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Hayling Island Tourist Guide |
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Written by step
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Wednesday, 08 August 2007 |
Hayling Island is found off the south coast of England in the county of
Hampshire and neighbours Portsea Island to which it is connected by a
subsidised small passenger ferry. It is connected to mainland Great
Britain by a single bridge, which allows access by road. Hayling Island
covers an area of 11.6 square miles, equivalent to approximately 30
square kilometres.
The extensive coastline boasts sandy beaches and make it perfect for a
plethora of water sports. It is now widely accepted that wind surfing
was in fact first invented on the island and for many experienced wind
surfers a visit to Hayling is almost a pilgrimage. It is also a great
place to try wind surfing for the first time, be prepared to fall in
occasionally but don't worry it is all part of the fun. Hayling Island
also has its very own sailing club, founded in 1921 but recently
renovated. Their impressive facilities allow you to learn the basics of
sailing and there is even a mock-olympic track available for the more
experienced among you.
If you travel to Hayling you really must not leave without first
visiting the historic oyster beds. Oysters were farmed on the island
for over one hundred and fifty years, right up until the 1970s. In the
late 1990s the beds were made into a nature reserve and awarded
Millenium Product status by the Design Council. Now many seabird
nesting sites can be found in this area, contributing to the overall
biodiversity of the region and attracting bird watchers from around the
globe.
The new East Hayling Light Railway, founded in 2003, is also worth a
visit. With over a mile of track already in place, it provides an
enjoyable trip around a portion of the island and will soon act as a
transport link to the Portsea ferry service.
Those that love the theatre are well catered for on Hayling Island with
the 144 seat Station Theatre, home to the island's amateur dramatic
society (HIADS).
In short, Hayling Island has something for everyone, providing a sedate
relaxing or active sporty holiday, depending upon your preference.
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