Heritage

The borough has a rich archaeological heritage. Early settlement dates back to the Neolithic period and finds from the Bronze Age, Stone Age and Iron Age have been discovered throughout the borough.

Roman occupation is in evidence with pottery and coins being found at a number of sites, including North Waltham where several Roman villas have been located. Calleva Atrebatum, now Silchester, remains a rich source of material for archaeologists. Abandoned by the Romans, it is one of the best-preserved walled towns in the country.

The Celts, Danes and the Saxons also settled in the area, with the latter giving their name to Basingstoke.

The borough’s towns and villages are home to an array of buildings and interesting features, and each has a fascinating history of its own.

• Visit some of the boroughs historic buildings
• The beautifully restored twentieth century garden by Gertrude Jekyll can be found at The Manor House in Upton Grey
• The restored Wind Engine which was once used for corn milling and pumping water, can be found in Crux Easton.
• There are over 1800 listed buildings and 40 conservation areas, along with a number of Village Design Statements, which celebrate the unique qualities of each place. Find out more by visiting our webpage on Village Design Statements.

Walk the heritage trail

Follow the Town Centre Heritage Trail and discover more about the town's history, from Domesday to the modern day. This is a self-guided walk of the town centre starting in Basingstoke’s 800-year-old Market Place. The full walk lasts approximately 90 minutes, although this can be followed in smaller sections.

Basingstoke Heritage Trail is available on the free TrailTale app, (for Apple and Android smartphones). Simply choose your walk and away you go. Visit the TrailTale website.

Discover more about Basingstoke’s history and heritage from Love Basingstoke.

Heritage open days

Every September, buildings of every age, style and function open their doors offering free access to properties that are usually closed to the public or normally charge for admission. In 2026, Heritage Open Days will take place from the 11 to 20 September.

Properties range from castles to factories, town halls to tithe barns, parish churches to Buddhist temples. It is a once a year chance to discover hidden architectural treasures and enjoy a wide range of tours, events and activities which bring to life local history and culture.

Free of charge and on your doorstep, Heritage Open Days are events for everyone. Find out more about Heritage Open Days by visiting the Heritage Open Days website.

Funding for heritage-related projects

You might be able to get some funding for heritage-related projects, as there are some grant schemes which fund these types of projects.

The National Lottery Community Fund offers grants of £300 to £20,000 in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. If you are a local group and you need a small grant then The National Lottery Community Fund may be able to help you.

The Heritage Lottery fund offers a range of grant programmes, awarding grants from £3,000. For further information on their grant programmes, visit the Heritage Lottery Fund website.