The best romantic countryside walks for you and your valentine

Love is in the air this February. From romantic walks on the beach to spectacular South Downs’ sunsets, if you’re looking for date ideas then look no further than your local countryside.

We’ve created a list of our five favourite walks to take your valentine on this spring.

Best for beach strolls

If your dating profile mentioned that you love long walks on the beach, then Lepe Country Park is for you. With over a mile of beach, as well as pinefringed cliffs, wildflower meadows and woodland, the park is a wonderful place to take a sandy stroll. Once you’ve dipped your toes in the water, share a cosy cup of tea at The Lookout as you take in panoramic views of the Solent.

Best for sunsets

Stroll off into the sunset and take some time to reflect on your day, life, or relationship. For a stunning backdrop to your most romantic moments, wander over to Queen Elizabeth Country Park to visit Butser Hill. The second highest point in the whole of the South Downs, Butser Hill offers an astonishing view of the sky and the surrounding countryside.

Best for history

To enjoy a different kind of date , head to Royal Victoria Country Park. The site is steeped in history, set within 200 acres of peaceful woodland and grassy parkland. The Chapel was once at the heart of the Royal Victoria Military Hospital, which stretched for a quarter of a mile along the shores of Southampton Water. Why not thrill the history buff in your life with a wander through this scenic space that's rich in local heritage? Climb to the top of the 150ft tower at the Chapel, or just walk the grounds and enjoy each other’s company.

Best for nature spotting

Experience the best of Hampshire’s wildlife on a circular route starting at Wherwell. The area is home to one of the most picturesque villages in the Test Valley, boasting some of the finest timber framed thatched cottages in the county. Wherwell is located on the banks for the River Test itself which along with Chilbolton Cow Common, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, separates the village from Chilbolton. See if you can spot any of the over 100 different plants, grasses, and wild birds that have made their home there.

Best for book lovers

Hampshire has been home to legendary literary figures throughout the years. If either of you are bookworms, set off on a 4.5 mile walk from Chawton to Farringdon. The route will take you through lush valleys, with points of literary interest marked on the map , including those mentioned by Jane Austen in her letters. Starting at Chawton , the village that was home to Austen in the last eight years of her life, the walk is a great place to fall in love with both Hampshire and your partner.

We love to see people enjoying Hampshire’s beauty, so let us know your favourite spots for romantic walks by tagging us in your posts on Facebook and Instagram.