Around Sandy Acres Girlguiding Campsite there are many attractions that you can visit while staying at the site. We have listed a few that may provide you with ideas for an interesting day out with your group.
Fairthorne Manor
Picturesquely situated in 111 acres of parkland and woodland on the banks of the River Hamble, Fairthorne Manor is eight miles east of Southampton and within two hours’ travel from London.
Fairthorne Manor is visited by over 15,000 children and young people each year. The grounds provide a stimulating, safe and secure environment. Situated on the upper reaches of the River Hamble, there are facilities for watersports such as kayaking, sailing and raft-building, as well as other outdoor pursuits including abseiling, aerial runway, pioneering and orienteering.
Schools and community groups visit for residential stays in bunk-bedded rooms or in tents, and a very popular Daycamps programme runs during school holidays and half terms. There is also an 89-place day nursery for children aged 4 months to 5 years, and Fairthorne Manor Golf Club is based within the grounds.
Fareham Leisure Centre
Situated at the western end of the town centre, Fareham Leisure Centre provides a wide range of facilities, services and activities, within walking distance of the bus and train stations.
- General enquiries: 01329 233652
- E-mail: farehaminfo@slm-ltd.co.uk
- Facilities include: 25-metre main swimming pool
Marwell Zoological Park
Marwell Zoo is set in a hundred acres of Hampshire countryside and has over 200 different species of animals, including Amur tigers and leopards, cheetah, ocelot, zebra, rhino, pygmy hippo, giraffes, meerkats and penguins. Marwell is dedicated to the conservation of rare species.
You can buy tickets online to speed your entry. There is a large free car park. The park features a large family restaurant (Treetops) and many refreshment kiosks, a free road train, and a narrow-gauge railway (small charge). Manual wheelchairs are available and mobility scooters can be hired in advance.
Portsmouth – The Spinnaker Tower
Elegant, sculptural and awe-inspiring, the Spinnaker Tower soars 170 metres into the sky above the historic harbour of Portsmouth. The views are outstanding — on a clear day you can see for 23 miles or more.
- “Walk on Air”: Cross the glass floor — the largest in Europe.
- View Deck 1: The best panoramic view in the region.
- View Deck 2: Watch history unfold on the unique Time Telescopes, where you can see Mary Rose or HMS Victory ‘sailing by’.
- “Crow’s Nest”: The top deck, open to the elements.
Return to earth and enjoy the waterfront Tower Café/Bar.
Portsmouth – Royal Navy Historic Dockyard
Discover world-famous historic ships – HMS Victory, the Mary Rose & HMS Warrior 1860 – that have shaped British history at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Home of the Royal Navy, other attractions include The Royal Naval Museum with the “Dreadnoughts” exhibition, and Action Stations, featuring the interactive gallery InterAction detailing the science and technology of the modern Royal Navy. Harbour Tours are also available, subject to conditions.
Portsmouth – Royal Armouries Museum – Fort Nelson
Fort Nelson was built in the 1860s as part of a chain of fortifications protecting the great naval harbour of Portsmouth. Covering nearly 19 acres and now fully restored, Fort Nelson sits majestically atop Portsdown Hill, with amazing views of the Solent and the Meon Valley.
Entry is FREE of charge to all visitors, all year round. Opened in 1995 as home to the Royal Armouries collection of artillery, Fort Nelson has over 350 big guns and historic cannon on display, including three Guinness World Record holders. From the Great Turkish Bombard of 1464 to Saddam Hussein’s infamous ‘Supergun’ – the collection is brought vividly to life every day.
Southsea – Blue Reef Aquarium
Welcome to Blue Reef Aquarium in Southsea, Portsmouth, voted Visitor Attraction of the Year by Tourism South East. Situated on Clarence Esplanade, between the two piers overlooking the busy Solent, Blue Reef Aquarium is a great visit whatever the weather.
Be amazed by animals ranging from local marine species to hundreds of tropical fish in the gigantic ocean display, complete with an underwater tunnel. The family of otters can be previewed on their very own webcam. Blue Reef is part of a new generation of wildlife attractions designed to inspire deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
Additional Activities
Swimming
Meon Valley Marriott Hotel and Country ClubSandy Lane, Shedfield, Southampton SO32 2HQ
Phone: 01329 836831 (booking required)
Plan Your Activities
For advice on activities on the campsite itself, see our Activities page. To check availability and book, visit our Bookings page.