Hampshire Area Guide
Hampshire, often described as the ‘Gateway to the South’, offers a captivating blend of coastal beauty, rural charm, and historic richness. Known for its vibrant towns, impressive coastline, and the scenic New Forest National Park, Hampshire seamlessly melds its historical past with the energy of the present.
Living in Hampshire: An Overview
Nestled in South East England, Hampshire boasts two bustling cities, Southampton and Portsmouth, as well as idyllic countryside and quaint market towns.
Pros of Living in Hampshire
Diverse Scenery: From the New Forest to the South Downs, nature is ever-present.
Rich History: Offering a tapestry of historical sites including Winchester Cathedral and the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
Educational Prowess: A host of renowned independent schools dot the landscape.
Economic Opportunities: With thriving cities like Southampton and Portsmouth, job prospects are broad.
Transport Links: Excellent connectivity to London and other major UK cities.
Lifestyle: A balance between city conveniences and countryside relaxation.
Cons of Living in Hampshire
Cost of Living: Certain areas, especially those near major cities, can be pricey.
Tourist Influx: Some areas, particularly the New Forest, can become crowded in peak tourist season.
Traffic: Main routes can become congested, especially during the holiday season.
Top 15 Independent Schools in Hampshire (with average annual fees)
Winchester College, Winchester: All-boys boarding school, fees around £42,000.
St Swithun's School, Winchester: All-girls, with fees averaging £34,000 for boarders.
Bedales School, Petersfield: Co-ed, progressive ethos, fees about £34,500.
Churcher's College, Petersfield: Co-ed day school, fees average £20,000.
Peter Symonds College: This standalone, high achieving state-funded sixth form college for 16–19 year olds offers an inclusive curriculum a supportive ethos, and a boarding education for less than £17,000 a year.
The Pilgrims' School, Winchester: Boys' prep, with fees at £20,500.
Hampshire Collegiate School, Romsey: Co-ed, fees stand at £16,000.
Highfield and Brookham Schools, Liphook: Co-ed prep, fees about £25,000.
Portsmouth Grammar School, Portsmouth: Co-ed day school, fees around £17,500.
Lord Wandsworth College, Hook: Co-ed, with fees at £21,000.
Farleigh School: This non-selective Catholic prep school in the Hampshire countryside offers a wonderful boarding programme, with a strong musical, artistic and sporting offering and excellent preparation to top senior schools. Average fees: £18,000.
King Edward VI School, Southampton: Co-ed day school, fees approximately £13,000.
Stroud School, Romsey: Co-ed prep, with fees averaging £15,000.
Moyles Court School, Ringwood: Co-ed day and boarding, fees around £15,500.
Ditcham Park School, Petersfield: Co-ed, with fees at £16,000.
Yateley Manor School, Yateley: Co-ed prep, fees around £14,500.
Boundary Oak School, Fareham: Co-ed with a pastoral focus, fees stand at £15,000.
Note: Fees are approximate and could vary.
Best Areas to Live in Hampshire (with average monthly rents)
Winchester: Historically rich, rent for a 3-bedroom house is about £2,100.
Southampton: Vibrant city life, a 3-bedroom house averages £1,400.
Portsmouth: Coastal allure, rent for a 3-bedroom house stands at £1,200.
Basingstoke: Modern conveniences, rents for a 3-bedroom house average £1,300.
Farnborough: Close to the Surrey border, a 3-bedroom house typically costs £1,500.
Lymington: Coastal town with New Forest access, rents for a 3-bedroom house stand at £1,800.
Weather Insights
Hampshire enjoys a temperate maritime climate:
- Winter (Dec-Feb): Average temperatures range from 2°C-8°C.
- Spring (Mar-May): Ranges between 6°C-15°C.
- Summer (Jun-Aug): Typical temperatures hover between 12°C-22°C.
- Autumn (Sep-Nov): Average temperatures lie between 9°C-16°C.
Sunshine Hours: Hampshire receives about 1,650 hours of sunshine annually, slightly above the national average due to its southern location.
Nearest Cities (from Winchester, considered as Hampshire's historic centre):
- Southampton: Approximately 20km to the south.
- Portsmouth: Around 30km to the southeast.
- Reading: Roughly 50km to the north.
- Bournemouth: About 70km to the southwest.
- London: Around 110km to the northeast.
Hampshire, Our View
Hampshire, with its picturesque landscapes, historical allure, and flourishing urban centres, promises a high standard of living and a dynamic environment for both individuals and families. Its strategic location makes it an attractive choice for those seeking proximity to major cities without compromising on a serene environment. Making a move here implies investing in an enriched lifestyle filled with experiences that span the breadth of cultural, historical, and natural wonders.
