Hamble Valley Visitor Magazine 2013 Issue 2

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Visitor Magazine 2013 Issue 4

What's in this issue?

IN W a short break holiday

see inside for details

Discover Hampshire’s Coas t and Co THREE walking trails in untryside side...

Cover image Š with thanks to Tina Scahill Design

Places to visit Events Attractions Local food & drink FREE prize draw... and much more!

Where is the Hamble Valley?

Follow the Hamble Valley on Twitter www.twitter.com/HambleValley

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

By 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.

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

Southampton International Airport www.southamptonairport.com

By Rail Hamble, 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.nationalrail.co.uk.

Botley and Hedge End have regular services to Portsmouth, Eastleigh, Winchester and London, whilst trains from Fareham serve these destinations and also Southampton, Chichester, Brighton, and Gatwick Airport.

By Bus The area is well connected by buses, with various services connecting to Southampton, Eastleigh, Winchester and Fareham as well as providing local services in and around the Valley area.

Bluestar No.3 | Southampton-Hedge-End-Botley Brijan No.8 | Eastleigh-Hedge End-BotleyBishops Waltham First 4/4A/X4 | Southampton-BursledonFareham/Gosport/Portsmouth First No.6 | Southampton-Netley-Hamble Stagecoach No.69 | Winchester-Bishops Waltham-Wickham-Fareham 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

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 2013 Š 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.

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Be a !

R E N WiN enter one of our great competitions...

Go to page 8 ography To enter our phot competition

Welcome to Hampshire’s hidden gem - the Hamble Valley.

From coast to countryside, the unspoilt beauty of the Hamble Valley offers the perfect destination for a holiday, short break or day visit.

Known as the Strawberry Coast, the area encompasses 25 miles of Hampshire's Solent coastline, including the River Hamble and 1,500 acres of unspoilt countryside.

Go to page 39 t break or To WIN a Hotel sh ll Zoo we ar M and tickets to

There are charming towns and villages like Bishops Waltham and Wickham and the delights of Hamble village itself. You can amble through woodland, marshes or meadows on one of the many walking trails and enjoy delicious homemade food made with local produce at one of the many restaurants, pubs or cafes along the way.

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

With so much to see and do in the Hamble Valley, you may discover a day visit just isn't long enough. If you do decide to rest a while, there are plenty of hotels, bed and breakfasts, self-catering and campsites all offering a warm and friendly welcome.

Whatever the length of your visit – or if you already live in Hampshire – we hope you will keep coming back to the Hamble Valley for many years to come.

For more information, events diary, news and ideas for days out visit

hamblevalley.com

Virtual Tour Share som

Go to page 40 WIN a roast dinner for The Boat House Café 4 at

Go to page 9 To WIN famil y tickets to Go Ape Itch en Valley

Contents

Page 4 History in the making Page 6 The Great Outdoors Page 8 Manor Farm Page 8 Photo competition Page 9 Go Ape Page 10 Strawberry Trail Page 12 Hamble Rail Trail Page 14 Cobbett Trail Page 16 Tales from the River Bank Page 18 Events Page 19 Go! Rhinos Page 20 A Bountiful Landscape Page 22 Fork and Cork Page 26 Contemporary Culture Page 27 Towns and Villages Page 29 Warwick Lane Page 30 Hedge End Page 31 Memory Lane Page 32 Cycle the Hamble Way Page 34 What can we do?

Page 36 Accommodation Page 39 Competition

e family tim

e

See more of the Hamble Valley - use your smart phone to scan in the QR code for a virtual tour.

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Take the time to uncover

some of the wealth of heritage in the Hamble Valley.

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.

Aviation

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 StonehamFarm. This is now the site of Southampton airport. Situated on the outskirts of

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Attractions Contact Details:

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.

Landmark Birthdays

Royal Victoria Country Park will be celebrating a very special birthday this year as 2013 marks the 150th Anniversary of the hospital admitting its very first patients. After the laying of the first foundation stone

by Queen Victoria in 1856 the hospital was completed just over four years later on the 11th of march 1863.

It was a hospital to serve the empire and went on to treat casualties from both the first and second world war. Royal Victoria was the largest military hospital of its time and, despite being demolished after just a little over a century, its service to the british empire was undeniably of great value. The site was purchased in the 1980’s by Hampshire County Council and now all that remains of the main hospital is the chapel set in over 200 acres of parkland. To celebrate the park will be hosting a number of events over the summer aimed at bringing the fascinating history of the site back to life.

Phobe Langtry was a remarkable independent, strong-minded Hampshire woman whose legacy to the county still remains standing proud 200 years later. In 1813, according to the history books, Phoebe decided something had to be done about replacing

History of flig

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ive The R

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-manor-museum | 01329 824895 Netley Abbey www.english-heritage.org.uk/daysout/properties/netley-abbey | 023 9237 8291.

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the original village windmill which had been milling local grain for almost half a century. Today Bursledon Windmill remains a lasting memorial to Phoebe’s determined spirit, but there was a time when this unique structure could have been lost forever but for the efforts of a dedicated band of experts and enthusiasts who secured the building’s future.

Hampshire can now boast that Bursledon Windmill is one of the county’s historical treasures, giving today’s generations a fascinating insight into what village life was like in past centuries. Local archives show the first windmill was built during 1766-7 by a William Fry on a “barren heath called Freehill’’, thought to be not far from the present site. Fry built the mill “at his own expense for the benefit of the neighbourhood where such a convenience is much wanted”. In the years that followed the windmill was well used and was operated by a series of millers until 1787 when William Langtry and his wife Phoebe took over the building. By 1813, Phoebe had taken it upon herself to replace the ageing tower and sails with a brand new structure.

Today, visitors can have go at grinding the flower and buy a bag of high quality flour to take home.

Industry & Agriculture

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..

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. Westbury Manor Museum 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.

Gothic Tales

For over two thousand years the curious have visited Netley Abbey and today the ruins are in the care of English Heritage for everyone to enjoy. It’s also full of literary heritage and makes a great site for a picnic with the kids. 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’. Another victim was local builder Walter Taylor. In 1700, when Taylor was intent on removing stones from the site to use in a town house, he had a terrible nightmare. In the dream, he was visited by a monk who warned him of great mischief if he was to continue with his plans. He saw a large stone falling on him, which fractured his skull.

Taylor discussed his dreams with Dr Isaac Watts who suggested that he should keep out of the way during 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.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Weltcootmhee

The Great Outdoors Did you know the Hamble Valley has more country parks than anywhere else in Hampshire?

With a statistic like that there really is no excuse for not exploring the great outdoors.

From the Moors Local Nature Reserve where the River Hamble rises, to the mouth of the river on Southampton Water, the stretching coastline provides 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, which was the setting for the BBC’s Wartime Farm. Children will enjoy taking part in a school lesson, meeting the animals and even milking a cow.

Follow trails and enjoy regular holiday activities such as pond dipping at Itchen Valley Country Park and uncover a tree top adventure at the high wire, tree swinging Go Ape with zip wires, rope ladders, tunnels and rope bridges.

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Meander through meadows at Lakeside Country Park or enjoy fishing and water-sports on the 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.

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.

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

Lakeside Country Park

Manor Farm

Image © 2013 Sar

ah McGinty

Lakeside Steam Railway

Itchen Valley Country Park 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.

Special

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Netley Abbey

Walk this way

Official Map

There is only one way to experience the beautiful scenery of the Hamble Valley and that's by following one of the many walks and trails.Here are some examples to inspire you to pull on those walking boots.

To get the best out of a walk in the Hamble Valley, pick up a copy of the Hamble Valley Official Map which identifies five different walks as well as highlight the other main paths with other useful information en-route.

Strawberry Trail

The long- distance circular route (15 miles) 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.

Hamble Rail Trail

A pleasant and relatively easy walk(4.5 miles) linking Hamble Common with Royal Victoria Country Park using part of the Solent Way and overlapping with the Strawberry Trail. The trail which runs adjacent to a disused railway track that was once used to transport aircraft from Manchester.

See www.hamblevalley.com for a list of outlets and how to order.

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

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 found at www.hamblevalley.com

Cobbett Trail

Travel in the footsteps of Botley’s most famous and radical resident on the Cobbett Trail (4.5 miles).

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.

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

I love to ride my bicycle...

If you prefer two wheels than two feet, the Hamble Valley can also be discovered by bicycle on one of the many cycle routes. See pages 32 and 33 for more information and a route to help you explore.

www.eastleigh.gov.uk/ivcp

Why is it called the Strawberry Coast?

The Hamble Valley has a long association with the harvest of the delectable 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

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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A new

Manor Farm A new discovery every day

discovery every

Manor Farm

day

Manor Farm Country Park

• meet our animals

• feed our feathered friends • have a go at milking • take a lesson to remember in our Victorian schoolroom • run wild in our country park • home of Wartime Farm

www.hants.gov.uk/manorfarm

01489 787055

Just off M27 Jct 8 www.hants.gov.uk

Follow the Hamble Valley on Twitter www.twitter.com/HambleValley

A

World of Discovery • explore the woodland • take a stroll along the waterfront • discover a fascinating military history • get hands-on with our family events Tel: 023 8045 5157 www.hants.gov.uk/rvcp www.hants.gov.uk

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Competition!

Calling all enthusiastic photographers!

From now until December we want you to capture The Hamble Valley in all its glory! We want to see your best images from your visit to The Hamble Valley, whether it be during winter or summer, flowers or animals. There is so much to photograph! The winning photos will be featured throughout the 2014 Hamble Valley Magazine and the website! Just simply email: Info@hamblevalley.com quoting “Hamble Valley Photo Competition” with your photo(s) with a contact name, telephone and any comments you would like to add with your photo. Go get snapping .. good luck!

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Win a family ticket to Go Ape at Itchen Valley Think you and your tribe can handle up to 3 hours of tree top adventure? Are you wild enough to climb 30ft up a rope ladder, Tarzan Swing into a giant rope net then zip wire through trees, crawl through tunnels and tackle high wire rope bridges?

Go Ape is the UK’s Number One Tree Top Adventure. We take one lush, green forest and a healthy dollop of breathtaking scenery; blend with a smattering of tree-top high wires, tricky crossings and wind-in-yourface zip wires; finished off with a liberal dose of people in search of their inner Tarzan. The result is spectacular. The Go Ape experience gets the adrenalin pumping, gets people out of their comfort zones and above all (no pun intended), it’s just great fun.

COMPETITION ENTRY DETAILS: For your chance to win a family ticket to Go Ape and swing through the trees in style all you have to do is answer this question: What famous book did King Louie star in? a. Jungle Book b. Safari Book c. Wildlife Book To enter, email info@hamblevalley.com quoting ‘Go Ape Competition’ with your name, contact details and answer!

Alternatively post your entry to: Hamble Valley, C/O The Marketing Collective, The Point, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO50 5DW Closing Date: 1st December 2013

Further Information:

Min Age: 10 years. Min height: 1.40m/4ft 7. Max weight 130kg/20.5 stones Baboons (under 18s) must be supervised by a participating adult.

Booking essential.

Opening Times: 9 Apr – 30 Oct daily.

Closed Thu & Fri (during termtime).

Weekends only throughout Nov Prices: Gorillas (18 yrs+) £30.00.

Baboons (10-17 yrs) £24.00 Contact details: Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton SO30 3HQ Take a look and book at www.goape.co.uk or call 0845 643 9253

Terms & Conditions: The prize is a family ticket to Go Ape. This consists of two adult vouchers and two children vouchers (aged 10 to 17) per prize only. The prize can be redeemed at any Go Ape Adventure UK wide (28 adventures). Under 18s must be supervised by a participating adult. An adult can supervise either two children (where one or both of them is under 16) or up to five 16-17 year olds. Pre-booking is essential and subject to availability. Prize is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. There are no cash or other alternatives to the stated prizes.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Strawberry Trail A long distance circular walking trail through the countryside and villages of the Hamble Valley. The distance to Netley from Botley is approximately 8 miles, and the total circular route is approx. 15 miles.

It includes several stiles and should take about 8 hours to complete.

The trail is waymarked by circular red markers depicting a strawberry.

To download a full description of the trail with points of interest visit www.hamblevalley.com

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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tarting from Botley, leave the S village square to south along Church Lane until you reach the entrance to Manor Farm Country Park. Turn left and enter the park, passing the old workshops. Continue straight ahead through the gate along the main footpath by the hedge. At the corner of the field, do not take the first right hand path, but go through the gate and turn right to follow the parallel field edge path alongside a hedge. ollow the waymarkers along F through the woods to the river until a left turn is reached at a creek. Cross the creek over a stile and follow the path waymarkers across the field, cross over two more stiles and follow the tarmac roads alongside the river until arriving at A27 Bridge Road.

Take care crossing this busy road into Church Lane, then turn left into Station Road and left again into the Station car park. Turn right taking the steep footpath up the hill, and then round to the left following the High Street through Old Bursledon.

Pass Salterns Lane junction then turn left down a narrow path alongside the cottage. Follow markers down the hill and up through the woods at Mallards Moor until eventually reaching Satchell Lane, Hamble. alk along twisting Satchell Lane W (taking great care) until after a sharp bend take a path to the right leading along the edge of old Hamble airfield. Continue along the footpath passing a children’s play area until reaching High Street opposite St. Andrew’s Church.

urn left and follow High T Street downhill to Hamble Quay. From the Quay by the public toilets go up the short steep hill (Green Lane) turning left at the top across a graveled area. Follow the path through the woods, across the salt marsh flats and meadows of Hamble Common to the foreshore.

Cross the road and walk through the beach car park, past the gun battery and along the path over heath land.Follow the waymarkers on this section of what is also part of The Solent Way, continue along past the BP Terminal and Westfield Common to reach Royal Victoria Country Park. hilst in the Country Park, take W time to visit the Heritage Centre, Royal Victoria Railway or continue along the shorefront, following The Solent Way to visit the ruins of Netley Abbey. o continue on The Strawberry T Trail, follow the path to the Cedar Tearooms and toilets then follow The Hamble Rail Trail, taking the left hand path when you reach the railway boundary fence out to Hound Road. Turn right and follow Hound Road to the T-junction at the end. Cross the main road near the bus stop and pick up the trail path which goes to the right through the kissing gates. ontinue along the straight path C turning right into the recreation ground at the end of the fields. Walk straight across and along a short stretch of road to the traffic lights on Hamble Lane. ross Hamble Lane into C Chamberlayne Road, turning right turn toward the church, take the tarmac path down the hill past the shops. Follow Woodlands

Way then turn left into The Acorns.

Go downhill to the end and, straight ahead following footpath to where it crosses the Hungerford Lane. Continue across the lane up the footpath to top of hill.

For the Strawberry Trail route map and more walks in the Hamble Valley visit www.hamblevalley.com

urn right along Kew Lane a short T distance, then left into a path leading to Church Lane. Turn left at end of path, walk along the lane continuing until the junction with School Road. Cross over School Road and follow the path to end turning right down the bank to Church Lane. Walk down Church Lane to the church, following the markers around the back of the churchyard. t the bottom of the steps follow A the path to the right, then at the fork take the left side path down to Station Hill. Turn left and continue straight ahead along Station Road and Church Lane to the A27. Cross over A27, retracing your steps following the waymarkers back to Manor Farm Country Park.

After crossing the bridge over the creek, take the left path leading to a tarmac small road. Turn left along it for about 50 yards and then right along a path. Follow this until a crossroads of footpaths, turning right along a broad bridleway, which eventually returns you to Manor Farm roadway. Cross the roadway and turn left back to Manor Farm museum buildings, past the farm and out onto Church Lane.

Turn left and follow the lane, taking the path on the right hand side across fields. Go through a couple of kissing gates, across a bridge before taking the right hand fork in the path which brings you back to Botley village.

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.

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.

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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

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Netley Chapel Museum & Heritage Centre

Kissing Gate

Pelican Crossing

Hamble Court Business Park

Hamble Airfield (disused)

Bench

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Recreation Ground

Kissing Gate

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HAMB L

Victoria House Police Training College

RIVE R

Barbecue Site

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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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023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

13

The Cobbett Trail

William Cobbett (1763-1835) was a radical politician and one of the foremost political journalists of his age. Today he is best remembered for such books as ‘Cottage Economy’, ‘Advice to Young Men’ and, his most famous work, ‘Rural Rides’.

William Cobbett

(Courtesy of the William Cobbett Society)

The Cobbett trail is designed to guide visitors around the village of Botley, in the footsteps of William Cobbett and to identify some of the places associated with him or which he would have known.

1. The Market Hall (Formerly known as The Market House)

Botley received its first market charter in 1267 which was given to John de Botele, lord of the manor and relative of William of Wykeham, who obtained a charter from Henry III. In the early 19th century, a fortnightly corn market was started in 1829, and a cattle market the following year, which often included numerous cattle, horses, pigs and sheep.

The Market Hall with its four Tuscan Portland stone columns was built in 1848 with funding from the Warner family and the Hall was leased to trustees at a nominal rate of 1 shilling per annum for 1000 years to be used for the purposes of Botley Market.

It was the venue for Farmer’s Club dinners where one of the delicacies served was Botley Plum Pudding. Punch was served from large jugs covered in ships and pictures. Contemporary cartoons of Cobbett sometimes depict him with a glass of Botley Ale in his hand.

2. Botley Mills

There has been a mill here since at least Domesday. The mill was formerly owned by the Duke of Portland between 1536-1775 and the oldest part dates from 1770. The mill came into James Warner’s hands in 1833. In the early 19th century,

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

the mill also included a coal wharf.

As Cobbett makes clear, milling was an important part of the local economy – along with farming and the timber and underwood trades – during the years he lived at Botley, with corn, and flour being brought to and from the mill by the navigable Hamble river. He notes that the men of the parish were almost all “farmers, farmers’ men, millers, millers’ men, millwrights, publicans who sell beer to the farmers’ men and the farmers; copse cutters, tree strippers, bark shavers, farmers’ wheelwrights, farmers’ blacksmiths…. and, in short, nothing but persons belonging to agriculture”. The mill is currently being restored by its present owners, the Appleby family.

Come out of the courtyard of the Mills to the pavement and then turn left. After a very short distance there will be found on the left:

3. Sherecroft

In Cobbett’s day, this house was called ‘Botley Hill’ and was rented by Cobbett along with 106 acres of farmland on his release from Newgate prison in 1812. He lived there until 1817.

Retrace your steps towards Botley Mills. As you approach the river, look across to the lawns on the far side. On the grounds above the lawns was the site of Cobbett’s house – Botley House – where Cobbett lived when he came to Botley.

A contemporary of Cobbett described Botley House as being, “large, high, massive, red, and square, and perched on a considerable eminence”, and it

would have been an imposing sight with a clock tower on top.

In his paper, The Political Register, Cobbett attacked land speculation in 1806 but from 1805 he arrived in Botley intent on investing in property – despite having no reserves of capital.

He acquired Cock Street Farm at Droxford, Fairthorn Farm, the coppice on Curdridge Common, 87 acre Hounsden Estate, and the farms of Raglington and Lockhams. In total he spent £27,000 on over 500 acres. He introduced new breeds and new farming equipment to his lands. As for his workforce, Cobbett was generally considered to be a fair employer, though even the champion of reform was accused by some of his people of expecting a month’s work to be completed in a week.

Cobbett enjoyed country life and sports, and thought that contests such as boxing, wrestling and bull-baiting were character building. In October 1805, he promoted a single-stick match in Botley. This consisted of two contestants fighting one another with cudgels, with the winner being the one who drew blood from his opponent’s head. As Harriet Lewin recorded in her reminiscences: “The celebrated Mr Cobbett, who presided on the platform and gave prizes… out of his own pocket” Proceed back up the Mill Lane to the top, taking great care, cross to the left to go along Church Lane.

4. Botley House Outbuildings

Botley House was demolished not long after Cobbett left Botley but some of the outbuildings survived. These are on the left hand side of Church Lane, and can be seen behind the property called Cobbett’s Cottage. Part of the garden wall still remains standing, as does the stable block, which is now called Cobbett’s House. Further along Church Lane is Hamblewood and a good vantage point is to proceed right down to the end of this road and look back at the buildings.

View of the main street Botley, from Mudie's Hampshire (1838) (Three years after Cobbett’s death)(Courtesy of Hampshire Records Office)

A view of Mr Cobbett’s House, Botley, Hampshire (Courtesy of the Hampshire Records Office Top37/2/2)

(Now known as Steeple Court Manor) Retrace your steps and, on leaving Hamblewood, follow Church Lane down the hill, past the old Bark Store, which together with the stone quays that survive is a legacy of the river-port that existed during the years Cobbett was at Botley.

Continue along Church Lane and you pass Steeple Court Manor. This was owned by the Warner family, who were the lords of the manor in Cobbett’s time and related by marriage to him.

Cobbett’s sister-in-law Eleanor Reid married James Warner a major local landowner and benefactor and whose portrait you might have seen in the Market Hall. Although a supporter of the old poor laws, Cobbett himself did not see it as his responsibility to give additional money to the poor, he felt that should be done by the State. “It is good that we should be daily exposed to accidents and infirmities …. every individual should rely upon himself only”.

Church Lane becomes a country lane; please proceed carefully as there are no pavements.

Follow the road round to the entrance to Manor Farm and on the left you will see St Bartholomew’s Church.

6. St Bartholomew’s Church St Bartholomew’s Church, listed as Grade II originally called All Saints was rededicated in 1836 after the new church was built in the village.

The Rector of St Bartholomew’s in Cobbett’s day was Richard Baker, sarcastically referred to by Cobbett as ‘that delectable creature, the Botley Parson’. Cobbett and Baker were full of quarrels with one another and Cobbett delighted in recording practical jokes played on the parson. On a day in early July 1812, Baker must have felt a sense of satisfaction. Cobbett had been imprisoned for 2 years in 1810 for publishing a treasonable libel.

7.The Old Rectory

Go back to Church Lane and carry on walking, you will pass one of the last strawberry producers in Botley on the left. Strawberries were developed in Botley after the 1860s. By 1897, 1013 tons of fruit had been despatched from Botley station to the markets and restaurants of London. On the right hand side you will find THE OLD RECTORY. It ceased to be the rectory when a new one was built in the village by the new church.

This was the home of Richard Baker and Cobbett mentions in his ‘Rural Rides’ how on a return visit to Botley in 1826 he and his companion tried to provoke Baker into making an appearance by riding close to his house and by “hallooing and by cracking of whips!”

Church Lane becomes Brook Lane; the lane will eventually bring you out to a junction with the main road, where you turn right to High Street come back into Botley village.

On the right hand side you will find ALL SAINTS CHURCH.

8.All Saints Church

When the old church was no longer large enough, and the village centre had moved to the north, a letter was sent to the Bishop of Winchester complaining that when there was a funeral the corpse had to be carried over fields and across four stiles or gates. In response James Warner provided land for the new Church to be built.

This church was built in the 1830s, after Cobbett had left Botley. The clock was originally part of Botley House and was given to the Church when All Saints was built. Two of Cobbett’s daughters were baptised in the old font which was moved here from the original parish church of St Bartholomew’s. Cobbett’s old adversary, Richard Baker is buried in the churchyard.

Sponsored by the Hedge End, West End and Botley Local Area Committee

Botley Bugle Memorial Dolphin Stone

Church Lane

Cobbett’s House

Hamblewood

Bark Store

Brook Lane

Marks Farm

Manor Farm

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

Information produced by The Marketing Collective © Botley Parish Council. All rights reserved

5. Steeple Court

Released on 9 July 1812 he made his way through Alton where he was received by the ringing of the church bells but at Botley there were no bells. Baker pocketed the keys to the church and refused to hand them over to the villagers who wanted to ring the bells.

15

Tales from the River Bank As well as being renowned internationally for sailing, with three marinas and four sailing clubs along its length, the River Hamble is also a beautiful wildlife haven.

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.

It may have been Howards Way – the BBC yachting soap of the 80s - that brought the river to the attention of millions as they watched the fictional lives unfold but for many the river remains a natural gem.

It boasts a wealth of features such as 125 hectares of mudflats and some of the best examples of mature saltmarsh on the south coast. It is noted both nationally and internationally as a habitat for breeding and migratory birds.

A saline lagoon at the mouth of the river is internationally designated – there really is no better place to take your time to enjoy the natural splendour. The river is a perfect place to enjoy a walk or take a picnic and make a day of it.

Keep your eyes peeled for ...

Events and regattas Hamble River events take place throughout the year and attract yachtsmen and racing enthusiasts throughout the sailing world who use the river Hamble as a base when competing; these include Hamble Week, the Hamble Winter & Spring Series, Bursledon Regatta and national World Series competitions.

The eccentric Brambles Cricket Match has taken place on one day a year in the middle of the Solent for the past 50 years. As the tide reveals a 200-metre long sandbank, members of the Royal Southern Yacht Club and Isle of Wight’s Island Sailing Club dash out in cricket whites to play a frantic 40 minute game before the bank sinks back under the sea!

Hamble is home of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) www.rya.org.uk the UK’s national body for all forms of boating including sailing, motor-boating, powerboat racing, powerboat racing, personal watercraft and windsurfing, and offers a range of courses, open days, clubs and schools.

Just some of the birds you might be lucky enough to see include: dark bellied brent geese, terns, teals, godwits, plovers and gulls.

Berthing on the River Hamble

A catch on the River

Available at several marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs (contactable on VHF CH.80) and advance booking is advisable.

The www.hants.gov.uk/hambleharbour"Harbour Authority 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.

Line fishing can be enjoyed on the River Hamble, restricted only by the right of access. Please remember to be courteous and if fishing of jetties or pontooning, do get permission first and move boats and yachts. Pick up a copy of the Bait Collectors Code, a voluntary code of conduct available from the Harbour Masters Office at Warsash 01489 576387

The popular and historic Jolly Sailor public house also has a jetty for the use of its customers arriving on smaller vessels.

Getting around the River Hamble The pink Hamble-Warsash ferry operates all year round and has done since the reign of King Henry VII (Read more about the maritime history of the River Hamble see page 4) carrying foot and bicycle passengers across the river between Warsash Hard and Hamble Pontoon. The ferry has always carried a maximum 12 passengers and today provides a taxi service covering the whole of the river.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

www3.hants.gov.uk/ hambleharbour.htm

Jolly Sailor pub

Harbourmaster request 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.

• Tell someone where you are going and when you are expected back.

• Wear an appropriate, well-fitted buoyancy aid or life-jacket.

• Have some means of calling for help.

For more information on River Safety, visit www3.hants.gov.uk/ hambleharbour

The jetty in Hamble

under the bridge

INSPIRATIONAL sailor Geoff Holt was the first quadraplegic to sail across the Atlantic and complete a solo voyage around Great Britiain in a 15-foot dinghy.

He has a deep affection for the River Hamble – and here he shares his feelings for the Hamble Valley.

What makes the River Hamble such a great place to sail?

I grew up by the river in a house opposite Moody's boatyard and even lived on it for a few years as a young boy on my fathers yacht. I know almost every inch of it from the busy mouth of the river at Hamble Point, to the quietest tributary at the top of the river to the rear of YMCA Fairthorne Manor. I have fished it, swam in it, rowed on it, sailed on it, nearly drowned in it and even committed a loved one's ashes to it. Perhaps the best times are at dawn in the autumn, those totally still, cold and damp mornings when there is a light mist hanging on the water and the only sound is the gulls and the oyster catchers. It has changed much in the 40 years I have known it.

What do you like best about the Hamble Valley?

When you have lived her for a long time, you get to realise just how diverse the Hamble Valley is. With its quaint country pubs to its 14th century villages, we are very lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world. But it is best seen on foot, by bicycle or from the water.

Geoff Holt Do you know any hidden gems in the Hamble Valley you are happy to share with visitors?

Hambl Valley

Hero

e

One favourite spot was where I would take my girlfriend when we were 15 years old. We would walk from Bursledon station, along Blundell Lane, continuing straight along the footpath, past Aladdin's Cave barge, under the newly built M27 where it crosses the Hamble, past the farm with their field of cows and along the river footpath, through the woods to where you suddenly emerge into a field, right on the edge of the river, overlooking the water, in total peace and quiet. We would lie on the grass, looking skyward, listening to the skylarks, sun shining and eating our picnic. I couldn't get there these days in my wheelchair but I saw the spot from my boat a couple of years ago which brought back fond memories.

Alternatively, If you want somewhere to just sit and think on your own, then the car park at Swanwick Shore Road is the place to be.

What have you got coming up in 2013?

2013 is going to be a busy year for me and Wetwheels, my disabled accessible powerboat. We took 700 disabled people boating last year, my goal for 2013 is to take 1,000 disabled people plus I want to try and raise enough money to buy another Wetwheels to be placed further along the south coast. For further information go to www.wetwheels. co.uk or www.geoffholt.com

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

17

Here is a snippet of the fun-filled events taking place across the Hamble Valley until the end of 2013, to pre-order your copy of Issue 5 with events from April – December 2014 email info@hamblevalley.com For times, admission/ticket prices and further detail please contact the individual venues. Follow us on twitter at @HambleValley for more news and events JULY WHEN

where

12th July – 22nd Sept

Go! Rhinos spot 100 sculptures around Southampton

Southampton www.gorhinos. co.uk

20th July – 4th Sept

Kids Holiday Craft Club!

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

20th July – 1st Sept

Summer Holidays

24th July – 1st Sept

Wartime Farm Summer 10am – 5pm

28th July

Wild Bees and Summer Insects 10am

28th

Marwell Zoo www.marwell. org.uk 01962 777407

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

5th – 10th

Miss Saigon School Edition

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh www.thepoint eastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333

25th

Walking Stories

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh www.thepoint eastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333

6th & 8th

Bushcraft

Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov. uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157

25th

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

8th

Film screening of Star Trek into Darkness, 2pm & 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre www.theberry theatre.co.uk 01489 799499

Open to all.

Hosting the Community Mosaic workshop day 10am - 4pm

28th

Leaf Banners, drop in between 10.30am – 12.30pm

Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp WHEN 02380 466091

Clay leaf plaques, drop in between 10.30am – 12.30pm

Itchen Valley Country WHEN Park 6th www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp 02380 466091

9th

Make your own shamballa Bracelet!

1pm - 3pm

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

10th

Film screening of Epic, 10am

The Berry Theatre www.theberry theatre.co.uk 01489 799499

9th

Create a Wire Bracelet, 10.30am 12pm

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

11th

Sock Monkey!

1pm - 4pm

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

11th

Construction day: wiring!

10am - 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

12th Aug – 2nd Sept

‘What’s This?’

Photo Trail

Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov. uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157

8th

Museum open on Sunday 10am - 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

Royal Victoria Country Park Military Cemetary at 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk

29th

Film screening of Epic, 10am

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh www.thepoint eastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333

30th July& 1st Aug

Big Bug Hunt

Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov. uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157

12th – 16th

Fresh Produce & Craft Sale 10am – 3pm

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

30th & 31st

The Point Youth Theatre present The Wind in The Willows, 7pm

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh www.thepoint eastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333

13th & 15th

Pirates

Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov. uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157

Recycled Paper Making, drop in between 10.30am –

Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp 02380 466091

15th

Summer Special Guided Farm Tours – Wartime Farm, 5pm – 7pm

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

17th

Stained Glass Seaside Panel, 10am – 4pm

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

Trains, Trains, Trains' Hampshire Narrow Gauge Railway day

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248 Royal Victoria Country Park www3.hants.gov. uk/rvcp 023 8045 5157

28th July

31st

WHEN every Thur in Aug

AUGUST where WHATS ON?

7th, 14th, 21st, 28th 1st

1st

7th

8th

10th

12th

15th

17th

September where WHATS ON? Preserving Summer, from 10am – 5pm every weekend in Sept

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

Netley Village, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

Make a Vintage Victorian box 10.30am 2.30pm

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

Film screening of Henry V

by William Shakespeare, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre www.theberry theatre.co.uk 01489 799499

Pubs of Hamble, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

Bats in Belfry, 7.45pm

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

National Heritage Open Days. Visit for FREE 10am - 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

Old Bishopstoke, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

Summer Special Guided Farm Tours, 5pm – 7pm

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

6 week Jewellery Making Course! starts today!

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

Home Front Hints, 10am – 5pm

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

'Terrific Thursdays' activities on offer for children.

11am - 3pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

18th

The Point Youth Theatre The Wind in The Willows, 7pm

The Point Theatre,Eastleigh www.thepoint eastleigh.co.uk 02380 652333

20th & 22nd

Seashore Safari

1st – 4th

Wickham Music Festival

Wickham Village

21st

4th

The Last Straw, 10am – 5pm

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

Clay Reptile, drop in any time between 10.30am – 12.30pm

Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp 02380 466091

22nd

22nd

Felting, drop in between 10.30am – 12.30pm

Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp 02380 466091

Blitz at the Brickworks.

10am- 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

22nd

24,

Celebrate Bank Holiday!

10am - 5pm

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

South Stoneham, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

1st – 4th

4th

18

WHATS ON?

Edwardian Inventions day - design your own mouse trap!

10am - 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

18th

21st & 22nd

26th

Film screening of Twelfth Night, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre www.theberry theatre.co.uk 01489 799499

29th

Botley Village Walk, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

october where WHATS ON? St Nicholas Church, North Stoneham, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

10th – 14th

Go! Rhinos ‘rhino-tastic’ farewell weekend!

Marwell Zoo www.marwell. org.uk 01962 777407

13th

Hamble Village History, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

17th

Film screening of The Taming of the Shrew, 7.30pm

The Berry Theatre www.theberry theatre.co.uk 01489 799499

20th

End of Season Steam Up and Halloween.

10am - 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

26th Oct – 3rd Nov

Halloween Festival

Marwell Zoo www.marwell. org.uk 01962 777407

26th Oct – 3rd Nov

Halloween Trail, drop in any time between 10.30am and 3.30pm

Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp 02380 466091

30th

Bound Around Hound, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

WHEN

november where WHATS ON?

3rd

Autumnal dry paths walk in Hedge End, North Area, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

4th

4 Week Christmas Craft Course!

Starts today!

Bella Crafts www.bellacrafts. co.uk 02380 517054

24th

Christmas at the Brickworks.

10am - 4pm

Bursledon Brickworks www.burseldonbrick works.org.uk 01489 576248

23rd Nov– 24th Dec

Christmas at Marwell

Marwell Zoo www.marwell. org.uk 01962 777407

WHEN

december where WHATS ON?

1st

Manor Farm Country Park and Upper Hamble Creeks, 2pm

Hamble Valley & Eastleigh Heritage Guides www.hamblevalley heritage.co.uk 02380 6885157

15th

Christmas Wreath Making, 2pm – 4.30pm

Itchen Valley Country Park www.eastleigh.gov. uk/ivcp 02380 466091

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.

Don't miss

the spectacular art extravaganza

The free family-friendly trail has brightened up the streets and parks of Southampton - Can you find them all? Explore the streets and follow the trail map or download the smartphone app to locate all of these colourful and unique works of art.

The trail lasts until September 22nd and you can download a free map from www.gorhinos.co.uk Back at Marwell Zoo you can watch their three brand new snow leopard cubs explore their exciting surroundings for the first time. Born in April, these balls of fluff are sure to melt your heart as they quickly learn from mum and dad.

The conservation charity is also delighted to launch a new home for ring tailed coatis, wander through and explore their interactive exhibit and see these playful creatures climbing and playing above you. Plus introduce yourself to the majestic new tiger Kushka. Recently joining Marwell, she is proving to be great company for their resident Amur tiger Milla. Meet Marwell’s lovely Somali wild ass foal Born on 9th July to mother Tikva, the young female foal has been named Nthanda meaning 'star' in Tumbuka. Nthanda increases the captive number of a species which has been labelled critically endangered in the wild since 1996 - the same year the first ever British born Somali wild ass was born at Marwell. It is thought that there may be as little as 280 remaining in the wild.

If you’re an admirer of all things feathered take a stroll through the tranquil new Walkthrough Aviary. Get up close to some of the most exotic bird species in the world and find out all about their behaviour as they build nests and interact with one another. New species of exotic pigeons have been introduced and developments continue to be made to the animal collection.

Fans of the international star Ralph the penguin will be pleased to know his feathers are now growing back and although no longer sporting his custom made O’Neill wetsuit, he is now taking on Dad duties teaching his little ones to swim.

As well as enjoying a range of wonderful species, expand your animal knowledge with a host of fascinating animal talks and feeds from the experienced keepers and education staff. With more than 170 exotic and endangered species in 140 acres, your visit will make a big difference to their conservation work both here in the UK and abroad.

Over the autumn and winter months look out for; a big farewell event in the park for the rhino sculptures and a chance to bid on them at the auction raising money for Marwell Wildlife as well as local charities, the Rose Road Children’s Association Wessex Heartbeat’s High Five Appeal. Following that is a Halloween festival that includes pumpkin carving, a spooky ghost train and storytelling then it’s off to see Santa at magical Marwell Hall in the run up to Christmas – make sure you book early as tickets sold out before November last year! For more information about what’s on visit www.marwell.org.uk

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Hamble Valley A Bountiful Landscape

Can You Dig It? Yes You Can...

There's never been a better time to be sharing in the bounty of the land by tending your own allotment, enjoying the fruits of your labour at a Pick-Your-Own site or supporting local food producers.

Growing your own fruit and veg has to be the ultimate win/win situation. Not only do you get to eat, nutritious produce – there's the exercise you get from digging, the benefits of being in the great outdoors and the kick you get from seeing your veg plot flourish.

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.

Home Grown to Pick your own 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 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 your own farm such as Pickwell Farm in Netley. With over 1000 PYO farms in the UK, the farms and farm shops sell a variety of local produce supporting local farmers and suppliers.

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

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The best time to visit pick your owns is later in the week or early on a weekend to avoid the rush and to get the best of the crop. It's a great family activity in the outdoors and 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.

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!

Digging for Victory – where it began Between 1940 and 1941 British agriculture was expected to supply a third of the nation’s food energy requirements, and by 1943 it was estimated that over one million tons of vegetables were being grown in gardens and allotments. Today many of the ideals around grow your own activities from the 2nd World War have come back, partly due to the economics of producing your own food but also as a great benefit to health and Manor Farm Country Park wellbeing.

Manor Farm and Country Park, home of Wartime Farm.

During 2012, Manor Farm was transported back to the time of the Second World War as the BBC filmed their next instalment of the Victorian Farm and Edwardian Farm series, Wartime Farm.

The programme focused on all aspects of domestic life of the period, using the beautiful farmhouse, farmyard and fields at Manor Farm and Country Park as their setting. Presenters

Peter Ginn, Ruth Goodman and Alex Langlands were on site exploring how people lived, farmed and cooked food to help the war effort.

On visiting Manor Farm and Country Park, you will be able to visit the cottage living room which was transformed into a 1940’s style kitchen / diner area for the series. In the cottage there will also be a historical talk about farm life during the war.

Outside the cottage you will also be free to roam the farmyard which is the location for the tractors and some of the other agricultural machines used in the series.

For more information about Wartime Farm at Manor Farm and Country Park please visit: www.hants.gov.uk/wartime-farm “It has been a privilege to hear some of the amazing stories from visitors who had come specifically to see where Wartime Farm was filmed. It has also been great for Educational groups studying Wartime Life to visit the set and experience what it was like working on a 1940’s farm.”

Katherine Gardiner, Heritage & Community Engagement Officer down at Manor Farm and Country Park.

WARTIME

FARM at Manor Farm and Country Park

On

the set...

Stars of BBC TV's W

artime Farm

Carrot Fudge Ingredients: Carrots, Gelatine, Orange essence

Ministry of Food 1940 - 1941

Method: Finely grate carrots and cook four tablespoons full in just enough water to cover for 10 minutes. Add flavouring with orange essence, grated orange rind or orange squash/ cordial. Melt a leaf of gelatine. Add gelatine to mixture. Cook quickly for a few minutes stirring all the time. Spoon into a flat dish and leave to set. Finally, cut into cubes.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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about. Hamble Valley y are what eating out is all Good food and great compan have a and restaurants to ensure you bs pu at gre of re sha r fai has more than its ing experience. pub grub you’re after or a din memorable meal whether it’s In Hamble there’s a selection of traditional pubs off the cobbled High Street and waterside eateries at the three marinas. Enjoy the very best in traditional cuisine while watching the yachts go by at Banana Wharf at Port Hamble Marina or enjoy quality food and drink in the historic waterside pub, The Bugle which has been awarded a Hampshire Hospitality Award, for its outside dining and superb views of the river and village.

The Olde Whtye Harte 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

Be tempted by our range of delicous cakes, freshly-made light lunches, Mozzo coffee, teas and of course a scrumptious selection of Ice Creams!

We are open Monday - Saturday 10am - 2pm The Point, Leigh Road, Eastleigh SO50 9DE www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk | 023 8065 2333

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

menus throughout the year.

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 means there are plenty of places to enjoy the view and soak up the atmosphere.

Nearby the Boathouse at Swanwick Marina is situated right on the waterfront with great views of the marina and is open all day serving breakfast, lunch and dinner including sandwiches, panini's, pizza, salads and grills.

Eastleigh has a more cosmopolitan offering. You can unwind in the relaxing atmosphere of Artisan Coffee and Wine Bar and enjoy authentic Turkish cuisine.

La Fenice has the finest Italian cuisine

with freshly caught fish being their speciality.

While in the Swan Centre complex there are a number of restaurants with a variety of tastes and flavours, from Italian Prezzo to New York Italian Frankie and Benny’s, and the legendary Portuguese Nando’s, The Harvester and The Break Bar which offers serves mouth-watering 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 delicious fine dining experience or hearty lunch, there is a wide variety of superb seasonal dishes made from locally-sourced produce.

In Botley, the Bugle Inn on the High Street is set in a Grade ll listed building serving delicious homemade food.

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

Exciting menu Tropical & oriental dishes with great seafood, pizza & pasta Full breakfast menu Great selection of beers & wines Large heated and covered terrace area Unobstructed views of the marina and the river Hamble

Locally Sourced

Locally sourced is a real buzz phrase at the moment. More and more chefs are opting to put the Hamble Valley on a plate and in the process support the local economy and do their bit for the planet by cutting down food miles.

Many local producers are part of Hampshire Fare and sell their produce at local Farmers Markets and events such as the Hampshire Food Festival.

For more information go to www. hampshirefarmersmarkets.co.uk There are plenty of farm shops and delicatessens where local produce can be bought 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 more than 80 cheeses among 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.

visit google play itunes or scan to download our app

find

follow

C M

Banana Wharf Hamble Port Hamble Marina, Hamble, Southampton S031 4QA T: 023 8045 6622 E: hamble@bananawharf.co.uk

www.bananawharf.co.uk

PC Advert 0612:Layout 1 15/06/2012 16:27 Page 1

Tea for Two

The reviving qualities of a good strong brew and a slice of delicious cake are well known – and whether you are on holiday or enjoying a day out with the family, a cuppa and a slice of cake can be the perfect treat.

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.

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.

M27

Open all day, ever yday from 11.00am

Celebrate with us

•••

birthdays/engagements/ christenings – whatever the occasion

Thwaites award-winning cask ales

Monthly quiz night

Delicious seasonal menus

Family-friendly and dog-friendly

Watch all major sporting events with us on Sky Sports

Enjoy al fresco dining in our extensive beer garden

Regular live music evenings

Free WIFI now available

••• ••• •••

••• ••• ••• •••

Rooker y Avenue, Whiteley, Fareham, Hampshire, PO15 7AJ Telephone: 01489 880035 023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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ipe ... rec

Yumm y

Valley From the Hamble to your kitchen...

S trawberry cake Ingredients: 2 large eggs 175g flour 100g sugar 100g strawberry jam 1 tsp vanilla essence 100g butter A handfull of strawberries cut in half

Icing sugar for the finishing touch!

Method:

Cream the sugar and butter together until pale and fluffy. Add the teaspoon of vanilla essence.

Add to the butter mixture the eggs, strawberry jam, then sift and fold in the flour.

Put the mixture into a 1lb loaf tin, cut the strawberries and place all over the top of the cake.

Put into the oven at gas mark 4 or 180 degrees for approx 40 minutes.

(It could take longer depending on how much fruit you use) When ready and cooled dust off with icing sugar.

Yummy!

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Southampton Docks has been synonymous with the banana trade since the 1880’s, when the famous Fyffe Company started to import bananas into the UK from the West Indies.

The large, decorative murals that can be seen in Banana Wharf depict the industry in full flow

Banana Wharf Banoffee Pie Make your own or buy Shortcrust pasty for the base, cook without the other ingredients. You can either place the cooked pastry on a plate or cut into individual portions. Put this to one side while you make... the toffee filling... To make the toffee, boil one unopened tin of condensed milk in a pan of water for 3 hours (take care not to let the pan boil dry). Allow to cool, and carefully spoon the toffee into the pastry base.

For the topping...

1/2 pint double cream - whipped 1oz icing sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla essence A shot of creme de bananes Beat all these ingredients together with a whisk until the mixture is stiff, then pile on top of the toffee and pastry.

Finish by adding a dusting of cocoa powder through a sieve.

Supplied by Chef at Banana Wharf

'Be it seascapes or countryside, shopping or solitude pubs, restaurants or peaceful picnic sites, The Hamble Valley really does have it all' Mrs J Pace, Short Break Competition Winner 2011

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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contemporary culture Hamble Valley has the privilege of being home to two theatres, The Point in Eastleigh and The Berry Theatre in Hedge End. The two venues complement each fantastically offering something to suit all tastes and ages.

In keeping with its reputation as one of the south’s leading venues for contemporary performance visitors to The Point this season will not be disappointed.

This season sees a dynamic and richly textured programme kicking off with a return visit to the Eastleigh venue by leading choreographer Russell Maliphant on September 26 and 27.

In a world premiere, Russell Maliphant's Still Current features newly created duets, trios and solos danced by Maliphant himself alongside his remarkable company of dancers with lighting by the renowned Michael Hulls.

Total Theatre Award-Nominees Milk Presents invite you into a world of oldschool gadgetry, original live music and bicycle power, to tell the story of a saint on October 10. Manliness is dissected and the legend of St George is laid bare on a cadaver tray in A Real Man’s Guide to Sainthood.

Comic Mark Thomas also makes a welcome return to The Point on October 25 with his latest show, 100 Acts of Minor Dissent.

And The Berry Theatre continues to build on its reputation of providing top notch productions for all the family.

The autumn season includes a production by children’s theatre company ajtc of Bin Men, a play with music for young children and their families and stars big dreaming bin men Don and Sam. The duo wants to save the world and they want to have fun doing it. Bin Men is staged on November 2.

Another highlight is Blackeyed Theatre’s version of timeless gothic thriller Dracula Adapted by John Ginman, this brilliant, theatrical treatment of Bram Stoker’s adventure blends Victorian gothic with the contemporary, drawing eclectically on a wide range of forms of popular entertainment that were established or emerging at the time. It is suitable ages 13 and above and is on November 21.

And the venue will be full of laughs throughout the season including a return to the venue by Dr Phil Hammond with his new show Games to Play with Your Doctor on September 26.

Other Highlights include: Pocket Merchant|The Berry Theatre |October 8

Acclaimed company Propeller will be performing a pocket-sized version of Shakespeare’s uncompromising tale of greed and revenge - The Merchant of Venice after which the audience is invited to express their reactions to the piece.

Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers | The Point |October 6

The most successful touring taiko drum group on this continent (October 6) takes to the stage with their huge taiko drums, mysterious masked choreography with inventive lighting, muscular synchronisation timed to perfection, post-apocalyptic martial imagery and infectious belly laugh humour - all in a spellbinding display of sheer athleticism.

Lucy Porter |The Berry Theatre | October 26

Fresh from The Edinburgh Fringe Festival Lucy, whose TV appearances include Never Mind The Buzzcocks, Mock The Week and The Unbelievable Truth returns to the UK tour circuit, with her best show yet Northern Soul.

The Little Match Girl | The Point | December 19 to 24

The Point Youth Theatre will take audiences to the frozen forests of Denmark where high in the trees, those with no home to call their own, listen to a tale of magic – a tale so powerful as to make two worlds collide. This adaptation of Hans Christen Andersen’s bittersweet tale delicately twists a story full of innocence and hope and wraps it into a festive musical treat, laced with dollops of charm and magic.

Pinocchio | The Berry Theatre | December 12 to 24

A fantastic production of the classic tale of the wooden puppet who dreams of becoming a real live little boy. Matinee and evening shows are planned throughout the run.

For more information on what else is on at the venues visit... www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk or www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

© Farrows Creative

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 Point One of the south’s leading venues for contemporary performance and dance,

Make it part of your next visit!

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a magnet for internationally-renowned artists and performers.

The Berry Theatre Wildern Lane Hedge End SO30 4EJ Box office 01489 799 499

www.theberrytheatre.co.uk

The Point Leigh Road Eastleigh SO50 9DE Box office 023 8065 2333

www.thepointeastleigh.co.uk

Town and Villages of the Hamble Valley Hamble Discover the delightful maritime village of Hamblele-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 the 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.

Botley 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 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.

The Durley, Curdridge and Botley History Society have published a book, “Botley and Curdridge, a History of Two Hampshire Villages”. Also, “Botley’s Past and Present, a DVD History of Botley”, are both available from The Penny Farthing Gallery in the Square.

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.

Please visit our Botley website www.botley.com for latest information on forthcoming events.

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

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.

Netley 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.

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.

Bishop's Waltham

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 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.

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.

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.

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 Festival 1st - 4th August 2013 go to, www.wickhamfestival.co.uk for more details!

for more information go to

www.hamblevalley.co.uk

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

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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

Shopping

TAKING the time to enjoy a little retail therapy could be the perfect way to spend an hour or two in the Hamble Valley.

From high street favourites to independent shops, the area has an abundance of shops, stores and boutiques to suit every pocket.

At Hedge End, there is the dual delight of Marks and Spencer and Sainsburys – both stores are a showcase for food, fashion and so much more.

Swan Centre in Eastleigh has a host of big high street names under one roof and a convenient car park too.

If you like to support independent retailers Wickham, Botley and Hamble should be on your shortlist to visit.

The traditional setting of Wickham makes it the perfect place for a mooch around the shops followed by afternoon tea. The medieval market square is the second largest of its kind in England with pretty 15th century cottages and grand Georgian residences.

Bay Tree Walk, the newly opened Warwick Lane and Chesapeake Mill in Wickham are are real delight with plenty of unusual gift ideas presented in a really attractive setting.

There's a real feeling of nostalgia as you wander around these shops with everything from vintage prams, jewellery and clothing on sale.

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There are some lovely cafes and tea rooms to stop for a cuppa and a slice of cake too.

Botley has a number of specialist shops located in the Square and at Botley Mills offering everything from children's toys, furniture and clothing.

Fashion shops include specialists in evening and bridal wear, lingerie and shoes as well as beauty salons.

Hamble maybe relatively bijou in size but what it lacks in scale it makes up for in quality. The independent shops are well worth seeking out – take a walk down the cobbled high street and take in the views down by the riverside.

Top Tips: uy things because you B love them not because you think you should e adventurous, B experiment with textures, colours and finishes emember preR loved often means better quality and craftsmanship id-century furniture M and objects are becoming really collectable njoy the fact you are E up-cycling and saving.

Shopping in Wickham Wickham is said to have its origins in the Stone Age. Settlers were attracted to the ford across the River Meon. and through the Middle Ages people continued to defend and live around Wickham.

It was in 1269 King Henry III granted a charter to Roger de Scures that allowed fairs and markets to be held on a Thursday, and all the other local markets on a Wednesday.

This is how The Square in Wickham began to take shape.

Wickham was named after a clever boy discovered by Roger de Scures.

The boy was William of Wykeham and he was sent to Winchester to be educated. He eventually became Bishop of Winchester, twice Lord Chancellor of England and was the founder of Winchester College and New College Oxford. He died on September 27th 1404 and his tomb is in Winchester Cathedral.

More recently the first and only female Lord Mayor of London during 1983/84, Lady Donaldson (nee Warwick) was born in what is now Warwick Lane Shopping Centre.

Her father founded a hardware store in the same spot many years ago and his son Richard Warwick continues to run the building to this day.

Wickham Square mirrors the original market feel with its shops and shopping centres offering not only variety but a unique shopping experience. Both Bay Tree Walk and Warwick Lane have shops offering jewellery, chocolates, fashion, gifts, childrenswear, shoes and party supplies. Not to mention a coffee shop and tea-room. There is also an indoor market that sells a variety of antique trinkets and furniture from many different sellers.

Whether you are looking for highend fashion or shabby chic furniture, we cater for every taste come rain or shine. Wickham Village has a variety of walks, shops and restaurants so you can spend the day by the river and in the village itself. Check out the Warwick Lane website for more details of walks and the history of Wickham.

Warwick Lane & Bay Tree Walk - The Shopping “Centre� of the Historic Village of Wickham.

Please visit us online @ www.warwicklane.co.uk or www.facebook.com/wickhamshopping

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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SuperSTore SHopping at Hedge end

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

• The recently refurbished 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.

• Situated in Hedge End at Junction 7 of the M27 - it’s so easy to get to.

There is plenty of parking as well as 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 30

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Shopping in Titchfield Fancy a trip down Memory Lane?

Memory Lane Coffee Shop and Gift Shop in the heart of Titchfield offers a varied menu of food and drink whilst also supplying a wide range of gifts, cards and keepsakes.

Whether you’re looking for lunch, a light snack or just coffee and cake with friends, Memory Lane is bound to have something to tantalise your tastebuds! A wide variety of teas and coffees as well as an ample selection of Jude’s Ice Cream ensures there’s a treat whatever the weather. From an all day breakfast to sandwiches to a slice of homemade cake, nearly everything on the menu can be made gluten-free. The

warm and friendly atmosphere is accompanied by a treasure trove of gifts for you and your home.

Not only are Memory Lane proud stockists of well known brands such as Brightside, Soul, Emma Ball and Jellycat, but their gift shop also acts as a stage for the work of local and regional artists.

An ever expanding range of cards provides a wide choice for every occasion with a seasonal selection of gifts to match. Surrounded by beautiful buildings, a stone’s throw away from Titchfield Abbey and amidst a network of stunning walks, Memory Lane is the perfect place to visit.

Fancy a trip down...

Jude’s Ice Cream now available

Homemade Cakes, Light Lunches, All Day Breakfasts, Ice Cream & more...

Gluten Free Range EAT-IN or TAKEAWAY Large range of Cards & Gifts . Free Wi-Fi Stockists of Brightside, Jellycat, Soul, Emma Ball & more...

Ask about our loyalty cards!

Visit us at

31 The Square . Titchfield . Hampshire . PO14 4RT Memory Lane Titchfield

@MemoryLanePO14

Cycling the Hamble Valley way Here you will find a really enjoyable cycle route that takes in the history and sights of the Hamble Valley.

Visit our interactive map which makes it easy to locate the cycle routes: http://eastleigh.pindarcreative.co.uk

Woolston-Hamble: 8 km/ 1- 1.5 hours with a few stops Start from Woolston Station.

From either platform head to the Southampton end of the station, down the hill to Bridge Road. Then proceed south from Bridge Road, across the crossroads, into Victoria Road and south though the new Centenary Quay development area.

Take care of traffic at the crossroads and past the shops on Victoria Road. The road gets quieter once you pass this area. The area of new development is the site of the former Vosper Thorneycroft shipyard.

Keep heading south on Victoria Road and turn right into the access road to the sailing club/ boatyard.

From here, keep following the cycle path straight ahead for several miles.

The route runs through a park and along Weston Parade.

Most days during the summer and at weekends you can grab an ice cream from the van at Weston Shore.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Keep following the path ahead (marked as NCN 2) as it bears off from the road to the right, running parallel to the beach. Keep following the path ahead past Netley sailing club and the “castle” on your right, and up the hill into Netley.

The route then joins Victoria Road (Netley) after a short stretch of shared use pavement/ cycleway.

The road here is relatively quiet and fairly wide. The route passes through the village centre on the left, and recreation ground and access to the There are beach on the right. opportunities for food and drink in Netley including at the Prince Consort pub which the route passes.

Continue ahead into Royal Victoria Country Park, Following signs for NCN2 as you pass the chapel and its 46m tall viewing tower. As you reach some woodland at the eastern end of the park, you will need to turn left , and then bear right 50m later.

Make sure you look out for the signs here!

Keep following this path ahead (the path runs along an embankment through a forest, before running parallel to a playing field). Eventually you emerge at Hamble Lane.

Turn right and use the shared pavement/ cycle path to head into Hamble town centrenote that for the final 300 or so metres after the level crossing of the old railway, you will need to ride on the road, and whilst the road isn’t too busy, some care does need to be taken. Shortly you will arrive at Hamble Squarenote the Gold Postbox, for Olympic goldwinning cyclist and local hero Dani King.

For those who aren’t lured by pubs, ice cream and boats into staying a while at Hamble, you can extend this route a further 12km by continuing to Botley.

Continue to Botley:... Hamble to Botley: 1.5 to 2.5 hours allowing for a few stops | 12km First continue up Satchell Lane until you pass a house on the right named Wessex Manor look out for the nameplate on the wall.

Turn right onto the bridleway that heads into the woods at this point.

Follow this path ahead, over the railway bridge and continue on the path until it arrives at Bursledon.

At one point the path crosses over a concrete surfaced road. Don’t take this road down the hill- instead keep looking on the left for the continuation of the path (signed by an arrow marker). The path eventually leads to a road. Follow this road up the hill.

Turn right at the top of the hill into school road; then immediately left into Church Lane. Ride past the school and recreation ground until you reach the junction with the main roadcross with care and ride up Blundell Lane, next to the river Hamble. Follow Blundell Lane round the corner; turn right when you arrive at Blundell Lane.

Ride along Blundell Lane as far as the junction with the main road.

Here, turn right and then immediately right again into Pylands Lane (signed for Manor Farm Country

Park). From here, ride down Pylands Lane. Follow the signs for Manor Farm itself at the junctions. There is an opportunity to get down to the river using some of these side roads.

At Manor Farm there is a café a good opportunity for a break if you need one.

Next, take the path along the west side of the Manor Farm building (through the gate and past a pond). At the next gate (marked as an entrance to the country park, and with St Bartholomews Church to the right) turn left and then a short distance later right onto Church Road. Then follow Church Road all the way to the southern edge of Botley- passing Botley Quay bark store on the way.

Upon reaching the houses at the southern end of Botley, the easiest option is to walk the bike straight ahead along the one way street and into Botley village centre.

There are various options for food and drink here.

Finally, to get to the station, head east along Botley High Street/ Mill Hill until you reach the station. You will pass Chesapeake Mill just after leaving Note that this the village centre. is a very busy main road and you may wish to avoid cycling until the road widens out beyond Chesapeake Mill.

Food & drink stops available at: • Woolston centre • Netley (shops, 1 pub) • Hamble (shops, various pubs & restaurants) • Manor Farm Country Park (cafe) • Botley (shops, various pubs & restaurants).

Places of interest passed on the route: • Woolston centre • Centenary Quay development • Weston Shore • Netley centre • Royal Victoria Country Park, Netley • Hamble town centre • Bursledon • Manor Farm Country Park • St Bartholomews Church-Botley • Botley quay / bark store • Botley Town Centre/ Chesapeake Mill • Botley Station.

Key: = Be alert = Places to eat = Ice cream stop

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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For those who seek adventure in the Hamble Valley, Geocaching is a treasure hunt with a difference and promises a fun challenge for children and adults of all ages and is great for encouraging children to get our in the fresh air and provides exercise while exploring new environments and testing mental agility. Using a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, participants use navigational techniques to hide and seek Here are some suggested ways to small items or ‘caches’ at outdoor locations. This may sound easy, spend your time – and best of all but once you have been guided to the chosen spot, you have to find most of these activities are FREE! the treasure box, which will be discreetly hidden, you can then sign the log book and take and replace one of the small treasures. There are plenty of caches in the Hamble Valley waiting to be discovered – You can find everything you need to know about geocaching at the official geocaching website www.geocaching.com You can register

There is plenty to see and do in the Hamble Valley for all the family, from days out discovering to blowing away the cobwebs at one of the many country parks.

A Quest for Heritage

Fly kites in the fresh

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Begin at Eastleigh Museum on a Saturday morning and learn about the Railway town. Stop for refreshments and browse the gift shop. air

www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

Fully refreshed visit West End Museum Food for Thought and discover more local history with For sticky finger treats visit Pickwell interesting displays on genealogy, Farm for delicious Pick Your Own property and some famous names strawberries, raspberries and including the links with the Titanic and gooseberries… Don’t forget the wet the story of Captain Rostron and the wipes for sticky fingers …

Carpathia.

Visit the great Chapel Hall at Royal Victoria Country Park and learn about life as a soldier at Netley, discover Royal Victoria’s influence on modern Crabbing medicine, and find out what Florence Nightingale thought of Take the children Britain’s largest military crabbing on hospital.

Hamble Quay for Take a Sunday to visit a great afternoon Bursledon Windmill and see how many and then on to one of crabs you can Bursledon Brickworks catch compared family Open Days for to everyone else. a day of heritage fun Bring some bait, before heading to the crabbing lines and Visit the windmill Jolly Sailor on the River a bucket.

Hamble for a bite to eat.

Follow the Hamble Valley on Twitter www.twitter.com/HambleValley

Running wild With so much open space there is plenty of room for fun and games.

On a blustery spring day, head to Royal Victoria Country Park and fly a kite off Southampton Water.

Play Hide and Seek around the ruins of Netley Abbey – remember to pack that picnic!

Visit Swanwick Lakes or Itchen Valley Country Park during the Summer and halfterm holidays and join in the hunts and trails around the country park.

Accept a mission or embark on 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

Snappy Happy! Get the children into photography by arranging flowers, twigs, leaves or visit the same location throughout the year to capture the seasons, spotting the changes.

Collect memoirs from days out in the Hamble Valley and create a scrapbook – Visit Bella Crafts in Fair Oak for all your scrap-booking material.

Take pen, paper and some paints to 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…

Action and Activity Packed While 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.

A visit to Marwell Zoo is a chance to get up close to the natural world......Marwell Activity Centre offers indoor and outdoor fun with a range of adventure activities for children from archery, paint-balling to climbing and clay pigeon shooting.....Go Ape Itchen Valley is a thrilling high wire, tree top adventure for anyone over the age of 10 years old.

Getting Crafty!

If you are feeling crafty during your stay in the Hamble Valley, a visit to BellaCrafts should satisfy your creative urges.

Established in 2008 by Belinda, the aim was to create a centre where you can buy all the crafting items you could possibly need – and learn new skills by taking part in the daily workshop sessions.

In recent times there has been a real resurgence in craft making – and the make do and mend movement has also prompted many to switch off the TV and get busy on everything from knitting and sewing to silk painting and felt making.

“We have established a unique centre offering not only a lovely shopping experience but also a chance to take a seat and craft or leave the children whilst you grab a break,” said Belinda.

So why not have a go at your own craft project by following Belinda's handy tips?

How to make your own bunting ...

Bunting can be fun and you can choose your own shape. (You can either double back your bunting but if you’re using for a one off event, a single piece is fine).

• Cut out enough triangle shapes for your desired length.

• Use pinking shears to add detail to the edges of your material • You can use ribbon or bias binding to string your bunting • Use lots of different patterns and colours for a pretty country cottage effect • Sew all your shapes together and when ready start at one end of your ribbon or binding • Spread evenly and when all added make sure you finish the ends of your binding or ribbon in either a loop or enough length to tie up.

To find out more call: 023 8051 7054

rden Centre, The Barn, Fair Oak Ga Oak SO50 7HD Winchester Road, Fair or fts.co.uk email: info@bellacra

www.bellacrafts.co.uk

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Accommodation All the national assessing bodies (Visit England, 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.

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

When choosing your accommodation look for the 7 , 4 Quality Rose, the official mark of the Enjoy England national tourist Key to accommodation symbols: board rating scheme. A quality Please tick: (AGE) Children Welcome score is awarded for every aspect Dogs accepted by arrangement of the experience including the Licensed for sale of alcoholic drinks comfort, quality and cleanliness.

Residents’ Lounge Places that ‘go the extra mile’ to Major credit cards accepted Tea/Coffee making facilities make your stay a special one, will TV in all bedrooms be awarded a high star rating and Ground floor bedrooms hotels and guest accommodation Parking spaces on site may achieve a Gold or Silver award.

Non smoking establishment Higher star-rated accommodation Restaurant/dinner provided on request tends to have more spacious Welcome Host ‘Certificate holders’ Garden for residents bedrooms and bathrooms and in Four poster bed hotels a high staff to guest ratio, so Linen provided service should be very attentive.  Laundry facilities For serviced accommodation, Showers there are two separate schemes – Electric shaver points one for hotels Open all year Public toilets and one for guest accommodation.

Outside Water supply Hotels have to be licensed, offer Microwave dinner at least five nights a week DVD player and all have rooms en suite or with Local produce private bathrooms. Hotels also Internet facilities have to provide certain additional Wireless Internet access facilities and services at higher Short stay  star level.

Facilities for the visually impared TypesFacilities of room and Guest House: forB&B deaf or hard of hearing The map at the front of this S Single Room; Disabled room facilities guide shows clearly that all D Double Room; Disabled parking accommodation is within a T Twin Room; short distance of major routes, E En-suite bath/shower room; attractions and places of interest. PB Private Bathroom not en-suite; F Family Room.

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

SunnyDale Farm Camping and Caravan park

OpEn aLL YEar

Situated 3 miles from Southampton City Centre.

Open all year for tents, motorhomes and caravans.

40 level fully serviced pitches (22 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

Accommodation

BEST WESTERn Chilworth Manor Jenny Sch wausch

Loca

Champ l ion

Name: Jenny Schwausch

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

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.

Occupation: Owner of Strawberry Cottage B&B, Hedge End and a Hamble Valley Heritage Guide. Ten 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!

What do you love about the Hamble Valley?

I love the 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.

Where is your favourite place to visit? My favourite place is Hamble old village.

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

And lastly, the Hamble Valley is known as the Strawberry Coast because of the strawberrygrowing 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!

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

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.

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

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.

023 8000 1655 | www.hamblevalley.com

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Accommodation

The Bunney

Four Winds

Heather Gables

Twin Oaks

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 m: 07891147154 e: ruthrose1@btinternet.com www.fourwindsguesthouse.com

Dodwell Lane, Bursledon, Southampton, SO31 1DJ t: 023 80404925

43 Upper Northam Road Hedge End, SO30 4EA

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. VE & 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, 1T, 2DE, 2TE Prices from (S)£40 (D)£65

Otters’ Green Botley Hill, Botley SO30 2DL t: 01489 797181 m: 07812740955 e: jean@ottersgreen.co.uk www.ottersgreen.co.uk

t: 01489 690054

e: Heather.Gables@talktalk.net www.heathergables.co.uk

‘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 Allington Lane West End SO30 3HQ t: 023 8046 6348 e: primrosecottagebnb@gmail.com www.primrosecottagebandb.com

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 Ageas 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

Eversley Guest House Kanes Hill, West End, Soton,SO19 6AJ t: 02380 464 546 e: eversleyguesthouse@yahoo.co.uk www.eversleyguesthouse.org.uk

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 relaxed and friendly B&B with a charming patio & veranda area to relax and enjoy.

Private parking, situated in a quiet conservation area and within a short walking distance of several pubs and restaurants in the charming village of Botley. An ideal base for enjoying the areas many attractions and activities.

(5)

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

Bedrooms 1S, 1D, 1T & 1SC barn conversion, sleeps 4 Prices from (S)£55 (D/T)£70 Barn: price upon request.

‘A home from home’. Excellent B&B accommodation, 3 bedrooms in self-contained annexe with own TV, lounge and bathroom. Also 2 double and a twin available in the main house. Large garden backing onto Country Park. Easy access for Airport & M27.

Bedrooms 3T, 1TE, 2D Prices from (S) £43 (D) £65

For more accommodation see our website www.hamblevalley.com

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www.hamblevalley.com | 023 8000 1655

A friendly and comfortable B&B in a location convenient for M27, Southampton airport and ferry terminals, and the Rose Bowl cricket ground.

A designated off-road parking space for each room. Within easy reach of Southampton, Winchester, Portsmouth and the New Forest. All rooms have flatscreen TV, en-suite shower room and free WI-FI. English or continental breakfast included in the room price.

Bedrooms 1 SE, 3 TE, 1 K/FE Prices from (S)£45 (T)£65 (K)£75 (F) £80

Free Prize Draw Complete and return the questionnaire below to win: a two night short break at Best Western Chilworth Manor Hotel OR a Family Day pass to Marwell Wildlife

Best Western C

hilworth Manor

To enter the draw to win simply complete the questionnaire below and return it to: Freepost RSLC-TUYB-RHCB The Marketing Collective, The Point, Leigh Road, Eastleigh, Hampshire SO50 9DE 1. Have you visited the Hamble Valley area in the last 12 months?

Yes No 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. During 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?

Go Ape Itchen Valley Country Park

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?

Hotel

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

12. D uring your visit or stay, which towns and villages did you visit?

Bishops Waltham

Botley

Bursledon

Eastleigh

Hamble

Hedge End

Netley

Titchfield

West End

Wickham I am happy to receive news and offers from Best Western Chilworth Manor: 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 two nights accommodation with dinner, bed and breakfast (excludes drinks) for two adults at the Best Western Chilworth Manor Hotel, Chilworth, Southampton. The prize will be valid until

December 2014 and is subject to availability (excluding the Southampton Boatshow). By entering the competition you accept that your name, region and publicity photos may be required. Your details will be added to our confidential database and not passed to any organisation outside The Marketing Collective Ltd in accordance with the Data Protection Act (1998). The prize will be drawn after 13th December 2013 and notified by January 31st 2014. 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

39

time

competition

Follow the Hamble Valley on Twitter www.twitter.com/HambleValley

he Spot t e? enc r e f f i D

and WIN!

Can you find the TEN differences between the two pictures?

If you can complete the form below and post your entry to us and be in with a chance of WInning.... A Sunday roast for 4 at The Boat House CafÉ, Swanwick Marina.

Name:

Age:

if under 16

Signature of Parent/Guardian if under 16yrs:

Email:

Contact Tel:

PLEASE CIRCLE THE DIFFERENCE BOTTOM IMAGE THERE ARE 10 DIFFERENCES IN TOTAL. Winner will be drawn at random from those entries received. Competition winner must have permission from a Parent or Guardian (if under 16) to enter competition as we would like to print the details of the winner in our next issue of Hamble Valley. Winner will be drawn on 6th January 2014. The meal is a Sunday Roast for 4 at The Boat House Café, Swanwick Marina. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability. Pre-booking is required. No cash alternative.

The Marketing Collective Ltd publication © 2013 | visit us for our range of other products at www.themarketing-collective.com | or call 023 8000 1655