4.4
(940)
10,195
hikers
711
hikes
Hiking around Nursling And Rownhams offers a blend of rural and riverside scenery, characterized by diverse natural features. The area features the River Test, known for its clear waters, alongside Testwood Lake and Little Testwood Lake. Extensive meadows provide open spaces, complemented by woodlands such as Bluebell Woods and Great Covert Woodlands. Toot Hill offers gentle inclines with views of the surrounding countryside.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
72
hikers
2.46km
00:37
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
9
hikers
5.96km
01:31
10m
10m
Hike the easy 3.7-mile Test Way and Testwood Lakes Loop through Lower Test Nature Reserve, enjoying diverse wildlife and scenic chalk stream

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3.9
(8)
21
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
24
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
12
hikers
6.10km
01:33
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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It's called a lake, but it's in fact a reservoir, apparently able to store 270 million litres of water. It's one of the three lakes that make up Test Lakes Nature Reserve (the other lakes being Testwood Lake to the north and Meadow Lake to the north of that). In fact, this beautiful spot affords you beautiful views of both Little Testwood Lake and Testwood Lake. Worth stopping here to marvel at the natural world.
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A very interesting Bronze Age roundhouse is to be found on the northern banks of Testwood Lake. When the reservoir here was being built, evidence of this Bronze Age site was found, including not just the roundhouse, but also a timber bridge and a part of a boat. Also, nearby, there is a very interesting log with wildlife carvings on it - rather pretty!
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There are lovely views of the lake from its northern banks. Within the Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, it abounds in wildlife (e.g. oystercatchers and lapwings). Easy paths lead to the banks - on a sunny day, it's great to sit on the grass for a bit of quiet.
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Lower Test Nature Reserve is a mixed habitat of floodplain meadows, marshes and reedbeds, home to a diverse range of animal, plant and insect species. Crossing the marshes via the boardwalk, keep an eye and ear out for birds, including a number of different warblers. The summer months also bring an abundance of wildflowers.
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Testwood Lakes is a lovely spot to visit when on foot, whether running or walking. The exit pathway to the north is overgrown at present. Not impassably, but getting through unscathed by brambles or stinging nettles is quite difficult right now (July 2016). Also, my runs have been interrupted by grazing cows being stubbornly unwilling to move.
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Testwood Lakes form a stunning nature reserve with grassland, wetland and woodland habitats. Lapwings, oystercatchers, and great crested grebes roost on the lakes in spring. During the summer, clouds of brightly-coloured dragonflies and damselflies can be observed. You can see plenty more wildlife and plantlife, too. There are also bird hides dotted around.
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Here you will find a seasonal display of beautiful blooming bluebells.
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Testwood Lakes is a beautiful nature reserve located in Southampton. The reserve features a multitude of tranquil lakes and walking trails and is teeming with wonderful wildlife and birdlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the likes of the sand martin, great crested grebe, kingfisher, snipe, great white egret, little egret and Grey Heron.
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Nursling And Rownhams offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 470 routes suitable for various ability levels. These trails allow you to explore the region's diverse landscapes, from serene waterways to dense woodlands.
The easy hikes in Nursling And Rownhams showcase a blend of rural and riverside scenery. You'll find picturesque chalk streams like the River Test, tranquil spots around Testwood Lake and Little Testwood Lake, and extensive meadows. The area also features woodlands such as the Bluebell Woods and Great Covert Woodlands, offering a rich natural experience.
The easy trails in Nursling And Rownhams are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers often praise the serene waterways, open meadows, and well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable and accessible outdoor experiences.
Yes, many easy trails in the area highlight the region's beautiful waterways. For instance, the Testwood Lakes & Lower Test Nature Reserve loop is a popular option that explores the natural beauty of Testwood Lakes and the Lower Test Nature Reserve. Another short and easy walk is the Little Testwood Lake â Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve loop.
Absolutely. The region is known for its woodlands, including the Bluebell Woods. The Bluebell Woods loop from Lower Test Nature Reserve is a notable trail that takes you through this area, offering a beautiful experience, especially when the bluebells are in bloom. The Great Covert Woodlands also provide dense canopy walks.
Yes, some easy trails incorporate historical elements. Within the Nursling and Rownhams Country Park and Great Covert Loop, you can discover remnants of ancient Roman roads and medieval structures, as well as the historic Nursling Church. While not directly on an easy trail, nearby historical highlights include The Bargate and Southampton City Walls.
For modest inclines and scenic vistas, Toot Hill provides a gentle climb with views of the surrounding countryside. While not a specific route in this guide, the area offers various spots to enjoy the landscape. You might also find pleasant views around Little Testwood Lake.
Many of the easy hiking trails in Nursling And Rownhams are well-suited for families. The gentle terrain and relatively short distances make them accessible for children. Routes around Testwood Lakes, such as Testwood Lakes â New Forest National Park, are particularly popular for family outings.
Yes, Nursling And Rownhams offers several dog-friendly easy hikes. The diverse landscapes of woodlands and open meadows provide excellent opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control, especially near wildlife or livestock, and check local signage for any specific restrictions.
The duration of easy hikes in Nursling And Rownhams varies, but many can be completed in a relatively short time. For example, the Testwood Lakes â New Forest National Park trail takes approximately 37 minutes, while the Bluebell Woods loop from Lower Test Nature Reserve typically takes around 1 hour 29 minutes.
Yes, loop walks are a common and convenient option for easy hikes in the area. The Testwood Lakes & Lower Test Nature Reserve loop and the Bluebell Woods loop from Lower Test Nature Reserve are excellent examples of easy circular routes that allow you to start and finish at the same point.
Nursling And Rownhams offers enjoyable hiking experiences year-round. Spring is particularly beautiful with bluebells in bloom in the woodlands. Summer provides pleasant conditions for walks around the lakes and meadows. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, and even in winter, the trails offer serene, crisp walks, especially around the frozen lakes.


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