Are you looking to escape from big city life? If you find yourself dreaming of country pubs, idyllic walks - or even wild ponies - then a move to Hampshire could be on the agenda.

Beautiful countrysides meet a picture-perfect coast, making the county a highly desirable place to live. Commuter? The region also has strong transport links, which means you can blend inner-city working with a peaceful home backdrop.

What can I do in Hampshire?

With villages that look like they're straight out of a picture book, small towns and the large coastal cities of Southampton and Portsmouth - not to mention the nearby Isle of Wight - Hampshire is simply a delightful part of the world. If you're looking to pass an afternoon, why not go on a rambling country walk, where the only destination is a Sunday Lunch at a quaint pub?

If you’re a foodie, you’re in luck. Those lucky enough to live in Hampshire have some of the best British restaurants a stone's throw away from them - as seen in the 19 Michelin Stars spread across the county. Notable places to visit include The Pig, Fat Olives, Kyoto Kitchen and Black Rat.

We mentioned Hampshire is peaceful, but what better way to unwind than by getting away from it all? A hot spot for some of the UK's most exclusive spas and country hotels, whether it's afternoon tea you're after or an escape to a tranquil oasis within idyllic countryside settings, you can treat yourself properly.

A range of scenic golf courses are dotted throughout Hampshire, whilst the most well-known football teams based in the area are Southampton F.C. and Portsmouth F.C.

But, if sport isn't your vice, England’s largest intact area of ancient woodland, the New Forest, is also tucked in at the western corner of the county. With wildlife all around you, it can make for a perfect day out.

Sun, Sea and Ships

As Hampshire is close to the coast, it would be wrong to not capitalise on this. Are you a lover of seafood? Venture down to Camber Quay in Portsmouth to enjoy catches that are fresh off the boat. Whilst there, why not climb Portsmouth’s iconic Spinnaker Tower and take in the stunning views. Or, if you're nearer to Southampton, The Jetty is an award-winning experience.

With annual boat shows, Southampton is also famous for another nautical reason. Arguably the world's most famous ship, the Titanic, set off on its doomed maiden voyage from the port. The SeaCity Museum may be the best place to learn more about the journey - and the role the sea has played in shaping the city.

As is expected with property prices in the South, a move to Hampshire can come at a considerable cost. Properties in 2021 sold for an average price of £384,023. Prices are on the rise, too. Over the last year, a 5% rise has taken place, according to Rightmove.

On average, semi-detached properties sell for £350,567, whilst terraced properties sell for £287,412. Are you at a stage of your life where you want a little more space? Detached properties sell for an average of £586,086.

What can I do in Southampton?

Southampton is not just home to the SeaCity Museum that houses an interactive model of the Titanic, or having one of the top 100 Universities in the UK; it has so much for you to see and do.

If it’s raining, take your pick from the Solent Sky Museum, the City Art Gallery or the Tudor House & Garden Museum. If the sun is out to play, then take your pick from the ruins of Holyrood Church, take an historical guided walk or visit one of the many parks. And no matter the weather, grab a well-deserved beer at Dancing Man Brewery!

The UEFA Women's EURO 2022 will be visiting Southampton at the St Mary's Stadium from 6-31 July 2022. On top of that exciting news, Southampton is also hoping to become the UK’s City of Culture in 2025 as the city is one of the eight long-listed locations to move to the next stage!

What is it like to live in Bishop’s Waltham?

Bishop’s Waltham is a stunning medieval town that was named after Henry of Blois, brother of King Stephen, who founded Bishop’s Waltham. The royal links don’t just stop there: many Medieval and Tudor Kings and Queens have also visited the town to stay at the famous palace. Bishop's Waltham Palace was a moated Palace which is now a Grade II* listed building and the ruins are cared for by English Heritage.

The town is also home to many boutiques, shops, cafes and award-winning restaurants housed in 17th and 18th-century buildings. There’s also a vineyard, the Northbrook Springs Vineyard and a working mill nearby that are both well worth a visit.