The best family-friendly hikes and walks around East Hampshire

Embark on the Old Winchester Hill loop from East Meon, a moderate hike through the South Downs National Park. This 8.8-mile (14.2 km) route features rolling chalk grassland, ancient yew woodlands, and sections of the South Downs Way. You will gain about 780 feet (238 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes, encountering varied terrain from well-surfaced paths to narrower, unsurfaced trails. The trail offers superb views across the Meon Valley and the village of East Meon, with the Iron Age hill fort at Old Winchester Hill providing a clear visual landmark.

Planning your visit, be aware that the full loop requires a good level of fitness due to undulating terrain and some steep sections. While parts near the hillfort are suitable for pushchairs, the entire circular route is not. During winter, some paths, especially those leading to the hillfort, can become muddy, so appropriate footwear is advisable. The area is a National Nature Reserve, so respect the local flora and fauna during your hike.

The Old Winchester Hill loop is notable for its rich historical and natural significance. At the summit, you can explore an impressive Iron Age hill fort and Bronze Age burial mounds, offering a glimpse into ancient history. The area is a National Nature Reserve, celebrated for its flower-rich chalk grassland, which bursts with wildflowers and numerous butterfly species, like the chalkhill blue, in summer. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including red kites and buzzards, making this a rewarding hike for nature enthusiasts.

Embark on the Small Down loop from East Meon, a moderate 5.0-mile (8.1 km) hike that winds through the distinctive chalk downland of the South Downs National Park. This route, with its 462 feet (141 metres) of elevation gain, offers a varied experience over approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. You will traverse open fields, gentle slopes, and forested sections, encountering both grass and uneven ground. From elevated points like Salt Hill, you can enjoy expansive panoramic views stretching east along the South Downs into Sussex. The trail also provides charming glimpses of the historic village of East Meon and its early 12th-century Norman church. You can expect one long climb and descent as part of the route, adding to the varied terrain. This hike is generally considered to require good fitness, but the paths are easily accessible for most skill levels. From the open downland, you will also find sections along riverbanks, offering a diverse visual journey. The landscape is picturesque, featuring quintessentially English rolling countryside. The route is a popular choice among local hikers, offering a rewarding experience without being overly strenuous. You will find the paths well-defined for most of the journey. The trail also offers glimpses of the historic village of East Meon and its Norman church. The area is known for its natural beauty, including potential sightings of wildlife such as otters and kingfishers along the River Meon. The trail explores the chalk downs around Small Down, featuring varied terrain that includes both gentle slopes and more pronounced ascents. The broader East Meon area, where this loop is situated, is defined by its chalk downland, ancient woodlands, and the clear chalk stream of the River Meon. Hikers can expect a mix of grass and uneven ground, with one long climb and descent as part of the route. The path often traverses open fields, forested sections, and riverbanks. The trail offers an immersive experience of the distinctive chalk downland geology of the South Downs National Park. The walk starts from the picturesque village of East Meon, which is rich in history with buildings like the Old Court House and the early 12th-century All Saints Church. The village itself offers amenities like pubs and a shop. The East Meon area is highly rated by the hiking community, indicating the quality of its trails, including the Small Down loop. The loop combines open downland with sections through fields, woodlands, and along the River Meon, offering a diverse visual experience. The outstanding panoramic views from Small Down and Salt Hill across the South Downs are a significant highlight.

Embark on an easy hiking adventure with the Butser Hill loop, covering 3.4 miles (5.5 km) and gaining 497 feet (152 metres) in elevation. This route, estimated to take 1 hours and 37 minutes, guides you through the diverse landscapes of Queen Elizabeth Country Park. You will experience open chalk grassland leading to the summit of Butser Hill, then descend into peaceful woodlands, passing ancient field systems and the distinctive Grandfather's Bottom.

To begin your hike, head to Queen Elizabeth Country Park, where ample parking facilities are available. While the trail is generally considered easy, be prepared for some noticeable changes in elevation, especially on the ascent to Butser Hill, so wearing appropriate footwear is advisable for your comfort and safety. This loop offers a rewarding experience for hikers looking for a manageable outing in nature.

This trail takes you to the highest point in the South Downs, offering expansive panoramic views across Hampshire and the English Channel from the summit of Butser Hill. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Isle of Wight in the distance, making the climb well worth the effort. The area is also recognized as a designated Dark Sky Discovery Site, providing an excellent opportunity for stargazing if you visit after dusk.

Embark on the Hangers Way, a moderate hiking route that spans 7.9 miles (12.7 km) and features an elevation gain of 669 feet (204 metres). This journey through the East Hampshire countryside typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete. You will discover a diverse landscape, moving through ancient woodlands, across chalk downlands, and over rolling fields. The trail is defined by its unique "Hangers," which are steep, beech-covered slopes offering both challenging climbs and rewarding vistas. Make sure to pause at the Shoulder of Mutton Viewpoint for expansive views across the valleys.

When planning your visit, be aware that while the Hangers Way is generally well waymarked with green discs, some sections might be less clearly signed. It is always wise to carry a map or use a navigation app to stay on track. Parking details for this specific loop are not provided, but access points are typically available near Petersfield. Be prepared for some strenuous sections, as the trail includes several steep climbs that will test your endurance.

This route is nestled within the beautiful Ashford Hangers National Nature Reserve, offering a rewarding experience for hikers. As you hike, keep an eye out for the seasonal beauty; in spring, you might spot wild garlic and bluebells carpeting the forest floor, adding a vibrant touch to your journey. The unique geology and rich biodiversity of the Hangers make this trail a distinctive exploration of the region's natural heritage.