Eastleigh's borough population reached around 136,400 at the 2021 Census, up 9% on 2011 — a faster increase than the South East or England as a whole.
A town built by the railway works
Unlike most towns on this list, Eastleigh's existence is a direct result of the railway. The London and South Western Railway opened a carriage and wagon works there in 1891, and in 1910 locomotive building was transferred to Eastleigh from Nine Elms in London. The works grew to employ around 1,500 people at the outset, turning what had been a largely rural area into a fully-fledged railway town almost from nothing.
During the Second World War, Eastleigh Works switched to war production: parts for Blenheim bombers, Horsa gliders built for the D-Day landings, around 1,500 anti-tank gun barrels and 240 multiple rocket launchers, plus landing craft and fuel tenders. New steam locomotive building at Eastleigh ended in 1950, after the Southern Railway's nationalisation, but the works itself is still standing and still associated with the town's identity today.
What that industrial history doesn't cover
A works built for locomotives and wartime hardware was never going to double as a sweet shop. Bulk bags, vegan-specific ranges and halal-friendly selections assembled for an order aren't something the town centre carries at scale.
Why Eastleigh shoppers order online anyway
For anything beyond a bag bought in person, ordering online and having it delivered is the more consistent option — no trip into the town centre required.
25,000+ customers, and counting
We've served over 25,000 customers UK-wide, Eastleigh included, with most orders dispatched within 1-2 business days. The range covers pick 'n' mix by the bag and tub, bulk bags from 1kg to 3kg, trade cases for events and businesses, vegan and halal-friendly sweets, retro favourites, and full chocolate ranges from the major brands.
Frequently asked questions
Do you deliver sweets to Eastleigh?
Yes — UK-wide, including Eastleigh, with most orders dispatched in 1-2 business days.
Why is Eastleigh known for its railway works?
Eastleigh Works opened in 1891, with locomotive building added in 1910 — it built the town almost from scratch.
Can I buy bulk or wholesale sweets in Eastleigh?
Not from the town centre — we deliver bulk bags, multipacks and trade cases direct to Eastleigh addresses instead.
Browse Pick 'n' Mix and Bulk Bags.