Fratton is a residential and formerly industrial area located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, England. Characterised by Victorian style terraced houses, this locale is typical of many residential areas in Portsmouth. Apart from the residential spaces, Fratton is also home to numerous discount shops, “greasy spoon” cafes, and the Bridge Centre shopping centre, which houses an Asda store.
The history of Fratton dates back to its days as a hub of industry, and though the industrial roots may have dwindled, it has evolved into a bustling community. A major highlight in Fratton is its railway station, which was opened in 1885 and provides transport links within Portsmouth, as well as connections to Brighton and London. With a range of local attractions and amenities, Fratton has much to offer its residents and visitors alike.
Key Takeaways
- Fratton is a residential area in Portsmouth, featuring Victorian-style terraced houses.
- The area has a rich history, having transitioned from an industrial hub to a lively community.
- Fratton railway station provides essential transport links to nearby cities like Brighton and London.
History of Fratton
Fratton, situated on Portsea Island, is a district in the city of Portsmouth, England. The area’s origins can be traced back to the Saxon era. During the 6th century, the Saxons landed on Portsea Island and established a settlement in the middle of the island named Frodda ing tun. The name later evolved into Froddington, Frotton, and eventually Fratton source.
Portsea Island, where Fratton is located, is home to the Fratton Park stadium, the only home ground in Portsmouth F.C.’s history. Construction began in 1898 and was completed by 1899 on farmland near the village of Milton, situated on the eastern side of Portsea Island source.
Fratton Park quickly gained recognition as one of the most well-appointed stadiums south of London. Following the stadium’s completion, Portsmouth F.C. achieved significant success, winning the Southern League title in 1902. In 1903, Fratton Park had the honour of hosting an England international match against Wales. Alongside these achievements, the stadium underwent a facelift in 1905 to maintain its modern appeal source.
Over the years, Fratton has seen significant expansion and development. Among the various aspects of Fratton’s history and culture, the district was home to a popular six-piece automaton band known as the Salutation Stompers, which played at the Salutation Arms, New Road, Fratton. The band, crafted in the mid-1960s by Eddie Stechman, became a spectacle, becoming a symbol of Fratton’s vibrant community source.
Fratton Railway Station
Platforms and Facilities
Fratton Railway Station is a significant railway station located in the city of Portsmouth, on Portsea Island in England. Opened on 1 July 1885, it serves as an interchange station between the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway and the Southsea Railway branchline. The station features multiple platforms, with Platform 1 primarily serving trains to London Waterloo. Operated by South Western Railway, the station offers various facilities such as maps, ticket offices, booking halls, and customer information screens.
Opening Times
The Fratton Railway Station is open during the following hours:
- Monday to Friday: 05:55 – 19:40
- Saturday: 05:55 – 19:40
- Sunday: 09:10 – 18:40
Accessibility Features
Fratton Railway Station is committed to providing accessibility for all passengers. Some of the accessibility features include:
- Step-free access
- Ticket barriers and gates
- Accessible ticket machines
- Height-adjusted ticket office counter
Assistance is also available through staff help and customer help points during operating hours. To find out more about accessibility information at Fratton Railway Station, you can visit National Rail Enquiries.
Ticket Purchasing and Information
At Fratton Railway Station, passengers can purchase and collect tickets in different ways. Tickets can be bought at the ticket office, booked online, or collected at the ticket machines. These machines also support smartcards top-up and are accessible to all passengers, featuring height-adjusted counters.
Information about train schedules, platform details, and general station information is available from staff at the ticket office and customer information screens. Furthermore, Fratton Railway Station offers information services during their opening times and provides customer services for any questions, concerns or lost property.
In summary, the Fratton Railway Station is a well-connected hub, offering multiple platforms, accessibility features, and ticketing services for passengers in a convenient and efficient manner.
Transport Links
Local Destinations
Fratton Train Station is conveniently located in Portsmouth and provides easy access to various local destinations. Portsmouth & Southsea Railway Station and Portsmouth Harbour are key stations on the Portsmouth Direct Line, making travel to other parts of the city accessible and efficient.
For those looking to explore the immediate area, a range of public transport options are available, including buses, taxis, and ferries. Travel between Fratton and local destinations such as South Parade Pier and Allaway Avenue shops is made easy through regular bus services.
Train Times to Major Cities
Fratton Train Station offers direct services to several major cities in the UK, making it a vital transport hub for passengers. Some of the key cities and their approximate journey times from Fratton are listed below:
- London Victoria: A direct train journey from Fratton to London Victoria typically takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
- Brighton: With direct trains available, Fratton to Brighton can be reached in approximately 1 hour.
- Cardiff Central: Although there are no direct trains to Cardiff Central from Fratton, the journey can be completed with a change at Southampton Central and generally takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
These train times ensure that passengers in the Fratton area have convenient access to fantastic destinations across the United Kingdom.
Local Attractions
Fratton Park
Fratton Park is the home of Portsmouth F.C., the city’s professional football club. This historic stadium has been the heart of football in the region since its opening in 1898. Fans can enjoy the thrilling atmosphere of live matches, and those interested can take regular guided tours to explore the facilities and learn about the club’s rich history.
Amenities in Fratton
Fratton, a vibrant area in Portsmouth, offers a range of amenities suitable for various interests and needs. From sports facilities in Hilsea with convenient car parking, visitors and residents alike can find what they are looking for.
There are plenty of pubs and refreshment facilities in the area, making it an ideal spot for socialising and dining. Goldsmith Avenue, in particular, is known for its array of popular eateries, providing options for different tastes.
Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of Fratton’s sports facilities, such as running tracks or cycling paths. The area is cyclist-friendly, with cycle hire information available for those who wish to explore the neighbourhood on two wheels.
Car parking availability in Fratton is generally good, with several free parking spaces provided by some holiday rentals and community centres. However, parking charges may apply in certain areas, so it is advisable to check beforehand.
Fratton Community Centre, located in the heart of Fratton, is a hub for learning and development. The centre offers various services like Wi-Fi, wheelchair accessibility, and printing and photocopying facilities, making it the perfect place for coordinating community activities or using as a meeting space.
In summary, the amenities in Fratton cater to a diverse range of interests, ensuring that visitors and residents can enjoy a comfortable, convenient, and engaging experience in the area.
Geographical Context
Fratton is a residential and formerly industrial area located in Portsmouth, Hampshire, England. The area is characterised by Victorian-style terraced houses, which are common in most residential areas of Portsmouth.
Portsmouth is a coastal city in the South East of England, situated on Portsea Island, and serves as the principal city of Hampshire. Situated approximately 4 kilometres southeast of Fratton, Southsea is a popular seaside resort and residential area, extending the urban area of Portsmouth.
Milton is another neighbouring district in the city of Portsmouth, located to the east of Fratton. The city is divided into several wards for local governance, with Fratton forming part of the wider administrative area.
The Portsmouth and Arundel Canal once connected the city of Portsmouth to the wider network of canals across Great Britain, but is no longer in use. The historic importance of the canal demonstrates the significant role waterways played in the region’s economy and transportation.
Gosport is a town located across Portsmouth Harbour from the city centre. It is easily accessible via ferry services, further emphasising the maritime influence on the region’s geography and infrastructure.
The South East region of England, which encompasses both Portsmouth and Fratton, is known for its varied geography and dense population. As a vital trade and naval base, the city of Portsmouth has had a significant impact on the area’s growth and development.
Overall, the geographical context of Fratton is closely tied to its surrounding areas within the city of Portsmouth and the broader South East region of England. Its location on Portsea Island and connection to significant waterways, such as the Portsmouth and Arundel Canal, underline the importance of maritime activities in the area’s geography and economy.
Public Health in Fratton
Fratton is a residential area of Portsmouth, Hampshire, England that features a variety of public health facilities and resources. As a neighbourhood with a significant number of Victorian-style terraced houses, catering to the health needs of its residents is paramount. Ensuring the availability of quality healthcare options and addressing various public health concerns are priorities in Fratton.
One key aspect of public health in Fratton is the availability of vaccination services. An example of this is the provision of COVID-19 vaccinations at places like Fratton Park, which can help increase vaccination rates and ensure the overall wellbeing of the community. The director of public health at Portsmouth City Council understands that it is essential to get both the first and second doses of the vaccination, especially as lockdown restrictions continue to ease.
Another important facet of public health is the promotion and availability of contraception services, ensuring that individuals have access to a variety of contraceptive methods and accurate information about their use. A comprehensive approach in education and provision of contraception can contribute to the improved wellbeing of Fratton’s residents. Access to local clinics, like Hale Court, based at 326 Fratton Rd, supports the need for family planning and sexual health services.
Efforts to tackle environmental and public health challenges in Fratton are also evident. For instance, the proposal of a Low Traffic Zone (LTZ) along Fratton Road aims to reduce traffic congestion, subsequently improving air quality and overall living conditions, which directly affects the health of the local residents.
In conclusion, public health in Fratton encompasses a range of services, from vaccination availability to contraception provisions, as well as environmental initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for its residents. By addressing these concerns and focusing on a healthy community, Fratton can continue to thrive and offer a desirable place to live.
References
Fratton is a residential area in Portsmouth, Hampshire, England, known for its Victorian style terraced houses, which are typical of most residential areas in Portsmouth1. The area has a rich history and has evolved over the centuries, transforming from an industrial area to a primarily residential one2.
In Fratton, one can find many discount shops, “greasy spoon” cafes, and the Bridge Centre shopping centre, which houses an Asda supermarket3. One interesting piece of Fratton’s history is the old turnstile from Portsmouth Football Club’s ground at Fratton Park. The cast iron turnstile dates back to between 1930 and 1940 and is a testament to the area’s history and connection to sports4.
As part of the Portsmouth district, Fratton has experienced various changes throughout the past two centuries, from development to population growth5. For further information on Fratton’s history and development, the Oxford Reference provides a concise entry on Fratton6.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the plans for Fratton Park redevelopment?
There are ongoing discussions and proposals for the redevelopment of Fratton Park, the home ground of Portsmouth Football Club (PFC). The club aims to modernise the stadium and improve facilities for supporters while retaining its unique atmosphere. Plans may include increased seating capacity, improved accessibility, and enhanced amenities for fans, though specific details have not been finalised yet.
Which platforms are at Fratton station?
Fratton railway station has two platforms, with platform 1 typically used for trains heading west towards Southampton, and platform 2 for trains heading east towards Portsmouth and Southsea. Fratton is served by Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, and Southern services, providing connections to various destinations across the South Coast and beyond.
What is the postcode for Fratton?
The postcode for Fratton is PO1. The surrounding areas within the postcode district include Fratton Park, Fratton Community Centre, and numerous local shops and businesses.
How many people can Fratton Park hold?
Fratton Park has a current seating capacity of around 20,000 spectators. However, this number may change with potential future redevelopment plans to modernise the stadium and improve facilities for supporters.
How do I get from Fratton to Portsmouth University?
The University of Portsmouth main campus is approximately 1.5 miles from Fratton station. To reach the university from Fratton, you can either take a short bus ride, cycle, or walk. The most convenient bus routes are numbers 1 and 23, which provide frequent services to and from the city centre. Alternatively, the walk or cycle should take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your pace and chosen route.
What is the historical background of Fratton?
Fratton has a rich history, dating back to the Roman period. It was once a separate village, but over time it has become integrated with the city of Portsmouth. Today, Fratton is known for its strong sense of community, with several local organisations and initiatives aimed at improving the area and fostering community spirit. One of the most prominent landmarks in Fratton is the Fratton Park stadium, which has been the home of Portsmouth Football Club since 1898, and stands as a symbol of the area’s resilience and dedication to the sport.
Footnotes
- Fratton – Wikipedia ↩
- History of Fratton, in Portsmouth and Hampshire ↩
- Fratton – Wikiwand ↩
- Fratton – portsmouthmuseums.co.uk ↩
- Fratton Demographics ↩
- Fratton – Oxford Reference ↩
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