The Fairway Caravan Park, once a bustling holiday destination nestled in West Howe, Bournemouth, has left its mark on the town's history.

Located along Ringwood Road, just adjacent to Northbourne Golf Course, this park emerged from a former gipsy encampment in the 1930s.

As the popularity of seaside vacations soared in the mid-20th century, the Fairway Caravan Park offered a unique and convenient accommodation option.

Equipped with modern caravans, electricity, and hot and cold showers, it provided visitors with a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

The park's prime location, just a short distance from Bournemouth's vibrant beachfront, made it an attractive choice for families and individuals seeking a relaxing getaway.

Beyond its role as a holiday destination, the Fairway Caravan Park also held significant archaeological interest.

In 1949, a bell barrow was unearthed within the park's boundaries, providing valuable insights into the region's prehistoric past.

Subsequent excavations in 1958 uncovered three round barrows, or howes, which are ancient burial mounds. These discoveries revealed the rich history of the site and its inhabitants over millennia.

Unfortunately, the Fairway Caravan Park's days were numbered.

In the late 20th century, the land was redeveloped for housing, marking the end of an era.

A rescue excavation conducted in 1973, prior to the construction of the new housing estate, uncovered a trove of sandstone artefacts within the ditches of the ancient round barrows and an adjacent urnfield.

While the park itself no longer exists, its legacy lives on through the archaeological finds that offer a glimpse into the lives of those who once called this place home.

The history of the Fairway Caravan Park serves as a reminder of the changing landscape of Bournemouth.