The second ever Haslar Open Day, held at Royal Haslar on gloriously sunny Saturday 21st June between 10am and 3pm, saw nearly 1,000 visitors tour the site, keen to explore the landscaped grounds and period buildings, view the show homes and gain an insight into life at this unique new Solent-side residential community. Guest of honour was Gosport’s Mayor, Councillor Kirsten Bradley, who was invited to take part in one of the highlights of the event, the official opening of the new ‘Coffee Quarters’ café. 



As milk for its first ever cappuccino was expertly frothed (and delicious artisan teas, light snacks, cakes and cookies from the menu sampled), an important milestone was marked in the sensitive restoration and redevelopment of Trinity House, with the new café at the heart of the striking, recently completed residents’ communal facilities. 

Here, on the magnificent vaulted-ceilinged lower ground floor, are also a stylish lounge area with floor-to-ceiling arched windows, dark wooden floorboards, luxurious banquette seating and a contemporary lighting scheme; a 300-volume library, the second collection at Royal Haslar curated by much loved independent bookseller The Book Shop, in Lee-on-the-Solent, is artfully displayed on bespoke shelving, making an inspirational venue for both residents’ book clubs and quiet, personal reflection. Sarah Burrows, owner of The Book Shop, also had a popular book and gift stall at the event. 



Elsewhere on site, at the pristinely restored Grade II* listed St Luke’s Chapel, at the heart of the Royal Haslar community, members of the Haslar Heritage Group were on hand to share their expertise and knowledge about the history of the former naval hospital, while volunteers at veterans’ horticultural project Shore Leave Haslar, whose home is Royal Haslar’s three-acre Memorial Garden, gave tours of the thriving flower and veggie plots, while also selling cakes and crafts. 

Founders of furniture poverty charity Hub4Stuff, Patsie Ruzewicz, Fiona Cooke and Nigel Woodcock, who have been donated a storage unit on site, explained to visitors their important work in the local community, and how many of Royal Haslar retirees’ lives have been enriched by volunteering. Haslar Marina reps chatted with visitors about the wide range of activities and facilities available for boating enthusiasts and newbies alike, while homebuying service Spring Move and downsizing specialists Senior Move Partnership offered free and practical advice on selling the family home to rightsize. 



The next Haslar Open Day will take place on Saturday 11th October. For more details visit the website and follow us on Facebook or Instagram.