The best walks and hikes around Wickham
4.5
(1170)
13,394
hikers
24
hikes
Hikes around Wickham explore the rolling countryside of Hampshire’s Meon Valley. The region is characterized by the River Meon, its adjacent water meadows, and the extensive woodlands of the Forest of Bere. Many routes follow the flat path of a former railway line, offering accessible options for walking through the landscape.
Best hiking trails around Wickham
- The most popular hiking route is the Wickham Rail Bridge – River Meon loop from Wickham, a 7.6 mile (12.2 km) trail that takes around 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. The route combines sections of the old railway line with paths along the river.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is the Forest of Bere loop from Wickham — South Downs National Park, a moderate 5.6 mile (9.1 km) path. This hike leads through the mixed woodland and heath of the forest.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Wickham Water Meadows – Wickham Vineyard loop from Wickham, a 4.3 mile (7.0 km) trail leading through riverside meadows, often completed in about 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Hiking around Wickham is defined by riverside paths, woodland trails, and the flat Meon Valley Trail. The network of routes provides options for different fitness levels, from short, easy walks to longer, more moderate hikes.
- The routes in Wickham are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 440 reviews. More than 7,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Wickham's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.5
(32)
100
hikers
9.05km
02:24
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
44
hikers
3.31km
00:50
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.5
(4)
50
hikers
12.2km
03:08
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
31
hikers
24.0km
06:13
140m
140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
31
hikers
11.2km
02:57
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
I walked with Sarah for just over 2 miles from the carpark keeping go the pathway & then we turned back (Sarah was hungry and her knee was in some pain) . Lots of dog walkers, lots of good mornings. A shame about poop on the path and dog poo bags hung on branches or dumped by the side of the paths - what is wrong with dog owners that they can’t take it to a bin (one if provided!) . A nice walk. I’d like to do more but would prefer if it was circular so you know you’re ending when your car is parked!
0
0
Nice trail along the Meon Valley Trail. When you get to where the platform used to be you can under the bridge where it continues through a gully
1
0
A great trail for family rides, pubs can be found not far from the trail. It narrows towards the northern end, and gets very dark at dusk, take lights if you think you'll be riding at dusk or beyond.
1
0
Gets narrow towards the northern end, watch for horses. Very dark at dusk, take lights if uncertain.
0
0
The Pilgrim's Trail in the Forest of Bere is part of a larger, 30-mile (48 km) route. It cuts through the forest in a straight line and is a particularly nice section with beautiful woodland, flowers and good paths.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to park for hikes starting in Wickham?
Many walks begin in the village itself. You can find paid parking in Wickham's large medieval market square, which is a convenient starting point for routes exploring the Water Meadows and the Meon Valley Trail. For woodland walks, the West Walk in the Forest of Bere has its own dedicated parking area.
Are the hiking trails around Wickham suitable for dogs?
Yes, the area is generally very dog-friendly. The wide, open paths of the Meon Valley Trail and the extensive woodlands of the Forest of Bere are popular with dog walkers. As always, please be mindful of local signage, especially near farmland with livestock and in designated nature areas.
What are some good circular walks in the area?
Wickham offers several excellent circular hikes. For a route that combines woodland and railway history, the Wickham Rail Bridge – Brick Railway Bridge loop from Wickham is a great moderate option. It takes you through the Forest of Bere and along a section of the old railway line, returning you to your starting point.
Can I get to the trails using public transport?
Yes, Wickham is accessible by bus services that connect to nearby towns like Fareham and Winchester, which have mainline train stations. Once in Wickham's village square, you are within easy walking distance of the starting points for the Meon Valley Trail and the Wickham Water Meadows.
Are there any easy, shorter walks suitable for a casual stroll?
Definitely. The Wickham Water Meadows offer a lovely, gentle walk along the River Meon. These flat, scenic paths are perfect for a short, relaxing stroll and are easily accessible from the village centre. The paths are well-maintained and provide a great taste of the local landscape without a major time commitment.
What is the Meon Valley Trail like for walking?
The Meon Valley Trail is a popular, traffic-free path that follows the route of a dismantled railway line. It's mostly flat and has a firm surface, making it very accessible for walkers of all abilities. The trail offers pleasant views as it cuts through the countryside, connecting Wickham with other villages to the north.
Are there any long-distance hiking options near Wickham?
Yes, the Meon Valley Trail connects to longer national trails. For a more challenging day out, you can tackle the Wickham Rail Bridge – Droxford's Secret Siding loop from Wickham. This 10.4-mile (16.8 km) route explores a significant portion of the trail and the surrounding area, offering a rewarding experience for seasoned hikers.
What kind of scenery can I expect on hikes around Wickham?
The hiking here is defined by classic Hampshire countryside. Expect to see beautiful chalk streams like the River Meon, serene water meadows, and extensive ancient woodlands in the Forest of Bere. You'll also encounter historical elements like old railway bridges and the charming architecture of Wickham village itself.
Are there any good pub walks in the area?
Many routes are conveniently located for a post-hike refreshment. Wickham's historic square has several pubs, making it easy to finish your walk with a rewarding meal or drink. Trails along the Meon Valley Trail also pass near other villages with traditional pubs, offering opportunities to stop midway through a longer hike.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Wickham?
The region is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the variety of the landscape, from the flat, easy-going Meon Valley Trail to the peaceful, shaded paths within the Forest of Bere. The well-maintained trails and beautiful riverside scenery are common highlights.
How many hiking trails are there to choose from?
There are over 20 designated hiking routes around Wickham on komoot. These range from short, easy walks through the water meadows to more moderate and challenging loops that explore the wider Meon Valley and Forest of Bere, providing plenty of options for all fitness levels.
Most popular routes around Wickham
Most popular attractions around Wickham
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
