The River Hamble, situated in Southampton, is internationally famous for its sailing and has been a yacht and boat building centre for centuries. The river's location makes it ideal for weekend excursions into the Solent or as a departure point for destinations further afield. The river is not just a sailing Mecca, it is a nationally an internationally important site for nature conservation and a birdwatchers' paradise. Riverside walks or simply watching the world go by are popular pastimes.