Things To Do in the Local Area When You Visit Old Thorns

12th April 2023 | 5 minute read

Old Thorns is set in the heart of the countryside and is surrounded by the incredible South Downs National Park. Not only are we in the best location, but we also have a huge range of activities, cities, and attractions all within a short drive.

So whether you are looking to experience culture, thrills, beaches, shopping or the great outdoors during your next getaway, we've got some great suggestions of activities and places to visit.

Staying with us soon? Why not plan a couple of days out and come back to the resort to relax in the pool, enjoy spa treatments, have dinner in our Kings Restaurant, and enjoy a few cocktails in our Atrium Champagne Bar?

Please note that Old Thorns is not associated in any way with the attractions and companies on this page, they are only here as suggestions, not as recommendations.

Culture & History

We are spoiled for choice when it comes to culture and history. From art galleries, theatres and museums to spectacular feats of engineering and architectural marvels.

Some of our suggestions in the local area are:
Jane Austen's House - Get lost in the history of Jane Austen and take a look at her former home.

Churt Sculpture Park - Just a short drive away, take a look around the park at the incredible sculptures.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - Step onboard the HMS Warrior and view the remains of Henry VIII’s doomed flagship, Mary Rose.

Uppark House - A national trust property with a rich history, stunning interiors and beautiful grounds.

Thrills

If you are looking for thrills, fun, and adrenalin, we are located nearby 3 fantastic theme parks all within an hour's drive. Check out Chessington, Legoland, and Thorpe Park for a fun day out.

Thorpe Park - Located in Chertsey, expect fast rollercoasters at this fantastic theme park as it's home to the famous Stealth, Swarm and Saw rides.

Chessington - A great park for all the family, with rides, attractions, and animals too!

Legoland - Perfect for Lego fans! Fantastic attractions, shows, and experiences suitable for all the family.

GoApe - Located in Alice Holt Country Park, get strapped in and go to new heights.

Animal Attractions

Want to meet some furry or feathered friends? There are some fantastic animal attractions located nearby, whether you want to see birds, deer, or tigers too!

Birdworld - Just a short drive from Old Thorns, explore the park and see a range of exotic birds, they even have penguins, shows, and a farm too!

Sky Park Deer Farm - Outside of Petersfield you'll find Sky Park Deer Farm, meet different types of deer, and explore the countryside.

Petworth Park - A large open park, Petworth is home to Petworth House and a park full of wild deer, a great walk with plenty of beautiful views.

Staunton Country Park - Let the kids loose around the farm, and interact with the furry residents of Staunton farm.

Marwell Zoo - 140-acre wildlife park is home to hundreds of animals, from endangered amur tigers, snow leopards, and white rhinos to giraffes, gibbons, and penguins!

Beaches

Old Thorns is only a short drive away from some of the most beautiful places in the country to relax and have some fun in the sun.

Hayling Island - The perfect spot to try stand-up paddleboarding or go for a long beach walk.

West Wittering Beach - Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, West Wittering Beach is a large sandy beach with sand dunes and a blue flag award for cleanliness.

Southsea Seafront - Pop down to Southsea Seafront and enjoy funfair rides, arcades, ice creams, and fish and chips!

Shopping & Cities

From Old Thorns it's just a short drive to some beautiful cities, market towns, and stylish waterfront destinations with a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Guildford - The historic county town of Surrey, Guildford has a wealth of heritage, beautiful scenery, shops, cafes and restaurants, and a lively theatre and arts culture.

Chichester - Cobbled streets steeped in history; leading theatre and art galleries, a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, surround the spectacular 11th-century Chichester Cathedral.

Gunwharf Quays - This stunning waterfront outlet shopping centre has lots of designer outlets, restaurants, bars, cinema, casino and a bowling alley! Plus, it is also home to the impressive Spinnaker Tower.

The Great Outdoors

Located just to the north of the South Downs Way, Old Thorns is surrounded by glorious countryside. If you’re the active type then you’ll enjoy the local walking and cycling trails.

Alice Holt Country Park - The idyllic woodland setting for walking, cycling, picnics, and BBQ's. Thrill seekers may also enjoy the GoApe tree top adventure course.

Queen Elizabeth Country Park - Scenic walks, obstacle courses and downhill mountain biking, with Butser Hill offering spectacular views across the South Downs.

Frensham Pond - Set in 1000 acres of beautiful countryside, Frensham great pond with its sandy beach and swimming areas is the perfect day out.

South Downs National Park - Rolling hills, glorious heathland, river valleys, ancient woodland, thriving villages and market towns. Discover what the South Downs National Park has to offer.

If you are looking for a walking route we'd suggest the Shipwrights Way which the hotel is located on or the South Downs Way or Monarchs Way.

Vineyards and Distilleries

We are lucky to have a variety of vineyards, distilleries and breweries nearby. Whether you've dreamt about touring beautiful award-winning vineyards or learning about how your favourite tipple is made, there is no need to go too far, everything you're looking for can be found a stone's throw away from Old Thorns.

Trotton Estate Vineyards - Why not take a tour around the award-winning Trotton Vineyards based just a short distance away in the glorious countryside of the South Downs?

Bombay Sapphire Distillery - If you're a fan of a G&T then the Bombay Sapphire Distillery is the perfect place for you to enjoy a guided tour.

Hogs Back Brewery - Have a tour around one of the most popular breweries in the southeast. Taste a variety of their famous beers and take a look at their very own traditional hop garden.

Ready To Book Your Break?

We hope to see you soon for a Countryside Getaway in the stunning South Downs! Take a look at our current offers and packages, we have something for everyone.

Whether you fancy a relaxing spa break, a night away with dinner, or a self-catering holiday in one of our apartments, you'll be sure to find a great value offer when you book directly on our website.

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