There are many stunning places to explore in Hampshire for a day out, including plenty of gorgeous villages.
They offer plenty of great features such as beautiful scenery, riverside walks, high-quality pubs and restaurants and historical charm.
If you live in Southampton, there are quite a few that fit that sort of description that are within a short distance.
One of those is Hamble, which could be the perfect place for your next day out.
Why the Hampshire village of Hamble is worth visiting
Hamble is easily accessible from Southampton by train or car and offers a pleasant experience for those who visit.
Visit Hampshire describes it as a "quaint, picturesque village, boasting stunning views, period cottages, pretty walks and thriving wildlife".
It adds: "Formerly used as an aircraft training centre during the Second World War, Hamble is now a yachting Mecca, drawing in people from around the world for races, events and celebrations.
"After Cowes on the Isle of Wight, it is seen as one of the most important yachting destinations in the UK."
Hamble's cobbled streets are also known for their shopping, dining and pub options, with there being a lot of variety to find.
Alongside that, the village also has a Common, which is set in 55 acres of heathland.
It is a site of special scientific interest due to its range of habitats, according to the Eastleigh Borough Council website.
There are also plenty of historical links to this area, due to it being a spot where an Iron Age settlement was located, as well as a Napoleonic gun battery.
Things to do in the Hampshire village of Hamble
Due to its status as a yachting haven, visitors can easily watch the boats cruise along the river, as well as go for walks along its banks.
Hamble Common also offers a large natural area to explore and potentially spot some wildlife too.
If you're looking for some dining options, you're in luck as there is plenty to enjoy in the village.
One of those is River Rat, which is a relaxed lounge spot ideal for lunch, bottomless brunches and light bites.
Their website says: "Our mission is to deliver a consistently warm welcome, coupled with tasty cocktails, good food, and friendly service, in a setting that's comfortable, relaxing, and informal."
It has earned a 4.7/5 rating on Tripadvisor from 195 reviews, as one person shared: "Been twice in last 3 weeks, once for lunch and once for Sunday roast. Food is lovely and so were the staff. It is a beautiful little place with a great atmosphere."
Meanwhile, if you wanted some Thai food, then the Thaiger Lounge is very well-regarded in the village.
On Tripadvisor, it has an almost-perfect score of 4.9/5 from 117 reviews, with plenty of guests waxing lyrical about it.
One person shared: "Some of the best Thai food I’ve had in ages. Nice friendly staff and very helpful when ordering.
"The atmosphere was perfect for celebrating my daughter’s birthday. Great place and we will definitely be back soon."
Another commented: "Most unreal restaurant in hamble, staff are lovely, wonderful atmosphere, authentic food which tastes lovely and can choose your heat level which is a great perk."
Finally, if you're looking for a pub, then The Victory Inn might be one for you.
The Grade II-listed spot in the heart of the village serves a range of ales, with a regularly changing selection on tap.
Its website adds: "We are a dog-friendly pub with a large garden that gets sunshine all day, perfect for those summer months made for day drinking cider.
"In the drearier weather conditions our three parasols with heaters will be sure to keep you dry and warm."
On Tripadvisor, it has earned a 4.1/5 score from 310 reviws, as one visitor said: "Excellent proper pub with good food and beer - traditional local , warm, with welcoming service from Sarah M. Will visit when next in Hamble."
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Another said: "If you’re looking for a proper Sunday roast, look no further than the victory.
"This gem of a pub delivers everything you could hope for in a quintessential British roast and then some."
In terms of other businesses to find in Hamble, there are also a few cafes like Jenny's Cage and the Beach Hut Cafe.
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