Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
Highlight • Historical Site
Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
Hiking
5.0
(156)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
April 9, 2019
Hiking
July 12, 2020
Hiking
July 7, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
4.7
(59)
192
hikers
14.2km
03:55
240m
240m
Embark on the Old Winchester Hill loop from East Meon, a moderate hike through the South Downs National Park. This 8.8-mile (14.2 km) route features rolling chalk grassland, ancient yew woodlands, and sections of the South Downs Way. You will gain about 780 feet (238 metres) in elevation over approximately 3 hours and 54 minutes, encountering varied terrain from well-surfaced paths to narrower, unsurfaced trails. The trail offers superb views across the Meon Valley and the village of East Meon, with the Iron Age hill fort at Old Winchester Hill providing a clear visual landmark.
Planning your visit, be aware that the full loop requires a good level of fitness due to undulating terrain and some steep sections. While parts near the hillfort are suitable for pushchairs, the entire circular route is not. During winter, some paths, especially those leading to the hillfort, can become muddy, so appropriate footwear is advisable. The area is a National Nature Reserve, so respect the local flora and fauna during your hike.
The Old Winchester Hill loop is notable for its rich historical and natural significance. At the summit, you can explore an impressive Iron Age hill fort and Bronze Age burial mounds, offering a glimpse into ancient history. The area is a National Nature Reserve, celebrated for its flower-rich chalk grassland, which bursts with wildflowers and numerous butterfly species, like the chalkhill blue, in summer. Keep an eye out for diverse birdlife, including red kites and buzzards, making this a rewarding hike for nature enthusiasts.
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.
4.6
(7)
37
hikers
Embark on a difficult 13.1-mile (21.1 km) hike through the South Downs National Park, gaining 1097 feet (334 metres) of elevation over approximately 5 hours and 47 minutes. This challenging loop from Kilmeston offers diverse terrain, from downland paths to country lanes, with several long, steady inclines and steep descents. You will be rewarded with panoramic views that can stretch to the Isle of Wight on a clear day, passing through rolling green hills and the picturesque Meon Valley. The trail also takes you past charming villages like Exton and Warnford, featuring thatched cottages and flint churches, and through sections of woodland and watercress beds.
Prepare for a strenuous outing with appropriate footwear, as some sections can become muddy, especially after rain. The route incorporates parts of the well-established South Downs Way and Monarch's Way, making navigation straightforward with their waymarking. While hiking, you can enjoy the rich biodiversity of the Old Winchester Hill National Nature Reserve, known for its chalk grassland, orchids, and butterflies. Consider stopping in villages like Exton for refreshments at a local pub, a welcome break on this demanding journey.
This loop is rich in history and natural beauty, featuring the impressive Iron Age hill fort and Bronze Age barrows atop Old Winchester Hill, a site with archaeological remnants dating back to the Mesolithic period. You will also encounter Beacon Hill, marked by its trig point and the Exton Beacon, erected for Queen Elizabeth II's Diamond Jubilee. The Monarch's Way section traces the historical escape route of Charles II, adding a layer of intrigue to your hike. Keep an eye out for red kites and buzzards soaring overhead, as the area is a haven for birdwatching.
Details
Informations
Elevation 190 m
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Thursday 7 May
17°C
6°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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