Basingstoke’s handy location, wedged between the North Wessex Downs and South Downs, makes it the perfect springboard for visiting the rest of the UK. Country gems, quintessential villages, coastal towns or the UK’s vibrant capital city - whatever brings you here, the best way to experience it all is at your own pace on the open road.
Amble around town
Take a gentle stroll around Basingstoke and you’ll find two shopping malls in the center, each boasting a wide range of stores. Pick up clothes and homeware from The Malls and Festival Place – you may need to upgrade your baggage allowance after a trip here.
Next stop, Eastrop Park. This recreational hub has something to suit all the family, whether you want to hire a rowing boat and cruise along the lake or watch live bands play in the summer. From here, you can join the Basing Trail. This circular seven-mile heritage route will lead you past a railway duct from the 19th century and the remains of a motte and bailey castle. It’s the perfect way to get to the quaint village of Old Basing.
Here you can discover Basing House, one of the largest stately homes of the Tudor era. Feel the ghosts of medieval England in the walls of the old barn and explore the site of a Norman castle. Throughout the year, several interactive events take place, perfect for family days out. Watch a 17th century re-enactment, learn how to make ancient jewelry or see a Jane Austen play.
The real Downton Abbey
A 25-minute drive from Basingstoke takes you to Highclere Castle, near Newbury in the North Wessex Downs. This neo-Gothic masterpiece is best known as the filming location of Downton Abbey, the world-famous TV series.
Once a medieval palace, the country house was transformed at the end of the 18th century in Georgian fashion and hasn’t changed since. Wander the opulent interior, brimming with world-class artwork and beautiful antique furniture, and visit the main hall and library where key scenes from the show played out. If you take the guided tour, you’ll hear stories about your favorite Downton characters and the real-life family who own Highclere Castle.
More regal British magic can be sought out at Manor House at Upton Grey. This Tudor-style manor’s glorious five-acre garden is hidden away in the depths of the Hampshire countryside and, after a period of neglect, has been restored to its former glory. Flowerbeds packed with delicate blooms and roses of every type and color fill this garden, creating a feast for the senses.
Uncover the mystery of Stonehenge
Ancient history can be found deep in rural Britain at Stonehenge. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site has been wowing locals and tourists alike for hundreds of years.
The history of this mysterious monolithic stone circle stretches back more than 4,500 years and it’s still a place of spirituality even today. Why the stones were placed here and what purpose they served remains a mystery. Step into the Visitors’ Centre to try to find the answers among the archaeological treasures unearthed from the site and wander through the recreated Neolithic houses.
Whether you’re travelling here for business or pleasure, car rental in Basingstoke makes all of this pretty and fascinating part of the UK simple to discover at your leisure.