Eastleigh is a town in Hampshire, England, situated between Southampton and Winchester. The town has a very interesting history that makes it a popular town in Hampshire. The town was created around a railway station built in 1838.
The London and Southwestern Railway Company (L&SWR) built a railway from Southampton to Winchester in 1838. The company also built a station in a small village called Barton that the railway passed through. The station was called Bishopstoke Junction, as Bishopstoke was the nearest notable place.
However, after the railway was extended to London and underwent different name changes, it was renamed Eastleigh in 1923.
This development was the catalyst for the growth of Eastleigh. As the railway extended to London and there were more activities at the station, the company built cottages for its employees by the station. As expected, people began to form communities, and more developers started to develop the lands around the area. The establishment of a cheese market also contributed to the growth of the town, and with that, more houses and people.
Today, the town has greatly developed from a few houses by the station to several houses and flats. Some to buy and others to rent. The escalating demand for housing in Eastleigh has prompted several property agents to step in, offering a range of options for potential residents. One of such is Rentola United Kingdom, a property search engine where you can find property to rent in the United Kingdom. Many people opt for such agents because they enable direct communication with property owners and provide a convenient way to stay informed about available rental properties.
Notable or Famous Places in Eastleigh
Based on the town’s history, the first thing Eastleigh is famous for is probably the train station, considering that the town grew around the train station. The station links directly to London and the North of England. But besides that, the town is located close to the M27 and M23 Motorways, making it easily accessible.
These are not all there is to Eastleigh, though. Eastleigh is also known for the following notable places and landmarks;
Eastleigh Museum
Eastleigh is the best place to visit to learn about the town and its railway origin. It provides guests with insight into the life of an average train driver and his family in 1938. It also has a nice cafe and art exhibition. It is a great place for children.
Spitfire Aeroplane
Eastleigh’s Spitfire aeroplane was built in Southampton and first flown from Eastleigh Aerodrome. A replica of the aeroplane is placed on the roundabout at the entrance to the airport.
Southampton Airport
Located in Eastleigh, Southampton Airport is the 20th largest airport in the UK. Or, more accurately, in both Eastleigh and Southampton, but most of the airport is located in Eastleigh. It is an international airport and, therefore, one of the busiest in the country.
Hocombe Mead Nature Reserve
Situated between Hocombe Road and Hitingbury Roads, Hocombe Mead Nature Reserve is a historic woodland and meadow. This ancient woodland that has been around for 400 years is great for idle strolls to appreciate nature. It features wildlife animals, beautiful insects and birds.
Chandler’s Ford Library
This library, located on Chandler’s Ford, is a scenic, calm environment to read books and engage children. It is especially great because of the number of books in stock.
Henstings Alpacas
This is also a great place to visit in Eastleigh. Guests can learn a lot of facts about Alpacas and llamas while walking and feeding them. If you are scared of animals, it can be a great opportunity to spend time with friendly animals and overcome your fear of animals.
Swan Centre
Sawn Centre is Eastleigh’s famous shopping centre with over 50 retailers and leisure centres to meet the town’s needs. The Swan Centre is home to retailers like Tesco, H&M, Vue Cinema, Nandos, a library, gym, gaming centre, and a lounge, amongst others.
Itchen Valley Country Park
This beautiful outdoor park is great for a fun day out with your family. The park has different walking trails, a cafe, an orienteering course, and children play areas.
Tips for Planning a Trip to Eastleigh
Search for Hotels before Travelling
Before visiting Eastleigh, make sure to choose and book a hotel to help you settle in faster. You can simply go online to search for the best hotels in Eastleigh to book.
But besides that, make sure to check the hotel to make sure it fits your needs. You can do this by looking through their website for services and pictures and reading reviews of past customers. For instance, you would want to ensure the hotel prioritises the safety of their guests.
Research and Prepare for the Weather
You should also research for the best time to travel to Eastleigh. For instance, the coldest month in Eastleigh is February. And if you don’t like cold weather, that might not be the best time for you.
Plan for Outdoor Activities
Eastleigh is a beautiful town with many outdoor activities. So, prepare attire for the outdoors.
Eastleigh is a historical town that boasts many famous places to have a fun and educational time with friends and family. When you decide to visit Eastleigh, this article will come in handy.
