WITH lockdown easing this week, many will be flocking to pubs, shops and family attractions for the first time in three months.

But for those who want to avoid the crowds and save the pennies, there are plenty of activities to try.

Here are five free days out, perfect for all the family.

Jane Austen walks and trails 

There are several free walks and trails across the picturesque Hampshire countryside that inspired her writing.

Chawton Circular Walk – 4.5 miles

The Route starts at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton and passes by Chawton House Library and the village of Farringdon.

Alton to Chawton - 1.5 miles

This walking route will help you discover more of Jane Austen’s world and explore the Market town of Alton which Jane and her sister Cassandra would have spent much of their time in for shopping and entertainment.

Winchester Austen Trail

This self-guided trail will take you to discover landmarks of Jane’s life in Winchester and Hampshire’s surrounding countryside. The trail includes her grave at Winchester Cathedral and the house she died in on College Street.

For more information on the trails click here.

Picnic in Bluebell woods

One of the notable highlights of spring has to be when the Bluebells bloom, covering grassy verges and woodland floors in colour.

With lockdown restrictions easing, it is the perfect time to enjoy a tranquil spring walk or picnic with our loved ones and take some incredible pictures.

Popular Hampshire spots such as Micheldever Wood are always winners when it comes to spotting Bluebells but there are many lesser-known areas that are guaranteed to be covered in a carpet of purple this spring.

Click here to find the seven best bluebell woods in Hampshire.

Cycle across the South Downs

The South Downs National Park is free to explore and its many pathways and trails make it the perfect place for a cycle. Dotted with pretty villages and market towns, there's lots to discover during a visit here.

The cycle trail we would recommend is the Meon valley trail.

Follow the path of the former railway line from Wickham through Soberton, Corhampton and, Exton to West Meon. Stop off at the sidings in Droxford where Churchill and Eisenhower discussed the fine detail of D-Day plans or stop-off refreshments in one of the pretty villages enroute.

Explore The Coastline 

Take a trip to the seaside! The south coast is home to some of the UK’s best beaches and with sunshine forecast this weekend, it is the perfect opportunity to get out and explore.

From stony country parks to stretches of sandy beach the south coast really has it all when it comes to a day at the seaside.

We recommend these beaches:

  • Lee on the solent
  • Lepe
  • Calshot
  • Highcliffe
  • Bournemouth

Explore historic ruins and landmarks

Hampshire is a county steeped in history, so why not take a step back in time and discover some of the historic sites near you.

We recommend:

  • Odiham Castle
  • The Southampton walls
  • Bishops Waltham Palace
  • Wolvesey Castle
  • Netley Abbey