The trail originated in the mid 19th century as a railway line.  The railway became known as the "Hayling Billy",  hence its local nickname of the "Billy trail".  The line was opened to goods in 1865, and to passengers 17 July 1867.  It was closed on 3rd November 1963, as part of the Beeching cuts.  What a great pity! 

Click on any of the pictures below to show more.

  just the ticket !

If you have Hayling Billy pictures or ephemera please let us know at billy @ haylingbilly org.uk

  Hayling Billy route

  (see live map at Hayling Billy Trail map)

 

Landmark	brief description	sample pictures
Havant	Northern terminus station
Langston Crossing	level crossing of the A3023 Havant Road
Langston Viaduct	Wooden bridge crossing of Langston Harbour
North Hayling Halt	Intermediate station at Stoke, North Hayling
Hayling Island	Southern Terminus at West Town, Hayling Island

Note that the station and area just north of Hayling Island is generally referred to as Langston, at least in most matters relating to the railway. It is more generally nowadays referred to as Langstone,  who's harbour views are popular with local artists, photographers and tourists alike.