About
Located in southern England, Basingstoke is the largest town in the county of Hampshire. It sits in a valley near the source of the River Loddon, around 30 miles northeast of Southampton and roughly 48 miles southwest of London. As of a 2016 estimate, the population stood at approximately 113,776, and the town falls within the Borough of Basingstoke and Deane.
Originally a traditional market town, Basingstoke underwent significant expansion during the 1960s following an agreement between London authorities and Hampshire County Council. This growth was part of a wider post-war strategy to accommodate population movement out of London, influenced by the Greater London Plan. Although the town’s market dates back to its mention in the Domesday Book, Basingstoke remained relatively small until the mid-20th century, with a population of just over 13,000 at the start of World War II. Today, while it still hosts a regular market, it has grown far beyond the scale traditionally associated with market towns.
Modern Basingstoke is divided into several postcode areas, including RG21, RG22, RG23, and RG24. The town centre falls within RG21 and encompasses neighbourhoods such as Brookvale, Fairfields, Black Dam, Oakridge, South View, Kings Furlong, Alencon Link, Riverdene, and Eastrop. These areas showcase a mix of architectural styles, from period Victorian and Georgian homes in central locations to mid-20th-century developments dating from the 1940s through to the 1970s.
Education
Basingstoke offers a wide range of educational options across its different districts. For further education, both Basingstoke College of Technology (BCOT) and Queen Mary's College are located near the town centre.
Local schools in and around the centre include Maple Ridge Primary School, Oakridge Primary School, South View Primary School, The Vyne Community School, The King’s School, and The Costello School, providing education from primary through to secondary level.
Amenities
Residents benefit from convenient access to the Chineham Shopping Centre, which hosts a variety of everyday facilities such as a supermarket, cafés, takeaway outlets, a bakery, a post office, petrol station, and clothing retailers. In addition, smaller convenience stores—including local supermarkets and takeaways—are spread throughout residential areas.
Food & Drink
The town has a diverse selection of pubs, restaurants, and cafés catering to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re looking for casual dining, nightlife, or quick takeaway options, there are plenty of choices available both for eating out and delivery.
Family Fun
Basingstoke town centre features a shopping complex and cinema, while the nearby leisure park offers activities such as swimming, ice skating, bowling, and additional dining and entertainment options. Across the wider area, there are numerous parks, sports facilities, and scenic countryside routes ideal for outdoor activities.
Travel Links
The town benefits from excellent transport connections, with the M3 motorway providing direct routes to London and the south coast. Regular bus services operate throughout the area, and rail links offer quick access to London Waterloo in around 45 minutes.