HAMPSHIRE is one of the best tourist destinations in the world, a new report shows.

The county was named the best place to visit ‘for planes, trains, and gin’ as part of a report by online travel magazine loveExploring.com which lists the top “16 Favourite Destinations for 2018” in its worldwide tourism round-up report for 2018.

The report cites the Farnborough International Air Show, the Bombay Sapphire Distillery at Laverstoke, the Real Ale Train on the famous Watercress Line and the high quality sparkling wine produced at Hambledon and Hattingley Valley as just some of the reasons for the global traveller to stop off in Hampshire.

The listing came as nu surprise to some.

Councillor Mel Kendal, Hampshire County Council’s executive member for economic development, said: “It’s great to see Hampshire on this global list of the best travel destinations for 2018.

“Those of us who live here already know what a beautiful place Hampshire is and all it has to offer, and we look forward to welcoming new visitors.

“Every year, tourism brings in over £3 billion to Hampshire and, with around 70,000 people employed in this sector in Hampshire, it plays an important role, as a significant contributor to the local economy.”

Ross McNally, executive chair of Hampshire Chamber of Commerce added: “Hampshire Chamber of Commerce is delighted to see Hampshire is being recognised for the fantastic choice of destination and attractions it offers.

“The Chamber works with tourism members all over the county year round and we know this is just reward for the unique attributes they bring to the international visitor experience.

“We are sure the county will build on this recognition.”

The county is listed alongside Barcelona and Moscow.

So what are the top five best tourist attractions in the county?

Leading travel review website Trip Advisor says the five best attractions in Hampshire are:

One - The Hawk Conservancy Trust in Andover - Where you can find some over 130 birds of prey on view, from the tiny Pygmy Owl to impressive Steller’s Sea Eagles.

Two - The Mary Rose Museum at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - Home to the Mary Rose and thousands of historical artefacts that were recovered from the Solent.

Three - Portsmouth Historic Dockyard - An area of Portsmouth Naval Base which is open to the public which contains several historic buildings and ships.

Four - Paultons Park in Romsey - A Peppa Pig themed family theme park.

Five - New Forest National Park - Spanning 219 square miles, the National Park includes one of the largest remaining tracts of unenclosed pasture land, heathland and forest.