This 6.8 mile walk visits the small settlement of Old Burghclere and the larger, more modern village of Burghclere, as well as exploring the attractive countryside in this part of NW Hampshire. From the car park at the foot of Beacon Hill we cross the A34 (new and old) before heading east across fields to the 12th century church of All Saints at Old Burghclere. From here we head north along tracks, paths and a section of the old Didcot to Southampton railway on our way to the 19th century Church of The Ascension at Burghclere, which contains a millennium window designed by the famous glass engraver, Sir Laurence Whistler. We return to Beacon Hill via Earlstone Manor, eventually retracing our steps from Old Burghclere.
Conditions underfoot shouldn't be too bad on the whole, but we could encounter a few puddles and a little mud, so please bring sturdy footwear and wear clothes appropriate to the weather forecast on the day. There are no stiles to negotiate, but there is quite a steep hill near the beginning of the walk. Otherwise any ascents are mostly slight. Please bring refreshments for the mid-walk break and, if you'd like to join this walk, please book online before 6.00 pm on Monday 24 November.