· GB

Havant

Havant, Hampshire, United Kingdom

Havant, located in the picturesque county of Hampshire, United Kingdom, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Situated between the bustling city of Portsmouth and the stu…

#Havant#Hampshire#United Kingdom#South East England#Historic town

1/1

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Havant.

Top Hotels in Havant

Top Flights to Havant

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Havant.

Tours

Havant Historical Tour

Explore the rich history of Havant with a guided walking tour through its historic landmarks and sites.

Shopping

Meridian Shopping Centre Visit

Experience a modern shopping center in the heart of Havant with a variety of shops and eateries.

Outdoor

Staunton Country Park Adventure

Enjoy outdoor family fun at Staunton Country Park with nature trails, a farm, and beautiful gardens.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Havant.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Havant, Hampshire, United Kingdom is '0.13 million'.

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Havant

Jan

8°2°

Feb

8°2°

Mar

11°3°

Apr

13°5°

May

17°8°

Jun

20°11°

Jul

22°13°

Aug

22°13°

Sep

19°11°

Oct

15°8°

Nov

11°5°

Dec

8°3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Havant.

What people love

Havant, located in Hampshire, United Kingdom, offers visitors a charming and picturesque destination with a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy. Here are some pros of traveling to Havant:

History and Heritage: Havant boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with historic sites such as the Old Town Hall and St Faith's Church providing a glimpse into the area's past.
Natural Beauty: The surrounding countryside of Havant is known for its scenic beauty, with picturesque landscapes and tranquil settings ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Coastal Location: Havant is located near the coast, providing visitors with easy access to beautiful beaches and seaside towns such as Hayling Island and Emsworth, where you can enjoy water sports, beachcombing, and fresh seafood.
Local Culture: Havant has a vibrant arts and cultural scene, with galleries, museums, and theaters showcasing the work of local artists and performers. The town also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, offering a taste of traditional English culture.
Convenient Location: Havant is well-connected by road and rail, making it easy to explore nearby attractions such as Portsmouth, Chichester, and the South Downs National Park. The town also has a range of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels.

Overall, traveling to Havant offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, making it a delightful destination for visitors looking to explore the charming Hampshire countryside.

What to know

Havant, located in Hampshire, United Kingdom, is a charming town with many positive aspects. However, like any travel destination, there may be some cons to consider:

Limited tourist attractions: Havant is a relatively small town and may not offer as many tourist attractions or activities compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling nightlife or a wide range of cultural sites may find Havant lacking in this regard.
Limited dining and entertainment options: While Havant does have some restaurants and pubs, the dining and entertainment scene may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of dining options or entertainment venues may find their choices limited in Havant.
Limited public transportation options: While Havant is well-connected by train and bus services, the availability of public transportation options within the town itself may be limited. Visitors relying on public transportation to get around may find it less convenient compared to larger cities with more extensive networks.
Weather: As with any destination in the UK, the weather in Havant can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and cooler temperatures. Visitors should be prepared for potentially wet and chilly weather, especially if traveling during the autumn and winter months.
Limited shopping opportunities: While Havant does have some local shops and markets, visitors looking for extensive shopping opportunities or large shopping centers may find the options in Havant to be limited.

Overall, while Havant has its charms and can be a pleasant destination for those seeking a quieter and more laid-back travel experience, visitors looking for a more vibrant and bustling atmosphere may find the town to be lacking in certain aspects.

Havant is a town in the southeastern part of Hampshire, England, with a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here’s a detailed history of Havant, including significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Early History

Roman Times: Havant's history can be traced back to the Roman era. Archaeological findings suggest that there was a Roman settlement in the area, likely due to its strategic location on the route between Chichester and Winchester.
Saxon Period: The name "Havant" is believed to have Saxon origins, derived from "Hama's spring." The Saxons established a settlement here, taking advantage of the fresh water springs.

Medieval Period

Domesday Book: Havant is mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded it as having a mill and a church, indicating its existence as a small but established settlement.
St Faith’s Church: A significant medieval landmark is St Faith’s Church, which has been a place of worship since at least the 12th century. It has undergone various restorations but retains much of its historical architecture.

Post-Medieval and Industrial Era

Market Town: Havant developed as a market town during the medieval period, known for its market and fair. The town was a center for the production of parchment and glove-making.
Water Mills: The presence of water mills in the area was significant for local industry, particularly in milling flour and producing textiles.

Modern Era

Railway Development: The arrival of the railway in the 19th century transformed Havant, improving transport and trade. This led to increased growth and urbanization.
World War II: During World War II, Havant, like many towns in southern England, was affected by the conflict, with air raids causing some damage.

Recent Developments

Expansion: In the 20th and 21st centuries, Havant has continued to grow, with modern housing developments and commercial areas. It has become part of the commuter belt for larger cities like Portsmouth.
Environmental Initiatives: Havant is near sites of environmental interest, such as the Havant Thicket and Langstone Harbour, which are important for wildlife conservation.

Notable Landmarks

St Faith’s Church: As mentioned, this is a key historical and architectural landmark in Havant.
The Spring Arts & Heritage Centre: A cultural venue that offers exhibitions, theater, and community events, highlighting Havant’s commitment to arts and heritage.
Havant Park: A central green space in the town used for community events and recreation.

Historical Figures

Sir John Major: While not a historical figure from the past, it is worth noting that the former British Prime Minister Sir John Major was born in Carshalton, Surrey, but grew up in nearby places and has connections to the area.

Havant's history reflects its evolution from a small Saxon settlement to a thriving market town and modern commuter town, with a blend of historical and contemporary significance.