Eastleigh

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Eastleigh's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Eastleigh Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich history and heritage. Stroll through the charming streets, admiring the architecture and perhaps stopping for a coffee at a local café. Take a moment to visit the nearby Eastleigh Clock Tower, a lovely landmark that marks the heart of the town.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Eastleigh's quaint restaurants, sampling some local dishes. Afterward, head to the nearby Lakeside Country Park for a relaxing walk along the picturesque paths and perhaps some birdwatching. Don't miss the chance to explore the park's beautiful gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy pub in Eastleigh to enjoy a traditional English dinner, complete with local ales. Engage in conversation with friendly locals and perhaps catch some live music if you're lucky. Wind down your day with a peaceful walk around the park, taking in the tranquility of the evening.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Encounter
morning
:

Begin your day at the Itchen Valley Country Park, where you can enjoy the fresh air and stunning natural surroundings. Take a guided nature walk to learn about the local flora and fauna, immersing yourself in the beauty of the English countryside. Look out for wildlife as you stroll along the riverbanks and through the woodlands.

afternoon
:

After your morning in nature, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the park's designated spots, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds. Spend your afternoon cycling along the trails or trying your hand at fishing in the River Itchen. The park's visitor center also offers educational exhibits that you can explore.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Eastleigh for a relaxed dinner at a restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients. If you're up for it, check out a local theater performance for an entertaining evening. Conclude your day with a stroll through the town, reflecting on the beauty of nature you've experienced.

day 3
Cultural Day at the Arts Centre
morning
:

Kick off your morning at the Eastleigh Arts Centre, where you can appreciate local art exhibitions and perhaps take part in a workshop. Engaging with local artists can provide insight into the vibrant art scene in Eastleigh. Spend some time browsing through the art pieces displayed, many of which reflect the town’s culture and history.

afternoon
:

After exploring the center, grab lunch at a nearby café that supports local artists, providing a creative atmosphere. Spend your afternoon attending a matinee performance or a film screening at the center, immersing yourself in the local culture. Alternatively, you could explore the nearby shops for unique handcrafted goods.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy dinner at a restaurant renowned for its artistic ambiance, perhaps featuring local artwork on display. After dinner, consider attending an open mic night at the arts center to enjoy local talent showcasing their skills. This vibrant setting is the perfect way to wrap up a day celebrating the arts in Eastleigh.

day 4
Heritage Railways and Train Adventures
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Eastleigh Railway Works, a historic site that played a significant role in Britain’s railway history. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating engineering behind steam locomotives. Capture some beautiful photographs of the vintage trains and the surrounding architecture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a nearby café that specializes in hearty British fare, refueling for an afternoon of adventure. In the afternoon, hop on a vintage train ride from Eastleigh Station, taking in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside. This nostalgic journey allows you to appreciate the beauty of the landscape while experiencing a piece of history.

evening
:

Upon returning to Eastleigh, enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a railway theme, offering a unique dining experience. If time permits, visit the Eastleigh Railway Museum to delve deeper into the local railway heritage. End your day by relaxing at a local pub, soaking in the ambiance of this charming town.

day 5
Shopping and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Eastleigh Market, where you can browse a variety of local produce and artisanal goods. Enjoy sampling fresh fruits, baked goods, and perhaps picking up a few souvenirs. The vibrant atmosphere of the market is a great way to immerse yourself in the community.

afternoon
:

After shopping, treat yourself to a delightful lunch at one of Eastleigh's bistros that offers a fusion of international cuisines. Spend your afternoon exploring the town's independent shops and boutiques, where you can find unique items that reflect Eastleigh's character. Don’t forget to indulge in some local delicacies as you wander.

evening
:

As evening falls, enjoy a culinary experience at a highly-rated restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table dishes. Engage with the chef if possible, learning more about the ingredients and inspiration behind the meals. Conclude your day with a dessert stop at a local bakery, savoring a sweet treat before heading back to your accommodation.

day 6
Sports and Outdoor Activities
morning
:

Wake up and gear up for an active day at the Eastleigh Football Club, where you can watch a local match or even join a community training session. The excitement in the air is contagious as locals come together to support their teams. Take some time to meet fellow sports enthusiasts and perhaps learn a few new skills.

afternoon
:

After the morning's activities, enjoy lunch at a nearby sports pub, where you can fuel up on hearty meals while discussing the game. Spend your afternoon at the nearby Fleming Park, where you can participate in various outdoor sports activities such as tennis or swimming. Whether you choose to join a game or simply relax by the lake, the park offers plenty of options for outdoor fun.

evening
:

As evening approaches, unwind with a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that captures the spirit of Eastleigh’s community. If you're in the mood for more sports, consider catching a local football match to experience the thrill of live sports. End your day by celebrating with fellow fans and enjoying the camaraderie that sports bring.

day 7
Artisan Workshops and Creativity
morning
:

Kick off your day by attending a pottery workshop at a local artisan studio, where you can unleash your creative potential. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you’ll learn to shape clay and create your own masterpiece. This hands-on experience is both therapeutic and fulfilling, setting a positive tone for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

After your workshop, enjoy lunch at a café that features art from local artists, allowing you to soak in the creativity around you. Spend your afternoon participating in another workshop, perhaps focusing on painting or crafting, where you can further explore your artistic side. Engaging with fellow participants adds a social element to your creative journey.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, enjoy a casual dinner at a restaurant that supports local artists, with an ambiance filled with creativity. Consider visiting an art exhibit opening in town, where you can meet local artists and enjoy their work. Conclude your day by reflecting on your artistic experiences and the connections you’ve made.

Discover Eastleigh

Read more in our Eastleigh 2025 Travel Guide.

Eastleigh Travel Guide