Hamble Valley Visitor Magazine 2012 - Issue 1

FREE 2012 Visitor Magazine issue 1

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What's in this issu

ons events places to visit attracti local food & drink free prize draw ... and much more! t and Countryside

Discover Hampshire’s Coas

ail inside

NEW! pull out walking tr

IN W a short break holiday

see inside for details

Image Š with thanks to Manor Farm Country Park

Why is it called the “Strawberry Coast”?

Where is the Hamble Valley?

The Hamble Valley has a long association with the harvest of the highly esteemed soft fruit. In the early part of the 20th century the strawberry fields around the areas of Botley, Hedge End and Titchfield produced around 20,000 strawberries a day. Pickers would be up at 4am to ensure that the first consignments would catch the 8am ‘Strawberry Specials’ out of Botley train station for early delivery to London’s premier hotels.

It is recorded that one 12 year old girl picked 30 shillings worth of strawberries in less than a week (an astonishing 900 lbs of strawberries) and 3000 lbs - 1000 baskets in one month.

Contents Page 2

Events

Page 4

Waterside Lifestyle

Page 6

Great Outdoors

Page 9

Hamble Valley Good Life

Page 12

Contemporary Culture

Page 15

Local Heritage

Page 19

Walks pull out

Page 22

Hidden Gems

Page 24

What can we do?

Page 25

Fork and Cork

Page 29

Sport and Recreation

Page 30

Shopping

Page 32

Towns and Villages

Page 36

Leave the car at home

Page 37

Accommodation

Page 41

Competition

The Hamble Valley brand and Strawberry logo are trademarks owned and managed by The Marketing Collective Ltd. and their unauthorised use is an infringement of copyright law. All rights reserved. Hamble Valley Visitor Guide 2012 © Compiled and published by The Marketing Collective Ltd. Designed by Tina Scahill Design. Printed

by Halcyon Print Management. Photography by The Marketing Collective Ltd. and available for use subject to licensing. Information in the guide was correct at the time of going to press. The Marketing Collective Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies or omissions, and users are strongly advised to contact advertisers and events prior to making any arrangements.

Published by

re’s i h s p m a to H e m o c l e W Coast and Countryside

Royal Victoria Country Park With over 1500 acres of unspoilt countryside, unique and interesting attractions, a rich heritage and delightfully quaint villages, the Hamble Valley is an ideal destination for a holiday, short break or day visit.

Known as Strawberry Coast and tucked between the bustling cities of Southampton, Winchester and Portsmouth, the Hamble Valley is described as a beautiful and picturesque breathing space stretching along 25 miles of Hampshire’s coastline with the Solent and River Hamble.

From coast to countryside there is so much on offer. Fuel your passion for culture, stimulate your mind with heritage and enjoy fun-filled family days out. Visit charming towns and villages with beautiful waterside vistas, amble and ramble through woodland, marshes and meadows on one of the many walking trails and enjoy delicious homemade food and local produce at one of the many restaurants, pubs of cafes.

The Hamble Valley is a family and child friendly destination with plenty of free and low cost activities to keep the young and young at heart entertained.

There is so much to see and do in the Hamble Valley that a day visit just isn’t enough! With plenty Fam ily fun of quality and outstanding hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering and campsites all offering a warm and friendly welcome there is more reason to stay for longer.

So, however long you are visiting, whatever your passion and even in you live in Hampshire, there is something waiting for you!

Look out for the Hamble Valley Champions and see what they have to say about the Hamble Valley.

Heritage

IN W a short break

or a Family Day Pass to Marwell Wildlife See more of the Hamble Valley use your smart phone to scan in the QR code for a virtual tour.

For more information and comprehensive events listings visit

Enter our prize draw on page 41 for a chance to be a Winner!

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

1

Events WHEN

Here is a snippet of the fun-filled events taking place across the Hamble Valley until the end June. For times, admission/ticket prices and further detail please contact the individual venues.

17th

Pete Firman: Jiggery Pokery

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

18th

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

22nd

Yummy Mummy Mother’s day: make a gift while mum has a Cream Tea 2401 Objects - Analogue Great Expectations

WHATS ON?

where February

1st

The Glizzard: The Hunt is on around the Park.

4th

Mark McGann Acting Workshop

5th

Around the wild West End of West End Guided Walk

01489 799499 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

23rd

6th

Stalin's Favourite

02380 688233 The Berry Theatre

31st

7th

Defying Hitler

01489 799499 The Berry Theatre

12th-20th

12th-17th

13th-17th

13th

Duncan has lost his lunch!

Help him find the carrots in the Heritage Visitor Centre.

Ducks on the Run: Follow the trail to find them Feathered Half Term Fun: Activities with farmhouse arts/crafts.

Wolf Tales: Puppetry, shadows and songs to hilarious effect.

23rd

Pre: View - South East Dance & The Point

23rd

Classic Cut - Shobana Jeyasingh Dance Company

01489 799499 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

Royal Victoria Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

023 8045 5157 Manor Farm Country Park

31st

31st-3rd Apr 31st-15th Apr WHEN

T itanic walk at West End Guided Walk: West End

P luck present The Titanic Show

WHATS ON?

1st

A ll Aboard! Interactive Guided bus tour of Titanic sites where charactor actors will bring the story to life.

T itanic Symposium Unlocking The Past

1st

A Night To Remember

U.Dance South East 2012

2nd

Lucky Dip - Milk Presents

02380 652333 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

Airborne families flying workshop - Scarabeus

3rd

29th-3rd Mar

Romeo and Juliet

02380 652333 The Berry Theatre

Coffee & Culture, Talking Texts Everyman For Himself

2nd-15th

WHEN

WHATS ON?

01489 799499

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh.

4th

Easter Holiday Egg-stras.

A fortnight of fun down on the farm!

Easter Eggstravaganza: with egg-related activities!

Headstart - The Point

02380 652333 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

4th

Sock Bunnies make and take

Early Spring Walk - BotleyDurley Area Guided Walk

02380 652333 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

4th and 11th

Forest Activity Day: for children aged 6 – 11. Booking essential.

5th

Forest Families: for 4 – 11 year olds with their parents. Booking essential.

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk www.theberrytheatre.co.uk where

March

Bound - Bear Trap Theatre Company

1st 3rd 4th

The Rodin Project - Saddler's Wells & Russell Maliphant

8th

Red Riding Hood - Engine House and Lakeside

10th

Antonia Grove in Small Talk Probe

15th 16th-17th

Strawberries and Steam

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk 02380 688233 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

02380 652333 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

02380 652333 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333 The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799499

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

where

02380 652333 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

28th

01489 799499 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

01489 799499 A Journey Into The Ice! Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Guided Walk: West Heritage Guides www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk End Titanic Trail 02380 688233 T itanic 2012 The Berry Theatre www.theberrytheatre.co.uk - Hidden History 01489 799499 Easter Trail: Collect clues to Royal Victoria Country Park reveal the answer www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157

1st

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

April

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

023 8045 5157 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

02380 652333 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

25th

2

31st

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

02380 688233

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

023 8045 5157 Manor Farm Country Park

02380 652333 Royal Victoria Country Park

31st March 3rd April Titanic: Hidden History, see below for events

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

02380 652333 Royal Victoria Country Park

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

02380 652333 The Berry Theatre

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Birds, Brilliant Birds! Bird spotting with our Rangers

15th

023 8045 5157 The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Elixir - Sadhana Dance

9th

Royal Victoria Country Park

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

5th

Story Trail: The Gruffalo Walk

6th-9th

Easter Egg Hunt: Follow the clues to win a prize.

11th

Sunflower Painting and Planting: Drop in session

The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799499

The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799499 The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

01489 799499 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333 The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

01489 799499 Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 Royal Victoria Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

023 8045 5157 Itchen Valley Country Park

www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp

02380 466091 Itchen Valley Country Park

www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp

02380 466091 Itchen Valley Country Park

www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp 02380 466091

Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

Itchen Valley Country Park

www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp

02380 466091 Itchen Valley Country Park

www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp 02380 466091

Keep up to date with events at www.hamblevalley.com To pre order Issue 2 with Summer Holiday events email info@hamblevalley.com 11th

12th 12th

Help our feathered friends by building a nest box and making bird feeders.

Play in a Day The Way Back Home - Big Wooden Horse

15th-16th

The Real Princess

023 8045 5157 The Berry Theatre

16th

Bats in the Belfry: An evening talk and walk

Manor Farm Country Park

What's in a name? - Guided Walk: Eastleigh Train Station

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

25th-27th

Music Festival

02380 688233 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

27th

Wanders around Wickham Guided Walk

02380 652333 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

Solent Austin 7 Club Rally

02380 688233 Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

01489 799499 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Squashbox - Universarama T itanic related Guided Walks. See website for locations.

15th

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk 01489 799499

20th

02380 652333 14th

The Berry Theatre

Royal Victoria Country Park

The Berry Theatre

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

01489 799499 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

18th

Hidden Paths of Hamble Guided Walk

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

27th

The Unthanks

02380 688233 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

2nd-10th

02380 652333 19th-22nd Gosport & Fareham Easter Festival Dawn Chorus & Farmhouse 22nd Breakfast. Get up with the lark for a guided Park walk.

Old Hedge End Guided Walk 22nd

www.eastfest.co.uk Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

26th-28th 27th 29th

29th

WHEN

3rd 6th

7th

10th

Solent Gardeners Fayre and Craft event

Wide Lane, Eastleigh

02380 688233 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

2nd-10th

Half Term Fun on the Farm

Manor Farm Country Park

Rotary Club Strawberry Fair Guided Walk Hedge End Memory Points(s) - Platform 4

02380 688233 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333 The Berry Theatre

Terry Alderton

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

Old Bursledon Guided Walk

01489 799499 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

6th

6th

7th

Dinosaur Fun Day: make footprints

Royal Victoria Country Park

Story Trail: The Gruffalo Walk

023 8045 5157 Manor Farm Country Park

Vintage Vehicles: from classic cars to steam rollers

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

10th

Page to Stage

The Berry Theatre

16th-17th

Tiddler - Scamp Theatre

01489 799499 The Berry Theatre

16th-26th

Dance Festival

Bluebell Walk at Stoke Park Wood Guided Walk

01489 799499 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

16th-17th

The Home Front at Manor Farm: Turn the clock back to 1940s wartime Britain.

Woodland Wildflower Walk

WHATS ON?

Story Trail: Owl Babies

Equus

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 Royal Victoria Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

Royal Victoria Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

17th

023 8045 5157 The Point Theatre,Eastleigh

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Otterbourne Walk Guided Walk

02380 652333 Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

17th

Royal Victoria Country Park

21st

023 8045 5157 The Berry Theatre

30th

01489 799499

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

02380 688233 Southampton Dog Show

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

023 8045 5157

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

023 8045 5157 Orchid Walk at Swanwick Nature Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides Reserve Guided Walk

where

02380 688233 Bank Holiday Monday May Day Manor Farm Country Park Celebration: an afternoon of www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ music and dance manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 The Berry Theatre Hamlet - Blue Apple

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

Royal Victoria Country Park

9th-10th

02380 688233 Manor Farm Country Park

www.solentgardeners fayre.org.uk

Dead and Alive!!

Explore fossils and meet there ascendants!

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 18th

where June

01489 799499 17th

WHATS ON?

3rd

May

1st

WHEN

Dilys The Dinosaur’s Trail: Hunt Royal Victoria Country Park for fossils. www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157 A Long Woolly Weekend: See Manor Farm Country Park sheep shearing, spinning and www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ other crafts. manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk

22nd

2nd-5th

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

02380 688233 15th

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

The Big Bug Hunt: A Fathers Day special - how brave is your Dad? Story Trail: Smallest Stegosaurus in the World In the Limelight: Explore the ancient woodland of our Country Park.

Information contained in this guide is produced in good faith and is correct at the time of publication. The publisher can accept no responsibility for inaccuracies or changes to published information. Visitors are strongly advised to contact the service providers direct before making any arrangements.

02380 688233 Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055 Royal Victoria Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/rvcp

023 8045 5157 Manor Farm Country Park

www3.hants.gov.uk/countryside/ manorfarm.htm 01489 787055

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

3

Waterside Lifestyle The Hamble River is renowned internationally as a Mecca for sailing.

Whether you are on board your boat or sitting on the quay watching the craft go by, life on the waterside is always busy.

The double tides, deep water and ease of access to the Solent make the River Hamble ideal for sailing – from weekend excursions or as a departure point for destinations further afield.

Events and regattas take place throughout the year and attract yachtsmen and racing enthusiasts throughout the sailing world. These include Hamble Week, the Hamble Winter & Spring Series, Bursledon Regatta and national World Series competitions.

operates pontoon and pile visitors’ berthing. Short stay berths for the landing or embarking of crew, passengers and stores is available at Warsash and Hamble quays. Landing by dinghy is also permissible at the public hards at Bursledon, Swanwick and Hamble foreshore and Warsash. The popular and historic Jolly Sailor public house also has a jetty for the use of its customers arriving on smaller vessels.

It is impossible to miss the ‘pink ladies’ on the Hamble River.

Hamble is home of the Royal Operating all year round, and since Yachting Association (RYA), the the reign of King Henry VII (1485 – UK’s national body for all forms of 1509) the Hamble to Warsash ferry boating including sailing, motorboating, powerboat racing, personal provides access across the river and provides a taxi service. watercraft and windsurfing, and a range of courses, open days, clubs and schools. Information and events can be found by visiting One of the best ways to view and www.rya.org.uk. experience the River Hamble is Berthing on the River is available to take to the water in a canoe or at several marinas, boatyards and kayak. The River Hamble Harbour yacht clubs (contactable on VHF Authority advises canoes to stay out CH.80) and advance booking is of the main channel. advisable. The Harbour Authority

Kayaking on the river

There is plenty of water closer to the banks at all states of tide below the M27 bridge, where the river carries the most boat traffic. The most popular area for canoeists is above the M27 bridge where there are very few boats, and the river is quiet and very natural with a few inlets to explore as well the Horse and Jockey pub at the end of the Curbridge arm of the river. Allegedly, a disorientated whale, made its way up river, and became stuck under the road bridge alongside the pub. Sadly it ceased to be and the carcass became a local tourist attraction for many a year.

There are various clubs along the River such as the Upper Hamble Canoe Club who offer family recreational paddling, help members sample all facets of the sport in a safe, coached environment, whilst having fun.

Visit www.upperhamblecc.co.uk for more information and details of membership.

The river from a new pe

rspective

Getting going!

Having a rest -enjoying the peace 4

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

As with any water-based activity please ensure the following: • Get an accurate and up-to-date weather forecast.

• Check tide tables and the accessibility of your recovery site.

• Find out about by-laws and local hazards.

A catch on the river

Line fishing can be enjoyed on the River Hamble, restricted only by the right of access. Please remember to be courteous and if • Wear an appropriate, fishing off jetties or pontooning, well-fitted buoyancy aid or do get permission first and move life-jacket. for boats and yachts. Pick up a • Have some means of calling copy of the Bait Collectors Code, for help. a voluntary code of conduct • For more information on River available from the Harbour Safety, visit www3.hants.gov. Masters Office at Warsash (01489 576387) uk/hambleharbour • Tell someone where you are going and when you are expected back.

David Evan s

Loca

Champ l ion

Name: David Evans

Occupation: Marine Director and Harbour Master - River Hamble Harbour Authority.

What do you love about the Hamble Valley?

The diversity of boats and the constant hubbub of boating activity.

Where is your favourite place to visit? The upper Hamble, above the M27 bridge.

The Hamble Valley is known as the 'Strawberry Coast' because of the strawberry-growing heritage, so thinking about strawberries, How do you like to eat yours?Straight from the

Directory of sailing clubs Hamble River Sailing Club

The Ferry Hard, Green Lane, Hamble, Southampton

023 8045 2070 or visit www.hambleriversc.org.uk

Mercury Yacht Harbour

Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton

023 8045 2668 or visit www.hamble.co.uk

Royal Southern Yacht Club

Rope Walk, Hamble, Southampton

023 8045 0300 or visit www.royal.southern.co.uk

Royal Air Force Yacht Club

Riverside House, Rope Walk, Hamble, Hamble-leRice

023 8045 2208 or visit www.rafyc.co.uk

Netley Sailing Club

Royal Victoria Pk, Netley Abbey, Southampton

023 8045 4272 or visit www.netleysc.co.uk

Warsash Sailing Club

Shore House, Shore Road, Warsash, Southampton

01489 583 575 or visit www.warsashsc.org.uk

Netley Cliff Sailing Club

Victoria Rd, Netley Abbey, Southampton

023 8045 5826 or visit www.ncsc.co.uk

plant - nothing added.

patrolling the river

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

5

The Great Outdoors With more country parks than anywhere else in Hampshire, the Hamble Valley is a year-round haven for countryside lovers and a great place for children to explore and take part in regular activities.

From Moors Local Nature Reserve near Bishops Waltham where the River Hamble rises, to the mouth of the river on Southampton Water, the stretching coastline provide; plenty of open space and walking trails to connect you with the flora and fauna throughout the year.

Take in the views of the Solent at Royal Victoria Country Park where the 200 acres of open spaces is perfect for picnicking and games. Explore the park and trails through woodland visiting the military cemetery, sensory garden and duck pond before taking a ride on the Royal Victoria Railway which runs rides throughout the school holidays.

Discover Manor Farm Country Park set in the heart of spectacular ancient woodland on the banks of the River Hamble. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the delightful Victorian working farm where children will enjoy taking part in a school lesson, meeting the animals and even milking a cow.

Itchen Valley Country Park Royal Victoria Steam Ra

ilway

lakes before taking younger children on the Eastleigh Lakeside Steam Railway.

On the eastern side of the River Hamble visit Titchfield Haven Nature Reserve, Holly Hill Woodland Park and Bunney Meadows – a delightful walk along the east bank of the River Hamble with outstanding views of the marinas on the western side.

Follow trails and enjoy regular holiday activities such as pond dipping at Itchen Valley Country Park, discover a tree top adventure at the high wire, tree swinging Go Ape.

The Hamble Valley is an important area for nature conservation and provides a perfect spot to explore Hampshire’s wildlife. The mudflat and salt marsh habitats are important for wildfowl and wading birds, and the unique biodiversity provides breeding opportunities for threatened mammals like otter, water voles and rare species of beetles, moths and other invertebrates.

Meander through meadows at Lakeside Country Park and what the fishing and water-sports on the

Swanwick Lakes is managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve

6

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

With 440 acres of woodland and meadows to explore, the Park is an ideal place for a family day out. Waymarked trails will help you enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Trails, picnic sites, visitor centre, cafe play areas, events.

For further details call 023 8046 6091

Find us at...

Allington Lane, Southampton, SO30 3HQ, M27 Junction 5 or 7.

Email: ivcp@eastleigh.gov.uk www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp

See the animals and country life at Manor Farm Country Park.

Rachel Od ell

Woodland and water and is a beautiful place to walk and explore particularly during the summer when butterflies and dragonflies are in abundance. To the west of Netley, lies Westwood Woodland Park with ancient woodland, streamside walks and rolling grassland perfect for walks and family games.

Bluebells and Fairies One of the best examples of a countryside and woodland walk beside the River Hamble is along the National Trust shoreline at Curbridge. Accessible by boat only at high tide, there is a small pontoon on the River Cur ( a small tributary of the Hamble) where you can moor up at the highest navigable point on the River. Access by road is from the B3051 Botley Road just south of Curbridge, and there is roadside parking at Burridge Cricket Club. The nearby Horse Fairies? and Jockey pub welcomes visitors to their car park and after the walk you invited to stay for a drink and fine food. This tranquil enclave of ancient woodland can be steep and muddy, but there are constructed walkways and seating which afford spectacular views through the trees and across the

water. The woodland is celebrated for its wonderful spring displays of bluebells, which can be enjoyed at their best in late April and throughout May, when a carpet of flowers turns the steep slopes blue and the scent clings in the air. There are lots of other special seasonal flowers in the woods, which are home to many more unusual bird species including woodpeckers and warblers. The reserve is locally known as 'Wishing Tree Woods' and hidden among the woodland is the Children's Shrine to the Fairies - a celebration of the fairies, pixies and elves that inhabit the glades and ferns. For many years, children and families have been leaving gifts and offerings to the fairy folk, who occasionally respond with secret messages of thanks. Look carefully you might just catch a glimpse one day!

Loca

Champ l ion

Name: Rachel Odell Occupation: Visitor Services Manager, Eastleigh Countryside Service

What do you love about the Hamble Valley? It’s a beautiful area with a huge variety of different things to do.

Where is your favourite place to visit? It has to be Hamble Common, as it's such a lovely setting. The 55 acres of coastal heathland is a really special place for a stroll. Much of the area is a Site of Special Scientific Interest because of its wide range of habitats including heathland, woodland, saltmarsh and mudflats.

There are waymarked walks with information boards to help you understand and identify the history, habitat and wildlife of the area.

The Hamble Valley is known as the 'Strawberry Coast' because of the strawberry-growing heritage, so thinking about strawberries, How do you like to eat yours? I’m from The Fairy tree

Devon so I love mine with clotted cream!

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

7

Hamble Valley Wordsearch!

Try to find the 15 items listed below.

1. OTTER 2. VOLES 3. BEETLE 4. MOTH 5. BUTTERFLY 6. DRAGONFLY 7. BLUEBELL 8. FAIRIES 9. TREE 10. WOODS 11. WOODPECKER 12. WATERFRONT 13. FAMILY 14. ANIMALS 15. RUN B

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pssst! if you need help turn to page 39

hamble Valley good life The Hamble Valley encourages you to love your local lifestyle. Whether visiting the area for the first time, exploring with family and friends or living locally, there are opportunities to help preserve the local area and take a little bit of the Hamble Valley Good Life home with you.

Pickwell Farm Shop Pick your own Strawberries Raspberries & Vegetables We have seasonal Opening Times.

From 1st April - 30th September.

Monday - Friday: 9am - 6pm Saturday & Sunday: 9am - 5pm From 1st October - 31st March.

Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 9am-3pm

call 023 8040 4616 to find out what’s in season

www.pickwellfarm.co.uk POrtSMOuth/GrAnGe rOAd, netley

Home Grown to Pick your own There is much pleasure to be had in harvesting your own fruit and vegetables, and more of us are now finding the confidence in growing our own and becoming more self-sufficient.

as Garson’s in Titchfield, Haskins in West End, Arturis in West End and Fair Oak Nurseries for seeds and gardening equipment to get started.

If you don’t have the space for a veggie patch or own an allotment, you can still reap the benefits of local produce by visiting a pick Growing your own is a great activity your own farm such as Pickwell for all the family, not only does Farm in Netley. With over 1000 it provide enormous satisfaction PYO farms in the UK, the farms and when you cook your first harvest of farm shops sell a variety of local vegetables, but it allows the whole produce supporting local farmers family to re connect with nature and and suppliers. children to learn the importance of The best time to visit pick your healthy eating, not to mention the owns is later in the week or early on nutritional benefits of freshly picked a weekend to avoid the rush and to fruit and vegetables. get the best of the crop. Pick your Why not visit one of the many garden centres in the Hamble Valley to start your own veggie patch? Get children involved by allocating a small plot for their own produce -select fast growing crops such as radishes and sunflowers so impatient little green fingers will see fast results. Those mucky hands are part of the fun – and who knows what treasure or creepy crawlies will be found when digging. Visit garden centres such

own is a great family activity in the outdoors – you don’t get to hear the birds sing in the supermarket!

And an education opportunity with guess the fruit and vegetable quiz.

It is also a good form of exercise burning 200 calories in a half an hour session of picking your own, the delicious fruit and vegetables will taste better from your efforts and count as part of your five a day!

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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DIG for Victory and farmland at Manor Farm as their real life setting.

Long standing presenters Peter Ginn, Ruth Goodman and Alex Langlands will be on site exploring how people of the Second World War lived, farmed and cooked food.

As part of the filming, the cottage living room will be transformed into a 1940’s style kitchen / diner area.

Between 1940 and 1941 British agriculture was expected to supply A paraffin stove will be installed to cook food on and new items of a third of the nation’s food energy furniture will temporarily replace the requirements, and by 1943 it was estimated that over one million tons Victorian dresser.

Manor Farm will stay open during of vegetables were being grown the filming and visitors may even in gardens and allotments. Today catch a glimpse of the action. many of the ideals around grow your own activities from the 2nd War Time Farm is due to be aired World War have come back, partly on BBC 2 in late 2012. due to the economics of producing your own food but also as a great benefit to health and wellbeing.

A war time farm

During 2012, Manor Farm will be transported back to the time of the Second World War as the BBC film their next instalment of the Victorian Farm and Edwardian Farm series – War Time Farm.

The programme will focus on the Second World War and all aspects of domestic and farming life of the period, using the beautiful cottage

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

For more information on Manor Farm and the surrounding country park visit: www.hants.gov.uk

A Helping Hand Starting a veggie patch can be daunting, but it doesn’t need to be. Even if you have a small space to have a go at growing your own, here are some hints and tips to get you started: Know your soil – before you decide what to grow pick up a soil testing kit from a local gardening centre.

This will tell you a more about your soil for example, vegetables grow best in slightly acidic soil.

Whether your plot is in a raised bed or in a container, it should be next to a sunny wall or fence, which will be perfect for climbing plants.

Just remember that soil in the 'rain shadow' of a wall can be dry, so add manure or compost to help retain moisture every time you replant.

If you are planting your vegetable patch with children, you will want some easy, fast-growing crops for those impatient little green fingers: • Sunflowers are easy and a must for a children’s garden – plant one or two as they do take up room.

• Lettuces are quick and reliable and give fast results and an excellent was to interest children in salads.

• Radishes also give quick results and will germinate in 3-10 days, and have a very short growing season of 20-30 days.

• Snow peas are a quick-growing early crop, and fun for kids to eat right off the vine. Snow

peas are popular because the pod is edible and since they are a dwarf plant they can be grown without a trellis.

• Cherry tomatoes and Strawberries are a fun crops.

Plant in full sun and use seedlings rather than planting from seed in the ground or either in a container or hanging basket – just remember to water well!

Hamble Valley Value Support local businesses when you explore the Hamble Valley.

From where you stay to where you eat, if you choose a local business your money will benefit communities that need it most.

Look for local food shops where produce has been grown nearby.

This will help to reduce food miles and carbon emissions. If you’re looking for ideas, a date for your diary is the Hampshire Food and Drink Festival which takes place in July every year. Here Hampshire’s food and drink producers exhibit their wares alongside special events and talks. Or why not visit a Farmers’ Market in Hampshire to pick up some delicious produce.

Visit www.hampshirefare.co.uk for more details.

For a true taste of the Hamble Valley, try some of the region’s delicious locally grown strawberries. Follow the 15-mile Strawberry Trail walking route for an insight into this important strawberry growing area.

Make and Mend Arts and craft activities are always popular with children and are a great low cost alternative for a Sunday afternoon. Why not try your hand at these starter activities?

•

The non-scary Scarecrow - Easy and inexpensive to make, a Scarecrow is a fun and whimsical addition to the children’s veggie patch and helps them to understand about protecting their crops... Collect old clothes and items from around the house and stuff with rags, straw or leaves, not forgetting a stake to stand him or her up!

•

Old CD’s can be decorated and hung around a veggie patch to ward of birds and capture the sunlight in your garden. . See how creative you can get!

•

Visit one of the country parks and learn how to make bird and butterfly boxes for a small charge in the school holidays. Take some paper to your local park or open space and design a treasure map with the children, which can be coloured and decorated at home and passed onto a willing pirate to seek the treasure.

•

A rain maker is a winner with all younger children. A clean plastic bottle with lid can be painted or covered and filled with lentils or rice. Let your kids dance for much need rain in the garden!

•

For older children, why not set them a puzzle to get them back in the fresh air? Tracking is great fun and you just need to be creative in setting riddles to guide them around your open space.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Contemporary Whether it’s contemporary dance, traditional theatre or classical music, Hamble Valley is bursting with cultural offerings…

The Point

Hamble Valley boasts two theatres, The Point in Eastleigh and The Berry Theatre, in Hedge End which opened in 2011.

Housed in a beautifully-renovated late Victorian town hall and library and surrounded by landscaped parkland, The Point is located in the heart of Eastleigh. Widely recognised as one of the South’s leading venues for contemporary performance and dance, the theatre offers a cutting-edge programme for lovers of contemporary arts. There is also plenty for families, with some of the leading children’s theatre companies touring to the venue - this coming season highlights include Red Riding Hood adapted by the award winning Mike Kenny, plus an interactive workshop aimed at families with aerial theatre company Scarabeus. A varied film programme offers the latest cinema releases as well as silver screen classics, offering the rare opportunity to watch some the greatest films in cinematic history on the big screen.

If you don’t have time to take in a show, why not enjoy a leisurely lunch in The Point’s cafe bar?

Offering delicious home-made fare and a wide selection of drinks, The Point’s stylish cafe bar is the perfect destination to drop in, sit back and relax.

One of the south’s leading venues for contemporary performance and dance, a magnet for internationally-renowned artists and performers.

© Farrows Creative

The Point Leigh Road Eastleigh SO50 9DE Box office 023 8065 2333 www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

The Berry Theatre in Hedge End boasts state-of -the-art digital projection for cinema and offers a traditional drama programme with a focus on children’s work and young people. There’s also plenty for adults too as The Berry Theatre has built up an enviable comedy programme, attracting such big names as Ross Noble, Shappi Khorsandi and Phil Jupitus. Some of the Spring season's theatrical highlights include Equus by London Classic Theatre Company

The Berry Theatre A new theatre offering exemplary programming through a broad range of drama, children's theatre and comedy, plus a state of the art digital cinema.

The Berry Theatre Wildern Lane Hedge End SO30 4EJ Tel: 01489 799 499 www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

and Romeo and Juliet by The Point’s Youth Theatre. There is also a vibrant programme for families including the popular Saturday Storyteller sessions and new to this season, an exclusive baby film screening club, offering parents/carers of young babies the opportunity to enjoy some of the latest films without the need for a babysitter.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Culture Some highlights for the Spring and early Summer…

1 st Birthday Celebrations – supported by Hedge End Town Council. The Berry Theatre, March 24 and 25 The Berry Theatre celebrates its 1st birthday and everyone is invited to join the weekend party. On March 24, the theatre throws open its doors for a free fun-packed day of entertainment. Try out a range of exciting theatre workshops including puppet making and stage make-up; take a backstage tour to discover what really goes on behind the scenes of this state-of-the-art venue; and sit back and enjoy a showcase of free performances from Strawberries & Steam Choir; Southampton Ukulele Jam, Hedge End New Music Makers; West End Singers; Performing Arts Company; and Wildern Community Groups. There’s also a free screening of animated family comedy, The Smurfs. Following on from this, on March 25, Nostalgic Sunday is an afternoon of free classic film screenings. Compiled by the British Film Institute, this special programme of films produced by the UK’s Central Office of Information from 1946 to 1950 portrays an intriguing portrait of everyday life in 1940s Britain, recorded in atmospheric detail. Supported by Hedge End Town Council, tickets are free to all events and workshops during the weekend 1st birthday celebrations. Three cheers for The Berry Theatre…

T itanic 2012: The Berry Theatre, March 31 to April 3 In this centenary year of the maiden voyage of RMS Titanic, The Berry Theatre takes a local focus for the commemorations of those momentous events in April 1912, shedding light on some of the stories and personalities from Hamble Valley involved in the dramatic history of the Titanic. From drama and storytelling workshops for children, the chance to experience the music played during her maiden voyage to guided theatre bus and walking tours, a special screening of A Night to Remember and much more; The Berry Theatre brings stories from surviving relatives, historians, authors and local specialists about the ship that was believed to be unsinkable…

D ance Festival: The Point, June 9 to 16 The Point’s annual Dance Festival is celebrating its 20th anniversary and promises to deliver an unforgettable programme of events. Whether you’re into hip hop, street, ballet, tap, ballroom or contemporary, this week-long event has something for all dance enthusiasts. This year’s event kicks off with a Ceilidh – and everyone is welcome to join in. Highlights of the event include a performance by world-renowned Hofesh Dance company; a special outdoor performance from integrated dance company StopGAP; It’s A Small World, a dance show by local primary school children performed on The Point’s outdoor Garden Stage; Pointing The Way – Careers Day, a free event, with workshops, information stalls, professional advice, aimed at helping young people find a career in dance; and a tea dance led by Ragroof Theatre Company. In addition, running throughout the week will be taster sessions in all dance styles, open workshops and special masterclasses delivered by guest teachers from esteemed companies and organisations.

T ommy Green Walk To Victory The Point, July 15 To celebrate the 2012 London Olympics and Hamble Valley’s very own Olympic hero, Tommy Green, The Point is organising the borough’s biggest summer party – and everyone is invited. The Point is working with local community and youth groups to transform Eastleigh into a 1940’s street party complete with a gala parade celebrating the life of Green. Tommy Green Walk To Victory will take place at The Point and on Leigh Road recreation ground on Sunday, July 15.

Green became - and remains - the oldest Olympic walking champion at 38 years of age when he won a gold medal in the Road Race at the Los Angeles 1932 Olympic Games. His outstanding achievement is all the more remarkable because Green suffered rickets as a child and was unable to walk until he was five years old. He holds the distinction of being the first Olympic road walking champion. He was and remains a true sporting legend. This is going to be one of the biggest street parties Eastleigh has ever seen…

Sarah Brig ham

Loca

Champ l ion

Name: Sarah Brigham Occupation Artistic Director of The Point and The Berry Theatre

What do you love about the Hamble Valley? It has to be its stunning scenery.

I'm from Yorkshire which is a hard place to beat when it comes to breathtaking landscapes. But there is a tranquility and peacefulness about the Hamble Valley that I have to say I find enriching.

It helps me to not miss Yorkshire so much!

Where is your favourite place to visit?I do like to spend a leisurely afternoon taking in the sights of Hamble-le-Rice, especially down by The Quay drinking in the beautiful views of the Hamble River and marinas.

It always leaves me with a sense of peace.

And lastly, the Hamble Valley is known as the Strawberry Coast because of the strawberry-growing heritage. So, thinking about strawberries, how do you eat yours?

Unadulterated. I like them to be fresh and clean on the palate.

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk www.theberrytheatre.co.uk Make it part of your next visit!

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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The Concorde Club, Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh, SO50 9HQ Tel: 023 8061 3989 www.theconcordeclub.com

Celebrating The Home Of British Jazz Lemar

Moldy

e bar Fig win

Established in 1957 by jazz aficionado and former drummer Cole Mathieson, and still under the same family management, the club is set in a beautiful old school house and gardens and includes an excellent restaurant, wine bar and three star hotel.

Paul Jones

tation

Presen

Globally recognised as a leader in its field, The Concorde Club is a stylish entertainment venue based in Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh.

ue e Plaq of Blu

Originally set up as a jazz club it now offers a diverse entertainment programme including tribute bands, with live music up to 7 nights a week. It’s standing in the jazz world was recently recognized with the inaugural Blue Plaque, an award voted for nationally by both enthusiasts and musicians as the venue considered to have done

most for the development of jazz in the UK. Ronnie Scott’s came third.

a concert venue and the three star Ellington Lodge Hotel.

Anyone who is anyone in the jazz world has almost certainly graced the stage of the legendary venue. Its list of performing artists reads like a ‘who’s who’ of jazz icons Dame Cleo Laine and Sir John Dankworth, Barney Kessel, Clare Teal, Georgie Fame, Charlie Mingus and Stacey Kent to name but a few.

While respectful of its history the Club is constantly looking to the future with ever more exciting acts.

2012 will see regular hosting of household names from the world of popular music and jazz and ever more use of its wonderful riverside gardens for outside events such as the 3 day PhoneyFEST tribute festival in June, July’s Jazz & Beer festival and The Concorde Classic Car Show.

Over the years it has also encouraged many of the worlds finest young artists such as Manfred Mann, Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart, Elton John and more recently Jamie Cullum.

Today The Concorde Club boasts a fine dining restaurant, a culinary acclaimed wine bar The Moldy Fig which also regularly hosts live music and is open daily to non-members,

A place of inspiration For centuries, The Hamble Valley has been a place of inspiration for artists, authors and poets. From the picturesque views of the River Hamble to the gothic ruins of Netley Abbey which inspired the likes of Turner and John Constable during the 18th Century.

There are many regular painting groups and classes which take place throughout the year and venues such as Bradgate Manor in Netley run workshops and courses for beginners and those who want to brush up on techniques.

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The Hamble Valley has also influenced the written word with literary greats such as Jane Austen, Thomas Gray and Horace Walpole all visiting the area and taking inspiration from its beauty and intrigue.

Today the Hamble Valley continues to influence writers and the village of Bursledon is home to internationally known Haiku Poet, Pearl Elizabeth Dell.

Also the author of narrative poems, Pearl has been published in anthologies and the Daily Express.

Why not have go at writing your own Haiku about the Hamble Valley?

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

What is a Haiku?

The Haiku is a Japanese poetic form conventionally consisting of 17 syllables in three lines 5-7-5; it often contains a 'season word' and is related to the natural world. It seeks to capture a moment in time like a snapshot.

Royal Victoria Country Park Lesser celandine no less a flower than a rose….. starburst of spring joy Waiting to be found chestnut brown conker jewels small children’s treasure Pearl Elizabeth Dell.

In the words of the great Humphrey Lyttelton “Class & character - that’s The Concorde Club”. Which is why, for anyone looking for leisure with that extra touch, a trip to The Concorde Club should be on the agenda.

Manor Country Park Squirrel scoots down the oak tree in the clearing to blackberry feast Swooping from the sky my first Kestrel takes a mouse I stand mesmerised The track dividing home or deeper into the wood….

I make the day last The Victorian Farm where small children hold rabbits, feed lambs, collect eggs Pearl Elizabeth Dell.

The Hamble Valley has a wealth of fascinating local heritage connections and attractions which tell of years gone by and the role that the area has had in the history of southern Hampshire.

Aviation Famous NAMES Visit the Heritage Centre within the Chapel at Royal Victoria Country Park and discover the history of Britain’s largest military hospital.

Opened by Florence Nightingale in 1863, the Royal Victoria Hospital was over a quarter mile long and contained 138 wards and around 1000 beds. Netley was also the home of the Army Medical School - one of the most famous practitioners from here is Conan Doyle’s ‘Dr Watson’, whose connections with Netley are related in first Sherlock Holmes novel, ‘A Study in Scarlet’, published in 1888.

Historians will also enjoy an exploration of North Stoneham Park in Eastleigh and a visit to the remarkable WW1 War Shrine, which is currently being returned to its original condition. Part of the Restoration of Stoneham War Shrine project is the conservation of the historic parkland. Discover the story of the park and the connection of the Fleming family and learn more about St Nicholas Church and the famous One-Handed Clock which dates from the 17th century online at www.northstoneham.org.uk and request a leaflet detailing a circular walk.

Royal Victoria Country Park Chapel

Discover th e wrecks on the River Ha mble

The River The River Hamble plays a large part in history of the Hamble Valley Archaeological evidence indicates that people have been living and working on the river for over two thousand years. Until the 14th century Hamble was a more important trading centre than Portsmouth.

Some of the great ships built on the river include Nelson’s flagship for the Battle of Copenhagen, HMS Elephant (on which he put his telescope to his blind eye and “saw no signal”). Some years later she was captained by Jane Austen’s brother Frank and features in her popular novel Mansfield Park. Another brother, Charles, was captain of The Phoenix in 1815. In all around fifty naval vessels were built on the Hamble between 1692 and 1815 Henry V’s flagship Grace Dieu was brought to the Hamble at Bursledon for safe keeping during the 100 Years War with France. She was destroyed by fire in 1439 after a lightning strike, and her wreck (one of many in the Hamble) can be seen at low tide from Manor Farm Country Park.

The Hamble Valley has also played an important part in the history of aviation. Back in 1910, at a time when aircraft were in their infancy, a local man named Edwin Rowland Moon triumphantly flew his homemade Moonbeam II aircraft from the fields of North Stoneham Farm. This is now the site of Southampton Airport. Situated on the outskirts of Eastleigh town, this is also the site where the Spitfire took its maiden flight in 1936. Designer RJ Mitchell is buried at South Stoneham Cemetery adjacent to the Airport and a near life-size sculpture of the prototype Spitfire was installed at the entrance to the Airport in 2003.

light ry of f

a Centen

Solent Sky Museum

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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There are plenty of attractions across the Hamble Valley were the past comes to life! Discover Eastleigh’s past at Eastleigh Museum where a locomotive engine driver and his wife will show you what life was like in the 1930’s.

With a changing programme of exhibitions, and events including family friendly activities during school holidays, there is always something new to learn.

See a fine example of the county’s agricultural heritage at the beautifully restored Bursledon Windmill. Built by Phoebe Langtry in 1813 -14, the windmill is still in full working order. Have a go at grinding the flour and buy a bag of high quality flour to take home.

Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum at Swanwick was founded in 1897 and produced 20 million bricks a year in its heyday. Now open on Sundays, visitors can explore the brickworkings and museum and see demonstrations of steam and pugmill engines. A dedicated team of volunteers host regular open days and events providing exhibitions from historic cars to traditional crafts, a wildlife garden and coffee shop.

in Fareham tells the history of the town’s past and the famous ‘Fareham Reds’ - the locally produced bricks that built much of Victorian England, including The Royal Albert Hall in London.

There are local displays and events and activities for children along with a Victorian public garden.

Westbury Manor Museum

Hamble Valley Folk Hampshire is well known for its many customs, traditions and song and there are a few traditions that are unique to the Hamble Valley as featured in the Hampshire Folk Map which is available from 01962 826700 16

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Wickham celebrates May Day starting with the Wickham Morris Dancers who gather at dawn to dance in Wickham Square.

May Day:

Wickham’s annual horse fair: Held in late May is a big event and an important gathering for the gypsy community.

Aunt Sally: The Aunt Sally is a traditional game which has been recorded in the Botley area.

Often seen a fetes and village gatherings, an Aunt Sally was originally a figuring head of an old woman with a clay pipe in her mouth and the object was for players to throw sticks at the head in order to break the pipe.

Sea Cricket : For the last 50 years, the members of the Royal Southern Yacht Club and the Isle of Wight’s Island Sailing Club take part in the Brambles Cricket Match. The eccentric event takes place in the middle of the Solent; as the tide reveals a 200 metre long sandbank called the Bramble Bank, players dash out for a frantic 40-minute game before the wicket sinks back under the sea.

Titchfield Carnival: Established

in 1880 the carnival has grown to become one of the longest surviving carnivals in the South, featuring a parade through the village, funfair, a variety of floats, fireworks and a bonfire.

Attractions Contact Details: Bursledon Windmill www.hants.gov.uk/windmill 0845 603 5635 Eastleigh Museum www.hants.gov.uk/eastleigh-museum 0845 603 5635 Westbury Manor Museum www.hants.gov.uk/westbury-manormuseum 01329 824895 Solent Sky Museum www.spitfireonline.co.uk 02380 635830

A fascinating insight into our industrial past.

Special activity days featuring live steam and hands on activities, exhibitions and displays.

Steam & narrow gauge railway for all the family.

Free Car Park Coffee Shop Gift Shop Interest for all ages - come see for yourself!

Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum Swanwick Lane, Southampton SO31 7GW Tel 01489 576248 or visit www.bursledonbrickworks.co.uk

Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum

industry and agriculture

Hamble Valley Heritage Guides Discover more about the Hamble Valley on a guided walk through the parishes and villages of the area.

Learn about the history, famous associations and quirky facts and tales including strawberries, shipbuilding, railways, aviation and pubs.

Visit the website for details of walks or contact for a FREE guided walk programme.

Please call 023 8068 8233 or 023 8061 7182 (out of hours only)

www.hamblevalleyheritage.co.uk Email: hamblevalley@aol.com

Titanic Remembered 1912 - 2012

April 12th 2012 is the 100th anniversary of the fateful sailing of the RMS Titanic. The disaster made headlines across the world and had a devastating effect on the people of Southampton.

Most of the crew lived in the town and over 500 households were affected.

There are plenty of places and people across the Hamble Valley who were associated with the Titanic: Captain Rostron

America to buy a fruit farm and partly to find a better climate for his wife who had consumption. His wife Charlotte recorded in the American magazine of May 1912.

“The day before we were due to sail (our neighbours) made much of us, it seemed as if there must have been hundreds who called to bid us goodbye and in the afternoon members of the church arranged a surprise for my husband. They led him to a seat under the old tree in the churchyard and then some of them went up into the belfry and, in his honour; they rang all the chimes that they knew. It took more than an hour and he was very pleased. Somehow it made me a little sad. They rang the solemn old chimes as well as the gay one and to me it was too much of a farewell ceremony”.

Captain Rostron was the Captain of the the Carpathia when it picked up the new distress signal SOS on the 14th April 1912, he ordered his ship to plough Charles Lightholler through threatening ice The highest ranking of at speeds of 17 nots per the surviving officers of hour in a desperate race the Titanic was Charles against time to save the Lightoller the second passengers and crew of officer who lived at Hound the 'unsinkable' Titanic in Netley. He was one of as it foundered on its the key witnesses in the maiden voyage. 706 inquiry into the sinking souls were plucked from and wrote his memoirs the icy water by Captain including what happened Rostron and the Carpathia that fateful night. “I don't but nearly 1,500 lost their like jazz music as a rule lives that night. Captain but I think it helped us all Rostron was awarded the that night”.

Congressional Medal of George Frederick Turner Charles Lightholler Honour by President Taft -credit The National Archives, Kew In St Leonard's church, and was knighted in 1926.

Bursledon is the grave His story is told in the of Louisa Selina Turner who was the village West End Museum sited in the old schoolteacher and the cross on her grave village fire station and his grave is in also mentions her grandson.

He was West End cemetery.

George Frederick Turner and as the ship's Harvey Collyer stenographer, he died on the Titanic on A memorial to one of the passengers is held 5th April 1912. The Titanic was his first ship, at St Mary's Church in Bishopstoke, a stand his wages were £4 10s, his body was inscribed “Sacred to the memory of Harvey never found.

Collyer who fell asleep in the deep April 15 Phillip Curry 1912 Age 31 years. “Jesus said come”.”

White Star was managed by Phillip E. Collyer was a second class passenger and Curry with staff of under managers, had been living at 25 Church Road, Mount secretaries, booking clerks, messenger Hill, Bishopstoke. He was emigrating to boys, telephonists, cleaners and others.

Captain Rostron & crew of Carpathia - credit The National Archives, Kew

He was 'a man deserving of the highest respect, always out to help anyone and everybody within the limits of his powers.

A more popular official Southampton will never see.' To Curry fell the task of running the White Star office as news of the disaster and its aftermath came through. Curry retired in 1931 and died suddenly in 1933, his extensive obituary in the Echo made no mention of the Titanic. His home was demolished long ago but his memorial in St Nicolas church, North Stoneham survives.

John Lovell Diaper John Lovell was born in the workhouse where he was originally given his mothers maiden name of Diaper, he went to sea at sixteen and in 1912 signed on for the Titanic as a grill cook at a monthly wage of £6 10s.

John Lovell, died in the sinking, his body if recovered was never identified, he was given the number 497 by the Titanic Fund.

In 2012 a memorial was commissioned by the Diaper Heritage Association which is to be found at the West End Museum.

The Berry Theatre in Hedge End will be commemorating the Titanic with a programme of events from the 31st March - 3rd April (see pages 2&3 for event details or www.theberrytheatre.co.uk) More connections and links to the Hamble Valley will be featured in a new leaflet 'Hamble Valley Titanic Trail' by the Hamble Valley Heritage Guides. The leaflet will be available at events or by contacting Hamble Valley on 023 8001655 or info@hamblevalley.com 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Netley Abbey The buildings that now comprise

Another victim of ‘the curse of Netley

Netley Abbey ruins were first known

Abbey’ was local builder Walter

to the monks of the Cistercian order

Taylor. In 1700, when Taylor was intent on

who lived in the Abbey for over three

removing stones from the site to use in a

hundred years, commissioners of

town house, he had a terrible nightmare.

King Henry VIII, the first Marquis of

In the dream, he was visited by a monk

Winchester. For over two thousand years

who warned him of great mischief if he

the curious have visited Netley Abbey and

was to continue with his plans. He saw a

today the ruins are in the care of English

large stone falling on him, which fractured

Name: Mary South

Heritage for everyone to enjoy.

his skull. Taylor discussed his dreams with Dr Isaac Watts who suggested that

Occupation:

It’s also full of literary heritage and makes a great site for a picnic with the kids.

he should keep out of the way during

As expected, Netley Abbey has its legends, ghosts and of course a curse which is said to date from the time of the dissolution of the monasteries. One of the Abbey Monks, ‘Blind Peter’ became the guardian of Abbey’s treasure against Henry VIII. In an attempt to find the treasure, a gentleman named Mr Slown arrived at the Abbey and began to dig a hole. Moments later he ran away screaming, and collapsed within minutes from a heart attack uttering his dying words, ‘For God’s sake, block it up’.

the demolition. However, contrary to this advice, Taylor took part in the demolition and in the course of tearing down a board, he loosened a stone that fell and fractured his head. The wound was not considered mortal but, during the operation to remove the splinter, the surgeons instrument slipped, entered into Taylors brain and caused instant death.

For a copy of a leaflet about Netley Abbey contact 023 8000 1655 or visit www.hamblevalley.com

Mary Sout h

Loca

Champ l ion

Supposedly retired!

Volunteer Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Tourist Guide.

What do you love about the Hamble Valley? It’s varied scenery and rich heritage. As well as its links with strawberry growing, there was a thriving shipbuilding industry at Bursledon, in the 17C, a fishing industry at Hamble, the amazing links with national history and the Spitfire, Netley Abbey with all the stories it can tell, fantastic river views, beautiful bluebell woods...shall I go on?

Where is your favourite place to visit? This is a tough one, there are

ace

a beautiful breathing sp

Opening times: Netley Abbey is open daily for visitors between Easter and October and weekends out of season. Telephone English Heritage: 023 9237 8291

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so many gems to talk about, but I’m going to go for Eastleigh itself – often overlooked and under rated. I love just wandering around the streets of wonderful Victorian terraces; try looking above the shop fronts and a whole new view of the town emerges – it’s fantastic. I think Eastleigh should be seen as a small Victorian version of Bath! It was built within a very short length of time when the railway moved down from Nine Elms and for that reason it is a perfect example of a small Victorian townscape.

The Hamble Valley is known as the 'Strawberry Coast' because of the strawberry-growing heritage, so thinking about strawberries, How do you like to eat yours? Being a traditionalist it has to be with cream.

Walk this way Hamble Rail Trail Official Map Experience the beautiful A pleasant and relatively easy walk To get the best out of scenery of the Hamble linking Hamble Common with Royal a walk in the Hamble Valley on one of its many Victoria Country Park using part of Valley, pick up a copy of walks and trails. Below the Solent Way and overlapping with the Hamble Valley Official Map which identifies the are some of the walks on the Strawberry Trail. The trail which runs adjacent to a disused railway five different walks as well offer and to start you on track that was once used to transport as highlight the other main your rambles the Hamble aircraft from Manchester to Hamble paths with other useful Valley Rail Trail is detailed provides a circular route which information en-route. See passes through woodland, open www.hamblevalley.com for a list of overleaf - printed on the parkland and countryside. The walk is outlets and how to order. centre-fold for you to pull approximately 4.5 miles and should out and use. take around 2 hours with the starting Strawberry Trail

point in Royal Victoria Country Park by the Cedar Team Rooms.

The long- distance circular route is a popular trail which leads you through some of the highlights of the Hamble Valley including the historic villages of Botley, Bursledon, Hamble and Netley, through country parks and along much of the River Hamble shoreline. Starting in Botley, the distance to Netley is approximately 8 miles with the total circular trail being around 15 miles taking a suggested 8 hours to complete.

There are plenty of refreshment stops along the way and the trail can be picked up at any point – just look for the strawberry way-markers!

To purchase your copy of the Hamble Valley Official Map go to

Cobbett Trail

Travel in the footsteps of Botley’s most famous and radical resident on the Cobbett Trail. Starting at the Market Hall in the centre of Botley, the heritage-based trail provides fascinating insight to the lives and times of Botley residents as well as the historic buildings. Explore the village and surrounding countryside on this delightful 4.5 mile trail which starts at the Market Hall

Solent Way

The 60 mile long-distance coastal walking route from the seaside town of Milford-on-Sea to Emsworth Harbour, passes through the Hamble Valley. The walk is divided into sections and makes Hamble Village the perfect place to stay and rest for a night before heading on. Details of the full walk or sections including Hythe to Hamble and Hamble to Hill Head can be found online at www.hamblevalley.com

www.mapstop.co.uk

Audio Tours

Hampshire & Wight Trust for Maritime Archaeology volunteer, Richard Wyatt has produced an excellent series of short audio guides/podcasts to be enjoyed as you walk along the River Hamble. The files can be freely downloaded and listened to on an MP3 player. Richard's commentary, with occasional snippets from HWTMA staff, provides fascinating insights into the history of the area and tells the story behind some of the vessels that have been abandoned on the River Hamble's foreshore.

For more information on this walk and others and to download, visit www.hwtma.org.uk/bursledon

Guided Walks

Why not combine a walk with some fascinating history and join a Hamble Valley Heritage Guide on a seasonal guided walk through the parishes and villages of the Hamble Valley. The popular walks provide an insight into the history of the area with famous associations, the impact of local industry and local peculiarities, stories and legends.

A full programme of walks can be requested – see advert on page 16.

Walkers The River Hamble 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Hamble Rail Trail This is a pleasant, relatively easy 7.2km (4.5m) walk linking Hamble Common with Royal Victoria Country Park and ties in with a section of the long distance Solent Way to provide a circular route.

The trail overlaps the long distance Strawberry Trail in places, and passes through open parkland and countryside, woodland, coastal heath and alongside pebble beach.

Allow two hours, plus time for any desired stops.

Sponsored by CooperVision: CooperVision believes in promoting wellness to our employees and their families. Our vision is Healthy employees, healthy families, Healthy business…H3.

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T

he Hamble Rail Trail runs adjacent to a disused railway track which was built towards the end of WWI to transport aircraft from Manchester to Hamble. A siding was also constructed to serve the famous flying boat factory in Hamble. The war ended before the line could be put into use, and it was purchased for the storage and transportation of oil. The line was last used in 1986 to bring crude oil from Wytch Farm in Dorset, and a 56 mile pipeline now does the job. BP still maintains the option for possible future use of the railway. Today the trail links Royal Victoria Country Park with Hamble Common then ties in with a section of the Solent Way to provide a circular trail.

A good place to start this walk is at Royal Victoria Country Park on the edge of Netley village. If you come by car, it is easy to park within the park – head for the nearest car park to the Empire Tea Room, also close to the Royal Victoria Miniature Railway which is located where the hospital station once stood. Do remember to buy a parking ticket. If you are travelling by public transport, Netley railway station, on the Southampton – Portsmouth line is only 10 minutes walk from Royal Victoria Country Park (there is a cut through, signed footpath), or catch the bus to Netley village. You can also take the foot passenger ferry from Warsash across Hamble River to Hamble, and begin your walk from Hamble Village.

Covering more than 200 acres of open parkland, coastline and mature woods, Royal Victoria Country Park holds the moving story of Britain’s first purpose built hospital, demolished after little more than 100 year’s service to wounded and sick soldiers. The walk starts and ends here, and it is worth spending some time within the park too, if you can, to enjoy the scenery and absorb the fascinating heritage of this site.

S

tart your walk from The Cedar Tearooms within Royal Victoria Country Park. This building was presented to Royal Victoria Hospital by the British Timber Trades Federation which donated wood from 100 rare tree species from all over the British Empire, hence its name. Opened in 1940, it was used by the YMCA to provide entertainment for patients and staff. Take the road to the right of the Empire Room, and behind the toilet block, for 100yds.

Continue along a narrower grass path on the other side of the road when you reach the road junction. This was the cutting along which the railway line ran from Netley Station to the hospital.

Cross the road which enters the Hampshire Police Training College and enter the orchard. This orchard was established by the Itchen Hamble Countryside Project in 1995 and contains around 90 trees of mainly old English cider and eating apple varieties, plus some pear and plum varieties, and including delightful names such as Howgate Wonder, Bess Pool and Bloody Ploughman!

Follow the path through the orchard and turn right alongside the mainline Portsmouth – Southampton railway line.

Further on you can see where the old disused line could link into the main line if it were needed. A narrow path tapers off left which goes to Hamble railway station, approximately 200m away. However, continue along the main path, where you can see the overgrown disused railway line to your left. Cross a footbridge over the pond (which may well be dried up in summer). Over to your left, across the railway line, you should be able to see an old pillbox – a brick building about the size of a large shed – which was a defensive position during WWII. This has been converted to a bat roost to help ensure the survival of both bats and the pillbox!

Pond

Military Cemetery

Hamble Primary School

Bench Kissing Gate

Mount Pleasant Recreation Ground

Sailing Club

Hamblecliff House

Playing Field

E

Netley Chapel Museum & Heritage Centre

Kissing Gate

Pelican Crossing

Hamble Court Business Park

Hamble Airfield (disused)

Bench

Works

Recreation Ground

Kissing Gate

C

Ha m bl e

HAMB L

Victoria House Police Training College

RIVE R

Barbecue Site

ne

Royal Victoria Country Park

Sports Ground

Hamble La

Cedar Tearooms & WC

Hamble Station

Orchard

Satchell Lane

Kissing Gate

Spitfire Way

La

ross the road to from the mud. r nD the entrance of Along the right you ne rto a B Bench Victoria House, the pass reed beds and WW2 Gun Battery Hampshire Police Training Westfield Common.

High Str R College. This was originally the Take the narrow Bench ou eet t Ensign Way Westfield mental asylum for Royal Victoria Hamblegrass path alongside Business Park Quay Common Hospital, where it is believed that at the beach passing Ha Kissing Gate W Hamble-le-Rice m ay least 15,000 servicemen were treated blepillbox defensive a FP e -W La an ar for shell shock during WWI. In the 1960’s position on your left, n d sa e St Bench sh WORKS ra Fe to be called w it also became the main Navy psychiatric believed be rry rr y Hamble hospital and the training centre for RMN such because of their Tr Copse a il Pond and Bench psychiatric nurses from the Army, Navy and similarity in shape Totem Sculpture maritime RAF, before finally closing in 1978. Pass to medicinal pill village with Hamble Primary School on your right and boxes. Continue superb views Hamble you come out onto Hamble Lane. For your along here Bench over Hamble River Common own safety, as this can be a very busy road, before joining from the Quay at the please use the pelican crossing 200m south the tarmac bottom of the High Street. to access the trail route opposite this exit. path past Otherwise, turn left and find Rejoin the trail path. The disused railway Hamble Cliff WW2 anti-aircraft gun a safe place to cross Hamble line is now on your right. On your left is apartments on Hamble Point Lane to continue down Copse Marina Hamble Airfield, where during the 1920s your left, and Lane. Opposite Copse Lane and 30s Hamble Aeroplane Club flourished

the restored Surgery turn right onto the footpath into with members including RJ Mitchell, building, Hamble Copse, which passes through who designed the Spitfire, Amy Johnson, Hamble Cliff woodland. Here you will pass a Totem Pole one of the foremost female aviators and Stables, on your right. Walk past the sculpture, close to a pond. This was carved Bert Hinkler, the first pilot to fly solo to boat pound on your left. The path opens

by Russell Franklyn, of Winchester School Australia. Today it is home to abundant out to a panoramic view of Royal Victoria of Art. Continue along the path to Hamble wildlife, including barn owls, kestrels, Country Park with Netley Chapel ahead Common, following waymarks to Hamble goldfinches, stonechats and skylarks. and Royal Victoria Railway to your right.

Point. Much of Hamble Common is a site Along the way you will pass a wooden The Chapel contains a heritage exhibition of special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and seat designed by artist Alison Crowther as of the hospital’s history from Florence has a wealth of history with evidence of life part of the Millennium sculpture project.

Nightingale to today, and is worth a visit dating back to the Iron Age. In 1543 Henry The trail then opens out onto housing and if open. At the edge of the path is an VIII had St Andrews Castle built here, one roads, with Hamble Parish Pavilion and information board which highlights the of several sited along the Solent to defend Spitfire Way on your left. Head right and points of interest within the park, including, against possible French invasion. Today, all cross over the railway lines embedded off to the right, the peaceful military that remains are a few foundation stones at in the road to follow the pedestrian path cemetery which contains 3500 graves of low tide. Upon reaching the pebble beach below which a pipeline transports products military and also wives and staff of the to your left is Hamble Point Marina, and from the Esso refinery at Fawley (which is hospital. Royal Victoria Country Park also just before this is an anti aircraft Bofors located on the other side of Southampton hosts a host of seasonal events throughout gun, which was positioned to protect Water). Along the left of this path, meadow the year.

Southampton and the nearby oil terminals planting is a blaze of colour in summer, during WWII. attracting butterflies and insects. ollow the beach to the right, joining urn left onto Hamble Lane where the the Solent Way. At high tide, you disused railway terminates. This is can take the footpath raised on a good opportunity to stop and buy concrete which runs above the beach. At refreshments if you carry on down Hamble low tide, you may see wading birds such Lane (0.5km/0.3m) to Hamble village, as oystercatchers, turnstones and ringed which is packed with pubs, tea rooms and plovers, feeding on shellfish and worms restaurants. Hamble is a delightful old e

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Hidden Gems How the Olympic Jubilee year is unlocking a treasure-trove of heritage

Strolling thorough the villages and towns of the Hamble Valley you are guaranteed to encounter a host of churches. Some are ancient, others quite new; some are set in a quiet spots, others on busy streets.

Whatever their setting though, these beautiful buildings have much to offer. For starters, a church will almost certainly offer a tranquil spot to rest tired legs, but venturing inside, you may find fantastic architecture, artistic masterpieces, and experience a sense of the history of the place.

A closed church door can feel like a barrier to going inside in case you might interrupt some event but these buildings welcome all who want to visit, so be bold! Try the door and come on in!

Along with the pub the church is usually the oldest building in the village and most have seen a lot of life

go by. The Valley churches in particular have lived through “interesting times”, and St Andrew’s, Hamble, makes a great starting point for our visit. The church stands on land given by the Bishop of Winchester to Benedictine monks from the Abbey of Tiron in France in 1109, at around the same time as the very first crusades to the holy land were beginning.

The building was then badly damaged and plundered in 1377 as the French raided Southampton, and laid siege to Carrisbrooke Castle on the Isle of Wight. Despite all of this destruction, what you see today inside the church dates all the way back to the building’s 12th century foundation, so to set foot inside is to step back nearly a millennium. On your way in, look out for some unusual headstones in the churchyard.

At Hamble’s heart lies the river which shares its name. As early as the 13th century Hamble was a significant maritime centre, and the boat–building industry thrives today. In 1418 the Grace Dieu (see an impression of the ship at: bit.ly/gracedieu was, at 68 metres, the largest ship of the time, and master ship builder William Soper of Southampton brought her to Hamble for fitting. But the flagship of King Henry V’s fleet only made

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one voyage which was cut short by a mutiny, before lightning struck her while she lay at dock in Hamble, starting a fire that sunk her. The wreck location can be seen today, shown by a yellow marker.

Three miles up the B3397 from Hamble lies Bursledon, another village supported by boat building.

Here you will find our next two churches.

Firstly, St Paul’s, a modern building which provides a range of service to the community, and close to this, St Leonard’s, built as a chapel by the Benedictine monks from Hamble at some time around the middle of the 12th century. St Leonard’s remained unchanged to any great extent until a Victorian overhaul and extension in 1849. Shipbuilding was very important to Bursldeon and it is believed that two 80-gun ships were built in the time of William IV. In the church is a monument to master shipbuilder Philemon Ewer, the owner of a private yard, who constructed five warships including the 60-gun HMS Anson (1747), named in honour of Admiral George Anson who had

In 2012, preparations are well afoot for both the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in June, and the Olympic and Paralympic Games in July/August. At such times of national celebration, the church can become a focal point for the community as the venue for celebratory services and social events.

Look up your local church to find out what events are planned

The Big Jubilee Lunch 3rd JUNE

www.thebiglunch.com/joinin/jubilee-2012.php

for more info!

circumnavigated the globe three years previously. Next to the monument, visitors can also find a scale model of one of Ewer’s ships.

A short drive from St Leonard’s and you find the enchanting Early English church of Hound, St Mary. This tiny church was built at some point between 1190 and 1250 and many of its original features survive. St Mary’s is generally kept shut apart from during monthly church services, but appointments to visit can be made by contacting Jane Bangs on 02380 452252.

Follow the road from Hound towards Southampton to find our next church, which backs on to the grounds of Netley Abbey, the most complete

Cistercian monastery in Southern England. In honour of the much older religious site behind it, this Victorian church is dedicated to St Edward the Confessor and built to an 1886 design by the Architect, JD Sedding.

St Edward’s is a handsome example of Victorian architecture, with a number of items linking it to the older site next door. These include a marble effigy of a knight in mail with a shield and sword, probably from the 13th century, and a 15th century stone slab engraved with the figure of a Cistercian monk in his habit. A ring of eight bells can be heard every week calling people to the church for services.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee is being celebrated with a special 4-day bank holiday from Saturday 2 to Tuesday 5 June. At the heart of the celebrations ‘The Big Jubilee Lunch’ will take place on Sunday 3 June 2012. Churches in the Hamble Valley area and across the whole nation are also being encouraged to help host ‘street parties’ in the churchyard or road outside the church in celebration of this landmark date for the Queen who is, of course, the Head of the Church of England.

At these events, participants will also have a chance to sign the “Big thank-you letter,” which will then bring together signatures from across the entire country to be presented to the Queen after the celebrations have taken place.

Between the opening ceremony on July 27 and the closing of the Paralympic games on 9 September, 2012 will witness a “once-in-a-lifetime” event for most, as the eyes of the word turn to Great Britain for the 30th staging of the modern Olympic Games.

During the running of the Olympics and Paralympics churches are being encouraged to get creative, and think of ideas for events which will enhance community enjoyment of the games.

To find out what is happening in your area or across the UK and when the churches are open go to www.achurchnearyou.com and check the local church’s website for details of events.

If you haven’t visited a church for a while, why not make 2012 the year you re-discover the beauty and peace beyond the front door?

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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? o d e w n a c t a h W

ily, lley for all the fam Va le b am H e th in of see and do cobwebs at one e There is plenty to th ay aw g in w lo covering to b from days out dis parks. the many country Go crabbing - its great fun!

A Quest for Heritage ! egin at Eastleigh Museum on a B Saturday morning and learn about the Railway town. Stop for refreshments and browse the gift shop. ully refreshed visit West End Museum F and discover more local history with interesting displays on genealogy, property and some famous names including the links with the Titanic and the story of Captain Rostron and the Carpathia. isit the great Chapel Hall at Royal V Victoria Country Park and learn about life as a soldier at Netley, discover Royal Victoria’s influence on modern medicine, and find out what Florence Nightingale thought of Britain’s largest military hospital. ake a Sunday to visit Bursledon T Windmill and then on to one of Bursledon Brickworks family Open Days for a day of heritage fun before heading to the Jolly Sailor on the River Hamble for a bite to eat.

Running wild With so much open space there is plenty of room for fun and games. n a blustery spring day, head to Royal O Victoria Country Park and fly a kite at with the wind off Southampton Water. lay Hide and Seek around the ruins of P Netley Abbey – remember to pack that picnic! isit Swanwick Lakes or Itchen Valley V Country Park during the Easter and halfterm holidays and join in the hunts and trails around the country park. uring those April showers, there is D still fun to be had. Put on your wellies and waterproofs and head Manor Farm Country Park for puddle jumping – Remember to check the depth of the puddle with a stick first! njoy a walk through the Hamble Valley E on one of the many walks (see page 19)

ccept a mission or embark on a A treasure hunt with Treasure Trails Hampshire who offer fun family treasure trails around the villages of Hamble and Eastleigh. Visit www.treasuretrails.co.uk/ hampshire for details.

Creative fun nappy Happy! Get the children into S photography by arranging flowers, twigs, leaves or visit the same location throughout the year to capture the seasons, spotting the changes. ollect memoirs from days out in the C Hamble Valley and create a scrapbook – Visit Bella Crafts in Fair Oak for all your scrapbooking material. ake pen, paper and some paints to T Hamble Quay to paint the yachts on the River, stopping in at the Blue Star kiosk for refreshments. Don’t forget to tidy up once the little artists have finished!

Food for thought sticky finger treats Visit Pickwell For Farm for delicious Pick Your Own strawberries, raspberries and gooseberries… remember the wet wipes for sticky fingers!

Take the children crabbing on Hamble Quay for a great afternoon and see how many crabs you can catch compared to everyone else! Bring some bait, crabbing lines and a bucket

Action & activity

Whilst not free, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activity centres and attractions that provide hours of fun for young (and old) providing great value for money.

Monkey Bizness in the Swan Centre, Eastleigh provides exciting and challenging adventure play equipment for creativity and play.

Marwell Activity Centre offers indoor and outdoor fun with a range of adventure activities for children from archery, paintballing to climbing and clay pigeon shooting.

Ape Itchen Valley is a thrilling high Go wire, tree top adventure for anyone over the age of 10 years old.

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Get arty!

Fly kites in the fresh air

Fork & Cork Good food and drink is always on the menu in the Hamble Valley, and you will never be far from a pub, tea room or restaurant.

Local produce features prominently in the Hamble Valley with a rich heritage from strawberries in Botley, to cherries in Chandlers Ford and oysters from the River Hamble.

It is no wonder that the area is one of the best for sampling gastronomic delights from local producers.

The Hamble Valley has a wealth of public houses and restaurants across the towns and villages. In Botley there were once 14 public houses due to the tidal river preventing travellers to cross and thus having to wait until the right conditions for them to be on their way. Today there are only 3 remaining which include The Bugle Inn on the High Street, set in a grade II listed building serving delicious homemade food. Hamble has a selection of traditional pubs off the cobbled High Street and waterside establishments at the three marinas. Enjoy the very best in traditional cuisine whilst watching the yachts go by at Banana Wharf at Port Hamble Marina or sample quality food and drink in the historic waterside pub, The Bugle which has been awarded a Hampshire Hospitality Award, for its alfresco dining and superb views of the river and village. The Olde Whtye Hart is the oldest pub in Hamble (circa 1563) and offers a traditional bar menu with daily specials including fresh fish and speciality steaks and for

modern European cuisine visit the River Rat Cellar and Kitchen who host a number of events and special menus throughout the year.

delicious fine dining experience or hearty lunch, there is a wide variety of superb seasonal dishes made from locallysourced produce.

In Hamble the Water’s Edge is set on the River Hamble with attractive views to enjoy a meal and drink, the large bar and conservatory, plus an outside terrace and large patio area there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy the view and soak up the atmosphere. The Jolly Farmer Country Inn in Warsash offers a delicious menu every lunchtime and evening. Among the choices are succulent steaks, locally caught seafood dishes and a daily specials board.

Housed in a beautifully renovated Victorian school house, The Concorde Club boasts a fine-dining restaurant, The Moldy Fig wine bar serves mouth-watering menus and is also home to regular supper and dinner clubs, plus a distinguished wine society.

Eastleigh offers a gastronomic explosion of flavours. Unwind in the relaxing atmosphere of Artisan Coffee and Wine Bar, offering authentic Turkish cuisine. La Fenice offers the finest Italian cuisine with freshly caught fish being their speciality. The Swan Centre complex offers a number of restaurants with a variety of tastes and flavours, from Italian Prezzo to New York Italian Frankie and Benny’s, the legendary Portuguese Nando’s, The Harvester and The Break Bar which offers serves mouthwatering traditional British food.

For a relaxing meal in a unique and elegant setting, discover The Point’s Cafe Bar and restaurant; whether it’s simply a glass of wine after work or a

Locally sourced

There are plenty of farm shops and delicatessens where local produce will whet your appetite such as Bonne Bouche in Hamble who as a member of Hampshire Fare stock a wide variety of local produce. Garson’s Farm Shop in Titchfield has a selection of over 80 cheeses amongst other award winning produce with free samples available most weekends. The Hampshire Delicatessen in Wickham is renowned for its range of fine Hampshire produce and rest of Britain.

Children will love getting their hands dirty at Pickwell Farm where pick your own is available for fruit and vegetables – including strawberries! Or visit Bursledon Windmill, Hampshire’s only working windmill where traditional stone ground flour is milled from locally sourced wheat. See the mill in action before purchasing a bag of flour.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Tea for Two

The Hampshire Food Festival July 1st -31st July is jam-packed with around 100 delicious foodie events held at dozens of venues across the county, in celebration of the fantastic variety of food and drink grown, reared and produced in Hampshire!

The free Hampshire Food Festival programme is available from May. Find out more at www.hampshirefare.co.uk, where you can also sign up to receive the latest Festival news, as well as competitions, offers and events all year round.

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You are never far from a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake; whether out on a family walk, a spot of boutique shopping or simply to indulge in something sweet, there are plenty of tearooms, coffee shops and cafes across the Hamble Valley. The Woodland Cafe in Itchen Valley Country Park, The Cedar Tearooms in Royal Victoria Country Park and The Pantry in Manor Farm Country Park all serve delicious local refreshments. In Wickham, enjoy a cream tea at Chesapeake Mill with the soothing sound of running water or delicious lunches and high teas at Lilly’s Tea and Coffee House situated in the Square.

French themed cafe Delicieux in Botley Square offers specialist teas and coffee as well as traditional English and French meals.

The grape escape

It isn’t all about food in the Hamble Valley, there are plenty of producers of fine wines and ales.

Award winning Wickham Vineyard is a unique attraction where you can discover the pleasures of fine English wine. Take the highly acclaimed audio tour around the vineyard, explore the beautiful nature reserve and enjoy a free tasting before visiting the shop to purchase fine wines and other local produce. Northbrook Springs Vineyard near Bishops Waltham is also an award winning English vineyard with shop and wine tasting open at weekends.

David Pate reck

Loca

Champ l ion

Name: David Patereck Occupation: Head Chef at Banana Wharf, Hamble

What do you love about the Hamble Valley? The wonderful views of the River Hamble and all the boats - I can spend hours watching the world sail by.

Where is your favourite place? Sitting on the decking

n Tex Mex Fajitas
Ingredients per perso

* 6 oz of chicken breast or beef fillet

* 1 onion and 1 of each bell pepper (yellow, green, and orange)

* Tortilla wraps (4/6) * 2/3 teaspo ons of spice mix Fajita seasoning * 50/80 gms of grated cheddar.

Metho d

of Banana Wharf with a glass of wine in hand after a busy shift.

The Hamble Valley is known as the 'Strawberry Coast' because of the strawberrygrowing heritage, so thinking about strawberries, how do you like to eat yours? With a glass of Champagne

1. Slice the meat into strips and slice half of all bell peppers and half the onion into strips. Oil and heat the pan/wok, and fry meat until starting to brown.

2. Add the sliced peppers and onion and cook lightly so the veg still have some crunch. Add the fajita seasoning to taste and cook for a further 30 seconds so the seasoning sticks and brown the ingredients.

3. Serve on a heated skillet with Lime wedges, a garnish and wraps.

4. To make Guacamole you will need a ripe avocado, lemon, soured cream and sweet chilli sauce. Firstly, peel the avocado and remove the pip, mash the avocado and add a teaspoon of soured cream and sweet chilli sauce. Squeeze lemon wedges and season with salt & pepper. Mix and refrigerate. To make the Soured Cream - Whip until almost firm, squeeze lemon to Tex Mex Fajitas at Banana Wharf taste and mix again. For the Tomato Salsa - Dice remaining peppers and onion, add half a tin of chopped tomatoes, season with salt & pepper and squeeze a lemon.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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dr ink , eat... r elax & mee t

Hamble’s Finest Restaurant & Bar Our food is primarily locally sourced and always freshly prepared, to create a frequently changing menu.

If you enjoy our extensive wine list, why not buy a bottle - or a case or two! - from our retail wine store.

Have a quiet meal or bring a party and enjoy our relaxing interior or our south-facing, private terraced garden.

River Rat Chef

www.riverrathamble.co.uk

Starter:

real ales •fine dining •fresh coffee •riverside gardens •free wi-fi •just off J5 M27 •free parking

Open 7 days. Please see website for exact opening times: STONEHAM LANE, EASTLEIGH, SO50 9HQ 023 8061 3989 www.theconcordeclub.com www.riverrathamble.co.uk

concorde club

Call or email us for a reservation, or simply walk in and try our modern European cuisine.

We look forward to welcoming you! call 023 8045 7801 or email: info@riverrathamble.co.uk High Street, Hamble, SO31 4HA

dr ink , eat, r elax & mee t

The Waters Edge Bar & Restaurant

Open ALL day EVERY day!

We offer: Restaurant Menu Lite Bite Bar Menu Lunch Time £5 Meal (out) Lunch Time Menu (in) Sunday Lunch/Dinner Also: Breakfast Menu. real ales • fine dining • fresh coffee • riverside gardens complimentary wi-fi •just off J5 M27 •free parking

concorde club Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh, SO50 9HQ 023 8061 3989 www.theconcord eclub.com 28

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Chefs Favourites llar From the River Rat Ce & Kitchen

Afternoon Teas Wedding/Party & Conferences

Check our website for more details: www.watersedge.co.uk

Tel: 02380 457220 Email: Info@watersedge.co.uk

Mercury Yacht Harbour, Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire SO31 4HQ

Chilli, Roasted • Seared Scallops with Salad b Her & d See Sesame ue Bisq ster Lob ssic • Cla Mains:

Cod & Parsley • Grilled Scottish Salted r & Bacon Cream Mash with a Bee Sauce ey Roast • Confit of Duck with Hon bage & Cab Red ised Bra Potatoes, Port Sauce Pak Choi with a Plum &

Sport and Recreation

Play golf?. Why not brush up on your swing on the 30-bay driving range at Chandlers Ford Golf Academy, or book a course of with lessons.

Choose from courses at The Rose Bowl in West End (9 hole pay and play) Macdonald Botley Park Hotel on the edge of Botley (18 hole green) or Fairthorne Manor Golf Club which offers a short course.

Beginners especially will benefit here from the fact that no hole exceeds 300 yards in length.

If you fancy canoeing, windsurfing and dinghy sailing, Lakeside Country Park, with 60 acres of meadow and lakes and young woodland, is ideal for beginners.

The on site pavilion provides groups with showers and changing rooms, kitchen and a small lecture room. The lakes also offer good coarse angling for which a day permit is required.

There are a number of Leisure Centres in the Hamble Valley and facilities offering swimming and a vast range of other sport and fitness opportunities.

Fleming Park Leisure Centre in Eastleigh provides indoor and outdoor tennis, football, badminton, squash, indoor swimming, exercise classes and a fully refurbished Kinetika gym. Hamble Sports Complex offers a newly refurbished 20 metre swimming pool along with a range of fitness classes and courses and an astro turf pitch suitable for hockey and football. The Hub in Bishopstoke is a sports hall and pavilion for local sports groups including Eastleigh Rugby Football Club.

A host of sporting activities for people with special needs is offered by Queen Elizabeth II Centre in Manor Farm Country Park. The Centre caters for people of all ages with learning disabilities, autism, physical disabilities and other specific needs and offers holiday weeks for families.

Club is a first class international cricket ground, and a premier entertainment and leisure venue.

There are plenty of thrill seeking and adrenaline pumping activities on offer throughout the area. Marwell Activity Centre comprises of 65 acres with ponds, streams, playfields and woodland making it perfect for a range of adventure activities for young and old all year round. Activities include: archery, high ropes, zip wires, assault courses, dune buggies, paintballing and much more.

Go Ape at Itchen Valley Country Park offers a high-wire forest adventure for all who are brave enough to complete the giant obstacle course set high in the trees. Climb ladders, cross bridges and walkways and tunnels before swing through the forest canopy on a zip wire.

The Hamble Valley has plenty of walking trails which provide a great form of exercise see page 19.

The stunning 150 acre Rose Bowl, home to Hampshire County Cricket

Where to play...

For a full list of play and youth areas visit www.eastleigh.gov.uk The Hamble Valley has plenty of parks and open spaces which make perfect places for afternoon games and encouraging children to be active. Why not pack a picnic, football or bat and ball and create your very own family sports day with games of rounders or cricket. On a hot sunny day, visit the big outdoor paddling pool either in Fleming Park, Eastleigh or St Johns Road Recreation Ground in Hedge End.

image courtesy of Southampton City Council sports department 2011.

The Hamble Valley provides a fantastic opportunity for watching or taking part in sport and recreational pursuits.

Whether you prefer sailing on the Solent, watersport, fishing, golf, cricket, cycling, horse-riding or taking a breath of fresh air on a walk in the countryside, the choice is endless whatever your availability and fitness level, and there is a host of facilities on offer.

There are five skate parks across the Hamble Valley which are designed to provide sport activity for young people, offering a stimulating challenge to those children and young people who are too old for existing play areas. Freespace in Eastleigh is a BMX track consisting of jumps, bumps and berms (banked corners!) and is open to all ages.

There are plenty of children’s and youth play areas, all of which are of

Country Park Itchen valley

a high standard providing traditional equipment, swings, slides, climbing frames, skate areas, basketball and BMX facilities. Below are some of the larger parks worth a visit: • Fleming Park, Eastleigh, SO50 9NF • Leigh Road Recreation Park, Eastleigh, SO50 9AL • Hiltingbury Recreation Ground, SO53 5NJ • Pilands Wood, Bursledon, SO31 8FY. 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Shopping There are plenty opportunities to indulge in some shopping within the Hamble Valley.

Hamble village and marinas offer plenty of opportunity to browse chandleries and marine-based shops including the Maritime Art Gallery on Hamble Quay.

Bishop’s Waltham has a range of individual shops and boutiques in a traditional High Street - from home and giftware to art, crafts and florists, fashion and the Bishops Waltham Country Market.

In Botley there’s a similar wide range of boutique and individual shops ranging from fashion (including couture wedding gowns), traditional toys, country pursuits and health and beauty salons. The old Flour Mills host a variety of shops and outlets.

In Wickham, the market square offers an olde worlde experience with traditional shops such as ironmongers, award-winning butchers, homeware and gift boutiques as well as a range of eateries and quaint tea rooms.

Eastleigh Town Centre offers High Street shopping and a relaxed shopping experience in the recently extended Swan Centre which boasts a variety more than 40 papular brand retailers.

The flagship Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury’s at Hedge End offer a first-class superstore experience, and the retail park nearby is home to big names in furniture, fast food, DIY and home entertainment.

Fareham town centre retains its traditional market town and historic architectural appeal in a modern shopping environment. In West Street, you'll find probably the best traditional open-air market in the region (up to 50 stalls every Monday throughout the year) and. a Farmers’ Markets (on the first and last Saturday of the month) where up to 40 local farmers sell their freshly grown produce.

For that special individual purchase, just wander along to the West Street Speciality Shopping area where you’ll find a whole range of local independent shops.

The bright and airy undercover Fareham Shopping Centre offers more than 90 high street names seven days a week, and The Market Quay Shopping Centre and offers mixed retail and leisure across 17 units, including a 5-screen cinema.

Market Days Eastleigh: Thursday & Saturday Fareham: Monday Hamble: Every Friday morning 10am – 11am in the Memorial Hall.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Superstore Shopping at Hedge End

&

A visit to the largest Marks & Spencer and Sainsbury’s combined store is a must.

The recently extended stores now offer a unique shopping experience.

Here you can shop until your heart’s content, where the range of goods rivals the London stores.

It’s so easy to get to, situated in Hedge End at Junction 7 of the M27.

There is plenty of free parking as well as free regular bus routes and a taxi rank on our doorstep.

The children will love the play area at the rear, and the restaurant and cafés offer a good choice of refreshments.

Late opening every day allows you to shop when it suits you.

Tollbar Way • Hedge End • Southampton 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Discover the delightful maritime village of Hamble-le-Rice which is renowned as the south coast's yachting Mecca.

Visitors can take in superb views of the river and its marinas from the Quay at the bottom of the quaint cobbled High Street and enjoy traditional and boutique shopping.

There are numerous pubs and restaurants in the village and in each of the three marinas. From traditional homemade dishes, modern European cuisine to morning coffee with riverside views, Hamble provides a taste and flavour for all its visitors.

Outside the village, Hamble Point is a great place for a young family with something of interest for kids of all ages.

The anti-aircraft Bofors gun is a real feature too - it was positioned there to protect Southampton and the nearby oil terminals during Second World War. Hamble Common provides a great opportunity to enjoy local wildlife. Visitors can walk through and enjoy its 55 acres of heathland, woodland and salt marshes, and see the remains of Iron Age settlements.

Commemorative plaques record Hamble's contribution to the D-Day landings during the Second World War, which saw the river as busy as it had been in 1346 during the Hundred Years War. Hamble hosts a number of events throughout the year including the family-fun Hamble Week at the end of June.

www.hamble.net www.hambleweek.co.uk

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Hamble

BOTLEY

A delightful place There is plenty to keep the family busy in this popular village with its charming local shops and self-guided walks, including the celebrated Cobbett Trail which follows in the footsteps of Botley’s most famous resident.

This and other points of local interest are described in the new Botley visitor leaflet and information boards located at car parks and Botley Mills.

Manor Farm Country Park is easily accessible from Botley along the peaceful country lanes. Children will enjoy a visit to the Victorian working farm or discovering the 400 acres of countryside which reaches down to the banks of the river.

Botley Mills

Botley is also the start of the popular long distance walk, The Strawberry Trail. During summer months The Village Horse Bus offers carriage rides around The village and Manor Farm Country Park.

More information can be found in the Botley leaflet, call 01489 787181 to request a copy or call into the new information centre at All Saints Church on the High Street.

Botley

www.botley.com

Many of the buildings in the old market square are much older than their frontages suggest. The distinctive Market Hall, which features in Botley’s logo, has been home to a market from the 18th century until recently. Imagine the square filled with up to 14 public houses and ale houses open in Botley in the 18th Century!

There was probably a hard or quay at Botley in the medieval period and it was a significant river port during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Botley Mills are mentioned in the Domesday Book. Although milling has not taken place in these handsome buildings for several years, the site is now home to a number of unique shops.

Read more in ‘Botley and Curdridge, a History of two Hampshire Villages’ available from the Penny Farthing Gallery.

Village

Botley will be celebrating the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Celebrations with a series of events: •

Saturday 2nd June 2012 An evening of dance with a 1950's Theme Dance taking place in The Market Hall

•

Sunday 3rd June 2012 Botley square will be closed to traffic from 9am to 6pm to make way for a wonderful Street Party with music, dancing and other attractions.

•

Monday 4th June 2012 Six a side Knock Out Cricket Competition which will be played at the Recreation Ground.

For more information and tickets visit www.botley.com or contact the Parish Clerk on 01489 787181 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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A charming town called

Wickham

The unusual medieval square, Georgian houses, intriguing shops and good eateries are surrounded by the attractive countryside of the Meon Valley. Here you can stroll through the water meadows to visit the nearby Bere Forest and the Old Meon Railway.

There has been a mill on the site of a Roman ford across the River Meon in Wickham since the 16th century. The historical significance of this fine building arises from the source of the timbers used in its construction. These came from the US frigate Chesapeake, captured by the Royal Navy during the war of 1812.

The mill ceased commercial operation in 1976 and today the building offers a unique shopping experience. Be sure to stop for tea and cake in the tea room and learn more about the history from the mini exhibition.

Wickham dates back to at least Roman times and has a rich history. It was home to the great Bishop William of Wykeham, the founder of Winchester College and New College, Oxford.

Wickham square has intriguing shops and attractive Georgian houses. The nearby meadows offer endless walking opportunities with picnic and barbecue facilities. Wickham Vineyard at Shedfield is close by with vineyard tours and tastings, and has an excellent restaurant.

Netley lies in the parish of Hound, the name of which derives from a plant called 'Hoarhound' which grew profusely in the area.

An attractive small village, Netley edges Southampton Water and neighbours one of Hamble Valley's most popular attractions, Royal Victoria Country Park. Covering 200 acres the park is divided into woodland, parkland and foreshore with views across the water.

Discover the history of the site in the Heritage Centre and make your way to the top of the chapel tower with one of the expert Tower Guides.

(See advert on page 8 for more information) The Royal Victoria Railway is situated within the park and is a steam railway offering rides for children throughout the school holidays.

The imposing ruins of the 13th centre Netley Abbey lie at the other end of the village and make a perfect picnic spot. See page 18 for more about the history and tales associated with Netley Abbey.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Wickham Festival, 2nd - 5th August 2012 A family-friendly Music & Arts Festival in a stunningly beautiful rural setting on the outskirts of Wickham village. Lots of entertainment for all ages.

Box Office 023 8071 1818. www.wickhamfestival.co.uk

Netley

...where history meets the sea Games Area

Netley Station (1/2 mile)

Recreation Ground

Royal Victoria Country Park

St Edward the Confessor

Parish Office

Netley Abbey

(English Heritage)

Victoria Club Abbey Hall

Liby

Scout Hut The Prince Consort

Sailing Club

Recreation Ground

Southampton Water

Steeped in heritage, Bursledon was for centuries the centre in southern England for shipbuilding.

Bursledon

Henry V's flagship The Grace Dieu was brought to the River Hamble at Bursledon for safe keeping during the Hundred Years War with France, but caught fire after being hit by lightning. Her wreck (one of many in the River Hamble) can be seen at low tide from the jetty in Manor Farm Country Park.

...a rich and varied history

The centre of this historic village is a Conservation Area packed with quaint cottages and fascinating traditional grand houses.

the windmill

The Hamble Valley's heritage comes to life in Bursledon with two attractions providing interesting and fun family days out. See how Bursledon Windmill, Hampshire's only working windmill makes stone-ground flour and learn about the machinery. At Bursledon Brickworks Industrial Museum explore the brickworkings and museum and see demonstrations.

Hackett’s Marsh

Bursledon Station

The Jolly Sailor pub is one of the most spectacular pub-restaurants and located right on the water, overlooking the Hamble Estuary.

With its own jetty it is here that the views and fun of the annual Swanwick, Bursledon and Warsash Regatta can be enjoyed. Taking place at the end of August and with a different theme each year, the regatta is a great family event.

www.bursledonregatta.co.uk www.bursledon.org

Bishop's Waltham Set in glorious Hampshire countryside, Bishop's Waltham is attractive, historic and has much to offer the visitor. The town lies in the north of the Hamble Valley, and it is here that the river itself rises from various sources.

A palace was founded here in 1136

by Bishop Henri de Blois, grandson of William the Conqueror, and for centuries, Bishop’s Waltham Palace was an important residence of the powerful Winchester bishops. Here Henry V prepared for the Battle of Agincourt and Queen Mary I waited for King Philip to arrive from Spain for their wedding. Under Cromwell’s orders, the palace was destroyed in 1644, but the extensive remains can still be explored. It is now managed by English Heritage and is open all year.

With town and country walks, including a section of the medieval Pilgrims’ Trail, good pub food and excellent restaurants, Bishop’s Waltham is perfect for a day out, or as a touring base for a longer stay.

...the source of the River Hamble Bishop’s Waltham is located on the scenic country route between Winchester and Portsmouth and is close to Marwell Wildlife.

The perfect antidote to out of town shopping, Bishop’s Waltham boasts traditional and specialist shops. Here you will find craft shops and galleries, gifts and china, interior design, furnishings, ladies’ fashions, shoes and lingerie, books, wine, a renowned fishmonger, a butcher, a baker and a candle maker!

The town also boasts a Norman church, and many 17th and 18th century buildings which host a range of traditional and specialist shops. The recent restoration of Waltham Chase Mill featured in a popular BBC television.

For a week in July the grounds of the Palace come alive again for the town’s Summer Festival. www.bishopswalthamfestival.com 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Leaving the car at home It is the unique mix of countryside and coastline that makes the Hamble Valley such a beautiful destination for country lane ambles or coastal path strolls. The area includes the historic villages of Hamble-le-Rice, Botley, and Wickham together with the rural town of Bishop's Waltham and the Solent and the River Hamble itself.

by bike Take in the beautiful scenery from your bicycle and make the most of the many cycle routes throughout the area. Whatever your pace or style of cycling, there is a track to suit you and your family.

For local cycle information visit www.eastleigh.gov.uk/cycling or www.hants.gov.uk/cycling or to view the national cycle network visit www.sustrans.org.uk For cycle journey planning information for Eastleigh and Southampton visit www.transportdirect.info. The online journey planning service offers advice on the quickest, quietest or most recreational route and information can be downloaded to a GPS tracking device allowing you to follow your route whilst out on the bike.

To request a paper copy of the Waste not want not Eastleigh Borough cycle map contact Help keep the Hamble green by 023 8068 8280. recycling your waste and litter. by bus or train You’ll reduce your impact on the ecosystem and on your pocket.

Easy access to the Hamble Valley Look for recycling facilities near you. is guaranteed through the excellent Good hotels and holiday parks offer bus and train networks. Hamble, recycling facilities.

Bursledon and Netley rail stations are located on routes between the Southampton and Portsmouth line.

Wickham is located a short bus journey from Fareham station which is on the London to Portsmouth line.

For train timetable information visit www.southwesttrains.co.uk.

From the rail stations why not make use of the bus services offered by First and Stagecoach between Fareham, Gosport and Southampton that provide vital links to Hamble, Botley, Wickham and Bishop’s Waltham, for bus timetable information visit www.firstgroup.com/hampshire or www.stagecoachbus.com/south

Hamble Valley travel information The Hamble Valley is accessible to all.

Road The M3 provides easy access from London and the North. The Hamble Valley lies to the east, between Junctions 5 and 8 of the M27.

Air Southampton International Airport offers excellent UK domestic and international flights.

Southampton International Airport www.southamptonairport.com Rail Southampton (Airport) Parkway is on the mainline to London Waterloo. Hamble, Bursledon and Swanwick are on the line from Portsmouth to Southampton. Botley, Hedge End and Fareham have regular services to Gatwick airport and London Victoria.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Local bus & rail partnership www. threeriversrail.com National Rail enquiries 08457 48 49 50 www.national rail.co.uk Public Transport Enquiry Service To help plan your journey using public transport 0870 608 2608 www.traveline.org.uk Bus Services Blue Star 023 8061 8233 | www.bluestarbus.co.uk First 023 8022 4854 | www.firstgroup.com www.velvetbus.info For a FREE cycle map 023 8068 8233 www.eastleigh.gov.uk/cycling

Accommodation

7 , 4

Best Western Chilworth Manor

All the national assessing bodies (Visit Britain, Visit Scotland, Visit Wales and the AA) now assess hotels and guest accommodation to the same criteria and award one to five stars which reflect the overall quality of the experience.

When choosing your accommodation look for the Quality Rose, the official mark of the Enjoy England national tourist board rating scheme. A quality score is awarded for every aspect of the experience including the comfort, quality and cleanliness.

and one for guest accommodation. Hotels have to be licensed, offer dinner at least five nights a week and all have rooms en suite or with private bathrooms. Hotels also have to provide certain additional facilities and services at higher star level.

Places that ‘go the extra mile’ to make your stay a special one, will be awarded a high star rating and hotels and guest accommodation may achieve a Gold or Silver award.

To make a booking - Please contact the establishment direct to confirm availability and price (prices printed here are for guidance only). If you would like assistance on where to stay, contact Southampton Tourist Information Centre on 023 8083 3333.

Higher star-rated accommodation tends to have more spacious bedrooms and bathrooms and in hotels a high staff to guest ratio, so service should be very attentive.

The map at the front of this guide shows clearly that all accommodation is within a short distance of major routes, attractions For serviced accommodation, there are two and places of interest. separate schemes – one for hotels

Please tick:

Key to symbols: (AGE) Children Welcome Dogs accepted by arrangement Licensed for sale of alcoholic drinks Residents’ Lounge Major credit cards accepted Tea/Coffee making facilities TV in all bedrooms Ground floor bedrooms Parking spaces on site Non smoking establishment Restaurant/dinner provided on request Welcome Host ‘Certificate holders’ Garden for residents Four poster bed Linen provided



Showers Electric shaver points Open all year Public toilets

Types of room: Enjoy England ratings made easy: Simple, practical, no frills Well presented and well run Good level of quality and comfort Excellent standard throughout Exceptional with a degree of luxury

S Single Room; D Double Room; T Twin Room; E En-suite bath/shower room; PB Private Bathroom not en-suite; F Family Room.

Laundry facilities

Outside Water supply Microwave DVD player Local produce Internet facilities



Wireless Internet access Short stay

Facilities for the visually impared Facilities for deaf or hard of hearing 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com Disabled room facilities

37

Accommodation

SunnyDale Farm Camping and Caravan park

OpEn aLL YEar

Best Western Chilworth Manor

Situated 3 miles from Southampton City Centre.

Open all year for tents, motorhomes and caravans.

40 level fully serviced pitches (12 hardstanding).

Close to bus routes and Royal Victoria Country Park.

Modern toilets, showers & laundry room with indoor dishwashing facilities.

Telephone: 023 8045 7462 or 0788 305 8823 Sunnydale Farm, grange road, netley abbey, Southampton, SO31 8gd Email: sunnydalefarm@tiscali.co.uk Web: www.sunnydalefarm.co.uk

Set in 12 acres of landscaped grounds the Edwardian Manor House is steeped in history. There are 26 bedrooms in the Manor House and a further 69 in the Garden Wing. 11 meeting rooms.

Restaurant, Bar, Gardens and terraces.

The hotel also has a state of the art Health Club and Spa with ozone cleansed pool, sauna/steam room, well equipped gym and [comfort zone] beauty suite. Free car parking.

Easy location.

★★★ Chilworth, Southampton, SO16 7PT t: 023 8076 7333 f: 023 8070 1743 e: reservations@chilworth-manor.co.uk

For more information visit www.bw-chilworthmanor.co.uk No. of rooms: 95 See website for best available rate

Types of room: S Single Room; D Double Room; T Twin Room; E En-suite bath/shower room; PB Private Bathroom not en-suite; F Family Room.

The Spinnaker Inn

Southampton M27, Jct 7

Hotel - Bar - Restaurant On the South Coast of Hampshire near the River Hamble, we offer accommodation, On the mainbars A27, with restaurant, and a M27 J8 + J9 just minutes we are ideally situated venue for allaway, special asoccasions. a centre for visits to main attractions.

On Hamble the main A27, M27 J8 + J9 just The River,with Southampton Water minutes away, we are ideally situated as and The Solent are close, with a Marina a centre for visits to main attractions. The opposite.

Hamble River, Southampton Water and The Solent are close, with a Marina opposite.

With 23 en-suite rooms, a large car park, With 23 en-suite rooms, a large car park, restaurant, bars and function facilities restaurant, bars and function facilities you you can confident that visitors may be be confident that visitors can becan beaccommodated accommodated in large or small in large or small numbers.

Comprehensive English or Continental numbers.

Comprehensive English £6.25 available. orBreakfast Continental Breakfast available £4.95.

286 Bridge Road, Swanwick Southampton, SO31 7EB t: 01489 572 123 f: 01489 577 394 e: mail@thespinnakerinn.co.uk

www.thespinnakerinn.co.uk

Bedrooms: 3S, 12D/T, 4D/TE+zbed, 4D Prices (prpn): S £35.90 Std £45.90 Dlx £50.90 Prem £54.90

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

• Modern new interior designed hotel in landscaped grounds.

• Vibrant comfortable rooms with flat screen TV’s with wide selection of Freeview channels, Wi-Fi internet access, tea/coffee facilities and hairdryer.

• High speed Wi-Fi throughout hotel.

• Complimentary on site car parking.

• Comfortable Lounge Bar & Conservatory Restaurant serving freshly prepared evening meals from 18.00 – 22.00 daily.

• Use of adjacent Virgin Active leisure facilities at a nominal rate.

• 5 state of art air conditioned meeting rooms for 2 – 52 delegates, with all modern facilities from just £125 including tea/coffee & conference equipment.

• Conference luncheons available from £7.95pp.

• Adjacent to The Rose Bowl.

• Within close proximity to Southampton Airport (5 mins), City Centre and Docks (10mins).

Prices from £49.00 p/r p/n B&B Botley Road, West End, Southampton SO30 3XA

T: 023 8060 6060 F: 023 8060 6050 reservations@expressbyholidayinn.uk.net | www.meridianleisurehotels.com

For more accommodation see our website www.hamblevalley.com

Beautiful views over the Marina and River Hamble Excellent sailing, walking, fishing and horse riding nearby Serviced touring pitches Pine lodges and static caravans available to hire all year.

Beautiful v illages

e!

Lots to se

Ellington Lodge Hotel at the Concorde Club Stoneham Lane, Eastleigh, SO50 9HQ t: 023 8065 1478 f: 023 8065 1479 e: reservations@theconcordeclub.com

And relaxin g to do....

www.theconcordeclub.com 35 en suite air-conditioned bedrooms in a lodge style country setting, adjacent to Lakeside Country Park.

Hamble Valley Wordsearch! Answers from p8

An acclaimed Restaurant and Moldy Fig Wine Bar. Entertainment, dancing and international jazz nights.

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023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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The Bunney

Four Winds

Heather Gables

11 Old School Close, Netley Abbey, Nr Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 5QJ t: 023 8045 7034 w: www.thebunney.co.uk e: sue_david@thebunney.co.uk

17 Station Road Park Gate, Southampton SO31 7GJ t: 01489 584433 e: ruthrose1@btinternet.com www.fourwindsguesthouse.com

Dodwell Lane, Bursledon, Southampton, SO31 1DJ t: 023 80404925 e: Heather.Gables@talktalk.net www.heathergables.co.uk

Jenny Sch wausch Set in the idyllic location of Butlocks Heath village, near Netley Abbey.

This family friendly property offers warm, comfortable, well-furnished accommodation with plenty of space to relax and unwind. Within easy access to three cities, shopping centres, family attractions and it’s a beautiful area for walking, cycling and exploring. self catering. VB & EE



Bedrooms 1 Double, 1 Twin, 1 Cot Prices from £300 - £600 per week

Montana Guest House 90 Lower Northam Road Hedge End Southampton, SO30 4FT t: 01489 782797

Enjoy a homely Hampshire welcome at our family-run guest house. Close to Junction 9 of the M27 - just off main A27 Porstmouth - Southampton road. Walking distance to Park Gate Village amenities and Swanwick Railway Station.

Bedrooms 1S, 1D, 2DE, 2TE Prices from (S)£40 (D)£65

Otters’ Green

‘Heather Gables’ is now affiliated to the prestige’s AA Hotel and Guest House division and has achieved a 4 Star ‘Highly Commended’ rating. In addition we have also received an accolade for our breakfast.

We offer two double en-suit rooms with private balconies overlooking a mature garden. Off road parking is available and there is easy access to the M27 Jnc. 8

Bedrooms 2DE Prices from (S)£49 (D/T)£69

Primrose Cottage

Botley Hill, Botley SO30 2DL

Allington Lane West End SO30 3HQ

t: 01489 797181 f: 01489 783314 e: judy@ottersgreen.co.uk www.ottersgreen.co.uk

t: 023 8046 6348 e: primrosecottagebnb@gmail.com www.primrosecottagebandb.com

www.montanabedandbreakfast.co.uk

Friendly run guest house offering excellent standards of service, food & cleanliness. Comfortable, well equipped bedrooms. Choice of breakfast. 2 minutes from M27 (J7).

Otters’ Green is a motel style B&B with private parking and patio for relaxation, situated in a quiet conservation area and within a short walking distance of several pubs and restaurants. Internet facility available.

‘A home from home’ Excellent B&B accommodation, 3 bedrooms in self-contained annexe with own TV, lounge and bathroom.

Large garden backing onto Country Park. Easy access for Airport & M27.

Bedrooms 1S, 1D, 1T & 1SC barn conversion, sleeps 4 Prices from (S)£50 (D/T)£70

Woodend

43 Upper Northam Road Hedge End, SO30 4EA

Kew House, Kew Lane, Old Bursledon, SO31 8DG

t: 01489 690054

t: 023 8040 2804 e: info@woodhousecottages.co.uk www.woodhousecottages.co.uk

A great bed and breakfast in the heart of Hedge End. A warm welcome awaits in this family run guest house.

Comfortable modern en suite rooms come as standard. TV in every room, tea/coffee making facilities. Close to Rose Bowl Cricket Ground, M27, Botley Park and Botleigh Grange hotels.



Bedrooms 1SE, 1S, 1DE, 3TW/DE, 1TWE, 1TW Prices from (S)£35 (D)£65 (F)£75

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

variety of the Hamble Valley. We have the conveniences of good shopping, theatres and leisure facilities’ but with good access to the countryside, attractive walks and green spaces.

Hamble old village. A miniature version of Lymington with a beautiful waterfront, masses of history and excellent eateries.

Twin Oaks

(12)

40

Bedrooms 2T...1TE Prices from (S) £43 (D) £58

Old Shamblehurst Lane, Hedge End, SO30 2RX t: 01489 795289 m: 07889 630649 e: bookings@strawberrycottage.co.uk www.strawberrycottage.co.uk

Bedrooms 2TE, 1DE Prices from (S)£45 (D)£65

Occupation Owner of Strawberry Cottage B&B, Hedge End and a Hamble Valley Heritage Guide. Nine years ago we realised that there was capacity within our family home to run a Bed and Breakfast, so attended a B&B evening classes which was organised by the local tourism unit.

The rest is history!

Where is your favourite place to visit? My favourite place is

Strawberry Cottage

Charming character cottage in a quiet location in the garden of a Tudor farmhouse. Large rooms, furnished in country cottage style, all ensuite.

Pub/restaurant nearby.

Free WIFI. Credit cards accepted.

Name: Jenny Schwausch

What do you love about the Hamble Valley? I love the

(5) Bedrooms 2S, 1SE, 1DE, 3T, 1TE Prices from (S)£38 (D/T)£58 (F) £73

Loca

Champ l ion

Weekly lettings and B&B available.

Simple comfortable spacious accommodation within a quiet peaceful setting, close to solent, IOW, New Forest, Winchester, Southampton & Portsmouth.

Convenient access for Southampton Airport, national rail links, M27 and M3. Large front lawn, Patio, Shared hard tennis court and log/coal burner.

 Bedrooms 2D...1TW with shared bathroom Prices from £60 B&B or £300 wkly lettings

And lastly, the Hamble Valley is known as the Strawberry Coast because of the strawberry-growing heritage. So, thinking about strawberries, how do you eat yours? Living on an old Strawberry Farm we can't stop them growing in the garden.

The favourite family way of eating them is sliced into a sweet pastry case with a thin layer of strawberry flavoured jelly. Delicious!

Types of room: S Single Room; D Double Room; T Twin Room; E En-suite bath/shower room; PB Private Bathroom not en-suite; F Family Room.

Free Prize Draw Complete and return the questionnaire below to win: A two night short break at Ellington Lodge, at The Concorde Club OR a Family Day pass to Marwell Wildlife To enter the draw to win simply complete the questionnaire below and return it to: Freepost RSLC-TUYB-RHCB The Marketing Collective, 169 Campbell Road, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 5AB 1. Have you visited the Hamble Valley area Yes No in the last 12 months?

2. When you last visited, how long did you stay?

Day trip only

Overnight stay Short stay

Please state number of nights 3. What was the motivation for your stay?

Family day out

Visiting Friends/Relatives Short Break

Holiday Special occasion Business/conference Other Please state

4. When you last visited, where did you stay?

Own home With Friends/Relatives B&B/ Guest House

Hotel/Inn/Lodge Self catering

Campsite 5. If you stayed in local accommodation, please state the name of the establishment:

6. How did you find a place to stay?

Visitor Guide

Internet search engine Establishment own website Personal recommendation

7. D uring your last visit to the Hamble Valley, what activities did you participate in?

Dining out

Shopping Sightseeing Walking Leisure cruising/sailing

Visiting local villages and towns please state

Attending local / special event please state

8. D uring your stay in the Hamble Valley, what attractions did you visit?

Bursledon Windmill Itchen Valley Country Park Manor Farm & Country Park Royal Victoria Country Park Lakeside Country Park Fleming Park Leisure Centre The Point Theatre The Berry Theatre Wickham Vineyard Eastleigh Museum Bursledon Brickworks Hedge End Retail Park Pickwell Farm Sir Harold Hillier Gardens Marwell Wildlife Westbury Manor Museum The Swan Centre The Concorde Club Other Please state

9. W here did you pick up your copy of the Visitor Guide?

10. W hich elements of this guide have been the most interesting or useful to you?

11. H ow do you think this guide could be improved in future publications?

I am happy to receive news and offers from The Concorde Club: Yes No Name Address

Postcode Telephone email Would you like to be added to your mailing list to receive FREE information on the Hamble Valley?

Yes No I am particularly interested in the following: Walking trails Local Heritage Events.

Thank you for your time and good luck!

COMPETITION DETAILS: The prize includes one night's dinner (excluding all beverages) and bed and breakfast for two people sharing a standard double or twin room at Ellington Lodge Hotel.

The offer would be a 2 night stay for two either Friday & Saturday, or Saturday & Sunday in a standard room, with dinner on the first night. The prize is subject to availability (not available during certain events). By entering you accept that your name, region and publicity photos may be required. Your details will be added to our database and not passed on to any organisation outside The Marketing Collective Ltd in accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998).

The winner will be drawn after the 15th December 2012 and notified

by January 31st 2013. Marwell Wildlife: Family Day ticket prize is valid for 12 months from date of issue. Prize allows entry to Marwell Wildlife for one day for 2 adults and 2 children (aged 3-16).

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

41

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Twyford

Hursley

M3

Marwell Wildlife

Owslebury

J12

CHANDLERS FORD

Bishopstoke Lakeside Country Park

EASTLEIGH

Itchen Valley Country Park

Bishop’s Waltham

Horton Heath Rive r

>

Fair Oak

Southampton International Airport

M27 J5

WEST END Retail Park

>

The Rose Bowl

J7

SOUTHAMPTON Bursledon Windmill

Bursledon

Hythe

am

Wickham Vineyard

Manor Farm

Botley Wickham

J8

Bursledon Brickworks

Swanwick J9

Holly Hill

Hamble Hamble Common

Countryside Site Place of Interest Station Hamble Valley Accommodation

Palace

HEDGE END

Netley Netley Abbey Royal Victoria Country Park

H

ble

M27

Locks Heath Titchfield

Warsash

Hook with Warsash Nature Reserve

The Hamble Valley has so much on offer that we couldn’t fit it all into one magazine!

FAREHAM Westbury Manor

Stubbington

Visit www.hamblevalley.com for more ideas on places to visit and ways to enjoy the Hamble Valley • Find out what events are on when with an extensive events database to help plan your day • Read news from local attractions and interesting articles • Take part in competitions and make the most of special offers exclusive to the website

• Learn more about the Hamble Valley Good Life with interesting articles on making, mending and growing!

• Discover a range of mouth-watering recipes using Hamble Valley produce • Meet local business owners and growers through interviews...

...and so much more!

re?

he Wish you were

Explore the Hamble Valley ‘from coast to countryside’

Hamble Valley is more than a destination – it is a way of life!

The Marketing Collective Ltd publication © 2012 | visit us for our range of other products at www.themarketing-collective.com | or call 023 8000 1655