Five Hampshire walks for wintry weather

The leaves change colour and drop from the trees, the air becomes crisp and rich with earthy aromas, and the ground becomes softer underfoot.

Getting out for a walk at this time of year can be a daunting prospect, so to help you make the most of Hampshire’s beautiful country parks during the colder months, we’ve selected some of our favourite walks.

The best rejuvenating walk: Lepe Loop

There’s nothing more invigorating for the day after a festive party than a stroll in the fresh air, and the bracing breezes of the Solent coast are perfect for perking you up. Make sure you wear sturdy shoes for the five-mile Lepe Loop and be mindful of the tide as you might need to adjust your route. To celebrate your feat, end your walk with a visit to the Lookout café for a well-deserved pick-me-up.

The best mud-free walk: Staunton Country Park’s Folly Trail

Immerse yourself in history (and not in mud!) with a stroll around Staunton Country Park’s Folly Trail. Meander around the collection of fascinating structures, called follies, created by Sir George Staunton in the 1800s and learn more about their unique history. The paved trails make this a great option if you don’t want to dig out the walking boots.

The best accessible walk: Royal Victoria Country Park

Royal Victoria Country Park is a fantastic destination for people in search of accessible walks. With paved trails, plenty of rest stops, a Changing Places WC and even wheelchair-friendly play equipment, everyone is able to enjoy the 200 beautiful acres of greenery on the bank of the River Itchen.

The best walk for kids: The Dragon of Butser Hill

Get the little ones out of the house with a story trail at Butser Hill in Queen Elizabeth Country Park. Follow Grendor the knight on his quest to apprehend the last dragon in Wessex – however, all is not as it seems! With plenty of parking, rest stops and toilets, as well as a play area and a café serving tasty treats for the hungry knights of Wessex, the kids will enjoy their trip around the park.

The best walk for changing seasons: River Hamble Country Park

Settled on the bank of River Hamble with 400 acres of ancient woodland to explore, River Hamble Country Park has a stunning array of scenery. Keep coming back and watch the landscape change with the seasons as the leaves drop from the trees in the autumn and the bluebells sprout from the ground in the spring.

Explore the Hampshire countryside this season with a walk to suit you. Bundle up, pop your wellies on and visit your local country park for a wander. Head online to find more walks around Hampshire.