Odiham, village and civil parish in Hampshire, United Kingdom
Odiham is a village in the Hart district of Hampshire, England, located west of Hook near Basingstoke. The settlement consists of brick and stone buildings set along narrow streets, with the High Street forming the center where local shops, cafes, and pubs create a modest commercial heart.
Odiham appears in the Domesday Book of 1086 as one of William the Conqueror's largest holdings in Hampshire, with settlement dating back to Saxon times. King John built Odiham Castle in the early 1200s, a fortress that played a role in events leading to the Magna Carta, and its ruins remain visible today.
The name Odiham comes from Old English meaning 'Oda's homestead'. All Saints Church and several pubs are places where residents and visitors gather together, shaping how people use and experience the village. The village maintains a sister town relationship with Sourdeval in France, fostering regular exchanges between communities.
The village is best explored on foot since streets are narrow and traffic is limited, giving a peaceful walking experience. Hook railway station is nearby and provides train connections to larger cities including London, while the M3 motorway offers quick access by car.
The Basingstoke Canal was built in the 18th century and still runs through Odiham and nearby North Warnborough today. This waterway has become popular for walking, boating, and fishing, adding another layer to the village's relationship with its landscape and history.
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