My favourite places in Hampshire England

One of my favourite places in Hampshire is the new Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth. I am actually quite surprised that I feel that way. On the day that I finally decided to visit the Tower I was feeling unexcited to say the least. Why ? I think I was tired, perhaps a little low in spirit. My visit to this elegant structure soon changed that !

I had seen the Tower in the far distance from the beach at Selsey. It was an easy landmark to spot along the coastline, and allowed me to instantly locate Portsmouth and the harbour. That was all. I decided as I was close by - why not take a look. I am so glad I did.

I was unprepared for the 350 degree panoranic view of Portsmouth and the surrounding landscape. I was also surprised by the effect that the whole scene had upon me and my mood. I suddenly felt myself forgetting my worries and concerns as I became instantly absorbed in the "map" laid out before me.

I have only visited Portsmouth a few times. I can`t claim to know it well. That was no problem ..... it was so easy to spot the Dockyard, the Isle of Wight and continental ferry terminals with their tourists, vessels and passengers. The multitude of small yachts sailing in and out of the harbour with a very obvious traffic system in place was a revelation to this land-lubber. From ground level I had just thought they breezed wherever they wanted ! But no ...... from my superior lookout I could see this wasn`t the case. Of course it would have to be that way, there were so many boats and ships of all sizes. I was fascinated by these speedy little craft. I have to admit I was also a little bit awed by the dull grey warships at anchor further in the harbour their appearance reflecting their more serious role in life.

It made me smile to hear an elderly lady complain to her friend " Can`t see why Southampton doesn`t have one of these? we could do with one - Portsmouth always gets things first ...." A line of magnificent Spinnaker Towers all the way along the coast - now there`s a thought . (You can see right over to Southampton and it`s bustling city buildings and docks).

You also have a magical view of the Isle of Wight. At least I felt it was magical. On that particular summers morning the Island was shrouded in a light mist, which greatly added to its air of peaceful mystery. I certainly wished I could have taken the IOW ferry over to the port of Ryde and stayed for a few days myself. The Island has a reputation for being just that little bit slower in its pace than the mainland and is of course greatly valued for that !

Following round from Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight theTower allows you suberb views of the sea and coastline as far as Selsey, then inland to the city of Chichester - made visible by it`s cathedral spire. Between the Tower and Chichester are the shining creeks, salt flats and grassy islands of Chichester Harbour, one of the largest partly enclosed areas of tidal water in England. Here lies another of my most favourite places Bosham.

It is possible to look as far as 23 miles into the distance from the Tower, and if you visit the Crows Nest you can feel the wind coming from the English Channel and beyond blowing through your hair. If you dare you can also view the ground by looking down through the largest glass floor in Europe.

At the base of the Tower are lots of places to eat and really good shopping for bargains in the outlet stores.

As I have already stated another favourite of mine lies just a few miles to the east of Portsmouth. Bosham is situated between two tidal creeks in Chichester Habour. It was here that the Anglo Saxon / Danish King Canute is said to have ordered the tide to roll back. The ill fated Harold set out from here in 1064 on the voyage to Normandy which delivered him into the hands of Duke William, the future and last conqueror of England. The Bayeux Tapestry shows Harold on his way to mass in Bosham Church.

Pretty cottages line the shores of the creek with built up gates and doors to protect against the floods. The village has lots of visitors but always manages to feel uncrowded as well .... perhaps because there is plenty of space to spread out along the shoreline. There is a teashop, a pub, craft centre and boatyard - and lots of places to just sit and admire the views. This is a very lovely - and secluded - spot on the south coast. I love it.

Portsmouth and Chichester harbours are - of course - on the south coast. Now in order to visit another of my favourite places we need to go northwards to "The Vyne". A beautiful manor house built in the early 16th century. Why do I like it? ........