Hangers Way and Hawkley Loop

This hike is rated as moderate. You can expect varied terrain, including woodland paths, open fields, and downland. The route is notably hilly, featuring a steep wooded escarpment at Hawkley Hanger with moderate climbs and some steep descents along sunken tracks. Be prepared for sections that can be muddy, especially after rain.

The trail offers several notable features. You'll pass by the historic St Peter and St Paul Church, Hawkley, known for its unusual diamond spire. Another highlight is the Shoulder of Mutton Viewpoint, offering panoramic views. The route also takes you through Hawkley Hanger, which has remnants of a Bronze Age burial mound and was the site of a dramatic landslip in 1774, and near the Poet's Stone, a memorial to Edward Thomas.

While rated moderate, the Hawkley Loop section of this trail has significant hills and steep inclines, which might be challenging for absolute beginners or very young children. However, the Hawkley Circular Walk can be divided into shorter, less strenuous circuits (e.g., a 2-mile option) for those seeking an easier experience. The full 11.5 km route requires a reasonable level of fitness.

Yes, the Hangers Way and Hawkley Loop are generally dog-friendly. However, as parts of the trail pass through farmland and areas with livestock, it's essential to keep dogs on a lead, especially near grazing animals. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow the Countryside Code.

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer are particularly vibrant. In spring, the woodlands are alive with wild garlic and bluebells, and wildflowers bloom in Selborne Common. Autumn offers beautiful foliage. Be aware that sections can be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is advisable, especially in wetter seasons.

For the Hawkley Loop section, convenient parking is often available near the Hawkley Inn in Hawkley village. Specific parking details for the broader Hangers Way can vary by section, but starting points in villages like Hawkley typically offer local parking options.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Hangers Way and Hawkley Loop. The trail is freely accessible to the public. As it is within the South Downs National Park, general park regulations apply, but there are no charges for entry.

Yes, the route intersects with or runs concurrently with several other paths. Notably, it covers sections of the official Hangers Way long-distance footpath. You may also find it crosses parts of the Petersfield Off Road Cycle Trail and other local routes like Cockshott Lane and Ringsgreen Lane.

The diverse habitats along the trail, including ancient woodlands and open heath, support a variety of wildlife. You might spot deer, foxes, kestrels, and buzzards. In spring and summer, Selborne Common is particularly rich in wildflowers. The area is known for its lush Hampshire countryside and diverse flora.

Yes, the village of Hawkley, where the loop often starts, has the Hawkley Inn, a convenient spot for refreshments. The broader Hangers Way passes through several charming villages like Selborne and Petersfield, which offer additional pubs and cafes for hikers.

As this trail is located within the South Downs National Park, visitors are encouraged to follow the Countryside Code. This includes keeping dogs under control, taking all litter home, protecting wildlife and plants, leaving gates as you find them, and sticking to marked paths. There are no specific entrance fees for the park itself.