A number of our members at Sustainable Bourne Valley wanted to form a walking group locally to enjoy our beautiful countryside, meet new friends and keep fit at the same time. The idea is to explore new walks in the valley, in a relaxed and social environment, with like-minded people. This group will not be an organised walking group. As there will be no leaders or first-aiders, everyone will be responsible for their own safety and well-being.

We welcome all ages, so please bring your children. Some of the walks may be a little longer but we will discuss the length in advance so you can decide if it will be suitable for them. Well-behaved dogs are also welcome, but please be aware that if we choose a walk with dog restrictions, such as wildlife areas, we will ask that dogs remain at home.

There’s nothing like striding out into the fresh air and discovering new trails. But even better, exploring with other people in a group helps you to enjoy the natural world as well as a little social interaction for your mental well-being. You get exercise, stress relief and fun all rolled into one.

If you would like to join the group, please get in touch.

Map showing local footpaths around St Mary Bourne

The Test Way

On some of our walks, we will be joining the Test Way, as it runs through St Mary Bourne, Longparish and Hurstbourne Tarrant. But if you are a little more ambitious and you fancy striding out on your own, you could walk some of the longer sections, or even the whole way!

The Test Way is a 44-mile long distance walking route that will take you from its dramatic start, high on the chalk downs at Inkpen, to follow much of the course of the River Test to Eling where its tidal waters flow into Southampton Water. Without doubt, the Test is one of Hampshire’s finest chalk streams, world-famous for its superb trout fishing. The Test Way has been divided into eight sections, each providing a really good day out. Choose between water meadows or tidal marshes, riverbank picnics or cosy pubs, steep hills with exhilarating views or a cool peaceful woodland.

You can download the Test Way walking guide by clicking the link below.

 

 

Walking Routes in the Bourne Valley

St Mary Bourne Lake Walk Distance 0.5 miles

St Mary Bourne Lollipop Walk  Distance 2 Miles

St Mary Bourne, Portway Walk Distance 1.5 miles

St Mary Bourne, The Drove Walk Distance 5 miles

Test Way - St Mary Bourne to Longparish Distance 5.5 miles

Test Way - Hurstbourne Tarrant to St Mary Bourne Distance 3 miles

The Test Way  Distance 44 Miles