Famous for its watercress and its New Forest ponies, Hampshire is an exceptionally beautiful part of the UK where they are no strangers to luxury, hospitality and superb food and drink. From spa hotels to family-friendly escapes, this exquisite area is a holidaymakers haven, filled with opportunities to relax, unwind and feel inspired. Hampshire is the largest county in South East England, featuring two national parks: the New Forest and South Downs. It also has three popular cities: Portsmouth, Southampton and Winchester, all of which provide plenty of entertainment and interesting things to see and do. Regarded as the birthplace of modern fly-fishing, windsurfing and bird-watching, it really does have something for everyone. History fanatics might be interested to know that once upon a time, Winchester was King Alfred's capital city, Leckford Estate in the Test Valley is home to The Waitrose Farm, Jane Austen wrote the area into many of her books, and that aforementioned watercress has been grown commercially in Hampshire since the 19th century. Visitors have been enchanted across the centuries by this area - the beaches, mountain biking, sailing, gardens, stately homes and amusement parks all add to its appeal.