Top 10 Walks In Hampshire

Written by Paul Gent in Places to WalkLast Updated January 30, 2025

top 10 walks in hampshire
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Hampshire, located on the southern coast of England, is a county rich in history and natural beauty, offering a diverse range of landscapes for walkers and hikers. From the rolling hills of the South Downs to the tranquil rivers of the Test Valley, and the ancient woodlands of the New Forest, Hampshire is a walker’s paradise.

The county boasts over 3,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways, and byways, catering to all abilities and preferences, whether you’re seeking a leisurely countryside stroll or a challenging long-distance hike.

Hampshire’s history is as captivating as its scenery. The county is home to the medieval city of Winchester, once the capital of England, with its magnificent cathedral and rich heritage.

The South Downs National Park and New Forest National Park offer a wealth of walking opportunities, where you can immerse yourself in nature and explore charming villages, historic landmarks, and wildlife-rich environments.

Whether tracing the banks of the River Itchen, walking along the Solent coastline, or discovering the picturesque countryside, Hampshire promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue for every outdoor enthusiast.

The 10 Walks In Hampshire

1. The Solent Way

  • Start/End Point: Milford-on-Sea to Emsworth
  • Distance: 60 miles (96.5 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal paths, cliffs, beaches
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Hurst Castle

A stunning coastal walk along the Solent, with views over the Isle of Wight and Portsmouth, offering dramatic cliffs and peaceful beaches, along with historic sites like Hurst Castle.

2. South Downs Way

  • Start/End Point: Winchester to Eastbourne
  • Distance: 100 miles (160 km)
  • Terrain: Rolling hills, chalk paths
  • Difficulty: Challenging
  • Notable Landmark: Devil’s Dyke

This iconic trail runs across the South Downs, providing panoramic views, rolling hills, and charming villages, with a stunning finish at Beachy Head.

3. Queen Elizabeth Country Park Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Queen Elizabeth Country Park Car Park
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, hills
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: The Butser Hill

A circular walk through the scenic Queen Elizabeth Country Park, featuring the highest point in Hampshire, Butser Hill, offering sweeping views of the South Downs.

4. The Test Way

  • Start/End Point: Inkpen to Eling
  • Distance: 47 miles (75.5 km)
  • Terrain: River paths, rolling countryside
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Test Valley

A peaceful, rural walk following the River Test, with charming villages, rolling fields, and quiet woodlands, perfect for nature lovers.

5. New Forest – Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Walk

  • Start/End Point: Bolderwood Car Park
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Woodland, heathland
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

A gentle walk through the New Forest, with the chance to spot wild deer at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, along with picturesque views of heathlands and woodlands.

6. Winchester Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Winchester City Centre
  • Distance: 6 miles (9.6 km)
  • Terrain: City streets, countryside paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Winchester Cathedral

A perfect city and countryside blend, this walk starts at the stunning Winchester Cathedral and takes you out into the surrounding countryside with beautiful river views.

7. Harting Down and the South Downs Way

  • Start/End Point: Harting Down
  • Distance: 5 miles (8 km)
  • Terrain: Chalk hills, woodland
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Harting Down

A walk that follows the South Downs Way, with fantastic views over the rolling hills and countryside, and a visit to the historic Harting Down.

8. Hengistbury Head Circular Walk

  • Start/End Point: Hengistbury Head Car Park
  • Distance: 4 miles (6.4 km)
  • Terrain: Coastal paths, sand dunes
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: Hengistbury Head

A coastal walk offering stunning views of the cliffs, sand dunes, and the surrounding area, including views across to the Isle of Wight.

9. Lymington to Keyhaven Marshes Walk

  • Start/End Point: Lymington
  • Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km)
  • Terrain: Marshland, coastal paths
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Notable Landmark: Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve

A lovely walk along the Solent coast, passing through the Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve, with an abundance of birdlife and views over the water.

10. Itchen Way

  • Start/End Point: New Alresford to Southampton
  • Distance: 26 miles (41.8 km)
  • Terrain: Riverside paths, meadows
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Notable Landmark: River Itchen

Following the River Itchen, this walk offers beautiful views of the river, surrounding meadows, and charming Hampshire villages, providing a peaceful and picturesque escape.

Summary – Top 10 Walks In Hampshire

We hope you enjoy this list of walks and look forward to trying some of them out on your next visit to Hampshire. Why not take a look at other counties too when planning other trips.

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