To the west of Portsmouth, in the heart of South Hampshire, is the town of Fareham with its excellent range of shops, good entertainment and sporting facilities. Explore the surrounding countryside; the attractive Meon Valley, an 'area of outstanding natural beauty'; several country parks or the Solent shore with its yachting activity. Fareham's excellent mix of coastline and countryside provides some good walking.

The coastline between Hill Head and Warsash follows part of the Solent Way. The Royal Armouries' Fort Nelson is between Fareham and Cosham. High on Portsdown Hill with a commanding view of Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight, the Fort is home to The Royal Armouries' Museum of Artillery.

On the western side, at the mouth of Portsmouth Harbour, you will discover Gosport which can also be reached by the passenger ferry from Portsmouth. The excitement and activity of the Solent, famous for its sailing and windsurfing activities, is always near with its beautiful coastline and unspoilt beaches. The beaches at Lee-on-the-Solent and Stokes Bay are considered two of the cleanest beaches in the south of England. Gosport itself boasts a wealth of attractions including Submarine Museum, the 17th Century Living History Museum and Fort Brockhurst. For lovers of the countryside the Wildgrounds is an area of ancient woodland, designated as a nature reserve and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Round off your visit with a cruise on the 'Solent Enterprise' to see the fascinating sights of Portsmouth Harbour and the Solent.