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 Ashford Stream Lutcombe Pond Onwards or Upwards? Onwards Over the Bridge… …or Upwards to Hangers Way 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. 
This is a National Nature Reserve with invigoratingly steep hillsides covered in clinging trees 
and breathtaking views extending across Hampshire and Sussex.
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.
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.
The path forks at the little bridge and each route takes you deeper into the reserve. 
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! 
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. 
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 Opens: Daily Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic. How Long We Spent There: 2 hours Parking: There is a small space for a few cars to park off the road (GU32 1AB) and next to the stream. Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies, other insects and birds. Information Written: April 2019
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU32 1AB
Cost: Free
Facilities: None
Buggies: You can take a buggy to the pond but the paths beyond this point are steep and/or narrow.
Cost of Parking: Free
Information Checked: January 2024
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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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