Discover New Hampshire: Top Movies, TV Series, and Books Set There

Hampshire, a vibrant county in southern England, is a popular setting for various films, TV shows, and books. Its stunning landscapes, historic buildings, and charming towns have attracted filmmakers and authors alike, making it a dream destination for any film or literature enthusiast. This comprehensive guide will take you to the famous filming locations in Hampshire, provide trivia about the local film industry, and offer travel tips for your Hampshire trip.

The Cinematic World of Hampshire: Films Shot in Hampshire

Hampshire has been a preferred location for several renowned films, attracting filmmakers with its diverse landscapes and beautiful architecture. From bustling cityscapes to serene countrysides, the county offers a myriad of settings perfect for the silver screen.

Classic Films Shot in Hampshire

Hampshire’s timeless charm has attracted many classic films over the years. Here are some noteworthy examples:

1. “A Man for All Seasons”  (1966): This Oscar-winning historical drama about Sir Thomas More was filmed at various locations in Hampshire, including Winchester Cathedral.
2. “Straw Dogs”  (1971): Sam Peckinpah’s controversial thriller was shot in the charming village of Sturminster Newton.
3. “The Missionary”  (1982): This British comedy starring Michael Palin was filmed in several Hampshire locations, including the villages of Hurstbourne Tarrant and Highclere.

Contemporary Films Shot in Hampshire

The appeal of Hampshire as a filming location continues in modern cinema. Some contemporary films shot in Hampshire include:

1. “Les Misérables”  (2012): The Naval College in Portsmouth served as the backdrop for several scenes in this award-winning musical drama.
2. “The Theory of Everything”  (2014): Winchester College was used as the filming location for Cambridge University, where Stephen Hawking studied and met his wife.
3. “Transformers: The Last Knight”  (2017): The historic Royal Navy Submarine Museum in Gosport was used for several scenes in this blockbuster action film.

Hampshire on the Small Screen: TV Shows Set in Hampshire

Hampshire’s cinematic landscapes have not only attracted filmmakers, but also TV producers. The county has served as a filming location for numerous popular TV shows.

Iconic TV Shows Set in Hampshire

From drama series to reality shows, Hampshire’s unique settings have made it a popular choice for TV producers. Some iconic TV shows filmed in the county include:

1. “Downton Abbey”  (2010-2015): The exterior shots of the Crawley family’s home were filmed at Highclere Castle, a Victorian-era country house located in Hampshire.
2. “Watership Down”  (2018): This animated mini-series based on Richard Adams’ novel was set in the stunning countryside of Hampshire, where the author grew up.
3. “Broadchurch”  (2013-2017): Although primarily filmed in Dorset, some scenes of this popular crime drama were shot in Hampshire, specifically the city of Southampton.

Animated Films Set in Hampshire

Hampshire’s idyllic landscapes have also served as an inspiration for animated films. One worthy example is the beloved film “Watership Down” (1978). Based on the novel by Richard Adams, the story follows a group of rabbits as they seek a new home, encountering various challenges along the way. The film beautifully depicts the Hampshire countryside, transporting viewers into a charming yet adventurous world.

Famous Books Set in Hampshire: A Literary Journey

Hampshire’s rich history and picturesque landscapes have made it a popular setting for various literary works. From classic novels to contemporary stories, the county’s unique charm has been captured in numerous books.

Classic Books Set in Hampshire

Hampshire serves as the backdrop for many classic novels. Here are three examples that beautifully capture the spirit of the county:

1. “Sense and Sensibility”  by Jane Austen: This classic novel is set in various locations across Hampshire, the author’s home county.
2. “Watership Down”  by Richard Adams: This highly acclaimed adventure novel, set in Hampshire’s countryside, inspired the animated film and TV series.
3. “The War of the Worlds”  by H.G. Wells: Hampshire, specifically the town of Woking, serves as the landing site for the Martians in this groundbreaking science fiction novel.

Contemporary Books Set in Hampshire

Many modern authors have also found inspiration in Hampshire. Here are three contemporary novels set in the county:

1. “The Girl on the Cliff”  by Lucinda Riley: This family drama unfolds in various locations in Hampshire, including the city of Portsmouth.
2. “The Stranger from the Sea”  by Winston Graham: Part of the Poldark series, this novel is set in Hampshire’s coastal town of Falmouth.
3. “Career of Evil”  by Robert Galbraith: In this crime novel, detective Cormoran Strike travels to Andover in Hampshire to investigate a gruesome murder.

Exploring Hampshire’s Filming Locations: Where to Go

Hampshire’s various filming locations offer a unique way to explore the county. From the grand architecture of Winchester Cathedral to the tranquil beauty of the New Forest, there are numerous places to visit. Here are ten must-see filming locations in Hampshire:

1. Winchester Cathedral: Featured in “A Man for All Seasons”
2. Portsmouth Naval College: Featured in “Les Misérables”
3. Highclere Castle: Featured in “Downton Abbey”
4. Royal Navy Submarine Museum, Gosport: Featured in “Transformers: The Last Knight”
5. Hurstbourne Tarrant: Featured in “The Missionary”
6. Winchester College: Featured in “The Theory of Everything”
7. Sturminster Newton: Featured in “Straw Dogs”
8. Highclere: Featured in “The Missionary”
9. Southampton: Featured in “Broadchurch” 10.New Forest: Featured in “Watership Down”

Where to Sleep in Hampshire: Accommodation Tips

Hampshire offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Depending on your budget and preference, you can choose a place that suits your needs.

Luxury Accommodation in Hampshire

For a lavish experience, consider staying at one of these luxury hotels in Hampshire:

1. Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire: This five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and an equestrian center, set in a restored Georgian manor house.
2. The Pig Hotel: Located in the heart of the New Forest, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with a rustic charm, and a restaurant serving locally sourced food.
3. Lime Wood Hotel: This luxury country house hotel offers beautiful rooms, a spa, and a restaurant run by a Michelin-starred chef.

Budget Accommodation in Hampshire

For those on a budget, Hampshire offers plenty of affordable accommodation options. Here are three recommendations:

1. YHA Winchester: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Winchester, offering dormitory-style rooms and a communal kitchen.
2. Travelodge Southampton Central: This budget hotel offers basic, comfortable rooms in the center of Southampton, close to major attractions.
3. The Star Inn: This traditional English Inn, located in the charming village of Bentworth, offers cozy rooms and serves delicious local food.

Where to Eat in Hampshire: Dining Tips

Hampshire’s culinary scene is diverse, offering everything from traditional British fare to international cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a luxury dining experience or a budget-friendly meal, Hampshire has something to offer.

Luxury Dining in Hampshire

For a high-end dining experience, consider these luxury restaurants in Hampshire:

1. The Montagu Arms: This Michelin-starred restaurant in Beaulieu offers a fine dining experience with dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
2. The Chesil Rectory: Located in Winchester, this restaurant is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the city and offers a menu of modern British cuisine.
3. Pulpo Negro: This Spanish tapas restaurant in Alresford is known for its innovative dishes and vibrant atmosphere.

Budget Dining in Hampshire

For budget-friendly dining options, check out these restaurants in Hampshire:

1. The Stable: Located in Winchester, this restaurant offers a selection of pizzas and pies at affordable prices.
2. Josie’s: This popular café in Bishops Waltham serves breakfast and lunch options, including pancakes, sandwiches, and salads.
3. 7Bone Burger Co.: This American-style diner in Southampton offers a variety of burgers, hot dogs, and sides at reasonable prices.

Hampshire Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Guide

To help you plan your trip, we’ve created a detailed itinerary that covers all the must-see filming locations and other attractions in Hampshire.

Day 1: Winchester

Start your day exploring the historic city of Winchester. Visit Winchester Cathedral, the filming location for “A Man for All Seasons”. After lunch, explore Winchester College, featured in “The Theory of Everything”. End your day with dinner at The Chesil Rectory.

Day 2: New Forest

Spend your day in the New Forest, the backdrop for “Watership Down”. Visit the charming villages, walk in the forest, and spot the famous New Forest ponies. Enjoy lunch at a local pub. In the evening, check into The Pig Hotel and have dinner at their restaurant.

Day 3: Portsmouth and Gosport

Head to Portsmouth and visit the Naval College, featured in “Les Misérables”. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Navy Submarine Museum in Gosport, featured in “Transformers: The Last Knight”.

Day 4: Southampton and the South Coast

Spend your day in Southampton, where some scenes of “Broadchurch” were filmed. Visit the city’s historic walls and enjoy lunch at a local café. In the afternoon, head to the south coast to visit the charming towns of Lymington and Beaulieu.

Local Legends and Curiosities: The Cryptid of the New Forest

Hampshire is not without its share of local legends and curiosities. One such legend is the cryptid of the New Forest, a creature that is said to roam the forest at night. While the existence of this creature remains unproven, it adds a touch of mystery to the enchanting New Forest. Whether you believe in the legend or not, exploring the New Forest at night is an experience not to be missed!

Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Filming Locations in Hampshire

In addition to the popular filming locations, there are several lesser-known spots in Hampshire that have been used for films and TV shows. Here are a few hidden gems:

1. Netley Abbey: This ruined medieval monastery in Southampton has been used as a filming location for several period dramas.
2. Fort Brockhurst: This 19th-century fort in Gosport has been used for filming scenes set in the Victorian era.
3. The Bombay Sapphire Distillery: Located in Laverstoke Mill, this distillery has been used for filming various TV shows and commercials.

What to Pack for Your Hampshire Trip

When packing for your trip to Hampshire, consider the weather and the activities you plan to engage in. If you’re visiting in the summer, pack lightweight clothing, sun protection, and comfortable shoes. For a winter trip, bring warm clothing, including a coat, gloves, and a hat. Regardless of the season, don’t forget to pack a camera, a portable charger, and a map of Hampshire.

Transportation Tips for Hampshire

Getting around Hampshire is easy thanks to its extensive public transportation network. Trains and buses connect the major towns and cities, while the more remote areas can be explored by car or bicycle. If you’re planning to visit several filming locations in a single day, consider hiring a car for convenience.

Conclusion

From its iconic filming locations to its charming towns and villages, Hampshire offers a unique travel experience for film and literature enthusiasts. Whether you’re retracing the steps of your favorite characters or discovering the county’s hidden gems, Hampshire is a destination that deserves to be explored. So pack your bags and embark on a cinematic journey to this enchanting English county!