Old Winchester Hill and Meon Valley Loop

Old Winchester Hill rises to 197 metres above the Meon Valley in Hampshire, its summit crowned with the well-preserved ramparts of an Iron Age hill fort and a cluster of Bronze Age barrows. This 6.4km circuit climbs from the valley floor through chalk grassland to the fort, where the views extend across the South Downs to the Solent and the Isle of Wight. The chalk downland turf is rich with wildflowers in summer, including pyramidal orchids, round-headed rampion and several species of butterfly. The Meon Valley section provides a gentler, more enclosed contrast, with the river and hedgerow-lined paths before the final climb back to the ridge.

Off-lead potential on this dog friendly walk is limited as livestock grazes the downland throughout the year, with cattle and sheep both present on the hill fort and surrounding slopes. Leads should be kept on across all open sections. The chalk paths are firm and well-drained, making this a reliable option in most weather conditions. Water sources are scarce on the hill, so carry a supply for the climb. The exposed summit catches wind from every direction, so wrap up in winter. Parking is available at the Old Winchester Hill National Nature Reserve car park. The Meon Valley villages below have dog-friendly pubs including the Izaak Walton at East Meon. The hill fort itself is atmospheric and worth lingering at for the views.