Pub Walk - Avington Estate
One of our favourite pub walks is located in Avington, Hampshire. This 3 mile loop ideal for those seeking a leisurely countryside walk with a mix of natural beauty and historic charm. This trail takes you through the quaint villages of Avington and Itchen Abbas, both nestled in the picturesque Itchen Valley.
The route meanders along the clear waters of the River Itchen, offering beautiful views of the riverbanks. You'll pass through lush green fields, charming woodlands, and pastures. The path also leads past Avington Park, a historic estate with elegant parklands, and through the heart of Itchen Abbas, a village known for its traditional English cottages and the beautiful 12th-century St. John the Baptist Church.
The terrain is fairly easy, with gentle gradients, making it suitable for walkers of all abilities, including families and dog owners. Along the way, you may encounter stiles, gates, and some muddy sections, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The walk offers plenty of picturesque spots for a picnic or a rest, with options to extend the walk further along the river or explore nearby trails.
Starting from St Johns Church, follow the path to the right of the church, which will lead you to the back of a private house. Once you are on this path, the route will take you along a trail which leads you to the small village of Chilland.
Once you arrive at Chilland, you will take a left towards the river, here you can take a stroll through the usually muddy path, leading you to Avington Park Lane. Take another left towards Avington Park House (However, if you would like to make your walk a little longer, you can turn right which leads you to Easton and the fantastic Chestnut Horse, Pub).
As you walk towards the Estate, you will come to a set of Cattle Grids, here you can take in Avington Park House and why not take a seat down by the river or up on the hill.
As you follow the road through the Estate, you will come to another junction, turn left, heading towards the small Avington village. This road will lead you around to the Avington Park House entrance.
As you walk past the entrance, you will come to a bridge, where your starting point will come into view. If you fancy resting in a country pub, why not head past the church and into The Plough pub.
Both links to our two pub recommendations are below: