Map for Hampshire

Hampshire is bordered by Dorset to the west, Wiltshire to the northwest, Berkshire to the north, Surrey to the northeast, and West Sussex to the east. To its south lies the English Channel. It features a varied landscape including the South Downs, the New Forest and a significant coastline along the Solent waterway.

History: Hampshire boasts a long and varied history. Prehistoric settlers left their mark with ancient monuments like Stonehenge, located on the county's northern border. The Romans established the city of Winchester, which later became the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Wessex. Throughout the medieval era, Hampshire's coastal location made it vital for defence, leading to the construction of key fortifications, including the famous Portsmouth dockyards. 

Hampshire played roles in major historical events, such as the Norman Invasion from its shores and the birthplace of the Royal Navy. Over time, the county has balanced agricultural significance with maritime and military prowess, making it integral to the historical narrative of England.

Economy: Traditionally, Hampshire's economy was based on its coastal ports and agricultural produce. Today, it's diverse with industries such as technology, maritime, and tourism playing major roles.

Culture: Hampshire has been the home or birthplace of many notable figures, including Jane Austen and Charles Dickens and the county has also inspired numerous literary works, with the New Forest providing the setting for the children's classic, "The Children of the New Forest".

Major Towns and Cities: Southampton is a major port city known for its maritime history.

Portsmouth: Renowned for its historic dockyard, the Spinnaker Tower, and its naval heritage.

Winchester: The ancient capital of England, known for Winchester Cathedral.

Basingstoke: A major economic centre in the county.

Farnborough: Known for its international airshow and aviation heritage.

Education and Institutions: The University of Southampton and the University of Portsmouth are major higher education institutions known for various academic contributions.

Natural Beauty: The New Forest National Park offers a mix of woodlands, grasslands, and coastal habitats, making it a haven for recreation and wildlife and the South Downs in the eastern part of the county are part of the larger South Downs National Park.

Notable Landmarks: The Historic Dockyard in Portsmouth houses the HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the Mary Rose Museum and Winchester Cathedral is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe.