Paddle at Lutcombe Bottom in the Ashford Hangers, Petersfield
There is a magical patch of wild at the foot of Lutcombe Bottom that is easier to access than the rest of the Ashford Hangers. This area has a shallow stream, a clear pond and fern lined paths that twist and turn through the trees.
Ashford Hangers
This is a National Nature Reserve with invigoratingly steep hillsides covered in clinging trees and breathtaking views extending across Hampshire and Sussex.
Ashford Stream
The path from the parking spot follows Ashford Stream, which is shallow enough in places to paddle and splash around. From April to June, the smell of wild garlic fills the air.
Lutcombe Pond
A gentle five minute stroll takes you to a small bridge and then to Lutcombe Pond, which has unusually clear water and a dam you can walk over.
Onwards or Upwards?
The path forks after the little bridge and each route takes you deeper into the reserve.
Route 1: Onwards Over the Bridge
The path over the bridge skirts the base of the Ashford Hangers, which is a flat and easy walk.
This path has many side shoots that will take you up to the top of the hangers, including this side shoot straight up Shoulder of Mutton Hill, which really is every bit as steep as this photo makes it look!
Route 2: Upwards to Hangers Way
The path to the left of the bridge takes you past Lutcombe Pond, directly up the hill and on to Hangers Way,
which leads to the top of Shoulder of Mutton Hill
and also to Cobbett’s View on Wheatham Hill.
The Paths
The paths along Ashford Stream and around Lutcombe Pond are fairly flat but can be muddy. You can reach the pond with a buggy.
Beyond the pond, the paths up the hill become steep and narrow in places.
The paths over the bridge and along the foot of the hangers are wider and flatter.
Visit the Ashford Hangers National Nature Reserve website
Further Information
Nearest Town: Steep, Near Petersfield
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU32 1AB
Opens: Daily
Cost: Free
Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic.
Facilities: None
How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: You can take a buggy to the pond but the paths beyond this point are steep and/or narrow.
Parking: There is a small space for a few cars to park off the road (GU32 1AB) and next to the stream.
Cost of Parking: Free
Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies, other insects and birds.
Information Written: April 2019
Information Checked: January 2024
Ratings
Our visit to Lutcombe Bottom, the Ashford Stream and Lutcombe Pond in the Ashford Hangers National Nature Reserve in Steep, near Petersfield, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.
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