Hampshire is a county that has seen its fair share of history. From its involvement in the Norman Conquest of Britain and being favoured by King Henry VIII, to the part it played in the creation of the Titanic and its efforts during World War II, the county is littered with reminders of its past. While there are plenty of historic buildings and attractions to discover, you can add an extra layer to your stay by booking into one of Hampshire's historic hotels. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but each has its own tale to tell.
Crackling with Character: Historic Hotels in Hampshire
If you like your historic hotels to be crackling with character and teeming with timbers, the White Horse Hotel & Brasserie in Romsey is well worth a look. Originally a medieval guest house for artisans working at the nearby Abbey, it has changed in structure and design over the years and has seen various incarnations, from a coaching house to a country inn that even had its own piggery. Today, it offers 4-star accommodation, combining its fascinating history with modern elegance and amenities.
Romance and History
For couples looking to steal some time away together, the Balmer Lawn Hotel has always been popular, offering superb surroundings and beautiful rooms. However, there's much more to this historic hotel than meets the eye: what started as a 17th century hunting lodge, has also acted as a field hospital and an Army Staff College. It has also acted as host to a number of famous figures, including King George V and Winston Churchill.
Unique and Fascinating
For a real slice of history and five-star accommodation, the No Man's Fort, in Solent, is both unique and fascinating. Originally a 19th century sea-fort, it has been transformed into a breath-taking island hotel, accessible only by private boat. Boasting conference facilities and private rooms, this incredible hotel is equally equipped to host conferences and meetings, as it is to house guests who simply want their break in Hampshire to be something out of the ordinary.
With plenty of historic attractions, Hampshire is a must for anyone with even a passing interest in the past. Booking a room in an historic hotel can make your stay truly memorable.
