Campervan and Motorhome Stopovers in Hampshire
Motorhome Touring in Hampshire
Hampshire is one of those counties that quietly has everything a motorhome traveller could want. From the ancient woodland of the New Forest to the naval heritage of Portsmouth and the gentle chalk streams of the Test Valley, this is a county that rewards slow exploration. The roads are generally good, the scenery shifts from open heathland to rolling farmland within a few miles, and the stopover options range from forest campsites to harbour-side parking. Whether you are here for a long weekend or a fortnight, Hampshire will keep you busy without ever feeling rushed.
Top Stopovers & Campsites in Hampshire
The New Forest is the headline destination for motorhome campsites in Hampshire. The Forestry England sites within the forest offer pitches surrounded by ancient trees, with ponies and donkeys wandering past your van. These sites are hugely popular from Easter to October, so booking well in advance is essential. Most offer electric hookups, fresh water, and waste disposal, though they tend to be more basic than commercial sites.
Outside the New Forest, the countryside around Winchester, Alton, and the Meon Valley has a good network of CLs and CSs, many on working farms with stunning views across the Hampshire downs. These are ideal for motorhomers who prefer quieter, less formal settings.
Along the Solent coast, there are larger holiday parks near Hayling Island and Lee-on-the-Solent that cater well to motorhomes, with full facilities and easy beach access. Some pubs and vineyards in the Hambledon and Droxford area welcome overnight motorhome visitors through stopover schemes.
For those arriving or departing via the Southampton or Portsmouth ferry terminals, several sites within a short drive offer convenient overnight stays before an early sailing.
Suggested Touring Routes in Hampshire
The New Forest Circuit (3 days)
Start at Lyndhurst, the capital of the New Forest, and head south on the B3056 to Beaulieu, home to the National Motor Museum. Continue west through Bucklers Hard — a beautifully preserved shipbuilding village on the Beaulieu River — then follow the coast road to Lymington. From Lymington, head north through Brockenhurst and east to Burley, a pretty village known for its cider and New Forest ponies. Loop back to Lyndhurst via Bolderwood, where there is a deer sanctuary with a dedicated car park suitable for motorhomes. Approximately 45 miles, with forest roads that are generally well-surfaced but narrow in places. Watch out for free-roaming animals on all New Forest roads.
Winchester to the Test Valley (2 days)
Begin in Winchester, where Park and Ride facilities on the outskirts offer motorhome-friendly parking for exploring the cathedral city. Take the A3090 south-west to Romsey, a charming market town with a magnificent Norman abbey. Continue north along the Test Valley on the B3084, following one of England's finest chalk streams through Stockbridge — a single-street town famous for fly fishing and independent shops. From Stockbridge, head east on the A30 to explore the villages around Sutton Scotney before returning to Winchester. Approximately 40 miles with easy A-road and B-road driving throughout.
The Solent Coast Explorer (2 days)
From Portsmouth, follow the A2030 and coast road east to Hayling Island — a popular spot for water sports and wide shingle beaches. Cross back to the mainland and head west along the A27 to Fareham, then south to Lee-on-the-Solent and the coastal path towards Hill Head. Continue west to Titchfield Haven nature reserve, an excellent birdwatching spot. End at Southampton's Ocean Village for waterfront dining. Approximately 35 miles, all on good roads with no height restrictions on the main routes.
Overnight parking
The Ship Inn Overnight parking
Hayling Island, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Overnight parking
The golden lion Overnight parking
Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Overnight parking
Hayling island Overnight parking
Hayling Island, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Overnight parking
Queensmead car park Overnight parking
Farnborough, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Fox Inn Pub stopover
Andover, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
Inn On The Beach Hayling Island Pub stopover
Hayling Island, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
Ferryboat Inn Hayling Island Pub stopover
Hayling Island, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The West Town Inn Hayling Island Pub stopover
Hayling Island, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
Bold Forester New Forest Pub stopover
Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Roebuck Inn Wickham Pub stopover
Fareham, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Furze Bush Inn Pub stopover
Newbury, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Ship Inn carpark Pub stopover
Havant, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Turfcutters Arms Pub stopover
Brockenhurst, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Musketeer Lymington Pub stopover
Lymington, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Carpenters Arms Christchurch Pub stopover
Christchurch, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
New Forest Cider Pub stopover
Ringwood, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Walnut Tree Pub stopover
Andover, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
Fox Inn Pub stopover
Andover, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Old Ship Swanwick Pub stopover
Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Otter Otterbourne Pub stopover
Winchester, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
Jolly Sailor Fawley Pub stopover
Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Forest Home Pub stopover
Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Glen Hythe Pub stopover
Southampton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Pub stopover
The Royal Oak Beaulieu Pub stopover
Beaulieu, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
365camperhire.co.uk Campsite
Fleet, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
Homefield Certified Location Campsite
Hordle, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
Amberwood Certified Location Campsite
Cadnam, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
Upper Kingston Farm Certified Location Campsite
Ringwood, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
The Far Side Certified Location Campsite
Lymington, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
Danebury Certified Location Campsite
New Milton, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Campsite
Long Acre Farm Certified Location Campsite
Hordle, Lymington, Hampshire, United KingdomThings to Do in Hampshire
The New Forest is the natural starting point for outdoor activities. Walking and cycling trails criss-cross the forest, and bike hire is available in Brockenhurst and Burley. The forest is also one of the best places in southern England to see wild ponies, deer, and donkeys — they have right of way on all roads, which makes for a wonderfully slow pace of travel.
Portsmouth's Historic Dockyard is a full day out, with HMS Victory, the Mary Rose Museum, and HMS Warrior all within the same complex. The dockyard has a large car park that can accommodate motorhomes, though it fills up quickly in summer. Winchester Cathedral, Jane Austen's House Museum in Chawton, and the Watercress Line heritage railway near Alresford are all excellent rainy-day options.
Hampshire's food and drink scene punches above its weight. The county has a growing number of vineyards producing award-winning English sparkling wine, many of which offer tours and tastings. The watercress from the Alresford area is famous nationwide, and farmers' markets run regularly in Winchester, Romsey, Petersfield, and Alton.
For water-based activities, the Solent coast offers sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while the River Itchen and River Test are world-renowned for fly fishing.
Practical Information for Motorhomers in Hampshire
Motorhome service points are available at most larger campsites within the New Forest and at several locations around the county. Waste disposal can also be found at some larger fuel stations along the M27 corridor and the A3 south of Petersfield.
Height barriers are present in most multi-storey car parks and some surface car parks in Winchester, Portsmouth, and Southampton. Park and Ride facilities on the outskirts of Winchester generally accommodate motorhomes and provide regular bus services into the city centre. The large supermarkets along the M27 corridor — particularly at Junction 7 (Hedge End) and Junction 12 (Southampton West) — have unrestricted parking suitable for motorhomes.
Within the New Forest, a 40mph speed limit applies on all unfenced roads, and you must give way to free-roaming animals at all times. Some car parks in the forest have height barriers set at 2.1 metres, so check before entering. The A31 and A35 are the main through-routes and are suitable for all motorhome sizes.
FAQs: Motorhome Touring in Hampshire
Can I park my motorhome overnight in the New Forest?
Overnight parking in New Forest car parks is not permitted. You must use a designated campsite. Forestry England operates several sites within the forest, and there are also CLs and private sites nearby. Book early for summer visits as they fill up fast.
Are there motorhome service points in Hampshire?
Yes, several campsites in the New Forest and across Hampshire offer fresh water and waste disposal facilities. Some are available to non-residents for a small fee. Check individual site listings on Campercation for the most up-to-date information.
What is the best time to visit Hampshire by motorhome?
May to June and September to October are ideal, offering good weather with fewer crowds. The New Forest is at its most beautiful in autumn when the foliage turns. Summer is peak season and campsites fill quickly. Many sites close between November and February.
Are the roads in Hampshire suitable for large motorhomes?
Main roads including the M3, M27, A3, A31, and A34 are all suitable for any size of motorhome. Within the New Forest, roads are generally good but narrow in places with free-roaming animals. Rural lanes around the Meon Valley and South Downs can be tight for vehicles over 7 metres.
Can I visit Portsmouth Historic Dockyard in a motorhome?
Yes, there is a large pay-and-display car park at the Historic Dockyard that can accommodate motorhomes. Arrive early in summer as it fills up. Alternatively, park at the Tipner Park and Ride and take the bus, which is a more relaxed option during peak times.
Where can I empty my motorhome waste in Hampshire?
Most Forestry England campsites within the New Forest have waste disposal points. Outside the forest, several larger campsites and some service areas along the M27 offer these facilities. Always call ahead to confirm access for non-residents.
Is wild camping allowed in Hampshire?
Wild camping is not legally permitted in England without the landowner's express permission. The New Forest has particularly strict rules, and overnight parking outside designated sites is actively enforced. Use official campsites and stopover schemes for legal overnight stays.
Are there height barriers in Hampshire car parks?
Yes, many town centre car parks in Winchester, Portsmouth, and Southampton have height barriers, typically set at 2.0-2.1 metres. Some New Forest car parks also have barriers. Park and Ride facilities and large supermarket car parks are generally barrier-free.
Continue exploring motorhome destinations across England, or discover what neighbouring counties have to offer. More England destinations | West Sussex | Dorset | Wiltshire