Packed full of history and easy to get to by car (make sure you use the park and ride) or by train, Winchester is a must in December. It is no wonder it is repeatedly visited one of the best places to visit during the festive season and can have a real Dickenson feel in its cobbled streets. As well as its fabulous Cathedral Christmas Market and city centre market, Winchester also has wonderful historical treasures to explore - including greatest symbol of medieval mythology, King Arthur’s Round Table.
Picture: Joe Low. — Packed full of history and easy to get to by car (make sure you use the park and ride) or by train, Winchester is a must in December. It is no wonder it is repeatedly visited one of the best places to visit during the festive season and can have a real Dickenson feel in its cobbled streets. As well as its fabulous Cathedral Christmas Market and city centre market, Winchester also has wonderful historical treasures to explore - including greatest symbol of medieval mythology, King Arthur’s Round Table. Picture: Joe Low. | Joe Low

placeholder image — Packed full of history and easy to get to by car (make sure you use the park and ride) or by train, Winchester is a must in December. It is no wonder it is repeatedly visited one of the best places to visit during the festive season and can have a real Dickenson feel in its cobbled streets. As well as its fabulous Cathedral Christmas Market and city centre market, Winchester also has wonderful historical treasures to explore - including greatest symbol of medieval mythology, King Arthur’s Round Table. Picture: Joe Low. | Joe Low

9 magical places to visit this Christmas in Portsmouth and Hampshire which will really get you in the festive mood

Editor

Published 14th Nov 2025, 16:33 GMT

Hampshire is bursting with so many fantastic towns, villages, cities and - of course - attractions to visit all year round. But Christmas is extra special.

Our historic locations are transformed into fantastic shopping venues with twinkling lights, and many of the county’s most popular tourist attractions also host festive events.

There are just so many to choose from - but here are nine of my favourites!

9. Emsworth

Even after all these years I still love the Lobster Pot Christmas Tree in Emsworth. It is a great place for a walk and to go shopping all year round, but the sight of the Lobster Pot by the harbour just makes it extra special! | Alex Shute Photo: Alex Shute

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9 magical places to visit this Christmas in Portsmouth and Hampshire which will really get you in the festive mood

Hampshire is bursting with so many fantastic towns, villages, cities and - of course - attractions to visit all year round. But Christmas is extra special.

9. Emsworth

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