A Visitor's Introduction to Eastleigh, Hampshire

Why is Eastleigh Worth a Visit?

Eastleigh is worth visiting for its rich railway history, lively arts scene, and proximity to both nature and city attractions. The town has strong connections to the railways, with Eastleigh Railway Works playing a significant role in its development. Visitors can explore this legacy through local heritage sites, while the modern The Point Theatre and The Arc provide cultural experiences through performances, films, and exhibitions.

Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Itchen Valley Country Park and the River Itchen, perfect for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions, Eastleigh offers something for everyone, whether you're interested in history, the arts, or the great outdoors.

Eastleigh Highlights: Things to See and Do in Eastleigh

1. The Point Theatre
Eastleigh is home to The Point, a renowned arts venue offering a wide range of performances, from theatre and dance to comedy and live music. The Point also hosts workshops and community events, making it a cultural hub for both locals and visitors. Its intimate setting and high-quality performances have earned it a reputation as one of the leading venues in Hampshire. Whether you’re catching a play or enjoying a concert, The Point is a must-visit for those interested in the arts.

2. Eastleigh Museum
Learn about the town’s history at Eastleigh Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the development of Eastleigh from a small railway village to a thriving town. Exhibits cover the town’s railway heritage, local industries, and community stories, with displays of artefacts and photographs. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and family-friendly activities, making it a great stop for history buffs and families alike. Entry is free, making it an easy and informative addition to your itinerary.

3. Itchen Valley Country Park
A short drive from Eastleigh town centre, Itchen Valley Country Park is a large expanse of green space offering woodland trails, meadows, and picnic areas. Situated along the River Itchen, the park is perfect for walking, cycling, and birdwatching. The park also features a play area for children, a café, and a Go Ape treetop adventure course for those seeking a bit of excitement. It’s a wonderful spot to escape into nature and enjoy a day outdoors with family and friends.

4. Eastleigh Lakeside Railway
For a fun and unique experience, visit the Eastleigh Lakeside Railway, a miniature steam railway that runs through scenic Lakeside Country Park. The railway offers regular rides on its miniature trains, taking visitors on a journey around the park’s lakes and woodlands. It’s a great attraction for families, children, and railway enthusiasts. The park itself is a peaceful place for a stroll, with plenty of wildlife and picturesque views, and the railway adds an extra element of charm.

5. Swan Shopping Centre
Swan Shopping Centre is the heart of Eastleigh’s retail scene, offering a variety of high-street shops, independent boutiques, and places to eat. It’s the perfect spot for a bit of retail therapy, with everything from fashion and electronics to home goods and beauty products. The shopping centre also houses a cinema, making it a convenient place to unwind after a day of shopping or sightseeing.

6. Lakeside Country Park
Adjacent to the Eastleigh Lakeside Railway, Lakeside Country Park is a serene area featuring three lakes, meadows, and woodlands. It’s a lovely spot for walking, fishing, and picnicking, and the flat terrain makes it accessible for all ages. The park’s tranquil atmosphere, combined with its proximity to the town, makes it a popular place for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. You can also enjoy wildlife spotting, with various bird species frequenting the lakes.

7. The Arc
For art lovers, The Arc in Eastleigh offers a creative space that showcases contemporary art, photography, and film. This modern venue hosts rotating exhibitions and film screenings, providing an enriching cultural experience for visitors. Whether you're interested in local artists or international works, The Arc’s diverse programme ensures there’s always something new and inspiring to discover.

8. Fleming Park
A large green space in the town, Fleming Park offers leisure activities for all ages. It is home to Places Leisure Eastleigh, a modern leisure centre that includes a swimming pool, gym, and sports facilities. The park itself features open fields, wooded areas, and walking paths, perfect for outdoor activities, jogging, or simply relaxing in the fresh air. With its sports amenities and peaceful atmosphere, Fleming Park is ideal for active visitors and those seeking a quiet escape.

9. The Railway Works and Eastleigh Locomotive Depot
Eastleigh’s rich railway heritage can be explored at the Eastleigh Railway Works, which was one of the largest and most important railway depots in the UK. While the works are still operational, you can visit nearby sites and learn about the history of the locomotive building and repairs that took place here. The annual Eastleigh Railway Works Open Day offers a rare chance to see inside the working facility, with displays of historic engines and guided tours.

10. Winchester and Southampton Day Trips
Eastleigh’s location between Winchester and Southampton makes it an excellent base for exploring both of these historic cities. In Winchester, you can visit the magnificent Winchester Cathedral, stroll through medieval streets, and explore the Great Hall with its legendary Round Table. Southampton offers a bustling port, shopping, and attractions like the SeaCity Museum, which tells the story of the Titanic, and the historic Tudor House and Garden.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There:
Eastleigh is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible from London and other major cities. Eastleigh Railway Station offers direct trains to London Waterloo (around 1 hour and 15 minutes), Southampton (10 minutes), and Winchester (8 minutes). If you’re travelling by car, the town is conveniently located near the M3 and M27 motorways. Southampton Airport is just a short drive or train ride away, offering flights to a variety of domestic and European destinations.

Parking:
There are several parking options in Eastleigh, including Swan Centre Car Park and Mitchell Road Car Park, both centrally located and offering easy access to the town’s shops and attractions. Lakeside Country Park and Itchen Valley Country Park also offer parking for visitors, making it convenient to explore the town’s outdoor spaces.

Dining:
Eastleigh’s food scene offers a mix of casual dining, international cuisine, and traditional pub fare. For a relaxed meal, Artisan Meze & Wine Bar offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while La Fenice is a local favourite for Italian food. For something more traditional, The Wagon Works, a pub located near the railway station, serves classic British pub food in a cosy setting. For lighter bites, Café Monde offers excellent coffee, homemade cakes, and light lunches.

Shopping:
The Swan Shopping Centre is the main retail destination in Eastleigh, offering a range of high-street shops, fashion boutiques, and department stores. You’ll also find independent stores and local markets in the town centre, perfect for discovering unique gifts, crafts, and local produce. If you’re after a larger shopping experience, Westquay Shopping Centre in Southampton is just a short drive or train ride away.

When to Visit:
Eastleigh is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. Spring and summer are the best times to visit if you want to enjoy the outdoor attractions like Itchen Valley Country Park and Lakeside Country Park, with mild weather and greenery in full bloom. Autumn is ideal for walking along the River Itchen and enjoying the changing colours of the season, while winter brings festive markets and Christmas lights to the town centre.

Local Events:
Eastleigh hosts a variety of community events and festivals throughout the year. The Eastleigh Film Festival, held in September, showcases films in unique locations around town, while the Eastleigh Mela celebrates cultural diversity with food, music, and performances. The Point Theatre regularly hosts local and international performances, including music, dance, and theatre. The annual Christmas Lights Switch-On brings a festive atmosphere to the town, with markets, entertainment, and family activities.

Exploring Beyond Eastleigh:
Eastleigh’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider Hampshire area. A short train ride will take you to the historic city of Winchester, where you can visit the famous Winchester Cathedral, the medieval Great Hall, and the charming streets of one of England’s oldest cities. Southampton, with its rich maritime history, shopping, and cultural attractions, is also nearby. For those who love nature, the New Forest National Park is within easy reach, offering beautiful woodlands, wild ponies, and picturesque villages.