Godsmiths Hill and Wills's Plantation

Starting near Hampshire, England, this 8 km (approximately 5 miles) point-to-point trail offers a delightful journey through the picturesque English countryside. With no significant elevation gain, it is accessible to a wide range of hikers, though it is rated as medium difficulty due to its length and varied terrain.

### Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can either drive or use public transport. If driving, set your GPS to the nearest known address: The Hampshire Bowman, Dundridge Lane, Bishops Waltham, Southampton SO32 1GD, UK. There is limited parking available near the pub, so arriving early is advisable. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is Botley, which is about 6 miles (9.6 km) away. From Botley, you can take a local taxi or bus service to reach the trailhead.

### Trail Overview The trail begins near the Hampshire Bowman pub, a charming spot where you can grab a bite or a drink before or after your hike. As you set off, you'll traverse through a mix of open fields and dense woodlands, offering a variety of landscapes to enjoy.

### Significant Landmarks and Points of Interest - Godsmiths Hill: Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles) into the hike, you'll reach Godsmiths Hill. This area is known for its rolling meadows and offers a great spot for a short break. The hill itself is not steep, making it an easy ascent. - Wills's Plantation: Around the 5 km (3.1 miles) mark, you'll enter Wills's Plantation. This ancient woodland is rich in biodiversity, home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. The plantation is particularly beautiful in spring when the bluebells are in full bloom.

### Historical Significance The region around Hampshire is steeped in history. The trail passes near several historical landmarks, including remnants of old Roman roads and medieval settlements. Wills's Plantation itself has historical significance, having been a managed woodland for centuries. The ancient trees and old boundary markers tell a story of land use that dates back to the medieval period.

### Navigation and Safety Given the varied terrain and the mix of open and wooded areas, it's advisable to use a reliable navigation tool like HiiKER to stay on track. The trail is well-marked, but having a digital map can be very helpful, especially in the denser sections of Wills's Plantation.

### Wildlife and Flora The trail offers ample opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for red kites soaring above the fields and listen for the distinctive calls of woodpeckers in the forested areas. The flora is equally diverse, with wildflowers dotting the meadows and ancient oaks providing a canopy in the woodlands.

### Final Stretch As you near the end of the trail, you'll exit Wills's Plantation and find yourself in more open countryside. The final 2 km (1.2 miles) are relatively flat and easy, leading you to the endpoint near the village of Upham. Here, you can find local amenities and transport options to return to your starting point or continue your journey.

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