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The magnificent countryside of East Hampshire embraces a variety of contrasting landscapes: from the dramatic open hilltops and chalk downlands of the South Downs to the steep wooded scarp slopes of the hanger woodlands, the gentle winding plains of the river valley and the enclosed unspoilt pastures of the Weald.

Dramatic escarpments stretch from the south of Petersfield to the north east of Alton contrast with leafy hedgerow-lined sunken lanes, meandering streams and concealed lakes of ecological value.

This intoxicating area, much of which is designated as the South Downs National Park is enchantingly beautiful at any time of year.

A network of long-distance footpaths, from the Staunton Way to the Hangers Way, the South Downs Way to the St. Swithun's Way, guarantees walkers amazing views.

 

Few parts of Britain enjoy such a variety of wildlife. The hangers provide natural homes for many uncommon plants and insects. The dense hedgerows from medieval or Saxon times are important wildlife corridors. The sunken lanes and ancient wooded tracks are rich in flowering plants, ferns and mosses. The Nature Reserves of Ashford Hanger and Noar Hill and the grassland meadows of Butser Hill attract an abundance of butterflies, meadow flowers and grasses. Greater Spotted woodpeckers and Roe Deer are frequent visitors to heathlands, ponds and woodlands.