Basingstoke
Close to London and just a stone’s throw from the coast, leafy Basingstoke lies firmly within the commuter belt for the capital. This Hampshire market town is the largest in its county, characterised by charming Victorian architecture, modern contemporary developments and picturesque surrounding countryside. As the third fastest growing town in the UK and seventh most affluent it is also a commercial hub in England, home to various blue-chip HQs including Sun Life Financial, Motorola and Sony Professional Solutions. The classic British fashion brand Burberry was born in Basingstoke in 1856 – and novelist Jane Austen hailed from just a few miles outside of the town.
Basingstoke has lots on offer for visitors popping down for the day or staying for an extended break. There’s plenty to see and do – attractions and landmarks include the Milestones Museum of Living History and The Vyne, a 16th-century country house. The ‘Sitting with Jane’ Art Trail offers up the opportunity to take a stride in the famous authoress’s footsteps, whilst guided walking tours are also available in the town. A number of upmarket eateries, coffee shops and boutiques cater to the area’s affluent residents – whilst malls such as Festival Place feature a variety of high street favourites.
Basingstoke is easily accessible by road and rail – just off the M3 it’s under an hour’s travel from the capital and the coast - making it the perfect satellite location for city dwellers and holidaymakers. There’s a diverse and eclectic selection of venues in and around the town centre, from grand old country houses to modern urban hotel suites. At Big Venue Book we’ve got over thirty to choose from, including Audleys Wood Hotel, The Elvetham Hotel and the Apollo Hotel Basingstoke.