A hidden gem in the rolling countryside
Surrounded by the scenic South Downs, this market town is an excellent base for exploring the rolling hills and unspoilt villages of Hampshire. The town itself is very picturesque, and has a lovely lake that you can row or canoe round on balmy days. Good transport links mean London and the historic cities of Portsmouth, Chichester and Winchester are all within easy reach.
See the past brought to life
Butser Ancient Farm is an open-air museum full of archaeological treasures that show what life was like in Britain 3,000 years ago. See amazing roundhouses and a Roman villa, along with crops and livestock from the period. There's lots of hands-on activities for kids too. Also worth a visit is Uppark, a Georgian country house where HG Wells spent some of his childhood. Don't miss the dolls' house and regency garden.
Outdoor fun and frolics
Queen Elizabeth Country Park offers thrilling adventure sports for people of all ages. Have a go at off-road driving, paragliding or orienteering. In summer, Petersfield's open-air swimming pool is the place to make a splash. The heated 25-metre pool has swim and diving classes for youngsters, plus there's a sun terrace and picnic benches. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Petersfield? Travelodge Havant Rowlands Castle lies to the south of the town, while Travelodge Alton Four Marks is to the north, and also handy for historic Winchester.