This dog friendly route takes in the historic estate at Hinton Ampner in Hampshire, which is the final part of former owner Ralph Dutton’s vision for an estate, garden and house that would blend harmoniously into the surrounding Hampshire countryside. This 4-mile route takes in the best of all seasons, from carpets of bluebells in spring to the most spectacular colours in autumn, as well as an abundance of wildlife from roe deer to rare barbastelle bats.
Start point: Gated entrance just off the main drive, behind the church, grid ref: SU597275
1. As you leave visitor reception, head straight along the main drive with the house on your right and the church to your left. The drive begins to sweep to the left behind the church. You will notice a gate just off to the right-hand side; this is the start of the estate walk. Head through the two gates and across the field in the direction of the waymarker. There are often sheep grazing in this field, so dogs need to be kept on leads. At the end of the field turn left on the road. Make sure you keep to the right-hand side of the road, facing the oncoming traffic. 7m (8yd) along the road, turn right on the track denoted by the waymarker.
2. In front of you is a path leading up and along the ridge. About ½ mile (1km) along it is a bench.
3. At the end of this section of path, turn right and head down the ridge. Follow the path down till you reach the road.
4. To the left of the path you will notice a large house. Cross the road at this point, again listening out for any passing traffic. Once over the road, follow the path towards the woods.
5. Follow the path as it meanders through the woods. The woodland at Hinton Ampner is mixed and has both conifer and native broadleaf trees.
6. Turn right onto the last section of woodland, grand avenues lined by towering beech trees stretch as far as the eye can see. As the path comes to an end a field will come into view on the left-hand side.
7. At the end of the avenue, exit the woodlands using the kissing gate to the right of the main gate and follow the bridleway to the left. This area can be muddy after prolonged rain so be careful on muddy sections. Keep a watchful eye in the field on the left, which is another excellent area for spotting hares. At the end of the path take care in crossing the road and follow the path on the opposite side. Turn right onto the Wayfarers’ Walk. Follow the track back up the slope towards the finishing point at Hinton Ampner.
8. Exit the path through the gate by which you entered and back onto the main driveway. There is a dog waste bin here for any waste. Please take other litter home with you.
End point: Gated entrance just off the main drive, behind the church, grid ref: SU597275
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire
DISTANCE: 4 miles
MAP: OS Explorer 132: Winchester, New Alresford & East Meon