The Big Eat Festival
The Big Eat is a celebration of Hampshire Street food and the home of the Hampshire street food awards. Entry to the event is free to the public.
This picturesque Hamble River Valley takes in both coast and country
The Hamble Valley
The Hamble Valley sits to the south east of Southampton, following the course of the River Hamble from Hamble-le-Rice to Warsash, where it enters Southampton Water. It takes in towns and villages such as Bursledon, Botley, Swanwick and Hedge End as well as parts of historic Netley.
Over time, the tides of this coastal river shaped a wide, gentle landscape extending from inland farmland and meadows, through ancient woodland and marshland, to the coastal edges dotted with mudflats, and shingle shores. The presence of the Solent and Southampton Water has made this very much a coastal and sailing centre with great views and great food.
If you live on, or visit the other side of the river, you can always hop on the fun, quirky Hamble/Warsash ferry – follow the flow of the river to find some of our members and the food and drink they offer.
The Big Eat Festival at the Royal Victoria Country Park at Netley
Every year in May, the stunning Royal Victoria Country Park at Netley plays host to the Big Eat Festival, a showcase of local talent, both musical and foodie, all in support of local communties.
It’s free to attend and brings together more than 50 of the very best street food vendors, a full line-up of bands across two stages, and lots of family fun – all in one unforgettable weekend. The icing on the cake – profits are donated to local food banks!
Keep an eye out on social media and on the events section of our website for news on the next Big Eat.
The Bugle at Hamble-le-rice
Hamble-le-Rice, most commonly just known as Hamble, is a yachty haven with historic cobbled streets leading down to the waterfront. This coastal village is home to The Bugle, a Grade II listed traditional inn overlooking the river.
Classic oak tables and exposed beams set the cosy tone for this unique venue full of rustic character. In the winter months there’s a welcoming, roaring fire, while in the warmer weather there’s terrace with picturesque views. The Captain’s Table offers private dining for up to ten people.
The Bugle takes its membership of Hampshire Fare seriously, using the best local ingredients, changing their menus seasonally, and serving everything alongside good wines and local real ales.
The Bugle is dog-friendly and the walks along the river are a perfect start or finish to this gem of a pub.
Vanilla Catering, Swanwick
Based on the banks of the River Hamble in Swanwick, Vanilla Catering has been providing exceptional corporate, wedding, event and private catering for nearly two decades.
Working with the very best and freshest seasonal ingredients, their chefs are creative, skilled and passionate about the food they create.
They’re also committed to using local Hampshire suppliers wherever possible and have strong ethical and sustainable business values.
They’re dedicated to reducing their carbon footprint, they recycle everything they can, encourage staff to cycle to work, and their state-of-the-art kitchens operate to the highest legislative standards in terms of emissions.
If you’re planning an event, then Vanilla Catering should be on your research list.
The Boathouse at Swanwick Marina
The Boathouse is a lively but relaxed restaurant and cafe which sits rights on the waterfront at Swanwick with incredible views over the River Hamble and the yachts moored at the marina.
They’re open every day serving a tempting menu of delicious hot and cold breakfast and brunch dishes, snacks and light bites such as ciabattas or pizza, mains of mouthwatering fresh market fish as well as steak cooked over coals.
Woodies at the Barn, Netley Abbey
Set in a beautifully re-purposed 200‑year‑old stable barn in Netley Abbey, Woodies at the Barn is a charming wine bar and restaurant serving locally sourced food and drink.
This is simple food, designed to be enjoyed in a relaxed atmosphere in their historic building and their beer garden.
Think honey roast ham, fried egg and triple cooked chips, minute steak with garlic butter, watercress and fries, Sunday roasts, burgers, pizza and tapas.
Our members in the Hamble Valley
The Bugle
Using fresh, locally sourced seasonal ingredients, The Bugle’s restaurant menu offers something for everyone.
Vanilla Catering and Events
An catering and events business based in Southampton who create fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Woodies at the Barn
A former derelict 200-year old stable barn has been transformed into a brand new wine bar in Netley
