From sailing and pretty coastal walks to great places to eat and shop, the village of Warsash is a hive of activity all year round says Claire Pitcher

Grabbing a bite

If it’s a pint and good pub grub you fancy then there’s a few places to choose from in Warsash, including The Ferryman on Warsash Road (01489 573088) and, close to the river on Shore Road, The Rising Sun, call 01489 576898.

The Little Bay Cafe and Brasserie offers something quite different to fish and chips or pies, such as the Little Bay ‘Piggy’ Platter consisting of a homemade Scotch egg, pork terrine, sausage roll and coleslaw with homemade pickle. Or perhaps a giant vol au vent with wild mushroom and baby spinach is more your thing? Book a table on 01489 557804. Rated number one Restaurant in Warsash on Trip Advisor, The Village Bakery and Tea Room on Warsash Road can sell you fresh bread, cakes and homemade food.

Village souvenir

If you want to pick up something truly unique for either yourself or as a gift, then pop along to the Warsash Studios at 8 Dibles Road. There’s everything from pottery and paintings to cards and candles. If artwork is something you’re on the lookout for, go into Hardings Gallery. They have lots of featured artists including Frank Taylor and Kerry Darlington. Check them all out online at www.hardingspictureframing.co.uk. There is also a wonderful boutique store called Rhian Fashion House at 48 Warsash Road. Call in for a special item that you won’t find in the usual high street stores.

Making the headlines

In recent news, back in January, it was reported that the Sea Cadets in Warsash are the best troop in the country. The group, TS Tormentor, which meets at the Maritime Academy, was shortlisted in the top six troops in the country and then crowned top.

Diary

If you’re a keen sailor, don’t forget to sign up for the Finn Open meeting on October 22 and 23 2016. Find out more at www.warsashsc.org.uk. Don’t forget the Victory Hall Autumn Ball on October 1 2016, plus there will be plenty of fun to be had at this year’s panto.

Did you know

The Warsash Clock Tower was built as a water tower to serve the Warsash House Estate. The tanks at the top held up to 6,000 gallons, but by the mid-1930s these were rusting and the tower had fallen into a state of disrepair. The huge brass works of the chiming clock (enclosed in a glass case on the second floor) had also stopped working. The clock was originally built by Gillet and Johnson, and was considered unique in its time because it struck Eight Bells (ship’s time).

Village voice

Rose Daubeny is a resident of the village and long-standing member of Warsash Sailing Club. The club itself was founded in 1957 when a small building and boat pond was built on top of an area previously filled by the ‘holding tanks’ for lobsters - hence the logo on the Club burgee.

“The club is always busy with either sailing or social events. Wednesday night dinghy racing has started up again and the Thursday night racing for bigger boats started in May.

“At the weekends a programme of dinghy racing and cruises take place throughout the season. The club will also be hosting a number of open meetings for adults and children, which will see fleets of over 100 visiting boats racing in the surrounding waters.”

When Rose isn’t out on the water, there’s still plenty to keep her occupied: “I enjoy meeting up with friends at Warsash Sailing Club for lunch and taking in the view of the river.

“The village is a lovely, friendly place. It’s funny - I once overheard someone say: ‘I wouldn’t like to live in Warsash – too darned busy’. We have lived in Warsash for over 50 years and have been very busy!”

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• What’s on offer in the village of Buriton - This South Downs village has a wonderful community spirit. With two pubs and a plethora of events through the year, there’s always something for residents to look forward to says Claire Pitcher