We chat to Hampshire resident and local business owner, Jack Wells in another of our 'Your Hampshire' series; exploring Hampshire via it's residents and community. Jack and his team run Mystery Guides - interactive, history-themed adventure books, that turn historic city streets into exciting outdoor adventures!
Q. Where in Hampshire do you live?
A. Southsea, that's why people here are lucky enough to have a Mystery Guide for both Portsmouth & Southsea!
Q. Where do you like to go on a rainy day?
A.I love the outdoors (hence writing outdoor adventures) but if it's raining, I usually take the kids to a soft play or a trampoline place like Flip Out.
Q. Where is the best place for a cuppa?
A. The Canteen in Old Portsmouth is a hidden gem with amazing mochas - it also features in the Old Portsmouth adventure of Nelsons Stolen Diamonds. It is surrounded by the arches which are used as creative spaces (Hotwalls Studios). Go and see Lizzie at Number 2 - she is amazing!
4. What is your favourite walk?
A. My favourite walk would be around all the hidden gems of Old Portsmouth - the tunnel Nelson walked through, old High Street, around the cobbled streets of the Round Tower and onto the point - finishing with a beer at the pub, the Still and West and watching the boats come in and out of the harbour.
Q. What do you recommend people do when they visit for the first time?
A. A Mystery Guide adventure of course - it gets you to see all the hidden gems you would normally miss. Also go up the Spinnaker Tower, walk along the seafront and Southsea Castle - and definitely the Mary Rose Museum - do not miss that
Q. Where is your favourite spot in Hampshire?
A. I love the Hospital of St. Cross, just outside Winchester (spoiler alert - it's not a hospital!) My favourite pub is probably The Red Lion in Charlton and I also love the Northney Tea Rooms for a cuppa and cake in Hayling Island
Thanks for sharing Your Hampshire with us Jack
Be first to hear about unique new activity providers, artisans, hosts, and local experts