Petersfield

Rolling chalk downs stretch endlessly beyond this proper Hampshire market town, creating some of the finest walking country in the south. Petersfield sits at the western edge of the South Downs National Park, where footpaths lead straight from the high street onto hills like Henwood Down and Hyden Hill.

The town itself has kept its market day charm without falling into twee territory. Wednesday and Saturday bring proper farmers' markets to the square, while independent shops line the streets around St Peter's Church. It's refreshingly quiet midweek - perfect for wandering without crowds.

Walkers are spoilt for choice here. The South Downs Way passes right through town, but local paths into Kingsland Copse and Hen Wood offer gentler alternatives through ancient woodland. Sir William's Hill provides cracking views back across the downs, while the longer trek to Pidham Hill rewards with panoramas stretching to the coast.

Getting here couldn't be easier - the A3 runs right past, and trains from London Waterloo take just over an hour. Portsmouth lies twenty miles south, but honestly, you'll want to head in the opposite direction toward Winchester and the downs proper.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense for exploring this corner of Hampshire. You're within easy reach of both the market town amenities and those endless chalk hills. The woodland campsites like those tucked into Great Copyhold Copse offer proper countryside peace, while still being a short walk from a decent pub lunch.