Hampshire is a vast and varied county, encompassing historical Winchester, endearing holiday destination, the Isle of Wight, industrial Basingstoke and the glorious New Forest. It boasts major shipping ports, big cities, quaint villages and successful centres of commerce.
Yet what is the Hampshire jewel in the crown of many lettings agents? Hamble, on the coast.
This picturesque town, situated where the River Hamble and The Solent meet, is a stone’s throw from bustling Southampton, but a virtual world away. Boasting a pretty harbour, walking trails and lots of family attractions, Hamble is quite simple, a lovely place to live.
Hamble-le-Rice, to give its proper name, was an aircraft training centre during the Second World War. To emphasise the point, on your drive into the town, you will spy a jet on the bend.
The area is also hugely popular for boating – nearby Bursledon was the location for the fictional Mermaid Yard from ‘Howard’s Way’ – Hamble Marina is a favourite with yachters.
Each year, Hamble Week takes place, celebrating all things yachting together with live music, competitions, markets and a funfair. The event, which climaxes with a spectacular fireworks display is always attended by thousands, all fighting to get a seat at one of town’s famed pubs or restaurants.
Its proximity to Southampton and Portsmouth, means that exciting shopping trips are never too far away. Hamble has its own station and is located near the M27, so commuting to the cities or to London is easily achieved.
Naturally, the town has all of the amenities that you would expect, good schools, medical services, churches and a mobile library. There are also lots of shops, plus a 24 hour supermarket is just a ten minute drive away.
The internet possesses a wealth of information on Hamble-le-Rice, but if you want to get a real opinion on the town, then why not visit yourself? Just be careful you don’t fall in love with it!
