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North Hampshire Downs Group

We are the North Hampshire Downs Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.

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Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking

Overview

Starting at Winchester railway station, the walk goes through the city centre, past the Cathedral and Winchester College through water meadows to St. Cross. After crossing railway it climbs onto the downs past Olivers Battery to Compton Down. Then descends through shady yew woods to Compton village and Compton lock on the River Itchen. The return route then mostly follows the river back to the city and the start point.

Saturday, 21 June 2025
Meeting time:
8:10 am
Start time:
8:40 am
Estimated finish time:
2:00 pm
Difficulty:
Moderate
Distance:
16.1km / 10.0mi
Ascent:
160m / 525ft
Type:
circular

There will be breaks for drinks and lunch. Bring plenty of water as the day is expected to be hot. 

The main group will meet at Basingstoke railway station at 08.10 to catch the 08.21 Weymouth train to Winchester. Buy day return tickets.

Features

  • Toilets available
  • Accessible by public transport
  • No Stiles

Meeting point

Grid reference:
SU 63744 52521
Nearest postcode:
RG21 5NE
what3words:
listed.trades.dogs
Meeting time:
8:10 am

Basingstoke railway station ticket hall

Starting point

Grid reference:
SU 47758 29979
Nearest postcode:
SO23 8TJ
what3words:
takers.simulates.wicket
Start time:
8:40 am

Winchester railway station forecourt

Join the Ramblers and enjoy

  • unlimited free access to 50,000 Ramblers group walks
  • a library jam-packed with thousands of tried-and-tested routes
  • a welcome pack teeming with top tips plus our Walk magazine
  • exclusive discounts from our partners
  • knowing your support is opening up more places to walk and helping more people discover the joy of walking