Things to do in Andover, Hampshire
- The town was established as a Saxon settlement and was granted its first royal charter by King Henry II in 1175.
- During the 19th century, Andover was notorious for the 'Andover Workhouse Scandal', which led to a major government inquiry into the treatment of the impoverished.
- The town's location on the western edge of the Salisbury Plain makes it a strategic historical gateway between Winchester and the prehistoric monuments of Wiltshire.
- Andover features a unique collection of historic building styles, with the town center containing several listed structures dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
About Andover, Hampshire
Andover is a historic market town in Hampshire, uniquely positioned near the source of the River Anton. The town maintains a significant connection to its prehistoric roots, notably displayed at the Andover Museum and Museum of the Iron Age. Residents and visitors alike benefit from expansive green spaces like Charlton Lakes and the tranquil, protected habitat of Chilbolton Cow Common SSSI. Animal conservation is a local focus, exemplified by the specialized work at the Hawk Conservancy Trust Bird of Prey Centre.
Highlights of Andover, Hampshire
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Places of interest
Observe world-class avian conservation efforts and spectacular flight demonstrations featuring birds of prey.
Zoos
Interact with a variety of farm animals in an educational setting designed for families.
Parks
Walk through a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest noted for its unique water meadow biodiversity.
Parks
Explore the restored water mill and surrounding wetlands that serve as a quiet urban nature retreat.
Parks
Enjoy recreational walking paths and water-based leisure activities around these landscaped lakes.
Museums
Examine artifacts recovered from the Danebury Hill Fort to understand local Iron Age civilization.
Temples
Visit a historic parish church that serves as a cornerstone of the town's architectural heritage.
Temples
Experience the traditional ecclesiastical character of this site which remains a significant local landmark.
Top things to do in Andover, Hampshire
The 104 highest-rated places in Andover, Hampshire, ranked by travellers.
1
Parks
The North Wessex Downs National Landscape is a sprawling 668-square-mile Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty spanning par...
2
Historical places
Highclere Castle is a Grade I-listed country house in Hampshire, England, serving as the primary filming location for th...
3
Places of interest
The Hawk Conservancy Trust is a dedicated conservation and research centre located near Andover, Hampshire, focused on t...
4
Zoos
Finkley Down Farm is an award-winning family attraction in Andover, Hampshire, focused on interactive animal encounters...
5
Museums
The Army Flying Museum, located at the Middle Wallop airfield, chronicles the history of British Army aviation from the...
6
Parks
Victoria Park in Newbury is a Green Flag Award-winning Victorian-era park located near the town center. The site feature...
7
Historical places
The Greenham Control Tower is a restored 1950s modernist structure that once served the RAF and USAF Greenham Common air...
8
Venues
The Corn Exchange Newbury is a multi-arts venue housed in a Grade II listed Victorian building located in the center of...
9
Venues
The Lights is a professional arts and entertainment complex located in the heart of Andover. It hosts a diverse calendar...
10
Parks
Northcroft Park is a prominent recreational green space in Newbury, West Berkshire, primarily serving as a hub for organ...
11
Historical places
Danebury Iron Age Hillfort is one of the most thoroughly excavated hillforts in Europe, providing extensive data on Iron...
12
Places of interest
13
Places of interest
Wilton Windmill is the only working windmill in the Wessex region of England and the only one in the country that still...
14
Parks
Chilbolton Cow Common is a 24-hectare Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) located along the River Test in Hampshi...
15
Parks
Rooksbury Mill Local Nature Reserve is a 22-acre site in Andover featuring a historic mill pond and diverse wetland habi...
16
Historical places
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Museums
18
Temples
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Museums
20
Places of interest
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Parks
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Temples
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Parks
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Temples
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Temples
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Temples
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Andover, Hampshire on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Andover, Hampshire
Late spring to early autumn, as the temperate weather is most suitable for exploring the town's numerous outdoor nature reserves and walking trails.
2 days, which allows sufficient time to tour the local history museums and explore the surrounding rural parks and nature reserves.
The town center is compact and walkable, while local bus services connect to nearby villages and attractions. A car is recommended for reaching more rural sites like those slightly outside the immediate town boundary.
Stay in the town center to be within walking distance of historic sites and transport links, or look for rural guesthouses on the outskirts for quieter surroundings.
Andover is generally a mid-range destination, offering a mix of affordable local pubs and moderately priced independent accommodation.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 104 curated attractions in and around Andover, Hampshire, ranked by traveller ratings.
North Wessex Downs National Landscape is the highest-rated place to visit in Andover, Hampshire right now.
The largest category is temples, with 50 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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