Rowlands Castle railway station marks a tangible trace of the village’s history: the building, which has been preserved almost unchanged, dates from 1859. Other features include a war memorial, church art in the parish, and two different types of route. For trip planning, it is worth distinguishing between the Shipwrights Way, which leads into and through the village, and the separate Rowlands Castle cycling route: it is eight miles long and starts and ends in the village.
The Railway Station and Local History
The Rowlands Castle railway station building dates from 1859, has been preserved almost unchanged, and was designed by Sir W Tite. It was built for the LSWR’s Portsmouth Direct line. The year it was built, its architect and its railway connection together provide a tangible introduction to local history. The Rowlands Castle Conservation Area was originally designated in 1993; The Castle is a Scheduled Monument.
Memorial and Church Art
The Rowlands Castle War Memorial is an obelisk commemorating the First World War. It was unveiled in 1919; later, additions were made to commemorate the Second World War. It can be accessed both from the main road and via a footpath through the churchyard, which has a small gate. Check local access conditions before your visit, as they may change.
The Church of St Hubert stands in the parish of Rowlands Castle, in Idsworth rather than the village centre. The Saxon-Norman church probably dates from the 10th century or earlier. Its chancel contains 14th-century wall paintings, considered the most important series in a church in Hampshire outside Winchester. The dates refer to different parts of the church: the probable early date applies to the building, while the 14th century applies to the paintings. The church therefore brings together its building history and later decoration in one place within the parish.
Walking and Cycling Routes
The Shipwrights Way follows a section of road or path into Rowlands Castle. The section through the village is open to walkers with dogs, cyclists and horse riders, and is also suitable for pushchairs and mobility aids. Check local conditions before setting out. The Way includes a bridleway that was formerly used as a drove road. This links the section’s present-day use with its former function.
The Rowlands Castle cycling route differs in its length and course: it is eight miles long, runs entirely on roads, and starts and ends in the village. The choice between the two options therefore comes down to different features: a road route with a specified length that starts and ends in the village, or the section of the Shipwrights Way that passes through Rowlands Castle and is open to several user groups. At Chalton Down, just beyond the railway bridge, there is open chalk downland that is freely accessible.
Discover more destinations: Emsworth, East Tisted, Breamore, Damerham, Boldre, Kingsclere, Tadley, Sutton Scotney.
For the broader travel overview: Hampshire.
