Hamble Peninsula trails unveiled
Self-guided tour explores unique character and history of three parishes
Councillors, scheme partners and project team members gathered at Netley Station this week to mark the unveiling of a series of fascinating self-guided trails, using specially crafted wayfinding markers, of the unique history, character and ecology of the Hamble Peninsula, incorporating the parishes of Bursledon, Hamble-le-Rice and Hound
The trails explore and celebrate the richly diverse heritage and nature of this very special part of the Borough of Eastleigh. The Hamble Peninsula offers a uniquely varied mix that encompasses historic shipbuilding, pioneering aviation, sailing, railways, early industries and agriculture, ancient monuments and warfare, together with a natural environment that encompasses shoreline, ancient woodland, riverside and heathland.
For this project landscape architect Paul Best has worked with artists Madeleine Allison and Daniel Powell, along with members of the local community, including the Bursledon Rights of Way & Amenities Preservation Group, Bursledon History Society, Hamble History Society, Hound History Society, the Three Rivers Rail Partnership, Netley Abbey Infant and Junior Schools, and Hamble Primary School.
The trail can be explored by navigating through the numbered markers and illustrated map or by scanning the QR code on a marker to read about its location on a smartphone or tablet.
Hamble Peninsula Trails were commissioned by Eastleigh Borough Council with support from South Western Railway and the Parish Councils of Bursledon, Hamble and Hound. All three of the routes start from the local railway stations. Information about train times and tickets can be found on the websites for South Western Railway and National Rail.
Local residents have already started testing the trails during free organised walks and activities led by the Council's Country Parks team.
Chair of Bursledon Hamble & Hound Local Area Committee, Councillor Tonia Craig said: “The Hamble Peninsula offers some great walks with an interesting mix of history and the natural environment. I encourage local people to visit our web page and download the map to plan their own walks to explore the Hamble Peninsula trails.”
Find out more at: https://eastleigh.gov.uk/parks-leisure-and-culture/arts-and-culture/public-art/hamble-peninsula-trails