Wallington Village may be tucked away amidst roundabouts and industrial estates – but cross its famous bridge and you're welcomed by a vibrant community

Positioned at the head of Portsmouth Harbour, to the east of Fareham, Wallington nestles comfortably and quietly in an area surrounded by the hustle and bustle of a large town.

Most noted for...Its bridge. The Wallington Village Community Association was formed when, in 1979, Southern Water proposed to demolish the village’s rare five-arch bridge because it was seen as a cause of flooding. The association won their battle and ever since the bridge has become a feature of their logo.

While you’re here...Take a walk along Wallington River. Fareham Borough Council publishes self guided walks online and there is a three-hour stroll to tackle (Walk 13). For comprehensive directions, visit www.fareham.gov.uk

But try not to...Miss the village’s annual horticultural show in August.

Stop for…The Summer Fete in July, which takes place on the Meadows.

People powerAfter the struggle to save the village’s bridge, Wallington’s community wanted to continue to be able to get together and start organising their own events. Fareham Borough Council kindly donated a wooden building and a site for it, but after a few years the villagers realised a more ‘sturdy’ replacement was needed. After many fundraising events and grants from various bodies in the county, the village finally got their new hall – which opened in October 1995.

Prehistoric linksWallington was the first fording place on the river that rises in the South Downs and flows down to empty in to the upper reaches of Fareham Creek. Flint implements have been uncovered in the area, which has led to the belief that a settlement existed on the banks of the river as far back as prehistoric times.

Eat at: Lysses House Hotel, The Richmond Restaurant, 01329 822622Why? This award winning restaurant is just half a mile away from Wallington itself and is open for lunch and dinner. Drink at: The Castle in the Air, 01329 280320Why? An olde worlde pub with real fires and good ales. In a lovely location right on Fareham Creek Harbour. Stay at: The Solent Hotel, Fareham, 01489 880007Why? For a spot of luxury, try the hotel’s spa and book in to one of their stylish suites.

Did you know?

• There was once a tannery in Wallington in the 17th century. Hides and bark used there, along with the finished products, were all carried by sea via the Fareham Quays. The tannery employed around three dozen men.• There used to be a brewery just north of the village, which opened in the 19th century and continued to produce ale for over 100 years.