The Hayling Billy Trail follows the former railway line from Havant on the mainland to the south of Hayling Island. On the coast of South Hayling, a heritage trail tells the story of Hayling’s role during the war years. There are also varied coastal landscapes, a nature reserve with accessible surroundings, and a ride on a narrow-gauge railway.
Exploring the Hayling Billy Trail
The Hayling Billy Trail follows the original route of the Hayling Billy Railway. It runs from Havant on the mainland to the south of Hayling Island and can be used on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. Several access points lead to the foreshore of Langstone Harbour. Bird and nature watchers, cyclists, runners and mobility vehicle users all use the trail. In this way, the route combines its former railway line with a range of uses today: it serves as a way to get around and is also used for observing nature.
Coast and nature at Sandy Point
Sandy Point Nature Reserve lies at the southeastern tip of Hayling Island. Its mosaic of habitats includes dunes, heathland, shingle, grassland and scrub. The nature reserve itself is closed to the public. The surrounding beach and shingle areas are accessible, with views of the Solent and the nature reserve. This distinction is important when planning a visit: access is to the surrounding area, not to the closed nature reserve.
The beaches also have different surfaces. Along the Hayling Island seafront, the shore is mostly shingle above the high-water mark, with long stretches of sand below it. The seafront facing the Solent has more than 3 miles of beaches.
Coastal history and a ride on a miniature railway
The World War Two Heritage Trail runs along the coast of South Hayling and documents Hayling’s role during the war years. Its focus is therefore the area’s history. The Hayling Light Railway offers something different: a 2-mile round trip on a narrow-gauge miniature railway, connecting Beachlands with Eastoke Corner. The ride is a circular journey; services are affected by the weather, demand and daylight. Check service information before your visit.
Water sports and getting there
For windsurfing, Windwise offers tailored courses and coaching in the Hayling and Hampshire area. Confirm course dates with the provider. On Hayling Island, the Hayling Island CBK Kitesurf School offers an introduction to kitesurfing; you should also check lessons and conditions with the provider in advance. The two activities differ: Windwise offers windsurfing, while CBK offers kitesurfing.
Stagecoach bus routes 30 and 31 connect Havant Bus Station, near the railway station, with the Hayling Island seafront. This provides a specific guide for travelling by public transport. Check timetables before your trip if you plan to use this connection.
Discover more destinations: New Milton, Horndean, Bishop's Waltham, Stroud, Waterlooville, Hound, Sutton Scotney, Oakley
For the regional travel overview: Hampshire.
