The best walks and hikes around Hawkley

The landscape is defined by its 'hangers'—steep, wooded slopes on chalk and greensand hills. Expect a mix of woodland paths, which can be muddy after rain, and open fields. Many routes involve significant climbs and descents, but also feature gentler sections through ancient, sunken lanes.

There's a good variety. While the area is known for its challenging hangers with steep inclines, there are also plenty of moderate and easier options. For example, the Selborne Hill loop is a shorter, moderate walk through woodlands. It's best to check the difficulty and elevation profile of a specific route before you go.

Yes, many walks can be started or finished at a traditional pub. The Hawkley Inn is a popular starting point for local loops. For a longer walk that includes a pub stop, the Shoulder of Mutton viewpoint loop starts from the Trooper Inn and offers great views.

Dogs are welcome on most trails, but be aware of local regulations. You'll be walking through farmland with livestock, so keep your dog on a lead in these areas. Also, during nesting season (typically March to July), it's important to keep dogs under close control in nature reserves and on heathland to protect ground-nesting birds.

The Shoulder of Mutton viewpoint is famous for its panoramic views over the Hawkley valley. It was a favourite spot of the poet Edward Thomas. Many routes, including the Mill Lane Waterfall – Shoulder of Mutton Viewpoint loop, are designed to take you to this rewarding spot.

While many routes involve steep climbs, you can find shorter, less strenuous loops suitable for a family outing. The area around Selborne offers some gentler options. Look for routes with less elevation gain and consider a walk through the Noar Hill Nature Reserve, which can be explored on flatter paths.

Parking is generally available but can be limited, especially on sunny weekends. The village of Hawkley has some on-street parking, but please park considerately. Some popular routes start from nearby villages like Selborne, which also has a car park, or from pub car parks for patrons.

Yes, the Hangers Way is a well-known long-distance path that runs right through this landscape. It's a 21-mile trail stretching from Alton to Queen Elizabeth Country Park. You can walk a section of it as part of a circular route from Hawkley to experience the classic 'hanger' scenery.

The area is rich in biodiversity. The woodlands are predominantly beech and yew, with a stunning display of wild garlic in the spring. A walk on the Noar Hill Nature Reserve – View of the South Downs loop takes you through chalk grassland known for its rare orchids and butterflies.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers frequently praise the dramatic landscape of the hangers, the tranquility of the ancient sunken lanes, and the rewarding views from the hilltops. The mix of challenging climbs and peaceful woodland strolls is a common highlight.

You can find over 500 hiking routes around Hawkley on komoot. They range from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day hikes, covering the hangers, nature reserves, and surrounding villages.