Along the south coast of England, there's a beautiful island that one Midlander hadn't heard of before—but it has quickly become a place she can't wait to go back to. Hayling Island, located in Hampshire, sits at a 20-minute drive from Portsmouth, or a short ferry ride away.
An Undiscovered Coastal Escape
The island has one road on and one road off, meaning it has stayed true to its original character and hasn't been completely taken over by tourism. Driving onto the island, the reporter noticed families fishing and locals strolling along the green and coastal roads.
On a sunny day, it doesn't feel like anywhere else in the UK. Instead, it feels undiscovered.
Seafront Shops and Beach Huts
The seafront in Hayling Island is home to a handful of shops, including an antiques shop, a chippy, a cafe and a beach shop. The reporter managed to head inside and chat to some of the owners about the area, who said they love the area and enjoy seeing visitors come to appreciate the scenery they have right on their doorstep.
There's a funfair which has an old-fashioned style, but it looks closed and there certainly aren't any people walking around it, let alone screaming from the rollercoaster. This is one section of the seafront that could be improved for visitors.
A Rich History and a Quiet Beach
One area that grabs attention is the perfectly-kept beach huts which add colour and vibrancy to the postcard-like beach views. Reports say Hayling Island was originally a holiday spot for the wealthy who wished to enjoy the medicinal benefits of seawater and fresh air.
Hayling Island was discovered by the masses in the 1930s, when the popularity of cars made travelling there more convenient. Over time, the island grew in popularity as a holiday destination. But then, in World War Two, its beach was taken over by the Royal Navy in 1939 so it could serve as a barracks for the armed forces.
The island has a rich history and the locals even tell the reporter they themselves question why more tourists don't visit the island, especially considering its proximity to the capital. Today in the UK, it can be hard to find a spot that's not completely packed with crowds of Brits flocking to the coast—especially in warmer weather. But Hayling Island is the perfect quiet spot to enjoy the beach to yourself.
