A Visitor's Introduction to Romsey, Hampshire

Why is Romsey Worth a Visit?

Romsey is worth visiting for its deep-rooted history, epitomised by the magnificent Romsey Abbey, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the UK. The town is surrounded by scenic countryside and the beautiful River Test, one of England’s premier chalk streams, perfect for fishing, walking, or simply soaking up the views. Romsey’s lively market square, independent shops, and friendly atmosphere make it a delightful spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

With a blend of historic landmarks, cultural attractions, and access to natural beauty, Romsey offers visitors a balanced mix of relaxation and discovery. Whether you’re exploring the town’s rich past, enjoying the peaceful riverside walks, or attending one of Romsey’s local festivals, this town leaves a lasting impression.

Romsey Highlights: Things to See and Do in Romsey

1. Romsey Abbey Romsey Abbey is the town’s most iconic landmark and a must-see for any visitor. This impressive abbey, dating back to the 10th century, is one of the largest parish churches in England and a stunning example of Norman architecture. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and the tomb of Lord Mountbatten of Burma, the famous naval officer and statesman. The abbey’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place for quiet reflection, and regular concerts and events are held here, adding to its cultural significance.

2. Broadlands Estate Just a short walk from the town centre, Broadlands is a grand stately home set in 5,000 acres of beautiful parkland along the River Test. Broadlands was once the home of Lord Mountbatten and has a rich history, having hosted royals and dignitaries over the centuries. Visitors can tour the house during the summer months, exploring its opulent interiors, including rooms that hosted Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip on their honeymoon. The estate’s gardens, designed by Capability Brown, are also a highlight, with stunning lakes, sweeping lawns, and peaceful woodland walks.

3. Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Located just outside Romsey, the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens is a 180-acre horticultural masterpiece. These award-winning gardens are home to over 42,000 plants from across the world, making it one of the UK’s largest and most diverse plant collections. Visitors can explore themed gardens, including the magnificent Winter Garden, and discover peaceful woodland walks, tranquil ponds, and seasonal displays of flowers. The gardens also feature a sculpture trail, a children’s play area, and a café, making it a perfect day out for families and garden enthusiasts alike.

4. King John’s House and Heritage Centre For a deep dive into Romsey’s medieval history, a visit to King John’s House is a must. This 13th-century building, one of the oldest surviving townhouses in England, offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past. The house, once thought to have been a hunting lodge for King John, now serves as a museum, with exhibits detailing medieval life, archaeology, and the local area’s history. The heritage centre also includes a Victorian museum and a charming garden, complete with a medieval herb garden and a tea room where visitors can enjoy refreshments.

5. The Rapids Leisure Centre For a fun, family-friendly activity, head to The Rapids Leisure Centre, Romsey’s popular swimming complex. With its indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, and wave machine, it’s a great place for kids to burn off some energy or for adults to relax in the water. The centre also offers a fitness suite, sports courts, and a café, making it a good option for visitors looking to stay active during their visit.

6. The Romsey Signal Box For railway enthusiasts, the Romsey Signal Box is a hidden gem. This restored Victorian signal box offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the workings of a traditional railway signal box. Volunteers provide interactive demonstrations, allowing visitors to try their hand at pulling the levers and managing the signals. It’s a unique and engaging experience, especially for families or anyone interested in railway history.

7. Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World Just a short drive from Romsey, Paultons Park is one of the UK’s most popular family attractions, home to Peppa Pig World. The park features over 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas for younger children. Peppa Pig World is a particular favourite for families with young kids, offering rides and attractions based on the beloved children’s TV character. With beautiful gardens, animal enclosures, and a wide variety of activities, Paultons Park is a fantastic day out for visitors of all ages.

8. The Plaza Theatre The Plaza Theatre in Romsey is a charming venue that offers a variety of live performances, from plays and musicals to comedy nights and concerts. Run by the local amateur dramatic society, the theatre has a strong community feel and regularly hosts a range of productions, including family shows and seasonal pantomimes. Check the theatre’s schedule to see what’s on during your visit for a fun evening of local entertainment.

9. Romsey Town Centre and Market Romsey’s town centre is a delightful place to explore, with its independent shops, historic buildings, and welcoming cafés. The town has a thriving local market that takes place every Tuesday, offering everything from fresh produce and artisan goods to crafts and antiques. The market square is the heart of the town, and wandering through the stalls is a great way to soak up the local atmosphere. For those interested in shopping, Romsey also has a number of boutique stores, selling everything from clothing and homeware to local gifts.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There: Romsey is easily accessible by road and rail. If you're driving, it’s just a short distance from the M27 and A27, making it convenient for visitors travelling from Southampton (about 15 minutes away), Winchester (20 minutes), and Salisbury (30 minutes). Romsey also has its own railway station, with regular trains running between Southampton, Salisbury, and Bristol. For those travelling from London, Romsey can be reached via a direct train from London Waterloo in approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

Parking: Romsey offers several car parks close to the town centre, including the Lortemore Place car park and the Broadwater Road car park, both of which are conveniently located for exploring the town’s main attractions. Parking is generally easy to find, but it can get busier on market days and weekends, so it's worth arriving early to secure a spot.

Dining: Romsey is home to a variety of excellent dining options, from traditional pubs to modern restaurants. For a cosy pub experience, The Olive Tree offers a menu of British classics, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. That Little Café in the town centre is a great spot for a casual lunch or coffee, with homemade cakes and light bites. If you’re looking for something more refined, The White Horse Brasserie serves contemporary British cuisine in an elegant setting, perfect for a special meal.

Shopping: Romsey’s town centre is known for its independent shops and boutiques, making it a great place for some relaxed shopping. From local craft stores and galleries to clothing and gift shops, there’s something for everyone. The town’s Tuesday market is another highlight, offering a range of fresh local produce, artisan goods, and antiques. Bradbeers Department Store, a Romsey institution, is a must-visit for those looking for clothing, homeware, and gifts.

When to Visit: Romsey is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the gardens are in full bloom, and the surrounding countryside is at its most beautiful. Summer also brings a number of local events and festivals, such as the Romsey Beggars Fair, a popular music and arts festival held every July, and the Romsey Show, an annual agricultural show that takes place in September. Autumn is another lovely time to visit, with the golden colours of the Test Valley providing a picturesque backdrop.

Local Events: Romsey hosts several local events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant community spirit. The Romsey Food Festival, held every September, celebrates the best of local food and drink, with stalls, tastings, and cooking demonstrations. The Romsey Agricultural Show is one of the oldest shows in England, showcasing local farming, crafts, and rural life, and is a great family day out. At Christmas, Romsey transforms with its Christmas Market and festive lights, making it a magical time to visit.

Exploring Beyond Romsey: Romsey’s location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. A short drive will take you to the historic city of Winchester, with its stunning cathedral and medieval architecture. Alternatively, head to Salisbury to explore its famous cathedral and the nearby prehistoric site of Stonehenge. Nature lovers can also enjoy the New Forest National Park, just a 20-minute drive away, where wild ponies roam free, and miles of walking and cycling trails await.