If you’re going to be enjoying a staycation this Summer and you happen to find yourself in Hampshire, you could do a lot worse than escape to Langstone harbour. It’s this nook of Hampshire’s coast it’s outstanding views, wildlife and countryside that my family and many of my clients love the best.
S ituated between Portsmouth to the west and Chichester to the east this beautiful area, known for it’s Mill, scenery and wildlife has a special place in my heart.
If you’re looking for photography location ideas or simply somewhere new to explore I wanted to share just some of the reasons I love this area, so that you too can discover and enjoy the area with your own family.
Discover
The Hayling Billy Trail
Saddle up and catch the Hayling Ferry from Portsmouth and follow the national cycleway along the tracks of the old Billy steam train. The route passes the harbour so it’s an ideal spot to take a break. If you’re hard-core create a circular route and return to Portsmouth via Farlington Marshes and the Eastern road
Going on a bear hunt
Keep little ones entertained by creating your own bear hunt adventure with swishy swishy grasses, mud, a forest, a duck pond, possibly seals swimming in the harbour as well as horses and cattle grazing in the fields. Following the coastal path from the Royal Oak head east beyond the Mill. If the tide is in cut across the field towards the ancient Anglo Saxon St Thomas à Becket Church. Take the footpath to the right of the church passing through crop fields and kissing gates before reaching the woodland. Turn right to rejoin the coastal path with views of windsurfers, boats and paddleboarders. TIP: For smaller legs start or end at Beach Road, Emsworth or take a picnic and have a paddle en route!
Crabbing in Emsworth
Extend your walk into Emsworth or enjoy a shorter walk around the millpond in this beautiful harbour-side village. Take your lines and buckets and practise your crabbing skills from the pontoon and enjoy an ice-cream from Flinstones located on the quay.
The Sunflower Field
A short drive across the bridge from Langstone and you could be in the Dordogne in a wonderful sea of Sunflowers! I’m holding mini photography sessions here on the 6th August but you can visit the field, explore the maze and pick you own blooms. Buy tickets for the field here for details of my sessions and to book. If you missed out – get in touch and I’ll see if I can fit you in or waitlist for 2021…
A stunning location with something for all ages. A beautiful backdrop for your next family photography session or a family day out.. Moira Lizzie Photography
Take a break
The Royal Oak
Choose to sit in the garden or on the harbour wall dangling your toes into the water below as you enjoy a glass or two at one of the most photographed pubs in England. My bet is you’ll find it impossible to wrench yourself away.
The Ship Inn
Originally a mill, this family-friendly seaside pub marks the half-way point on Hayling Billy Trail. Famous for it’s fresh fish (and for me, it’s cheesey chips!) which can be enjoyed on the seafront patio or the upstairs dining room with stunning views of the harbour. And if you want to arrive by boat it even has it’s own mooring!
Driftwood Cafe
If you head into Emsworth don’t leave without a visit to Driftwood. On sunny days relax in the lovely flower-filled courtyard and airy Garden Pod with it’s opening roof – it’s bliss. Whether you settle for an afternoon tea, soup and panini or a fresh quiche and salad you won’t be disappointed. And they offer take out too!
For tips on choosing the perfect location for your family photoshoot don’t miss this blog post too.
Feeling Inspired?
To schedule your own family photography session set against this stunning backdrop, just get in touch – I’d love to hear from you!
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