Attractions and Places To See around Bentworth - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Bentworth include historical sites and natural features within the East Hampshire Hangers. This picturesque village offers a glimpse into historical English countryside life, with landmarks like St Mary's Church and Hall Place. The area is characterized by distinctive valleys and higher downland, with King's Hill providing prominent views. Numerous footpaths and woodlands offer opportunities for rural rambles.
Best attractions and places to see around Bentworth
- The most popular attractions is St Nicholas' Church, Chawton, a religious building dedicated to Saint Nicholas. This free-to-enter church features a unique style and its cemetery holds the graves of many Knight and Austen family members.
- Another must-see spot is Jane Austen's House Museum, a historical site and family-friendly attraction. Visitors can explore the cottage where Jane Austen lived and wrote, learning about her life and work.
- Visitors also love St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford, a historical site and religious building. This elegant church, originally built in the 13th century, was largely rebuilt in 1898, retaining its West Tower.
- Bentworth is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and natural landscapes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient churches to significant literary homes.
- The attractions around Bentworth are appreciated by the komoot community, with 54 upvotes and 18 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Jane Austen's House Museum
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
St Nicholas' Church, Chawton
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Holy Cross Church, Binsted
Highlight • Religious Site
Notable features include an eye-catching stained glass window crafted by Capronnier, a memorial dedicated to Sir Richard de Westcote – regarded as the earliest known resident of the village – and a complete peal of six resounding bells.
In the churchyard, a poignant landmark resides in the form of the final resting place of Viscount Montgomery of Alamein.
Tip by
Alton Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
The community was founded by the Revd Charles Plomer Hopkins in 1884, as the Society of Saint Paul, in Rangoon (Burma) and Culcutta (India) to work with destitute or distressed merchant seafarers and their chaplains. The first house was opened in 1894 in Barry Dock, South Wales (now closed) to continue this work.
A quieter house was needed and the site in Beech was acquired in 1895. This was initially used to care for retired or ill seamen in temporary wood and metal buildings. The current buildings were designed by Sir Charles Nicholson, using Tintern Abbey as a model.
The first monks did much of the construction using local flint, including a flint and brick Gatehouse (1901). The Abbey church, designed by John Cyril Hawes (flint and brick, built 1901-07), is dedicated to "Our Lady and Saint John". Having observed the Rule of St Benedict from 1893 the community formally adopted it on 28 January 1981.
In 1989 another charity undertook the society's work with seafarers. The community now runs retreats and courses for the public in guest rooms.
Cit. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alton_Abbey
A more extensive version of the Abbey's history can be found on its official website at altonabbey.com/history-of-alton-abbey
Coming from Beech towards Winchester (i.e. travelling in a south-westerly direction) the Abbey is at the top of a climb with gradients from 5% to 13%, with the steepest part just before a right bend that conceals the Abbey to the right.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Bentworth.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This church looks amazing. It has a very unique style. I'm so glad I visited.
0
0
In quarter-hour film segments for a German-language television series, Tilmann Spengler introduces the lives and works of important writers and authors from all eras to culture-loving viewers. One of the women he honors as "classics of world literature" is the British author of "Pride and Prejudice" (to name her most famous work): * JANE AUSTEN (1775 to 1817). The segment (in German) can be found in the ARD Media Library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/jane-austen-stolz-und-vorurteil/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvL2NiOGJhYTI3LTkxYzMtNDRiNi05NjNlLTRlYzg2NDNmY2E5Ng
0
0
In the lovely village of Chawton - great pub and coffee shop
0
0
Saint NICHOLAS, Bishop of Myra, to whom the church in Chawton is dedicated, is – alongside Saint Martin, Bishop of Tours in France – one of the most popular saints of all. His feast day in the calendar of saints, December 6th, is probably known to almost every child. On the eve of this day, children used to put their shoes or boots – which had of course been carefully polished – outside the door so that Saint Nicholas could fill them with gifts during the night. In more agricultural areas, it was also customary for children to put out a small gift of food for the donkey, Saint Nicholas's mount (according to another tradition, it was a white horse).
0
0
In 15-minute film contributions from a German-language television series, Tilmann Spengler introduces the culture-loving viewer to the life and work of important writers and authors from all eras. One of the ladies he honors as a "classic of world literature" is the British author of "Pride and Prejudice" (to name her most famous work): * JANE AUSTEN (1775 to 1817). The contribution (in German) can be found in the ARD media library at the following link: https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/klassiker-der-weltliteratur/jane-austen-stolz-und-vorurteil/ard-alpha/Y3JpZDovL2JyLmRlL3ZpZGVvL2NiOGJhYTI3LTkxYzMtNDRiNi05NjNlLTRlYzg2NDNmY2E5Ng
2
0
Holy Cross is an impressive church which traces its origins back to the 12th century and boasts the addition of two chapels in the 14th century. Notable features include an eye-catching stained glass window crafted by Capronnier, a memorial dedicated to Sir Richard de Westcote – regarded as the earliest known resident of the village – and a complete peal of six resounding bells. In the churchyard, a poignant landmark resides in the form of the final resting place of Viscount Montgomery of Alamein.
1
0
Opening hours: Wed to Sun 10:00 - 17:00 last entrance at 16:00.
0
0
Known throughout the world as one of the most important English-language writers of all time, Jane Austen was a pioneer in literature and her six completed novels are still cherished and widely read today. This stunning house in Chawton was her home during the last eight years of her life alongside her sister Cassandra, their mother, and a friend. Part of the Chawton Estate was owned by Jane's brother Edward, but the house was purchased in the 1940s by Mr T. E. Carpenter. He turned it into a museum to Austen and a memorial to his son Phillip, who was killed during the Second World War. You can visit the house, restored to an interior in keeping with Austen's era, and see how she would have lived. The building is Grade-I listed and contains a fascinating collection of Austen's belongings.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Bentworth?
Bentworth is rich in history. You can visit St Mary's Church, a Grade II* listed building with parts dating back to the late 11th century, and Hall Place, a Grade II* listed medieval hall-house from the early 14th century. The village also features numerous heritage-listed buildings like Holt Cottage and significant manors such as Burkham House.
Are there any natural features or viewpoints to enjoy around Bentworth?
Yes, Bentworth is situated within the East Hampshire Hangers, an area known for its distinctive valleys and higher downland. King's Hill, the highest point in the parish at 716 feet (218 meters), offers prominent views over the surrounding landscape. You can also find a charming village duckpond near Hall Place.
What are some family-friendly attractions near Bentworth?
Families can enjoy exploring Jane Austen's House Museum, where the famous author lived and wrote. Other family-friendly historical and religious sites include St Nicholas' Church, Chawton, St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford, and Holy Cross Church, Binsted.
Where can I find woodlands and walking routes in Bentworth?
The parish of Bentworth has about seven percent woodland, offering numerous footpaths and old drovers tracks for rural rambles. Moundsmere Bluebell Woods, located nearby, is particularly noted for its beautiful bluebell carpets in mid-spring. For more detailed routes, check out the hiking guide around Bentworth.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near Bentworth?
Absolutely! The area around Bentworth is ideal for outdoor activities. You can find various hiking trails, including easy walks like the 'South Lease Copse – Stubbins Copse loop'. For mountain biking, explore routes in Chawton Park Wood. Running enthusiasts can also find trails of varying difficulties. Discover more options in the hiking, MTB, and running guides around Bentworth.
What is the significance of St Mary's Church in Bentworth?
St Mary's Church is a central historical landmark in Bentworth. It is a Grade II* listed building with its nave dating back to around 1175, and the chancel and lower part of the tower from around 1260. The church also features a Holy Thorn of Glastonbury, planted in 1962, a grafting from the original Glastonbury thorn.
Can I visit any religious buildings with historical importance near Bentworth?
Yes, several significant religious buildings are nearby. Besides Bentworth's own St Mary's Church, you can visit St Nicholas' Church, Chawton, known for its unique style and the graves of the Knight and Austen families. St John the Baptist Church, New Alresford, and Holy Cross Church, Binsted, both with origins tracing back to the 12th and 13th centuries, are also notable. Additionally, Alton Abbey, an Anglican Benedictine monastery, is open to visitors.
Are there any pubs or cafes in Bentworth for refreshments?
While the Star Inn has closed, The Sun Inn remains as one of the village's public houses, offering a place for refreshments. In nearby New Alresford, you'll find a variety of cafes and shops on Broad Street, perfect for a break and a bite to eat.
What is the best time to visit Bentworth for outdoor activities?
Mid-spring is particularly beautiful for visiting Bentworth, especially to see the bluebell carpets in Moundsmere Bluebell Woods. The numerous footpaths and woodlands are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months for rural rambles. For specific trail conditions, it's always good to check local weather before heading out.
What is the historical significance of Bentworth Hall?
The current Bentworth Hall was built starting in 1832. During World War II, it was requisitioned and used as an outstation for the Royal Navy, adding a layer of 20th-century history to its earlier origins as part of the Bentworth Manor estate.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for beginners near Bentworth?
Yes, there are easy walking trails available. For instance, the 'South Lease Copse – Stubbins Copse loop from Bentworth' is an easy 5.6 km hike. You can find more easy options and detailed information in the hiking guide around Bentworth.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Bentworth?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The unique style of churches like St Nicholas' Church, Chawton, and the historical depth of places like Jane Austen's House Museum are frequently highlighted. The picturesque countryside, with its woodlands and footpaths, also receives high praise for offering peaceful rural rambles.
Most popular routes around Bentworth
Most popular attractions around Bentworth
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
