Highlight • Rest Area
Whitewool Pond
Hiking
4.5
(58)
This Highlight is in a protected area
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May 24, 2020
Hiking
July 21, 2020
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April 30, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Whitewool Pond
4.7
(11)
62
hikers
Embark on a moderate 8.5-mile (13.7 km) hike that blends tranquil riverside paths with rewarding hill climbs, taking around 3 hours and 42 minutes to complete. The route begins gently along the Meon Valley Trail, a flat and wide path winding through peaceful rural scenery with rolling hills and the clear River Meon. As you ascend Old Winchester Hill, the landscape transforms, offering spectacular panoramic views across the Meon Valley, and on clear days, you can even spot the Solent and the Isle of Wight. This section involves a climb of 652 feet (199 metres) and features vibrant chalk grassland alive with wildflowers and butterflies in summer.
This loop starts conveniently from the picturesque village of Exton, where parking is available. You can also find refreshments at the popular Shoe Inn pub after your hike. While the Meon Valley Trail section is generally accessible, the climb up Old Winchester Hill includes steep inclines and descents, so be prepared for varied terrain. Paths on the hill can become muddy, especially after rain, so choose your footwear accordingly.
Old Winchester Hill is not just a viewpoint; it's a significant Iron Age hillfort with visible defensive banks and Bronze Age burial mounds. It's also a designated National Nature Reserve, recognized for its rich chalk grassland ecosystem and diverse flora and fauna. The route also incorporates sections of the long-distance South Downs Way and Monarch's Way, adding to its historical and natural appeal.
4.7
(10)
38
hikers
Embark on a moderate 9.6-mile (15.5 km) hike through the South Downs National Park, a journey that typically takes around 4 hours and 13 minutes and includes 787 feet (240 metres) of elevation gain. This varied loop from West Meon combines easy, level sections along the Meon Valley Trail, which follows an old railway line, with more challenging climbs to Old Winchester Hill. From the hill's summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views across the picturesque Meon Valley and its chalk stream, the River Meon, stretching as far as the Isle of Wight on a clear day. You will experience diverse terrain, from wide country lanes and field paths to downland and woodlands.
Starting from the charming village of West Meon, the route offers accessible paths for much of its length, though sections leading up to and around Old Winchester Hill can be steeper and potentially muddy during winter months. The Meon Valley Trail itself is generally well-surfaced, making it suitable for a relaxed stroll. Consider visiting in summer when the chalk grassland on Old Winchester Hill bursts with wildflowers and butterflies, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The old West Meon station car park provides a convenient starting point and offers historical information about the disused railway line.
This trail offers a deep dive into both natural beauty and rich history. Old Winchester Hill is home to an impressive Iron Age hillfort, dating back about 2500 years, complete with Bronze Age burial mounds and platforms where ancient huts once stood. The hill is also a designated National Nature Reserve, vital for its chalk grassland habitat supporting a wide array of plant and animal species, including 37 recorded butterfly species. The loop also connects with parts of the longer South Downs Way and Monarch's Way trails, adding to its historical and recreational significance within the region.
4.6
(42)
158
hikers
11.2km
03:08
200m
200m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 110 m
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Saturday 16 May
15°C
7°C
48 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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