Explore, create and thrive in 2025

The new year is a blank canvas waiting to be splashed with vibrant experiences! Longing to try something new or simply a break from routine? Basingstoke and Deane is brimming with ways to explore hidden gems, ignite your creativity, and boost your wellbeing. In 2025, why not make it your resolution to invest in yourself? Here's how you can make the most of the year in Basingstoke and Deane by embracing adventure, creativity, and wellness.

Explore: Discover new places and yourself

Exploration isn’t just about discovering new places—it’s also an opportunity to discover more about who you are. In Basingstoke and Deane, there are plenty of scenic spots where you can reconnect with nature and take time for self-reflection. From walking trails to hidden gems, here are a few places to get you started:

Have you explored Beacon Hill? It's an impressive iron age hillfort near Burghclere with extensive views over the North Wessex Downs. Did you know that within the enclosure is the grave of the fifth Earl of Carnarvon who played a prominent part in archaeological expeditions to Egypt, including his final trip to the Valley of the Kings. It was here that he and Howard Carter discovered and opened the fabulous tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922.

Beacon Hill

Follow in the footsteps of Whitchurch resident and author Richard Adams as you explore the stunning north Hampshire landscape that author Richard Adams so loved to wander and where he wrote his tale of the rabbits of Watership Down.

Explore Hackwood Park, a large country estate which began life as a deer park in 1223, on the east side of the A339, Alton to Basingstoke Road. Entrance here to the public footpath which runs through the park is via the wrought-iron gate.

Beyond nature, exploring could also mean getting to know your local area better and connecting with others. Why not try a new club, join a new group or embrace local culture?

Catch a captivating performance at The Anvil, immerse yourself in history at Whitchurch Silk Mill, or delve into the vibrant world of outdoor arts at Basingstoke Festival. These are just some of the local cultural experiences on offer. And remember, cultural experiences don't have to break the bank! Make the most of your National Trust membership with visits to The Vyne and Sandham Memorial Chapel both in the borough, pay for entry once to Milestones Museum you can revisit for free for a whole year, or enjoy free events like Basingstoke Festival.

View of the north front across the lake in early morning light at the Vyne, Hampshire. The Vyne is a warm red-bricked Tudor mansion built in the 16th century for Lord Sandys, Henry VIII's Lord Chamberlain, which later passed into the hands of the Chute family, who cared for the house and estate for over 300 years. It was remodelled to its present configuration in the mid-17th century.

The Vyne ©National Trust Images/John Miller

Create

Trying a new creative activity not only nurtures your imagination but also boosts your mental health. Basingstoke and Deane is full of creative opportunities to explore, whether you're looking to express yourself through music, art, or performance.

Join a choir or singing group. Singing has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a sense of community. There are plenty of groups in the borough including Sing for Fun which rehearses on Mondays at Proteus, Sing Now meet at Popley Fields Community Centre on a Wednesday evening, Hampshire Harmony rehearse each Monday at Everest Community Academy and Ooh Mama rehearse on Tuesday evenings at Christ Church, Chineham. Many of the groups will let you have a free taster session!

Join a creative workshop. Always wanted to learn how to paint, illustrate or looking for a fresh spin on drawing? Join a 10-week art class or a wine and paint evening at Azure Art Academy with professional artist and teacher Liam Kelleher. Digital courses are also available for those who would prefer to learn from the comfort of their own home. You can also join a mixed media art class at Proteus Creation Space on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Learn, evolve your style and produce work that you can be proud of.

A lady is smiling and sitting behind a wooden easel that has a book on it. Another lady is talking to her.

Art Class at Proteus Creation Space. Chuck Douglas Photography

Hampshire School of Jewellery offer one-off and ongoing jewellery making classes from their Basingstoke studio suitable for complete beginners and more advanced makers.

Three hands are in the image, each with a set of three stacking rings on.

A lady looks at the camera. She wears a pink apron and sits in front of a desk.

"We have many people that come to us for some creative time which really helps with their mental health. I have been told time just flies by in the studio as they forget what is going on outside and focus on learning new skills. We have such a fabulous community among our classes where friendships are made while learning new skills and creating beautiful jewellery."

Quote from Laura Llewellyn owner of Hampshire School of Jewellery.

If you love nature and are out exploring, photography can be an excellent way to immerse yourself in your surroundings and capture memories at the same time. Tag us in your photos on Instagram and we’ll do our best to share them.

Thrive

In Basingstoke and Deane, there are countless ways to thrive in 2025 by trying new sports or fitness activities that boost your energy and improve your overall sense of well-being.

Join the energetic Basingstoke ParkRun community for a weekly dose of fresh air and friendly faces. Looking for a gentler approach? Opt for a free, guided wellbeing walk with BVA. These social strolls led by trained volunteers are perfect for exploring the outdoors while enjoying the company of your others – you might even make some new friends!

Try Yoga or Pilates. The Studio at Physical Balance offers Yoga and Pilates, including Reformer Pilates. Body Perfect Pilates – Mind, Body, Life offer private and semi-private classes.

The Studio at Physical Balance

Joining a local sports team can provide a sense of camaraderie and boost your mood. From football to netball and rugby, Basingstoke and Deane has plenty of amateur sports clubs where you can get involved and stay active.

Or perhaps the exhilarating world of pole dancing at The Flying Studio is more your style. Upside Down Aerial Fitness teach Aerial Hoop and Aerial Silks.

Always wanted to learn how to tumble? Basingstoke Gymnastics Club offers a full development programme for adults, including circuits for strength and conditioning. These fun and engaging classes are suitable for all levels, adaptable for different needs. Enjoy a supportive and social environment with experienced coaches on hand to guide you every step of the way. Join anytime throughout the year by booking online or calling the club.

Revive!

Rest, relax and unwind at one of the local spas. You can enjoy a spa day or even a break at Hampshire Court Hotel, have a treatment or spend the day at Beechdown, or enjoy a visit to national award-winning spa, beauty salon and wellness centre, Laurabella. If a spa isn’t your thing then perhaps treat yourself to a haircut or get your nails done.

An external image of day spa Laurabella in Basingstoke. The image shows a seating area and hot tub on a paved patio. The sky is blue and in the backdrop is the rear of the building, a tiled roof with wooden cladded walls.

This is just a taste of what Basingstoke and Deane has to offer. The possibilities are endless! If you have a favourite activity missing from this list, don't hesitate to share it with us at hello@lovebasingstoke.co.uk.

Let 2025 be the year of exploration, creativity, and rejuvenation. We're excited to be your guide!

Note: Inclusion of any business within this listing should not be seen as an endorsement of their services. While the information is considered accurate at the date of publication, changes may occur.

January 2025

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