Eastleigh

Eastleigh is part of the picturesque Hamble Valley area stretching along the River Hamble and Solent, including Bishop's Waltham, Bursledon, Botley, Netley Abbey, and Hamble.

The Spitfire prototype was launched from Eastleigh Aerodrome back in 1936, now known as Southampton International Airport located on the outskirts of town. The entrance to the airport now proudly displays a replica Spitfire.

Eastleigh Museum in the town centre is a small, friendly venue with a coffee shop, offering visitors a glimpse into the past including a 1930s recreation of a terraced house and a railway exhibition. Families will enjoy Lakeside Country Park & Steam Railway, popular for fishing and easy strolls.

At the heart of Eastleigh town centre is The Point, a contemporary performance space that offers a diverse programme of dance, theatre, comedy, film, children's theatre and music. The venue also runs many different dance classes for all ages and a great youth theatre and youth dance company. In the evenings you can also visit the new 9 screen cinema and bowling complex at the Swan shopping centre.

Eastleigh also has its very own Summer music festival. Described as a "hidden gem" Eastleigh music festival has in the past seen performances by Badly Drawn Boy, British Sea Power, Cara Dillon and Seth Lakeman. The 3 day festival culminates in the Eastleigh Mela, a popular multi-cultural event with a great programme of dance, music, food and activities from around the globe.