Easton, Martyr Worthy and Avington Loop

Starting near the picturesque village of Easton in Hampshire, England, this 10 km (6.2 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The trailhead is conveniently accessible by car, with parking available near the village center. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Winchester, from where you can take a local bus or taxi to Easton.Trail OverviewThe Easton, Martyr Worthy, and Avington Loop is a moderately challenging hike with an elevation gain of approximately 100 meters (328 feet). The trail meanders through charming English countryside, offering a blend of riverside paths, woodland trails, and open fields. Key Landmarks and Points of Interest1. Easton Village: Starting in Easton, you'll immediately be charmed by its quintessential English village atmosphere. The village is home to the historic St. Mary's Church, dating back to the 12th century, which is worth a quick visit before you set off.2. River Itchen: As you leave Easton, the trail follows the serene River Itchen. This chalk stream is renowned for its clear waters and is a haven for wildlife, including kingfishers and otters. The riverside path is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making for a pleasant start to your hike.3. Martyr Worthy: About 3 km (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll reach the village of Martyr Worthy. Here, you can explore the Church of St. Swithun, another historical gem with roots in the 12th century. The village itself is a peaceful spot, perfect for a short rest.4. Avington Park: Continuing on, the trail leads you towards Avington Park, approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) from the start. This grand estate, with its stunning 17th-century mansion and beautifully landscaped gardens, offers a glimpse into England's aristocratic past. While the house is privately owned, the surrounding parkland is accessible and provides a scenic backdrop for your hike.Flora and FaunaThe trail is rich in biodiversity. In spring and summer, the fields and hedgerows are alive with wildflowers, including bluebells and primroses. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting a variety of species, from common garden birds to more elusive woodland creatures. Keep an eye out for deer, rabbits, and the occasional fox as you traverse the more wooded sections of the trail.Trail NavigationNavigating the Easton, Martyr Worthy, and Avington Loop is straightforward, but it's always wise to have a reliable navigation tool. HiiKER is an excellent app for this purpose, providing detailed maps and real-time tracking to ensure you stay on course.Getting ThereFor those driving, Easton is easily accessible from the A34 and M3 motorways. Parking is available near the village center, close to the trailhead. If you're using public transport, take a train to Winchester Station. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to Easton, which is about 6 km (3.7 miles) away.This loop trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and peaceful countryside, making it an ideal choice for a day hike in Hampshire.