4.4
(1453)
13,346
hikers
15
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Totton And Eling are characterized by their gentle riverside paths, nature reserves, and convenient access to the New Forest National Park. The landscape features the River Test, Testwood Lakes, and Eling Great Marsh, creating varied walking experiences. Most routes are relatively flat, traversing waterside paths, boardwalks, meadows, and wetlands. This makes the area suitable for a wide range of abilities, from short family-friendly walks to longer excursions.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.5
(2)
24
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
hikers
3.15km
00:49
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Totton And Eling
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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This part of the Test Way passes around the edge of the Broadlands Estate, with glimpses of the Palladian mansion. The Earl and Countess Mountbatten of Burma reside here. This part of the Test Way can get waterlogged, particularly in winter! The whole Test Way is a 44 mile walk, from Inkben Beacon to Eling
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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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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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There are 16 hiking trails accessible from bus stations around Totton And Eling. These routes range from easy strolls to moderate excursions, offering a variety of experiences for different fitness levels.
Yes, Totton And Eling offers several easy, relatively flat routes perfect for families. The area's riverside paths and nature reserves are ideal. For example, the Eling Tide Mill â Eling Marina loop is an easy 3.15 km walk that passes the historic Eling Tide Mill, offering a pleasant experience for all ages.
Hikes from bus stations in Totton And Eling primarily feature gentle riverside paths, tranquil nature reserves, and picturesque lake environments. You'll often find yourself walking alongside the River Test, exploring areas like Testwood Lakes, and enjoying the serene Eling Great Marsh. The terrain is generally flat, making it suitable for a wide range of abilities.
Many of the bus-accessible routes in Totton And Eling are circular, providing convenient starting and ending points near public transport. A great option is the Eling Toll Bridge â Eling Marina loop, which is a moderate 8.09 km circular hike offering scenic views.
Many of the trails in Totton And Eling, particularly those through nature reserves and along riverside paths, are dog-friendly. However, always keep dogs under control, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and check for any specific local restrictions or lead requirements. The Little Testwood Lake â Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve loop is a popular choice for dog walkers.
You'll encounter several notable features. The historic Eling Tide Mill is a central attraction, often integrated into walks. You can also explore the serene Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve, which is excellent for birdwatching. Further afield, within the New Forest's reach, you might spot Dead Trees Marsh or the beautiful Hatchet Pond.
The area is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for waterside walks, but be prepared for more visitors. Winter can be peaceful, though some paths might be muddy.
While most routes are easy to moderate due to the relatively flat terrain, you can find longer moderate options. The Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve â Little Testwood Lake loop is a moderate 11.91 km hike, offering a more extended experience around the lakes and surrounding natural areas.
For additional local walking information and resources, you can visit the Totton and Eling Town Council website: tottoneling-tc.gov.uk. This can provide further context on local initiatives and accessibility.
The komoot community rates the bus-accessible hikes in Totton And Eling highly, with an average score of 4.08 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil waterside paths, the abundance of wildlife, and the ease of access from public transport. The well-maintained trails through nature reserves like Testwood Lakes are frequently highlighted for their peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty.
Absolutely. The nature reserves, particularly around Testwood Lakes and the Lower Test Nature Reserve, are excellent for birdwatching. Many trails offer open views across the water and marshlands, providing opportunities to spot various bird species. The Eling Marina â Eling Harbour loop provides expansive views across the water and is great for observing local wildlife.


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