In the Countryside
South East England has plenty of things to do in the countryside. What better way is there of getting away from it all and leaving your cares behind than spending some quality time surrounded by stunning natural beauty?
The South East represents all that is great about rural England: dense woods engulfed by bluebells in spring, vast downs and hills that offer superb walking country, meadows ablaze with colour in summer or towpaths for river strolls. There are miles of footpaths to be discovered on foot or by bicycle in the region’s counties, and a drive along quiet roads off the beaten track will uncover picture-postcard villages and bustling market towns.
So, be it a romantic stroll beside a trickling river, an energetic hike across the green rolling hills or a brisk walk beside the sea, you are sure to leave the South East with memories to cherish.
Here is a selection of ideas for countryside breaks in South East England:
The Hawk Conservancy Trust
The Hawk Conservancy Trust is located in the beautiful countryside of the Test Valley, a favourite location for walkers, anglers and bird watchers. The Trust is a registered conservation charity that is home to a collection of over 150 birds of prey, from the tiny Pygmy Owl to the impressive Stellers’ Sea Eagles. Many wild bird species, such as buzzards, red kites, kestrels, and even peregrine falcons, have been known to join the Trust’s own birds during their free flying displays, which take place during the day’s itinerary.
More about the Hawk Conservancy Trust
Walk the Landscape
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Discover the rich tapestry of the English countryside on foot at a leisurely pace to see more of the rolling hills, honey coloured limestone villages, bustling market towns and grand country houses of Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. Stretch your legs in the clean fresh air and enjoy carpets of bluebells beneath the unfurling leaves of spring, vibrant green fields under deep blue summer skies, the rich bronze of beeches in their glorious autumn colour and crisp white winter frosts. Not forgetting delicious lunches and comfortable accommodation in village pubs of character.
More about Walk the Landscape
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is set amongst the rolling Hampshire countryside and offers 180 acres of tranquillity and beauty along every path.
More about Sir Harold Hillier Gardens
River Thames
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When you feel like being on the water, a trip on the River Thames is hard to beat. With so many things in the area taking place in or alongside this most famous of rivers, you’ll never be short of ideas for things to do along its banks.
More about River Thames
Oxfordshire Cotswolds
Steeped in history, rich in heritage and awash with natural beauty, the Oxfordshire Cotswolds epitomises all that is fine in rural England. Beautiful rolling countryside, historic market towns, amazing attractions and Cotswold stone villages make this an irresistible destination to visit.
More about Oxfordshire Cotswolds
Waterperry Gardens
Just a stones thrown from the historic centre of Oxford, Waterperry Gardens was established as a school of horticulture for ladies in the early 1930’s and is now home to the famous ornamental gardens nestling in the countryside. There’s also a five acre orchard which is open to visitors during out Apple Weekend event in October.
More about Waterperry Gardens
More ideas in the countryside
This selection of countryside attractions has been selected by Tourism South East, to appeal to couples and those wishing to spend quality time together. Visit our Visit South East England website for more ideas for short breaks, days out and things to do across the region. Alternatively, visit our Fun Family Days Out website for ideas for families.
