Local Heritage
Step back in time and follow the footsteps of many famous people to discover the fascinating local heritage that the Hamble Valley offers
Attractions such as the magnificent ruins of 13th century Netley Abbey
have been popular with visitors through the centuries, including writers
Jane Austen, Horace Walpole and Thomas Gray. Believed to be haunted by Blind
Peter, the monk; the ruins were also once a favourite spot for smugglers
to stash rum, tea and luxury goods.
Hampshire’s only working windmill at Bursledon is a superb example
of the county’s agricultural heritage. Explore the old way of life
at the charming Victorian working farm; at Manor Farm visit the buildings,
old schoolhouse and farmhouse, and meet the traditional breeds of farm animals.
The River Hamble is steeped in maritime history and for over two thousand years, people have been living and working on the banks of the Rive. From Alfred the Great’s battle with the Danes in 897 AD to the Hundred Years War during which Hamble-le-Rice provided 7 ships and 117 mariners for the battle of Crecy in 1346 to the activities that took place along the River Hamble in the lead up to D-Day.
To help bring the past alive and to see the Hamble Valley from a different
perspective and in more detail, a family of FREE information leaflets
aim to encourage visitors to explore the region, the associated attractions
and the villages of the Hamble Valley.
To request a copy of the following leaflets, contact Hamble Valley Tourism
on 0906 68 22 001 or email
hamblevalley@walkingdistance.co.uk
- Famous People - From Jane Austen to Benny Hill many famous and infamous people have contributed to the history of the Hamble Valley
- Reach for the skies - The history of early aviation in the Borough of Eastleigh
- Netley Abbey - History and stories surrounding the 13th century ruins
- The Cobbett Trial - A self guided walking trail around Botley in the footsteps of William Cobbett
- Maritime Memories - The history of the River Hamble and the many people who have lived and worked on its banks.
Attractions:
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Burseldon Windmill
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Hampshire's only working windmill
is a superb example of the county's agricultural heritage. Built
by Mrs Phoebe Langtry in 1813-14 it was in use until the 1880s.
Hampshire Buildings Preservation Trust restored the mill to its
former glory between 1976 and 1991. Buy freshly ground flour which
is milled every day, weather permitting. Visitors are also welcome
whenever the sails are turning. |
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Manor Farm
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A visit to this working farm within the Country Park will transport you back to Victorian times. Meet the characters within the farmhouse, school, blacksmith's forge and wheelwrights shop; explore the farmyard with vintage machinery and traditional farm animals (including many rare breeds) for a fascinating insight to life in a bygone era.
Pylands Lane, /manorfarm
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Netley Abbey
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Founded in the 13th century by the Bishop
of Winchester, Netley Abbey is an extensive and inspiring
ruin surrounded by green lawns, set against a backdrop of
mature trees. It is a particularly peaceful and beautiful
setting, and was a favourite place to visit for Jane Austen
who appreciated its Gothic charms. The quietly crumbling ruins
became a source of inspiration for 18th century writers and
poets, such as Horace Walpole and Thomas Gray.
For a leaflet on the history of Netley Abbey,
a Gothic tale, click
Here
Free admission-Easter to October open daily from 10-6pm; out
of season weekends from 10-4pm. |
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The Royal Chapel and Museum
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Set within the Chapel is a fascinating exhibition about the once famous Royal Victoria Military Hospital from Florence Nightingale to D-Day. Today only the Chapel remains after the hospital was devastated by fire in the 1960s. Famous as the hospital where the recorder of Sherlock Holmes' adventures, Dr Watson, served as an army doctor. Various other exhibitions through the year. The Chapel's 100 ft tower gives spectacular panoramic views across Southampton Water to the Isle of Wight
Royal Victoria Country Park Netley Abbey
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Eastleigh Museum
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Eastleigh Museum is to be found in the original Salvation Army Citadel building. The displays consider life in the railway town in the late 1930s through the life of an ordinary family. A wide ranging collection of objects in use until only a few years ago will stir many memories. The second gallery provides a programme of changing exhibitions covering arts, crafts, hobbies and interests. Details of the exhibitions can be obtained from the Museum. Extensive range of local books and souvenirs in the museum shop.
High Street,
Eastleigh Tel 023 8064 3026 Opening Times: Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm Sat 10am - 4pm Web: www.hants.gov.uk/museum/eastmus Free Admission Educational and group visits welcome.
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| West End Museum
The Old Fire Station, High Street, West End Tel 023 8057 5244 Web: www.hants.org.uk/westendlhs/ Open Saturdays only 10-4 Other occasions by special arrangement - please telephone before making your journey Free admission
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This small museum features much of local and wider interest. The Cunard liner 'Carpathia' achieved lasting fame by rescuing over 700 survivors from the Titanic. Her Captain, Arthur Henry Rostron, went on to become Commodore of the line, was knighted, and came to live in the village of West End. His grave is in the Old Burial Ground near the Museum. Special plaques honour his memory and that of a local crew member lost with the Titanic. Focus on one of England's greatest cricketers, CB Fry and on major Cold War spy, Melita Norwood. Family research? Visit our archive and bookshop! |
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Walking Distance (Maps) Ltd • Bargate Centre • York Buildings
• Southampton • SO14 1HF
Tel : 0906 68 22 001 (calls cost 25p per min) • Email:hamblevalley@walkingdistance.co.uk
