Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
Highlight • Historical Site
Old Winchester Hill Iron Age Fort
Hiking
5.0
(159)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
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
(62)
199
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
(12)
65
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.
4.7
(11)
46
hikers
Embark on a moderate 9.6-mile (15.5 km) hike through the South Downs National Park, a journey that typically takes around 4 hours and 13 minutes and includes 787 feet (240 metres) of elevation gain. This varied loop from West Meon combines easy, level sections along the Meon Valley Trail, which follows an old railway line, with more challenging climbs to Old Winchester Hill. From the hill's summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views across the picturesque Meon Valley and its chalk stream, the River Meon, stretching as far as the Isle of Wight on a clear day. You will experience diverse terrain, from wide country lanes and field paths to downland and woodlands.
Starting from the charming village of West Meon, the route offers accessible paths for much of its length, though sections leading up to and around Old Winchester Hill can be steeper and potentially muddy during winter months. The Meon Valley Trail itself is generally well-surfaced, making it suitable for a relaxed stroll. Consider visiting in summer when the chalk grassland on Old Winchester Hill bursts with wildflowers and butterflies, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The old West Meon station car park provides a convenient starting point and offers historical information about the disused railway line.
This trail offers a deep dive into both natural beauty and rich history. Old Winchester Hill is home to an impressive Iron Age hillfort, dating back about 2500 years, complete with Bronze Age burial mounds and platforms where ancient huts once stood. The hill is also a designated National Nature Reserve, vital for its chalk grassland habitat supporting a wide array of plant and animal species, including 37 recorded butterfly species. The loop also connects with parts of the longer South Downs Way and Monarch's Way trails, adding to its historical and recreational significance within the region.
Details
Informations
Elevation 190 m
Weather
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Friday 28 August
20°C
15°C
98 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 33.0 km/h
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