History

Farnborough, with several houses dating back to the 16th century. Historic Farnborough North railway station is positioned at the end. Farnborough Street is the original High Street of the town, situated in a Conservation Area, with 11 listed Grade I and II buildings within an 800 metre radius. It has been neglected over time, our aim is to conserve and respect this historic part of Farnborough.

The Imperial Crypt at St Michael’s Abbey, Farnborough is the burial place of the exiled Emperor

Napoléon III of France and his wife, Eugenie de Montijo. It also contains the tomb of the couple’s son, Napoleon Eugene, Prince Imperial (also known as Napoleon IV) who died in 1879. He was the pretender to the Imperial throne of France hence the ‘Imperial Arms’ Public House, Farnborough Street, now sadly closed to become residential property.

There is a huge amount of history within the street and environs. Farnborough Street being the original village street of Farnborough before military and aviation was established in the area. In Farnborough street itself Simmonds Brewery of Reading occupied several buildings, some used as a bottling plant, one as a laundry. Some resident houses were a Bakers, Cobblers shop, Sweet Shop, Post office – all of which have retained many original features which are easily recognisable in historic photographs.

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There are several published books of the History of Farnborough which itemise several buildings and businesses that were in the street. Educational tours are led down Farnborough Street by local historians. Many groups of all ages have enjoyed and benefited by the visual evidence as they walk along the street listening to the tour guide.