Hayling Island Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Hayling Island Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Hayling Island packs plenty into its modest 4 square miles. The award-winning beachfront should top your list - the Blue Flag West Beach offers clean swimming waters and stunning views across to the Isle of Wight. Perfect for morning walks before heading back for a coffee at your hot tub cottage.

Hayling Seaside Railway (PO11 0AG, open weekends and school holidays 10am-4pm) runs vintage locomotives along the eastern seafront. Kids love it and at £4 return for adults, it won't break the bank. TripAdvisor gives it 4.5/5 from over 200 reviews.

History buffs should visit St Mary's Church (PO11 0RT). Parts date back to 1140 and the churchyard contains Commonwealth war graves. It's open daily for visitors and doesn't charge admission.

The Hayling Billy Trail follows the old railway line, offering 5 miles of flat, scenic walking. I recommend renting bikes from Hayling Cycle Hire (PO11 9LJ) to cover more ground - they're open 9am-5pm daily and charge £15 for full-day adult hire.

Pet Friendly

Dogs love Hayling Island! The north end of West Beach allows dogs year-round, while the main beach has seasonal restrictions (May-September). We've found most hot tub cottages here welcome pets, though always check if there are restrictions about animals using outdoor areas near the tub.

The Hayling Billy Trail makes a fantastic dog walk, with plenty of opportunities for off-lead exercise in designated areas. Pack water bowls as there aren't many drinking spots along the route.

For dog-friendly dining, try The Maypole Inn (PO11 0NH). Their garden welcomes pets and they even offer dog treats at the bar. The Inn on the Beach (PO11 0AS) also allows dogs in outdoor areas with great sea views.

Hayling Island Doggy Day Care (PO11 9EG) offers drop-in services if you want a day out where pets aren't welcome. They charge £25 for a full day and require vaccination certificates.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Hayling Island

Hayling Island Funfair (PO11 0AG) ranks as the island's most popular attraction. This traditional seaside amusement park features rides for all ages, from gentle carousels to the stomach-churning Extreme. Open daily 11am-5pm (later during summer holidays). One visitor wrote: "Not as big as some parks but prices are reasonable and the beachfront location can't be beaten." Buy a wristband (£20) for unlimited rides rather than paying individually.

Northney Farm Tea Rooms (PO11 0LS) serves incredible cream teas using milk from their own dairy herd. The farm-to-table experience includes homemade cakes and local ice cream. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-4pm. A recent visitor commented: "The scones were still warm from the oven and the farm setting makes it special." Their outdoor seating area overlooks the fields where the cows graze.

Hayling Golf Club (PO11 0BX) offers day visitor tee times on their championship links course. Even non-golfers appreciate the spectacular coastal views from the clubhouse restaurant, which is open to the public. Green fees start at £60 per round midweek. A TripAdvisor reviewer noted: "The wind makes it challenging but the condition of the course is superb." Book tee times at least a week ahead during summer months.

Is Hayling Island good for swimming?

Yes! West Beach holds Blue Flag status for water quality and safety. The gradual shelf makes it family-friendly, though be aware of tidal changes. Lifeguards patrol during summer months (May-September, 10am-6pm). Water temperatures reach around 18°C in August.

Can I get to Hayling Island without a car?

Yes, but it's not ideal. The #30/31 bus runs from Havant station to various island stops. Trains from London to Havant take 90 minutes. Once on the island, distances are walkable or cyclable, but for exploring wider areas or grocery shopping, a car proves useful.

Where's the best place to watch the sunset from my hot tub?

Cottages on the western side of the island offer spectacular sunset views. Properties near West Beach or overlooking Langstone Harbour provide the best vantage points. The sun sets over the Isle of Wight, creating stunning orange and pink skies reflected in the water.

Are there any good restaurants on Hayling Island?

Several! Meadow Farm (PO11 0QH) serves excellent pub food with local ingredients. For seafood, try Inn on the Beach (PO11 0AS) with its beachfront location. The Olive Leaf (PO11 0EH) offers Mediterranean cuisine that gets consistently good reviews.

Is windsurfing really good here?

Absolutely! Hayling Island is where windsurfing was invented and remains a top UK spot for the sport. The shallow waters and consistent winds create ideal conditions. Hayling Island Sailing Club (PO11 9SL) offers equipment rental and lessons for beginners.

What's the best time to visit Hayling Island?

June-September offers warmest weather (18-22°C) but busiest periods. May and October provide good compromises with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter visits (November-February) mean empty beaches and cheaper cottage rates, but many attractions reduce their opening hours.

Some helpful links:

1. Official Hayling Island Tourism Website
2. Visit Hampshire's Hayling Island Guide
3. Local Council Information