Hotels in Hamble-Le-Rice

Hamble-Le-Rice lies at the mouth of the River Hamble. The river and paths along the water are a clear focus, alongside archaeological traces and a long maritime history. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in Hamble-Le-Rice, you can plan around whether you mainly want to include paths, historic sites or activities on the river.

Walking routes around Hamble-Le-Rice

Hamble-Le-Rice lies midway along the Solent Way, which runs from Milford on Sea to Emsworth. This places the town along the route of this long-distance trail. One route described specifically for the area is Exploring Hamble: it follows the banks of the creek and passes Hamble Common. It also passes the Priory Church of St Andrew. This means the longer trail and a route with named local landmarks offer different points of reference for your plans.

Important local walking routes in the parish of Hamble include the King Charles III England Coast Path, the Solent Way, the Hamble Peninsular Trail, the Rail Trail and the Strawberry Trail. Check local route availability before planning. Exploring Hamble routes may be affected by seasonal conditions; bear this in mind when planning the route for your stay.

Archaeological and ecclesiastical history

Hamble Common is home to an archaeological monument designated as a Scheduled Monument. It includes a linear earthwork that may be associated with an Iron Age promontory fort. The monument also includes the remains of a 16th-century castle, a 19th-century gun battery and 20th-century anti-aircraft gun emplacements. These traces from different periods give the site a historical focus distinct from the themes of the river and walking routes.

The Priory Church of St Andrew also brings together several layers of history: it contains traces of Roman settlement and the remains of a Saxon church. A stained-glass window on the west side was installed in 2001. It depicts Saint Bernard against a view of the River Hamble and the Isle of Wight. Those interested in local history will find this specific, more recent detail alongside the older architectural traces.

Maritime and aviation history

Hamble Foreshore has a long maritime history. It is associated with fishing boats and sailing boats; boatbuilding and boat maintenance were also among the area’s historic activities. One dated point in this history is 1418, when the Grace Dieu was brought to Hamble to be fitted out.

Aviation is also part of the area’s history. Avro used its Hamble facility as a design and development centre. The first new Avro aircraft assembled there was the twin-engined Avro 523 Pike. At the start of the war, Hamble Aerodrome became the largest Spitfire repair base in the country. This maritime and industrial aviation history complements the archaeological themes around Hamble Common.

Activities on the River Hamble

Prince Philip Yacht Haven offers berths for visiting boats on the River Hamble. If you are planning to use a berth, check availability with the provider in advance. Hamble River Sailing Club offers sailing and powerboating courses in summer. The courses are open to experienced sailors as well as complete beginners. Check booking and membership requirements before taking part.

For private outings, Hamble Powerboat Charters offers powerboat trips for families or groups. Hamble Paddle hires out paddleboards on the River Hamble. As bookings and availability may change, check the current terms directly with the respective providers. Another way to add a local theme to your stay is the self-guided Hamble Spy Mission Trail, a spy-themed treasure hunt. A booklet must be purchased to take part.

Discover more destinations: Emsworth, Buriton, Gosport, St Mary Bourne, Stroud, Wickham, Heckfield, Hythe

For the overview of the wider area: Hampshire.