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Best rail trail hikes in Hampshire
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Best rail trail hikes in Hampshire

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Hampshire.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Hampshire, England · star 4.6 (7) · 16.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 56 min

2

Easy

Rookesbury Park and Wickham Common via Meon Valley Trail and Pilgrim's Trail

Hampshire, England · star 5.0 (2) · 8.6 km · Est. 1 hrs 55 min

3

Easy

Yewtree Bottom and Hag Hill Loop

Hampshire, England · star 4.0 (2) · 3.8 km · Est. 50 min

4

Easy

Holmsley Inclosure Loop

Hampshire, England · star 5.0 (1) · 3.5 km · Est. 44 min

5

Easy

West Meon Loop via Old Winchester Hill National Nature Reserve

Hampshire, England · star 5.0 (1) · 10.9 km · Est. 2 hrs 31 min

6

Easy

Newlands Country Park

Hampshire, England · star 4.0 (1) · 7.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 29 min

7

Easy

High Croft Wood Loop

Hampshire, England · star 4.6 (5) · 3.7 km · Est. 49 min

8

Easy

Shappen Hill and Long Pond Loop

Hampshire, England · star 4.5 (6) · 7.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 40 min

9

Easy

Hincheslea Wood

Hampshire, England · star 4.3 (3) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 8 min

10

Easy

Woodground Copse and Ware Copse Loop

Hampshire, England · star 4.3 (3) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 7 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for rail trail hikes in Hampshire

sarah mcvittie avatar

Queen Elizabeth Country Park

sarah · reviewed 15 days ago

star star star star star

David Hawken avatar

Rookesbury Park and Wickham Common via Meon Valley Trail and Pilgrim's Trail

Davidhawken · reviewed 7 months ago

star star star star star

Wyatt Mayert avatar

Yewtree Bottom and Hag Hill Loop

SummitRunner98 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

James Jenner avatar

Holmsley Inclosure Loop

JJ goes Hiking · reviewed 10 months ago

star star star star star

Marjory Considine avatar

West Meon Loop via Old Winchester Hill National Nature Reserve

AspenGlaciertracker49 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Hampshire

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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