Fareham has a considerable trade in corn, timber and coal; the creek being accessible to vessels of 300 tons.
The fact that Fareham (Fernham, Ferham) formed part of the original endowment of the see of Winchester fixes its existence certainly as early as the 9th century.
There is evidence to show that Fareham had become a borough before 1264, but no charter can be found.
Fareham returned two members to the parliament of 1306, but two years later it petitioned against representation on the ground of expense.
Fareham owed its importance in medieval times to its facilities for commerce.