The trophy was not presented again until the competition was resumed in 1946 – meaning they held the title for seven years!
6
Trenchant Wit
The British luxury fashion house, Burberry, was established in Basingstoke in 1856 by Thomas Burberry. This was after he stumbled across a completely breathable, waterproof fabric called gabardine. His aim was to keep people protected from the (sometimes harsh) British weather, and this resulted in the creation of the iconic Burberry trench coat.
7
Get Fizzical
Bottoms up! Hampshire may actually be better than France at making champagne. A recent blind-tasting test saw Hambledon Vineyards non-vintage classic cuvee trump famous French champagnes like Veuve Clicquot, Tattinger and Pol Roger!
8
Salad Days
Famous for its watercress, farms in Hampshire have grown the crop commercially since the 19th century. The county is responsible for the majority of watercress production across the nation. This is pretty impressive considering a bag of watercress is sold every second.
9
You can stand under my..
As typical as British weather can be with the constant rainfall, you’ll be glad that Jonas Hanway from Portsmouth has got the whole of Hampshire County covered. He was the first man in London to use an umbrella after getting inspiration from parasols used by women in Persia while on a business trip. For almost 30 years, people thought he was ridiculous for walking around with a ‘portable roof’, but who's laughing (and dry) now, Jonas?
10
The Codfather
And to conclude, the most interesting fact about Hampshire… Southampton was the first town to sample fish fingers after they were made in Great Yarmouth! And this is why the people of Hampshire argue they have the best fish and chips in the country.
Discover more fun facts:
Caravan holidays in Hampshire
If these fun facts have inspired you to find out more about this great county, why not discover our Hampshire holidays for an enjoyable and relaxing trip with the family.
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