Beautiful Hampshire walks close to Exton Park
Strike out in the glorious South Downs landscape on one of these beautiful walks close to the vineyard, as chosen by Muddy Stilettos Hampshire.
Exton Park Vineyard is the proud steward of a rolling, 70-acre chalk downs vineyard in the South Downs National Park. Our location in an area of outstanding beauty is surrounded by stunning countryside, nature and historic landmarks – including a few hidden areas of interest only visible to intrepid walkers and cyclists. Here’s five of our local favourites.
Beacon Hill National Nature Reserve, 6 miles
Starting out in the pretty nearby village of Exton, this circular route takes in beautiful farmland up to Beacon Hill National Nature Reserve, a prominent chalk hill and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Once you’ve ascended the fairly steep path from the village you’ll be rewarded with views across the Meon Valley and, on a clear day, you could see as far as the Solent and the Isle of Wight.
Pub stop: The Shoe
Winchester to Exton on the South Downs Way. 12 miles
This first leg of the epic, 8,000-year-old, 100-mile South Downs Way starts in King Alfred’s ancient capital and ends on the doorstep of the vineyard in the village of Exton. Walk in the shadow of the magnificent Winchester Cathedral and out of the city to the pretty village of Chilcomb. From there, it’s an ascent to Cheesefoot Head for some spectacular views before heading down into Exton where this first stretch of the Way ends.
Pub stop: The Milbury
West Meon Valley ramble. 3.5 miles
The Meon Valley is incredibly beautiful and encompasses the awesome views of the South Downs without being overly far from the beaten track. Here you’ll find cute little thatched cottages and all the sights, sounds and smells of the Hampshire countryside.
Following along the route of what was once the Meon Valley Railway, begin your walk just off Station Road in West Meon’s former goods yard, now a car park for the popular 10-mile (16.1km) railway walk south to Wickham, taking in the overgrown platforms stretch beneath the road bridge. Then head off on a circular route taking in the pretty countryside. Top tip: Be sure to leave time for a pitstop at the Thomas Lord.
Pub stop: The Thomas Lord
East Meon & Butser Hill circular, 8.1 miles
Staying in the Meons, this route starts at The Sustainability Centre which is located on the South Downs ridge above East Meon. From here you head through the picturesque village of East Meon and up Butser Hill, one of the highest points in Hampshire. From the flat summit of the nature reserve, you’ll enjoy panoramic views over Sussex, Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight.
Pub stop: Ye Olde George Inn
Forest of Bere West Walk Circular, 3.3 miles
South of Exton Park Vineyard to the Forest of Bere, close to Wickham. Located just off Hundred Acres Road, you probably won’t find Pooh Bear down in these woods but you will find a couple of options for a good old stroll. There are a couple of trails to choose from, one with a sharp incline and one that’s a little more leisurely.
Pub stop: The Bold Forester
Content by Muddy Stilettos Hampshire & Isle of Wight
