If you’re looking for the best things to do in Basingstoke, England, then you’ve come to the right place!
Basingstoke is a vibrant town full of interesting attractions and activities that are sure to keep you entertained.
From exploring the stunning Basingstoke Canal to visiting the historic Vyne National Trust Property, there is something for everyone here.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day out or an action-packed adventure, you’ll find it in Basingstoke.
Read on to discover the 15 best things to do in Basingstoke, England.
Explore the Basingstoke Canal
You’ll love exploring the Basingstoke Canal; take a boat ride and marvel at its beauty! The canal is a peaceful place, with plenty of nature to enjoy.
You can spot a variety of wildlife, including ducks, swans, and other birds. The canal is also home to some interesting historical features, including old locks and mill buildings.
The route of the canal takes you through some of the most beautiful countryside in Hampshire. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the canal. On the tour, you’ll learn about the canal’s importance in transporting goods and passengers in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The tour also takes you past the old wharves, warehouses, and aqueducts. The tour is a great way to really get to know the canal and its history.
You can also take the canal boat back to Basingstoke, where you can explore the town or go back to your starting point. There’s so much to see and do on the Basingstoke Canal, and it’s a great way to make the most of your time in Hampshire.
Take A Walk Through Eastrop Park
Stroll through Eastrop Park and enjoy the majestic trees and vibrant blooms, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The park has something for everyone; from the rock garden and sensory garden to the playground and skate park, there’s plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
Take a leisurely walk around the lake, spot the ducks and swans, and make sure to keep an eye out for the resident heron!
The park is also home to sports fields, a bowling green, and a tennis court.
For those who love to birdwatch, Eastrop Park is a great spot for that too.
It’s also a great place to relax and have a picnic surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful afternoon in the great outdoors, or a place to have some fun with your family, Eastrop Park is the perfect spot for you.
Enjoy a Day at Milestones Museum
Immerse yourself in a world of history and discovery at Milestones Museum, the perfect destination for a day of exploration and adventure.
The museum is made up of a collection of period streets and shops. This gives visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore the sights and sounds of the past.
From an old-fashioned sweet shop to a vintage car showroom, you can explore the history of the local area and the UK as a whole.
There are also plenty of interactive activities to enjoy. These include dressing up in period costumes, playing traditional games, and taking part in craft activities.
The museum also hosts regular events and activities throughout the year. These include live music, theatre performances, and educational talks.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or an educational experience, Milestones Museum has something for everyone.
Go Shopping at Festival Place
Explore the wide range of stores and eateries at Festival Place, a modern shopping centre located in the heart of Basingstoke.
With over 120 shops and a variety of restaurants and cafés, you can easily spend a few hours browsing the massive mall.
Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, home accessories, or even technology, Festival Place has it all.
Plus, you can take advantage of the great sales year-round and enjoy a bite to eat while you shop.
The mall has something for everyone, with many recognizable brands such as Zara, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Apple, and more.
There are even plenty of kid-friendly activities, including a cinema and interactive children’s play areas.
Festival Place also regularly hosts events and activities, from book signings and live music to performances from local dance groups.
So if you have some free time in Basingstoke, head to Festival Place for a unique shopping experience.
Visit The Vyne National Trust Property
Delve into history and uncover centuries of secrets at The Vyne National Trust Property. Located in the heart of Hampshire, this unique Tudor estate is a must-see for anyone visiting Basingstoke.
The Vyne has been in the Chute family since 1551 and was extensively renovated in the 17th Century by Charles II. With a variety of trails through the estate and a range of activities, there’s something for everyone.
Explore the estate’s beautiful gardens, admire the Tudor architecture, and take in the views of the River Loddon. You’ll also find a variety of events and workshops, such as outdoor theatre performances and storytelling.
The Vyne is home to some of the best-preserved Tudor interiors in England, including the exquisite Long Gallery and the Great Hall, where you can see the famous Chute family portraits. Take a guided tour and learn more about the estate’s fascinating history, or follow one of the self-guided trails for an unforgettable day out.
Have Fun at The Aquadrome
After taking in the rich history of The Vyne, I decided to head to The Aquadrome to have some fun.
Located a mile away from the centre of Basingstoke, The Aquadrome is a great spot to spend a day with friends or family.
The Aquadrome is a large stretch of wide open grass, perfect for picnics, kite flying, or having a barbecue.
You can also canoe and kayak in the lake, or spend some time exploring the nature reserves.
For the more adventurous, the Aquadrome also has a skate park and outdoor gym.
The park has plenty of benches and picnic tables, so you can take a break and admire the beautiful scenery.
Best of all, admission is free!
Visit The Willis Museum
Head to The Willis Museum to discover the history of Basingstoke and learn about the town’s past.
You’ll find a wide range of interesting artifacts, from ancient pottery to rare coins and more.
Explore the museum’s permanent exhibits and interactive displays to learn about the history of Basingstoke.
Through the museum’s interactive exhibits, visitors can explore the various industries that shaped the town, from agriculture to industry, and much more.
You can also experience the town’s history through a range of interactive activities, from dressing up in period costume to exploring the museum’s educational activities.
The Willis Museum has something for everyone, with something to engage and entertain all ages.
Take a journey through time and discover the stories of Basingstoke’s past.
Take a Tour of The Anvil
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Anvil and explore the venue’s unique history on an exciting tour.
As the premier arts and entertainment venue in Basingstoke, The Anvil is a must-see attraction for visitors to the area.
Located in the heart of the city, the theatre has been entertaining audiences since 1929.
The tour will take you through the theatre’s rich history, with the knowledgeable guides offering insights into the incredible stories behind the building.
The tour also gives you the chance to explore the building’s many unique features, like the majestic auditorium and the fascinating backstage areas.
You’ll also get to see a selection of the venue’s extensive range of historic costumes and props.
The tour also allows you to explore the Anvil’s many contemporary features, such as the state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems.
At the end of the tour, you will have a greater appreciation for the venue’s incredible history and the many ways it has grown and developed over the years.
Check Out The Rooksbury Mill
Come and explore the beauty of Rooksbury Mill, located just outside of Basingstoke in England. This picturesque spot is the perfect place to get away from it all and to enjoy some peaceful time outdoors.
The mill is a small, traditional building with a thatched roof, and it sits on the edge of a tranquil lake. The area surrounding the mill is a beautiful woodland, with tall trees providing a canopy of shade and a variety of wildlife to be spotted.
The mill also has some interesting features that make it a great spot for a visit. Inside the mill, you can find a variety of interesting artifacts and displays related to the mill’s history. There’s also a small cafe and gift shop, offering snacks and souvenirs of your visit.
The grounds of the mill also have a mini-golf course for a bit of family fun, and plenty of picnic spots to relax and take in the scenery. Rooksbury Mill is sure to be a memorable experience for all ages.
Unwind at War Memorial Park
Take a leisurely stroll through War Memorial Park, located near Basingstoke in England, and relax in its tranquil atmosphere.
The park is a great spot to connect with nature and enjoy its beauty. It’s a great place to enjoy a picnic on the grass or a quiet lunch under a tree.
The park is also an ideal spot for bird watching, with a diverse population of birds. There are plenty of benches and tables to sit and enjoy the setting.
War Memorial Park also has a beautiful lake, which is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a relaxing boat ride.
The park also has a playground, a skate park, and a cafe that serves up delicious hot and cold beverages. Whether you want to sit and enjoy the scenery or take part in an activity, War Memorial Park has something for everyone.
Discover Chineham Park
After a peaceful stroll through War Memorial Park, head over to Chineham Park for some more outdoor fun. Located on the outskirts of Basingstoke, this picturesque park is the perfect spot for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
It offers a variety of activities, including a café, a play area, and plenty of walking trails. The park has something for everyone, whether you’re looking to play a game of tennis, take a leisurely stroll around the lake, or explore the grounds. There’s also a nature trail for those who want to get closer to nature.
With plenty of seating and benches, it’s also an ideal place to sit and relax in the sunshine or take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Whatever you choose to do, Chineham Park is an excellent way to spend an afternoon in Basingstoke.
Take a Trip to Basing House
Immerse yourself in history with a visit to Basing House, the ruins of a Tudor palace in Basingstoke. Originally constructed in the 12th century, Basing House has been home to many influential families over the centuries.
It was destroyed during the English Civil War, but the ruins remain and offer an amazing insight into the past. Explore the ruins and learn about its unique history, with guided tours and audio trails available.
There are also special events throughout the year, such as battle re-enactments, arts and crafts, and music and theatre performances. Basing House is a great spot for a family day out or a romantic afternoon. It’s the perfect place to take in the stunning views, relax in the tranquil gardens, and explore the ruins.
So, take a trip to Basing House and discover a piece of history.
Have Fun at Black Dam Garden
Experience the beauty of nature at Black Dam Garden in Basingstoke, England. Located just outside town, this large park is a great place to relax and take in the scenery.
With plenty of paths to wander, you can enjoy a peaceful walk among the trees or take a leisurely stroll around the lake. There are plenty of benches to sit and watch the birds, and the gardens are well-tended and beautiful. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, from the resident ducks to the foxes and badgers that can be spotted out at night.
Black Dam Garden offers a range of activities for the whole family to enjoy. There are two playgrounds, a mini-golf course, a cafe, and a range of events such as concerts and exhibitions. The park also hosts a variety of activities for kids, like outdoor theatre performances and storytelling sessions.
During the summer months, there’s a play area with games and activities to keep the little ones entertained. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone at Black Dam Garden.
Go for a Walk at East Oakley
Take a leisurely stroll around East Oakley and soak up the beauty of nature. This charming park is located on the outskirts of Basingstoke, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
With its well-maintained paths and tranquil surroundings, East Oakley is the perfect spot for a quiet walk. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including foxes, rabbits, and birds, so be sure to keep your eyes and ears open as you wander around.
The views of the surrounding countryside are stunning, and there are plenty of benches for you to stop and admire them. East Oakley also has a playground and picnic area, making it a great destination for families.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a fun day out, East Oakley is sure to provide it.
Enjoy a Picnic at Basingstoke Common
Head to Basingstoke Common for a picnic in the great outdoors. Located in the heart of the town, Basingstoke Common is a picturesque spot with plenty of grassy areas for the perfect picnic.
You can spread out a blanket and relax by the lake, or find a spot in the shade of the trees. The park is full of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for birds, rabbits, and other animals. You can even bring your dog along for a walk around the park, as long as you keep them on a leash.
There are plenty of benches around for a rest, and lots of options for food and drink nearby. A picnic at Basingstoke Common is the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon.
Conclusion
I’ve had a great time exploring Basingstoke and all it has to offer. From the historic Basing House to the modern Festival Place, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.
One of my favorite activities was taking a walk along the Basingstoke Canal. It was a great way to relax and take in the beautiful scenery.
With so much to do in Basingstoke, it’s hard to believe it’s often overlooked. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or a peaceful walk, you won’t be disappointed with what Basingstoke has to offer.