New trails for families to explore

Hamble Peninsula Trails and public art launched in Bursledon, Hamble and Hound

A new series of walking trails, wayfinding markers and railway station artworks have been unveiled as part of a public art project across Bursledon, Hamble and Hound. The Hamble Peninsula Trails have been designed by local creative collaboration People Place Nature Ltd and were commissioned by the Borough Council with a grant from South Western Railway, funds from developer contributions and with support from the parish councils of Bursledon, Hamble and Hound.

The project aims to help residents and visitors explore the existing footpaths and cycleways and learn more about local history and biodiversity.

Lead Artist, Paul Best, said: “The Hamble Peninsula offers a dazzling mix that encompasses historic shipbuilding, pioneering aviation, sailing, railways, early industries and agriculture, ancient monuments and warfare; together with a natural environment of shoreline, ancient woodland, riverside and heathland.” Installed this Spring, the project features new parish posts at each of the three railway stations, adorned with a distinctive design by artist Madeleine Allison; an accompanying map board, illustrated by Daniel Powell; and 30 custom made directional marker posts, half of which have an integrated plaque which can be used for brass rubbing.

The map and all the marker posts also contain a QR code, which when scanned with a smart phone redirects to information about local history and nature.

Local residents have already started testing the trails during free organised walks and activities led by the Country Parks team.

Plan your walk and download a map: eastleigh.gov.uk/hamble-peninsula