From Roman settlements to medieval manor houses, Bitterne is steeped in history. The name derives from the old English words Byht and Aern, which means “house near a bend.” This is most likely a reference to Bitterne Manor, located on the bend of the River Itchen.

Bitterne Manor sits on the site of Roman Clausentum, which is the forerunner of the city of Southampton we know and love today. The house still commands views over the River Itchen, but modern apartments vie for position on the former grounds.

Famous visitors to the manor include Robert Kilwardby, the Archbishop of Canterbury and the novelist Nicholas Freeling, who wrote the Van Der Valk detective novels.

Bitterne was never mentioned in the Domesday Book, but it does appear in records from the 11th century. By 1665, the settlement of Bitterne consisted of 75 people and 14 dwellings.

For almost 600 years, Bitterne was an agricultural community. It wasn’t until the early 1800s, with the construction of the Northam Bridge, that transport routes opened up to help with the expansion of Southampton, and Bitterne began the transformation into the urban settlement it is today.

Bitterne richly deserves its reputation as a family-friendly place to live, with great schools, road and rail links and excellent facilities.

For all the latest market trends, up-to-date information and just downright friendly advice, call, drop in or email our team at the Bitterne office.