Fareham Town Centre History

With a history dating back to Norman times, Fareham town centre combines a High Street of characterful old building, a modern pedestrianised central shopping area and a unique sculpture park.  Its compact, level and pedestrianised aspect makes it easily accessible to all.

History

Fareham began to take shape as a substantial settlement by the 10th century, on the high ground above the River Wallington.

In the 16th century some shipbuilding took place in the Lower Quay area, which was later linked to the town centre with a bridge over the Gilly Creek. In the late 17th century, the buildings and stores on the quayside of Fareham Creek were used as hospitals for sick and wounded sailors, and became known as ‘Hospital Yard’.  The 18th and early 19th century were economically vibrant, when vessels of up to 200 tons would arrive in Fareham Creek to discharge their cargo of imported granite, timber, milling grains and coal from around Europe, whilst chimney pots and Fareham Reds bricks were exported all over the world.

By the later part of the 18th century, Fareham was a well-established market town with a population of approximately 3,000.  A successful open-air market still continues in the town centre today, every Monday, with a farmers market on the first Saturday of every month. 

By the beginning of the 1990’s, Fareham’s population had risen past 100,000.

Historic High Street

To the east of Fareham town centre is historic High Street, which contains some fine examples of Georgian architecture, as well as one of the oldest timber-framed roof structures still in existence at no. 15.  The original timber building is believed to date back to 1280-1312.

In the 13th century, the town was granted a two-day cheese, horse and cattle fair which took place in High Street on 29 and 30 June.  The fair continued annually in Fareham until 1871.

The island between Union Street and High Street was once the site of regular market stalls.

High Street is now home to two hotels (Lysses House Hotel and The Red Lion), The Golden Lion pub, Trafalgar Guest House, several quality restaurants and a number of specialist retailers and other businesses.

For information on the above contact the Town Centre Manager on 01329 236100 or e-mail towncentre@fareham.gov.uk