All you ever wanted to know about Hamble River

A new guide is available

A glossy new guide to the Hamble river and surrounding countryside has been launched for 2003 to encourage visitors to explore the region and make the most of their visit to this famous stretch of coastline on the South coast of Hampshire.

Produced by Hamble Valley Tourism, the guide includes details of the main marinas on the River Hamble, and their visitor mooring and facilities, as well as how to get about once moored and explore the region by dinghy, foot, bus and train.

Also incorporated are details of maritime and other events taking place in and around the river and pretty village of Hamble, including the Hamble Valley Food and Drink Festival and Hamble Week (both 28th June-6th July) - a perfect combination, most would agree, of a host of delicious foodie events, special menus at local restaurants and
pubs, produce markets on Hamble Quay and watersports on the river!

The Hamble River is one of the largest and most concentrated sailing centres in the British Isles. In a 2 ½ mile stretch between Hamble Point Quay and Bursledon bridge, the river is home to 3,400 boats, 15 marinas and boatyards, 4 sailing clubs and Southampton Maritime Insitute.

Says Sophie Boxall, Tourism Marketing Officer for Hamble Valley Tourism "the Hamble river gives this region such a unique identity and we want visitors, whether arriving by sea or land, to share in this. We hope this new guide will enhance a visit by opening up new ideas and opportunities to even the most regular visitor for discovering the Hamble, finding out what is on where, and exploring the area beyond". As an added incentive to send for the guide and discover the Hamble Valley, all recipients have the opportunity to enter a free prize draw to win a four night self catering break for up to five people staying in a luxury pine lodge at Riverside Park overlooking the Hamble River!

The Visitor Guide, together with more information about the Hamble Valley and what's on, including guided walks around Hamble village and nearby Netley and Bursledon, numerous local events at attractions, the heritage of the river and famous people associated with the Hamble Valley (from Nelson to Jane Austen to Benny Hill) can be picked up for free at the Village Tea Rooms in Hamble High Street which acts as a Visitor Information Point for Hamble Valley Tourism.

Alternatively, call 0906 68 22 001 in advance of a visit to Hamble to receive the guide and free literature in the post or email hamblevalley@eastleigh.gov.uk. Information is also online at www.hamblevalley.com. For more information about Riverside Park, visit
www.riversideholidays.co.uk