10 Best Walks in Hampshire to Enjoy This Summer
Hampshire is one of England’s most spectacular counties. From ancient woodland and rolling chalk downland to river valleys and stretches of coastline that seem to go on forever, it’s a place that rewards those who explore it on foot. Whether you’re looking for a gentle Sunday stroll with the family or a more challenging half-day hike, Hampshire delivers in spades.
As an estate agency rooted in Chandler’s Ford and the surrounding communities, we think a lot about what makes this part of the world such a wonderful place to live, and few things sum that up better than the walks on your doorstep. And with so many trails, towpaths and open spaces to explore, it’s little wonder Hampshire is also renowned for some of the best dog walks in Hampshire too – plenty of our routes below are ideal for four-legged companions.
So, with summer here, we’ve put together our pick of the best walks in Hampshire – a mix of distances, difficulties and landscapes to suit everyone.
1. Itchen Navigation, Eastleigh to Winchester (Easy – 5 miles)
Starting practically on our doorstep, the Itchen Navigation follows the course of the historic canal from Eastleigh up into the heart of Winchester. It’s flat, well-surfaced and utterly beautiful in summer, with wildflowers lining the banks and plenty of spots to stop and watch the world drift by. A brilliant option for families with young children or those after a relaxed evening walk.
2. Old Winchester Hill (Moderate – 4 miles)
This Iron Age hillfort near Meonstoke is one of Hampshire’s hidden gems. The circular route takes you up to the fort’s ramparts, where the views across the Meon Valley stretch out in every direction. It’s a moderate climb but entirely worth the effort. Look out for the chalk grassland wildflowers and butterflies that make this site a nature reserve as well as a historical beauty.
3. The Test Way, Stockbridge section (Easy to Moderate – varies)
The River Test is world-famous among fly fishermen, and walking along its banks you’ll quickly understand why. The Stockbridge section of the Test Way is particularly lovely in summer, passing through water meadows and thatched villages that feel like they’ve barely changed in centuries. You can tailor the distance to suit your group, making it a flexible choice for all abilities.
4. Butser Ancient Farm & Queen Elizabeth Country Park (Moderate – 5 to 7 miles)
Queen Elizabeth Country Park, nestled in the South Downs near Petersfield, offers some of the best walking in the county. The trails through beech woodland and open downland are well-marked and varied, and the views from the top of Butser Hill – the highest point in Hampshire at 270 metres – are genuinely breathtaking on a clear summer’s day. A great one for those who want a proper workout.
5. Hamble River, Hamble-le-Rice (Easy – 3 to 4 miles)
For something a little different, the circular walk around Hamble village and along the river estuary is a treat. Yachts on the water, salt air, and a pretty village with good pubs at the end of it – what’s not to love? It’s an easy, flat walk that’s perfect for a leisurely summer afternoon.
6. New Forest: Burley Village Loop (Easy to Moderate – 5 miles)
No list of Hampshire walks would be complete without the New Forest, and the loop around Burley is one of the most accessible and rewarding routes the Forest has to offer. You’re almost guaranteed to encounter free-roaming ponies and cattle along the way, and the heathland is a riot of purple heather come late summer. It’s also widely regarded as one of the best dog walks in Hampshire – just keep dogs on leads around the grazing animals. Park in the village and follow the waymarked paths out into the open forest.
7. Marwell to Owslebury (Moderate – 6 miles)
This lovely circular walk through the countryside south of Winchester takes in open farmland, ancient hedgerows and quiet country lanes. It’s not one of the most well-known routes in Hampshire, which is part of its charm – you’re unlikely to meet many other walkers, and the sense of space and quiet is wonderful. A good one for those who like their walks a little off the beaten track.
8. Selborne Hanger & Gilbert White’s Village (Moderate – 4 miles)
The village of Selborne was home to Gilbert White, the pioneering 18th-century naturalist, and it’s easy to see why it captured his imagination. The walk up through the ancient beech hanger, one of the steepest sections of any walk in this list, rewards you with sweeping views across the Weald. The village itself is well worth exploring before or after, with a good tearoom and the Gilbert White museum to visit.
9. Hayling Island Coastal Path (Easy – up to 9 miles)
For something coastal, Hayling Island’s seafront path offers miles of easy, flat walking along the beach and shoreline. In summer the island buzzes with activity – kite surfers, families on the beach, ice cream vans – but the southern tip of the island is quieter and genuinely peaceful. You can do as much or as little as you like, making this a great option for a long summer’s day out.
10. Meon Valley Trail, Wickham to Droxford (Easy – 5 miles)
Our final pick follows the old Meon Valley railway line through some of Hampshire’s loveliest countryside. The trail is wide, flat and easy underfoot, making it ideal for families with bikes or pushchairs as well as walkers. The views across the valley are gorgeous, and the route passes through several charming villages where you can stop for a rest or a bite to eat.
Hampshire: A Wonderful Place to Call Home
One of the things we love most about living and working in this part of Hampshire is how much there is to explore right on your doorstep. Whether you’re already settled here or thinking about making a move to the area, the countryside, communities and quality of life on offer in Hampshire really are something special.
If you’re considering buying or selling a home in Chandler’s Ford or the surrounding area, we’d love to have a chat. Pop into our new office on Winchester Road, give us a call, or simply drop us a message: we’re always happy to help!
FAQ’s on the Best Walking Routes in Hampshire
Are there any coastal walks in Hampshire?
Yes: Hayling Island’s coastal path is one of the best. It offers miles of easy, flat walking along the seafront and is perfect for a full summer’s day out. The Hamble River walk also has a lovely estuary feel if you’re after a taste of the coast without venturing too far afield.
Where is a good starting point for walks near Chandler’s Ford?
The Itchen Navigation is right on the doorstep, with easy access from Eastleigh heading up towards Winchester, making it one of the most convenient and rewarding walks for anyone based in or around Chandler’s Ford. The Meon Valley Trail and the countryside around Marwell are also within easy reach.
Is the New Forest good for walking in summer?
Absolutely. The New Forest is one of Hampshire’s most iconic destinations and is stunning in summer. The heathland bursts into colour with purple heather towards late summer, and you’re very likely to spot the Forest’s famous free-roaming ponies and cattle along the way. The Burley Village loop is a great starting point for first-time visitors.
How difficult are the walks in Hampshire?
Hampshire caters for all abilities. Routes like the Itchen Navigation, Meon Valley Trail and Hamble River walk are easy and flat, making them ideal for beginners, families or those after a relaxed outing. For something more challenging, Butser Hill and Selborne Hanger involve steeper climbs but reward you with some of the county’s finest views.
What is the best walk in Hampshire for views?
For the most spectacular views in Hampshire, Butser Hill in Queen Elizabeth Country Park is hard to beat. At 270 metres, it’s the highest point in the county, and on a clear summer’s day you can see for miles across the South Downs. Old Winchester Hill is another brilliant option, with sweeping views across the Meon Valley from its ancient hillfort ramparts.
What are the best walks in Hampshire for families?
Hampshire has plenty of family-friendly options. The Itchen Navigation between Eastleigh and Winchester is flat, scenic and easy underfoot, while the Hamble River walk and the Meon Valley Trail are also great choices for younger legs. The New Forest’s Burley Village loop is a firm favourite too: the free-roaming ponies are always a hit with children.