Tylney Hall Hotel is such a serene spot that many guests are content to stray no further than the house, wellness facilities and gardens… and seriously, who can blame them? That said, the surrounding Hampshire countryside is so rich in culture and history, that it would be a crying shame not to take in a few of the sites.
Here are a few of our favourite attractions, only a short drive away from Tylney Hall Hotel & Gardens...
- Highclere Castle
Ever wanted to have a nosy at Downton Abbey up close? Highclere Castle is the breathtaking setting of the hit TV series. Situated in 5,000 acres of parkland, designed by the legendary Capability Brown, it is also the official seat of the Earl of Carnarvon. Highlights include The Secret Garden and opulent staterooms.
35 minute drive - Jane Austen’s House Museum
Jane Austen spent the last eight years of her life in a peaceful red brick cottage in the village of Chawton. Now a museum, you can see the little writing table where she penned immortal works such as Pride and Prejudice, and explore the wildflower garden that she once strolled in.
28 minute drive - Marwell Zoo
Looking for a fun family day out? This thrilling 140-acre zoo is home to over 135 species including zebras, giraffes, tigers, penguins, white rhinos and endangered animals. You can also take a ride on a toy train and explore the brand new Tropical House, whilst children have no less than five adventure playgrounds to explore.
43 minute drive - Winchester Cathedral
One of the largest in Europe, Winchester Cathedral is a medieval Gothic wonder. It is worth seeing for the awe-inspiring vaulted ceiling alone, but other notable features include the Norman crypt, 17th century Morley Library and St. Nicholas carvings. It is also where Jane Austen was laid to rest.
38 minute drive - National Motor Museum, Beaulieu
This is definitely one for the vintage transport fans. Tucked away in heart of the New Forest, this fascinating museum houses over 250 vehicles as well as the ‘World of Top Gear’ exhibition. Highlights include an original 19th century Benz and a fleet of racing cars. As a bonus, every ticket will also give you access to Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House.
60 minute drive - Exbury Gardens
Ever taken a steam train ride through a storybook garden? Now is your chance. Exbury offers an abundance of woodlands, grounds and floral features to explore, including the Daffodil Meadow, Rock Garden and Herbaceous Garden. A heavenly hideaway lining the Beaulieu River, these exquisite gardens offer a view all the way to the Isle of Wight.
60 minute drive - The Vyne
Set in 1,500 acres of ancient woodlands and wetlands, this 16th century Tudor house boasts an ornamental lake and stained glass chapel. Visitors are even given the chance to dress up in Victorian costume. After your tour of the house, gardens and lime avenue, you can stop off for scones in the Brewhouse tearoom.
20 minute drive - New Forest Wildlife Park
Otters, lynxes and wolves are just some of the fascinating creatures inhabiting this amazing wildlife park. Based on the edge of the New Forest, you will also find a Wallaby Wood, red deer enclosure and owlery. Younger nature lovers can make the most of the adventure playgrounds and pirate boats.
50 minute drive - The Royal Navy Submarine Museum Based on the waterfront at Gosport, this maritime museum offers a guided tour of the HMS Alliance, the only surviving WWII submarine. You will have a chance to peek through the submarine’s original periscope and hear stories about the wartime crew. This is an amazing slice of naval history that you won’t find anywhere else.
75 minute drive - Birdworld
Britain’s largest bird park, Birdworld devotes 26 acres to celebrating our feathered friends. Highlights include Penguin Island, Flamingo Cove and the Jenny Wren Farm, as well as freeflying parrots. Marine life even gets a look in too at the Underwater World aquarium.
28 minute drive