Stockham's Row, Picked Craft Copse and Swallick Wood Loop

Starting near Hampshire, England, this 9 km (approximately 5.6 miles) loop trail offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet), it is rated as a medium difficulty hike, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest known address: Stockham's Row, Hampshire. For those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is the town of Alton, which is well-connected by train from London Waterloo. From Alton, you can take a local bus or taxi to the trailhead.

Trail Overview The trail begins at Stockham's Row, a quaint area that immediately immerses you in the serene English countryside. As you start your hike, you'll traverse through a variety of landscapes, including open fields, dense woodlands, and charming rural paths.

Stockham's Row to Picked Craft Copse The first section of the trail takes you through Stockham's Row, where you'll encounter gently rolling hills and expansive meadows. This part of the hike is relatively flat, making it a good warm-up. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as rabbits and various bird species that are common in this area.

Picked Craft Copse Around the 3 km (1.9 miles) mark, you'll enter Picked Craft Copse, a dense woodland area. The elevation begins to increase slightly here, offering a moderate challenge. The copse is known for its ancient trees and rich biodiversity. During spring and summer, the forest floor is often carpeted with bluebells and other wildflowers, creating a picturesque scene.

Historical Significance As you continue, you'll come across remnants of historical significance. This region has a rich history dating back to medieval times. Look out for old stone walls and possibly even the foundations of ancient structures hidden among the trees. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the past and add an element of intrigue to your hike.

Swallick Wood At approximately 6 km (3.7 miles), you'll reach Swallick Wood, another dense woodland area. This section of the trail is slightly more challenging due to the increased elevation gain. The wood is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and foxes. The dense canopy provides ample shade, making it a pleasant walk even on warmer days.

Navigation and Safety Given the dense woodland areas and potential for confusing paths, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is generally well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in the more remote sections.

Final Stretch The last part of the loop brings you back towards Stockham's Row. This section is mostly downhill, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely end to your hike. As you exit the woodlands, you'll be greeted by open fields and the sight of the quaint rural landscape once again.

Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of flora and fauna. The woodlands are home to oak, beech, and ash trees, while the open fields are dotted with wildflowers and grasses. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diversity of species, including woodpeckers, owls, and various songbirds.

This 9 km loop trail near Hampshire offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, moderate physical challenge, and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for any hiker.