Hive Family Festival

For visitors taking public transit, the nearest major station is Southampton Central. Trains from London Waterloo (and other mainline routes) arrive here frequently - the journey from London is roughly 1 hour 20 minutes. From the station, you can take a local bus or taxi towards Botley or Hedge End. Stagecoach buses (e.g. routes 3 and 49) stop within walking distance of Fairthorne Manor in Curdridge. Alternatively, Botley train station on the Portsmouth line is only 2-3 miles away, and from there a short taxi or local bus ride will complete the journey to the festival site.

If you plan to drive, Fairthorne Manor is easily reached via the M27 motorway. Heading from the west (Portsmouth), take the M27 and exit at Junction 9 (signposted Fareham/Curdridge) and follow local signs. From the east or Southampton city, use the same M27 exit 9 via the M3. The venue’s postcode (SO30 2GH) can help guide your satnav to Fairthorne Manor near Botley Road. On-site parking is generally available, but it can fill up on busy days; car-sharing and arriving early can help avoid delays. Allow extra travel time on summer weekends, as local roads can become busy near the festival.

Traveling by air, the nearest airport is Southampton (SOU), only about 7 miles south of the city center. It offers domestic and some European flights. From the airport, hire a car or taxi for the 15-20 minute journey to the festival. If you’re coming from further away, London Heathrow and Gatwick airports are about 70-90 miles northeast. Both connect to Southampton by train (for example, Heathrow Express plus a train from Waterloo, or Gatwick Express plus a train). National Express coaches also run from London airports to Southampton. Once in the city, continue on by car or public transport as above.

For accommodation, the area has plenty of family-friendly options. On-site at Fairthorne Manor is the YMCA campsite and family park - you can pitch a tent or rent a cabin to stay right at the grounds. Nearby, the towns of Botley, Fareham, and Southampton offer numerous hotels and B&Bs suitable for families. Chains like Premier Inn and Holiday Inn are conveniently located, and smaller guesthouses or self-catering lodgings provide cosy alternatives. With summers being busy, especially during festival season, it’s a good idea to book lodging well in advance. Staying in Southampton or Fareham lets you enjoy city amenities while being just a short drive from the festival.