Walks Around Wickham

Routes through the Meon Valley countryside

The countryside around Wickham provides some of the best walking in Hampshire, with a network of footpaths, bridleways, and lanes that cross farmland, follow the river, and climb onto the chalk downland.

The Meon Valley Trail is the most popular route, heading north from Station Road along the former railway. The trail is flat, well-surfaced, and suitable for all ages. It can be walked as an out-and-back route to Droxford (approximately eight miles return) or combined with footpaths to create circular walks.

The River Meon provides riverside walking from Bridge Street south through water meadows and farmland. The chalk stream is attractive throughout the year, and the paths along it are a favourite with dog walkers and families. The riverside walks can be extended to connect with paths heading towards Knowle and the lower Meon Valley.

Circular walks to the west and north use the footpath network that crosses the rolling farmland between Wickham and Southwick or towards Bishop's Waltham. These routes pass through open countryside with long views across the valley and the downs. The terrain is gentle, with no steep climbs, making the walks accessible to a wide range of abilities.

Wickham Common provides a short walk close to the village, ideal for a quick outing or a dog walk. The paths through the common take in grassland, scrub, and mature trees.

The South Downs National Park boundary lies a few miles to the north, and longer walks can be planned that take in the downland landscape. The South Downs Way national trail is accessible from the Meon Valley, though this requires a drive or a longer walk to reach the ridge.

Paths can be muddy in winter, particularly along the river and through the water meadows. Good footwear is essential from October to March. OS Explorer map 119 covers the area in detail.