YMCA Fairthorne - Volunteer Daycamp Leader

The Fairthorne Manor Estate is situated in a rural location and covers an area of 111 acres of grassland, woodland and a Family Campsite. It is located at the top of the Hamble River estuary and also includes a lake, ponds and a stream. The Hamble River is well known as one of the world’s premiere yachting centres. The grounds themselves have a tremendous history, which can be traced back to Roman times. The manor was built in 1854 as a Victorian Country residence. During the Second World War it was occupied by the army who used it as one of their ‘map-centres’ for planning the invasion of Normandy, in France. The YMCA acquired the estate in 1947 to accommodate the land training ship, T.S. Warfleet a training establishment for British boys entering the merchant navy or crewing onboard private yachts. This lasted for 15 years and since then it has seen numerous changes before becoming what it is today. Botley is the nearest village to Fairthorne and is around 15 minutes walk away. It is a typical English village with three pubs, a late opening general store, a post office, cash point, hairdressers, several restaurants including a Chinese and Indian takeaway. Hedge End is three miles from Fairthorne and can be reached on foot or by bus. It is larger than Botley, with several banks, supermarkets and a better choice of shops. It also has the nearest swimming pool. Southampton is the nearest large town / city which can be reached by train, it includes one of the country’s newest and largest shopping centre’s as well as a large waterfront with bars and restaurants, theatres, cinema’s and night-clubs. It is also well known as the start and finish of many of the world’s largest ocean yachting races. Portsmouth is another large city, which can be reached by train and is best known as a historical naval port with many popular attractions such as Nelson’s flagship, the Victory, and shopping marina Gunwharf. Winchester, which can be reached by train, has numerous good shops and is best known for its many fine old buildings, particularly its cathedral. Fareham and Eastleigh, which can also be reached by train are good for cheaper shopping.