Test Way - Mottisfont to Romsey
A short history of the Test Way
The Test Way is a 44 mile long-distance walking route. The walk begins high on the chalk downs at Inkpen and follows much of the course of the River Test to Eling. Here the river's tidal waters flow into Southampton Water.
This is Hampshire's longest and finest chalk stream, world famous for its superb trout fishing. The Way has been divided into 8 sections, each providing a really good day-out. Choose between water meadows or tidal marshes, steep hills with exhilarating views or cool peaceful woodland. Or relax in a cosy pub or with a riverbank picnic. The route passes through some of the most picturesque villages in Hampshire, strewn with listed buildings, historic churches and houses. It is well sign posted and waymarked. Horse-riders and cyclists can also use some parts.
Key
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- Route
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- Temporarily closed
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- Restricted use
Directions
The Way now passes the church of St Andrew and crosses the River Dun just before it joins the Test.
Lanes and tracks skirt around the village of Awbridge before entering Squabb Wood, reminiscent of the New Forest. Emerge from the wood and see the 10th century Romsey Abbey across the marshland. Then go past Sadlers Mill and its salmon leap and down to the thriving medieval market town of Romsey.