Hamble is the heart of British sailing. Watch the world go by from the quay or the three marinas, or catch the ferry between Hamble and Warsash. The popular river bus, which runs in the summer months connects to Manor Farm country park or alight at the Jolly Sailor pub pontoon - where you can watch the annual Bursledon regatta events.
A vast history can be enjoyed at some of the fascinating heritage attractions, such as the Gothic 13th century ruins of Netley Abbey, which was frequented by the likes of Jane Austen and artist JMW Turner, and is rumoured to be haunted! Netley Chapel in Royal Victoria Country Park is all that remains of the first purpose built hospital opened in the second half of the 19th century. The hospital pioneered the treatment of shell shock during the first world war, with one of the patients being Wilfred Owen! Read about its history within the chapel itself.
For lovers of theatre, dance, opera, comedy or film, The point can satisfy all tastes. The thriving 300 seat theatre is located in Eastleigh's beautifully refurbished Victorian town hall, and during the summer, performances extend into the adjacent Dancing Garden. There are also celebrity appearances, special performances for children and an extensive choice of dance classes and workshops for all ages and abilities. For those who love sport, the Hamble Valley is the home of Hampshire Cricket at the Rose Bowl, or choose from a wide range of water sports, horse riding, cycling, swimming outdoor pursuits and even flying.
In the early 20th century, Strawberry fields stretched across much of the Hamble Valley, in particular Botley, Hedge End and Bursledon, with the industry supplying the hotels and restaurants across the UK. Trains, known as "Strawberry Specials", from Botley station took many thousands of pounds of strawberries daily to London, Glasgow, Cardiff and Manchester.
