The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Southwick And Widley
4.5
(1348)
16,050
hikers
19
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Southwick And Widley are set within a diverse landscape, featuring rolling hills, tranquil river valleys, and historic village surroundings. The area is situated at the foot of Portsdown Hill and borders the South Downs National Park, offering a mix of downland and forested paths. Hikers can explore the Meon Valley, characterized by its river and charming forest areas, or discover routes around the historic Southwick village. The terrain generally includes gentle gradients suitable for families, with some routes incorporating sections of longer-distance paths.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Southwick And Widley
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Southwick Brewhouse – Southwick Village loop from Southwick, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 8 minutes to complete. This route offers a pleasant walk through the village surroundings.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Southwick Village Shop & Café – Southwick Village loop from Southwick, an easy 3.5 miles (5.7 km) path. This trail provides a gentle loop starting from the village amenities.
- Local hikers also love the Southwick Priory Ruins – Royal Military Police Museum loop from Southwick and Widley, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail leading through historic sites, often completed in about 1 hour 2 minutes.
- Hiking around Southwick And Widley is defined by rolling hills, the Meon Valley, and historic village settings. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a strong focus on accessible family friendly routes.
- The routes in Southwick And Widley are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 10,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Southwick And Widley's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 14, 2026
4.9
(8)
75
hikers
4.35km
01:07
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(13)
57
hikers
5.64km
01:28
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(8)
71
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(8)
34
hikers
8.67km
02:16
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
15
hikers
10.2km
02:45
130m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
just off the path are in ruins of Southwick Priory
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This wonderful little church sits in an utterly tranquil setting several miles south of the village it primarily serves. Of Saxon origin and with many 13th-century features, St. Nicholas' church has a simple design. Inside, it's easy to imagine you've wandered back in time hundreds of years.
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The Royal Military Police Museum is a fascinating archive of military history and an absolute treasure trove for any historian. One housed in Chichester, it now lies with the private Southwick Park military police training centre. The museum has free entry but visits must be booked ahead so that you can enter the grounds.
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On first impressions, Southwick might look like any other rural English village. There's a lot more to this place than it seems at first glance though. The entire village is under the ownership of Southwick Estate, originally formed hundreds of years ago. A grand manor, Southwick House, lies just to the east of the village and was first built in the early 19th century although underwent major renovation after a fire. The house and much of the estate was requisitioned by the military during the Second World War. Today the house and Southwick Park, where it lies, is used by the Defence School of Policing and Guarding – the training centre for police in the British Armed Services. As you explore the village, note than most of the houses have red doors: a requirement in the tenancy agreements.
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Shop and cafe. Friendly staff and good food and drink. Nice garden or tables indoors too.
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A good selection of English ales brewed on site, and lots of other local beers and spitits for sale. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff too.
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Lovely little cafe for cake and coffee.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there around Southwick And Widley?
There are over 15 family-friendly hiking trails available around Southwick And Widley, offering a variety of experiences for all ages. Most of these routes are rated as easy or moderate, perfect for a family outing.
Are there any easy, short walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, several easy and short walks are perfect for families with young children. For example, the Southwick Brewhouse – Southwick Village loop from Southwick is just over 4 km long with minimal elevation, making it a gentle stroll. Another great option is the Southwick Priory Ruins – Royal Military Police Museum loop from Southwick and Widley, which is also around 4 km and offers historical sights.
What kind of landscapes can we expect on family hikes in this area?
The family-friendly hikes around Southwick And Widley offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can expect rolling hills and scenic vistas within the beautiful South Downs National Park, tranquil river paths along the Meon Valley, and charming forest areas. Many routes also pass through the historic Southwick village and its surrounding estate.
Are there any circular family walks available?
Yes, many of the family-friendly routes in the area are circular, allowing for a convenient return to your starting point. Examples include the Southwick Village Shop & Café – Southwick Village loop from Southwick, which is a pleasant 5.6 km circuit, and the slightly longer Southwick Village – Southwick Village Shop & Café loop from Southwick.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can we see along the trails?
Many trails offer glimpses of local history and natural beauty. You can explore the tranquil Titchfield Abbey, or discover the ancient earthworks and Bronze Age tumuli at Old Winchester Hill. The historic Southwick Priory Ruins are also accessible on walks, and some routes pass by the Royal Military Police Museum. For those interested in castles, nearby options include Portchester Castle and Southsea Castle.
Are there any trails suitable for strollers or toddlers?
While specific stroller-friendly trails can vary based on conditions, many of the easier, flatter routes through Southwick village and along the Meon Valley Trail are generally suitable for robust strollers. Always check the route description for terrain details to ensure it meets your needs for toddlers and strollers.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the family hiking trails?
Yes, Southwick village itself is an attractive starting point for walks and offers amenities. You'll find the Southwick Brewhouse and the Southwick Village Shop & Café, which are great spots for refreshments before or after your hike. Some routes specifically highlight the village tea-room as a convenient stop.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly hiking in Southwick And Widley?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the charming village atmosphere, and the diverse scenery that makes these trails enjoyable for all family members. The blend of historical sites and natural beauty is frequently highlighted.
Can we reach any of the trailheads by public transport?
While many routes start directly from Southwick village, which has some local bus services, public transport options can be limited for reaching all trailheads. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for Southwick and plan your route accordingly, or consider starting from locations easily accessible by car with parking.
Are there good parking options for families near the trailheads?
Yes, many family-friendly trails in the Southwick And Widley area offer convenient parking. Starting points like the Southwick Brewhouse, the Southwick Village Shop & Café, and St Nicholas' Church in Boarhunt often have parking facilities nearby, making it easier for families to access the trails.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Southwick And Widley?
The Southwick And Widley area is beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers longer daylight hours for extended adventures. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and even winter can be pleasant for a crisp walk, especially on the well-maintained paths. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
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