Bordon City Guide

About Bordon – History and Culture

Bordon, a town in the East Hampshire district of South East England, has a rich history that traces back to the medieval period. Originally a small agricultural hamlet, its transformation began in the late 19th century when the British Army established training camps in the surrounding heathland. The arrival of the army brought rapid growth, and Bordon became a key military hub, particularly for the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME). The town’s character is deeply influenced by this military heritage, with barracks, training areas, and a strong sense of service.

The 20th century saw Bordon expand further, with housing estates built to accommodate military families and civilian workers. The town’s culture is a blend of traditional Hampshire village life and the diverse influences brought by service personnel from across the UK and Commonwealth. Today, Bordon is a commuter town for London and nearby cities, but it retains a close-knit community feel. Local events like the Bordon & Whitehill Carnival celebrate this unique identity.

Culturally, Bordon is not a major tourist destination but offers authentic glimpses of English town life. Its proximity to natural beauty spots like the South Downs National Park and Woolmer Forest provides a peaceful counterpoint to its military history. The town also hosts several war memorials and a small museum that tells the story of the local regiments.

• Bordon Military Museum – showcases the history of the REME and local military units.
• St. Paul’s Church – a 19th-century church with a war memorial garden.
• Bordon Garrison – historic army barracks (some areas still active).
• Woolmer Forest – ancient woodland and heathland, part of the MOD training area but public access allowed on certain routes.
• Bordon High Street – typical English high street with a mix of shops, cafes, and pubs.
• Fire Station Museum – small museum dedicated to firefighting history.
• Bordon & Whitehill Carnival – annual parade and fair, usually held in June.
• Kingsley & Bordon Community Centre – hub for local events and clubs.

Did You Know? – Facts about Bordon

Bordon is often described as a town that grew because of the army. Unlike many historic market towns, its main expansion happened in the 20th century, giving it a more modern layout with extensive residential estates. The town's identity is strongly connected to the nearby Woolmer Forest, which is one of the largest remaining areas of lowland heath in Hampshire and a haven for wildlife.

Despite its size, Bordon has a surprisingly number of roundabouts for a town of its population – a quirk of its 20th-century planning. The town also boasts a strong community spirit, with many volunteer-run organisations. Its location, just north of the South Downs National Park, makes it a gateway for walkers and cyclists exploring the area.

• Bordon's population grew by over 300% between 1901 and 2001 due to military expansion.
• The town is home to the Bordon Garrison, one of the largest army bases in the South East.
• Woolmer Forest was used as a training ground for D-Day preparations.
• Bordon has no railway station since the closure of the Bordon Light Railway in 1966.
• The nearest train stations are Liphook (3 miles) and Farnham (7 miles).
• Bordon is twinned with Verrières-le-Buisson, France.
• The annual Bordon & Whitehill Carnival has been running for over 50 years.
• Bordon is located on the River Wey, though the river is more visible in nearby Alton.
• The town has a relatively low crime rate compared to nearby urban centres.
• Bordon's housing stock includes many 20th-century semi-detached and terraced houses.
• The area is popular with birdwatchers due to the diverse habitats in Woolmer Forest.
• Bordon's economy traditionally relied on the military, but now includes logistics, retail, and services.
• The town has a thriving Scouts and Guides movement.
• Bordon was mentioned in the Domesday Book as 'Bordone'.

Geography and Climate of Bordon

Bordon is situated in the East Hampshire district of Hampshire, in South East England. The town lies on the northern edge of the South Downs National Park, approximately 45 miles southwest of London. The landscape is characterised by rolling hills, heathland, and wooded areas. The geology is mainly Greensand and clay, with pockets of gravel and sand left by glacial activity. The town centre is relatively flat, but the surrounding countryside offers gentle slopes and panoramic views.

The climate is temperate maritime, typical of southern England. Winters are mild and wet, with occasional frost and rare snow. Summers are warm, with average highs around 22°C (72°F). Rainfall is moderate, spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with autumn and winter being slightly wetter. The South Downs provides shelter from some weather extremes, but the area can be windy on exposed heathlands.

• Average annual temperature: 10°C (50°F)
• Warmest month: July (average high 22°C)
• Coldest month: January (average low 2°C)
• Annual rainfall: 750-850 mm
• Prevailing wind direction: Southwesterly
• Located in a low-air-pollution zone, benefiting from clean air.
• Woolmer Forest is a designated Special Protection Area for birds.
• The town is drained by the River Wey and its tributaries.
• Nearest major city: Portsmouth (25 miles south).

Things to Do in Bordon

While Bordon is not a major tourist hub, it offers plenty for visitors interested in military history, nature, and authentic English town life. The surrounding countryside provides excellent walking, cycling, and horse-riding routes. The town’s community spirit is evident in its local events and markets.

Food & Dining

Bordon's dining scene is modest but varied, with traditional British pubs serving classic pub food, Indian restaurants, Chinese takeaways, fish and chips shops, and a few cafes. The nearby villages offer gastropubs and fine dining options. Local produce, such as Hampshire cheeses and ale, can be found at farmers' markets. A growing trend is the 'food truck' scene at local events.

• The Tabard – historic pub with real ales and hearty meals.
• Bordon Tandoori – popular Indian restaurant on the high street.
• Golden Dragon – Chinese takeaway with loyal local following.
• Pizza Hut – chain delivering to Bordon.
• Bordon Fish Bar – classic fish and chips.
• Costa Coffee – chain cafe for coffee and pastries.
• The Old Station House – converted railway building, now a pub/restaurant.
• Local farmers' market – monthly at Bordon Community Centre.

Festivals & Events

The highlight of Bordon’s calendar is the Bordon & Whitehill Carnival, a summer event with a parade, fairground rides, live music, and community stalls. Other events include the Bordon Christmas Market, the Bordon and Liphook Agricultural Show (nearby), and various charity runs. The town also participates in national events like the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations and Remembrance Sunday.

• Bordon & Whitehill Carnival – June/July.
• Bordon Christmas Market – December.
• WWII re-enactment days at Woolmer Forest (occasional).
• Bordon Film Society screenings – monthly.
• Bordon in Bloom – gardening competition.
• Liphook Agricultural Show – annual September event close by.
• Bordon Bonfire Night – November.
• Remembrance Sunday parade and service.
• Bordon Scout and Guide fetes.

Cultural Attractions

Bordon’s main cultural attraction is its military heritage. The Bordon Military Museum (also known as the REME Museum) tells the story of the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. The nearby Woolmer Forest has interpretation boards on its military use. For art, the Bordon and Whitehill community spaces host exhibitions by local artists.

• Bordon Military Museum (REME Museum) – key attraction for military history.
• Bordon Library – hosts local history displays.
• Kingsley & Bordon Community Centre – art classes, exhibitions.
• Whitehill and Bordon Arts Network – local artists’ collective.
• St. Paul’s Church – historic building with architectural interest.

Outdoor Activities

The South Downs National Park is the main draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Woolmer Forest offers walking trails, cycling paths, and birdwatching. The Bordon area has several parks, including Bordon Green and the Millennium Green. Golf is available at Liphook Golf Club. The nearby Alice Holt Forest offers family cycling and adventure play.

• Woolmer Forest – heathland walks, wildlife.
• South Downs Way – national trail passes within a few miles.
• Bordon Green – central park with playground.
• Millennium Green – community green space with pond.
• Alice Holt Forest (nearby) – bike hire, Go Ape.
• Liphook Golf Club – 18-hole course.
• Bordon Leisure Centre – swimming, gym, sports.
• Ride the South Downs – cycling routes.
• Horse riding – several stables offering lessons.
• Fishing on the River Wey – permits required.

Economy and Key Industries

Bordon's economy has traditionally been dominated by the military presence. The Bordon Garrison provides employment for service personnel and civilians, as well as supporting local businesses. In recent years, the MoD has reduced its footprint, leading to a diversification towards logistics, retail, and small-scale manufacturing. The town is also a commuter base for workers in London, Guildford, and Portsmouth, which contributes to local service economy.

Key employers include the Ministry of Defence (via the garrison), BAE Systems (defence contracting), and various logistics companies that use the town’s transport links. The retail sector includes national chains and independents on the high street, while the health sector provides jobs at local GP surgeries and care homes. The broader East Hampshire district has a strong tourism sector, but Bordon itself benefits less directly from this.

Future economic development focuses on regenerating the town centre and bringing new businesses to the area, particularly through the Whitehill and Bordon Regeneration Project, which aims to create new homes and employment spaces on former MoD land.

• Military – primary employer (Bordon Garrison).
• Defence industry – BAE Systems, engineering subcontractors.
• Logistics and distribution – proximity to A3 and A31.
• Retail – high street shops, supermarkets (Tesco, Co-op).
• Construction – new housing developments.
• Health and social care – care homes, GP surgeries.
• Education – local schools and nurseries.
• Hospitality – pubs, hotels, B&Bs.

Where to Live in Bordon

Bordon is primarily a residential town with a mix of housing types. The main residential areas are around the town centre, with newer estates on the outskirts. The areas of Whitehill and Lindford are adjacent villages that form part of the built-up area. Bordon offers more affordable housing compared to many parts of the South East, making it popular with first-time buyers and military families.

The town centre has older terraced houses and flats, while the outskirts feature larger family homes with gardens. The regeneration project is bringing new homes to the former garrison land, offering modern apartments and eco-friendly houses. The area is generally safe, with good schools and local amenities. For those seeking more rural living, the surrounding countryside has charming villages like Kingsley and Standford.

Proximity to London (trains from Liphook) and good road connections make Bordon accessible for commuters. The lack of a railway station within the town is a drawback, but bus services connect to nearby stations. Overall, Bordon is a practical and community-oriented place to live.

• Bordon Town Centre – terraced and flatted housing, close to shops.
• Whitehill – large post-war housing estate, family homes.
• Lindford – village atmosphere, lovely green spaces.
• Kingsley – rural village to the north, larger properties.
• Standford – hamlet with countryside views.
• Chase Estate – modern development near Woolmer.
• Headley – upmarket village south of Bordon.
• Grayshott – desirable village with good amenities.

Formalities and Visas in Bordon

International visitors to Bordon will need to follow standard UK immigration rules. For short stays (up to 6 months), many nationalities can enter without a visa under the Standard Visitor visa waiver. However, from 2025, the UK is introducing Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for visa-exempt travellers. Those needing a visa must apply in advance. The nearest UK embassy is in London but visa application centres are in Croydon, Birmingham, etc.

For those planning to work or study in Bordon, appropriate visas are required. The Skilled Worker visa is common for those with job offers in sectors like defence or logistics. The Student visa is for those attending educational institutions in the area (Bordon has no university but will commute to Guildford or Portsmouth). There are also family visas for dependents of UK residents.

Anyone staying long-term will need to register for a National Insurance number, open a bank account, and register with a GP. The immigration system is points-based, and applications are processed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). It’s advisable to consult official government guidance or an immigration solicitor for complex cases.

• Short stay: Standard Visitor visa (for non-visa exempt countries).
• ETA (from 2025): Required for visa-free travellers (US, EU, etc.).
• Skilled Worker visa: For job offer in eligible occupation.
• Student visa: For full-time courses at recognised institutions.
• Family visa: For spouses, partners, children of residents.
• Youth Mobility Scheme: For certain nationality young people (18-30).
• Global Talent visa: For highly skilled in certain fields.
• Visa applications online, then biometrics at visa centre.
• Biometric residence permit (BRP) now digital eVisas replacing physical cards.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) required for visas over 6 months.
• No visa office in Bordon; nearest for biometrics is Portsmouth or London.

Working in Bordon

The job market in Bordon is heavily influenced by the military presence, but opportunities also exist in retail, logistics, construction, and public services. The MoD Bordon Garrison is a major employer, offering roles from engineering to administration. Many residents commute to larger employment centres like Guildford, Farnborough (high tech), or London.

Working culture in the UK generally follows a standard 9-to-5, with 20-30 days annual leave plus public holidays. Flexible working is becoming common. The town has a few co-working spaces for freelancers, but most professional work requires commuting. Languages other than English are not widely needed for most local jobs, but defence translation roles exist.

Jobseekers should register with local recruitment agencies (like Hays, Reed) or Jobcentre Plus. The Bordon area has a relatively low unemployment rate compared to the national average, but competition for roles can be high due to the local military community. Volunteering is a good way to gain experience and network.

• Key sectors: Defence, logistics, retail, education, health.
• Major employers: MoD, BAE Systems, Tesco, local council.
• Average salary in Bordon: £28,000-£35,000 (below UK average but lower living costs).
• Working hours: Usually 40 hours/week, Monday-Friday.
• Pub and hospitality often require weekend work.
• Seasonal work: Christmas retail, summer tourism nearby.
• Self-employment common among tradespeople.
• Jobcentre in Petersfield or Alton.
• National Insurance number needed for work.
• UK tax system: PAYE for employees, self-assessment for contractors.

Studying in Bordon

Bordon itself does not have a university, but it offers primary and secondary education. The local secondary school is Weyford School (formerly known as Bordon School) which provides education up to age 16. For further education (college and sixth form), students commute to Alton College, Farnborough College of Technology, or Peter Symonds College in Winchester. University students typically go to University of Portsmouth, University of Surrey (Guildford), University of Southampton, or universities in London.

The town has several primary schools including Bordon Infant School, Bordon Junior School, and St. Mary’s Catholic Primary School. There are also nurseries and preschools. For adult education, the Bordon Community Education Centre offers part-time courses, and the nearby South Downs Adult Education Centre provides more options. International students wishing to attend further education institutions will need a Student visa and must check eligibility.

For families moving to Bordon with school-age children, the school system is competitive in some areas due to catchment zones. It is advisable to contact Hampshire County Council for admissions. The quality of local schools is generally good, with Ofsted ratings typically 'Good' or 'Outstanding'. Extracurricular activities include sports, music, and Scouts/Guides.

• Primary schools: Bordon Infant School, Bordon Junior School, St. Mary’s Catholic Primary (outstanding).
• Secondary school: Weyford School (11-16).
• Sixth form/college: Alton College (6 miles), Farnborough College (10 miles).
• Nearest universities: University of Portsmouth (25 miles), University of Surrey (15 miles).
• Adult education: Bordon Community Education Centre, South Downs College.
• Student visa required for non-UK nationals for courses >6 months.
• School term times: Sep-Jul, half term breaks.
• School uniform required in most state schools.
• Private schools: nearby options include Frensham Heights, Highfield and Brookham.
• Special educational needs (SEN) support available through local schools and council.
• Libraries provide homework help and resources.

Finance and Banks in Bordon

Bordon has a number of high street banks and building societies, including Lloyds, Barclays, HSBC, and Nationwide Building Society. There are also numerous ATMs in the town centre. Online banking is widely used, and most banks have apps. For international transfers, services like Wise and Revolut are popular. Opening a bank account as a newcomer requires proof of ID and address (e.g., utility bill or tenancy agreement). Many banks offer accounts for non-UK residents, but a local address is usually needed.

Currency is GBP (£). Cash is used less frequently now, with contactless payments common. Major credit cards are accepted. Taxation: income tax is deducted automatically via PAYE for employees; self-employed file tax returns annually. The tax year runs April 6 to April 5. National Insurance contributions are also mandatory for workers. For investment, local branches offer financial advice, but many people use online platforms. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) protects deposits up to £85,000 per institution.

• Main banks: Lloyds, Barclays, HSBC, Santander (in town).
• Building societies: Nationwide, Yorkshire Building Society.
• Free cash machines at Tesco and high street.
• Currency exchange: limited, best in larger towns.
• Mobile banks: Monzo, Starling popular for overseas users.
• Tax system: HMRC. Personal allowance £12,570 (2024/25).
• National Insurance: 12% on earnings between £12,570 and £50,270.
• Opening bank account: requires proof of address and identification.
• Credit cards widely accepted. American Express less so.
• Contactless limit: £100 (2024), soon to rise.

Health Care in Bordon

Healthcare in Bordon is provided by the National Health Service (NHS). The town has several GP surgeries, including Bordon Health Centre (Chase Community Hospital) and Liphook Village Surgery (serving Bordon). Chase Community Hospital also offers minor injuries unit, outpatient services, and some inpatient beds. For emergencies, the nearest Accident & Emergency department is at Frimley Park Hospital (8 miles east) or Royal Hampshire County Hospital in Winchester (25 miles).

Residents can register with a local GP upon moving to the area by presenting identification and proof of address. Prescriptions are charged at £9.90 per item (2024), but free for children, pensioners, and those on certain benefits. Dental care is not fully covered by the NHS; many dentists are private, though some accept NHS patients (waiting lists exist). Opticians are available on the high street.

For mental health, the local NHS trust (Southern Health) provides services. There are also private counselling options. Pharmacies (Boots, Lloyds) offer advice and vaccinations. Health visitors and school nurses support families. The town has a relatively high proportion of elderly residents, so care homes and home care services are available.

• GP surgeries: Bordon Health Centre, Liphook Village Surgery.
• Minor injuries unit at Chase Community Hospital.
• A&E at Frimley Park Hospital (8 miles).
• Dentists: several in Bordon, but NHS spaces limited.
• Pharmacies: Boots (high street), Lloyds (near Tesco).
• Emergency numbers: 999 (life threatening), 111 (non-emergency).
• Prescription charges: £9.90 (England).
• Travel vaccinations available at some GP practices.
• Private health care: Nuffield Health in Farnham, Spire in Portsmouth.
• Air ambulance service provided by Hampshire & Isle of Wight.

Accommodation in Bordon

Bordon offers a range of accommodation for visitors and new residents. For short stays, there are a few hotels and B&Bs in the town and surrounding villages. The largest hotel is the Premier Inn on the A325, and there are also traditional pubs with rooms like the Harrow Inn. Self-catering cottages are available in the countryside. For longer stays, the choice is mainly between renting and buying.

Rental properties in Bordon are generally more affordable than many parts of the South East, with average monthly rents for a two-bedroom house around £850-£1,000. Buying a property: average house price is about £300,000. The market includes ex-MoD houses now privately sold, new builds on regeneration sites, and period properties in nearby villages. The area is popular with families and military personnel.

• Hotels: Premier Inn Bordon; The Tabard (pub with rooms).
• B&Bs: various in Lindford and Kingsley.
• Self-catering: rural cottages on Airbnb and Booking.com.
• Rental market: high demand, speed of letting quick.
• Buying: terraced houses £200k-£300k, detached £350k-£500k.
• New developments: Whitehill & Bordon regeneration (homes available).
• Estate agents: White & Brooks, Mackay Property, Charters.
• Short-term tenancy usually 6-12 months.
• Council tax bands: A to G, average £1,500-£2,200 per year.

Planning Your Move to Bordon

Relocating to Bordon involves careful preparation. Begin by researching the housing market and securing accommodation before arrival. If moving for employment, ensure visa and right to work documents are in order. Set up a UK bank account and arrange for National Insurance number. Register with a GP and school for children well in advance.

Logistics: shipping personal belongings may be necessary for international moves. International removals companies serve the area. Utilities (electricity, gas, water, broadband) can be set up online; providers include British Gas, Octopus Energy, and Virgin Media. Notify relevant authorities of change of address (DVLA, HMRC, etc.). Join local Facebook groups to get advice from current residents.

Upon arrival, explore the town to familiarise with amenities – supermarkets, libraries, leisure centre. Get a bus pass for local travel, or consider buying a car (driving on the left). Attend community events to meet people. Understand the council services such as bin collection and recycling. Budget for council tax and utility bills.

• Check visa validity and entry requirements.
• Arrange health insurance for first months if applicable.
• Open UK bank account before moving (some allow remote opening).
• Search for accommodation via Rightmove, Zoopla.
• Book temporary accommodation (hotel or Airbnb) for transition.
• Notify current home country of move (tax, mail).
• Ship belongings via international removers – allow 6-12 weeks.
• Set up utilities and internet before moving in.
• Register for council tax (contact East Hampshire District Council).
• Register with local GP and dentist.
• Apply for a National Insurance number (via Jobcentre Plus).
• Enrol children in school.
• Learn about UK driving rules and if needed, exchange driver's licence.
• Join community groups (Facebook, local clubs).
• Check transport connections to workplace.

Leisure in Bordon

Leisure activities in Bordon centre around community and the outdoors. The town has a leisure centre with a swimming pool, gym, and sports halls. There are parks and green spaces for picnics and walks. The local cinema is lacking; the nearest movie theatres are in Farnham or Guildford. For nightlife, Bordon has a few pubs and clubs, but the scene is calm. Many residents head to larger towns for evening entertainment.

Shopping is mainly for essentials, with a Tesco superstore, Co-op, and assortment of local shops. For more extensive retail therapy, residents go to Farnham or Guildford. The town hosts a small weekly market. For culture, the community centre runs classes and film screenings. Outdoor enthusiasts thrive here with walking and cycling in the South Downs.

• Bordon Leisure Centre – swimming, gym, classes.
• Bowling club – lawn bowls summer season.
• Pubs with darts and pool: The Tabard, Harrow Inn.
• Community cinema – occasional film nights at the centre.
• Libraries: Bordon Library – books, events, free internet.
• Parks: Bordon Green – playground, benches.
• Sports clubs: football, rugby, cricket (local teams).
• Art: Bordon & Whitehill Art Society exhibitions.

Transportation Options in Bordon

Bordon is primarily a car-dependent town, though bus services connect it to nearby train stations and towns. The main road through the town is the A325, linking to the A3 and A31. There is no railway station; the nearest are at Liphook (on the Portsmouth-London line) and Farnham (with services to Waterloo). Both stations offer regular trains. Buses are operated by Stagecoach South, with routes like the 23 (Bordon to Haslemere), 18 (Bordon to Farnham), and 38 (to Petersfield).

For long-distance travel, London Heathrow is about 40 miles north (via M25), Gatwick 40 miles east, Southampton 35 miles south-west. National Express coaches serve nearby towns. Within town, walking and cycling are feasible, but dedicated cycle lanes are limited. Taxis and ride-sharing (Uber limited) are available. Parking in town centre is free in some car parks but time-limited.

• Train stations: Liphook (3 miles) – trains to London Waterloo (55 min). Farnham (7 miles) – faster to London (50 min).
• Bus: Stagecoach 23 to Haslemere, 18 to Farnham, 38 to Petersfield.
• Road: A325 connects to A3 (north-south), A31 (east-west).
• Airports: Heathrow (1 hour drive), Gatwick (1 hour), Southampton (45 min).
• Taxis: number of local firms, book ahead.
• Cycling: limited infrastructure, but quiet roads for leisure.
• Walking: plenty of footpaths in countryside.
• Car hire: Hertz, Enterprise in Farnham.
• Electric vehicle charging: points at supermarkets and some car parks.

Everyday Life in Bordon

Daily life in Bordon is peaceful and community-oriented. Most residents work locally or commute, and many families use local schools. The town has all essential amenities: supermarkets, post office, pharmacy, banks, and a library. The local newspaper is the 'Herald' series covering East Hampshire. The town has a relatively low crime rate; it’s considered safe.

Services like refuse collection are weekly (general waste, recycling alternate weeks). The council provides clear guidelines. Most households have private gardens. Community spirit is strong; there are neighborhood watch schemes and local Facebook groups. Religion is served by Anglican, Catholic, and Methodist churches in town.

• Weekly bin collection schedule available from council.
• Post office in town centre (limited hours).
• Petrol stations: BP, Shell on main roads.
• Laundry: launderette on high street.
• Library: free borrowing, computers, events.
• Places of worship: St. Paul's Church (CofE), St. Mary's (Catholic), Bordon Methodist Church.
• Local police station: in Alton, but there is a community police office.
• Council: East Hampshire District Council, Hampshire County Council.
• Emergency services: fire station at Bordon (wholetime/retained).

Cost of Living in Bordon

Compared to many parts of South East England, Bordon is relatively affordable. Housing is the biggest cost, but prices are noticeably lower than in Guildford or London. Utilities, council tax, and food are in line with national averages. Commuting costs can be significant for those working in London (train season tickets from Liphook cost around £3,500 per year).

A single person can live on around £25,000-£30,000 per year (including rent). A family of four may need £45,000-£55,000. However, incomes are also lower than the national average. Overall, Bordon offers a good quality of life relative to cost, with cheaper housing enabling residents to afford more space and countryside access.

• Average rent (2-bed house): £850-£1,000/month.
• Average house price: £300,000.
• Council tax (Band D): approx £1,900/year.
• Utilities: gas/electricity £150-£200/month (typical).
• Broadband: £25-£40/month.
• Food shopping (per month): £300-£400 for family.
• Public transport: bus singles £2, day pass £5.
• Train to London monthly: £350+ (season ticket).
• Fuel: around £1.45/litre (hovering).

Places to Visit in Bordon

While Bordon itself has limited tourist attractions, its location is ideal for exploring the South Downs National Park, Alice Holt Forest, and historic towns like Alton, Haslemere, and Petersfield. The area boasts castles, stately homes, and beautiful gardens. Within Bordon, the REME Museum is a must for military enthusiasts, and Woolmer Forest offers superb nature walks.

Top day trips include: Jane Austen’s house in Chawton (15 minutes drive), the market town of Farnham with its castle, the cathedral city of Winchester with its historic buildings, and the seaside resort of Portsmouth (40 minutes). For nature lovers, the Devil’s Punch Bowl at Hindhead and the sculpture park at The Newlands Corner are popular.

Families enjoy Marwell Zoo (30 minutes), Shornecliffe Country Park, and the educational attractions of the Milestones Museum in Basingstoke. The area is also rich in literary heritage: the Four Marks area was home to authors like H.G. Wells. Ghost tours, vineyard visits, and food trails are available in the region.

Cultural enthusiasts can explore stately homes such as Uppark, Pallant House Gallery in Chichester, and the Watts Gallery in Compton. The coast at West Wittering or Bosham is an hour’s drive. In summary, Bordon serves as a quiet base for exploring the diverse attractions of South East England.

• REME Museum (Bordon) – military technology and history.
• Woolmer Forest – heathland walks, birdwatching.
• Alice Holt Forest – Go Ape, cycle trails, nature walks.
• Jane Austen