Zebon Copse Nature Reserve

Zebon Copse Nature Reserve is small so it suits little legs. It is a mixture of woodland paths guiding you through the trees

and boardwalks flying you over mires.

There are information boards and maps scattered along the way.

We spotted caterpillars, butterflies, spiders, damselflies and birds. Also a huge orange fungus so big, we had to take a photo with a £1 coin for scale!

The Basingstoke Canal

The Basingstoke Canal flows along Zebon Copse Nature Reserve.

Zephon Common Swing Bridge

The Zephon Common Swing Bridge, takes the nature reserve footpath over one of only two swing bridges on the Basingstoke Canal.

As luck would have it, when we arrived the crew of Bramble were preparing to open the bridge!

It took some effort, but after some serious heaving the bridge began to swing, pivoting on its nature reserve end.

With impressive skill, the Captain of Bramble manoeuvered through the narrow gap.

And the bridge closed again, as if nothing had happened!

A Circular Walk Along the Basingstoke Canal

There is a lovely circular walk from the Zebon Copse car park, through the nature reserve, along the Basingstoke Canal and ending at the play areas.

The Zebon Copse Play Areas

Next to the nature reserve is the fantastic Zebon Copse Play Area. It has an area for younger children

and another area for older children with the longest obstacle course we have seen!

Finding the Reserve and Canal

If you stand in the car park with your back to the play area, there is a little footpath hidden under the trees. This will take you towards the Zebon Copse Nature Reserve and also the Basingstoke Canal.

Signposts on the right mark the entrance to the nature reserve.

The Basingstoke Canal is at the end of this path and on the left at the end. This is an easy five minute walk from the car park.

Nearest Town: Church Crookham, near Fleet
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU52 0ZE

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 2.5 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a car park next to the play area and a short walk from the nature reserve.
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2016
Information Checked: July 2025

Our visit to Zebon Copse Nature Reserve in Church Crookham is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

The Thursley Common Fire

At the end of May 2020, a fire tore through the boardwalk area of Thursley Common. Lots of trees and vegetation were lost and so was the boardwalk, with its Dragonfly Trail. 

This is a picture of Moat Pond before the fire.

This is a picture of Moat Pond after the fire.

Happily, the Dragonfly Trail has been rebuilt!

Moat Pond

We start our visits at Moat Pond, with its pine scent and marauding ducks.

In the autumn it is surrounded by fungus – we spotted 50 different types last autumn! (I’m sure it goes without saying but we never touch fungus, we just look at it). 

The Dragonfly Trail

This leads you along the boardwalk and over the peat bogs. 

Along the way you can spot lots of insects and lizards 

and also sundews.

The Trails

When we want a short visit we walk around Moat Pond and watch the wildlife from one of the many little beach-like areas. 

If we are after a longer walk, we venture along one of the marked trails. 

The Wildlife

Thursley Common teems with nature and you can almost always see something wonderful.

From spring to autumn, you can see animals on every visit, including animals such as dragonflies, lizards, caterpillars, birds, and spiders. 

On one visit there were thousands of tiny toads hopping across the paths in every direction. 

The Lizards

The lizards are easiest to see when warming themselves on the boardwalk during sunny days. 

Can You Spot the Lizards?

To ready your eyes for lizard spotting, have a look at the photo of a log below. There are three lizards hiding on it – how many can you spot?

Answers highlighted below!

Two are hiding here:

And another here:

Thor’s Den

There is nearby a play area called Thor’s Den on the edge of Thursley Common. You can walk there from Moat Pond but it is quite far so you may prefer to drive (GU8 6QD).

Nearest Town: Thursley, near Farnham
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU8 6LW

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: Up to 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly – we use an all terrain buggy as some areas are sandy and there are roots along some of the paths. 

Parking: There are lots of places to park along the road and a few car parks. We use the Moat Pond car park (GU8 6LW) as it is closest to Moat Pond. 
Cost of Parking: Free but a donation using a parking app is suggested.

Wildlife You Might See: Toads, frogs, wood ants, dragonflies, lizards, caterpillars, birds, spiders, grasshoppers and ducks.

Information Written: July 2019
Information Checked: October 2024

Our visit to Thursley Common National Nature Reserve is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Basingstoke Canal Centre Play Area

Next to the Canal Centre is a wooden play area with:

• toddler swings
• a springer
• a balance course with nets, tightropes, log stumps, a climbing wall, balance beams and rope swings.

So Much To Do!

There is a wide range of activities on offer: hire boats and canoes, walk to Frimley Lodge, play in the fields, enjoy the towpath,

take narrow boat trips, explore woods and ponds, choose a picnic spot or check out the playground.

The Basingstoke Canal Centre

The Canal Centre has information on the canal, a gift shop, a campsite, and public toilets. 

There is also a cafe that serves a selection of refreshments, has indoor tables, and outdoor picnic benches.

Potters’ Pond

Behind the Canal Centre is a pond dipping area 

and a wild woodland 

with paths, ponds, and bridges.

The Towpath

I use an all-terrain buggy when we walk on the towpath. It is generally even but there are quite a few stones, which can be bumpy with a normal buggy. 

We also enjoy cycling along the towpath down to Frimley Lodge Park 

or further afield to see the giant locks that line the Deepcut Flight. 

Explore the Canal on Foot

The Basingstoke Canal has about 33 miles of towpath. 

From the Canal Centre you can walk for about 20 minutes at a slow pace to the well-equipped Frimley Lodge Park, which has two play areas, a trim trail, sports facilities, and a cafe. 

It also has the Frimley Lodge Miniature Railway, which has public running days at various times during the year. 

Explore the Canal by Water

You can also take a trip on Rosebud, a small narrow boat. Trips last about an hour but only run on a limited number of days. 

At certain times of the year rowing boats, canoes and pedalos are available to hire from the Canal Centre too.

The Swing Bridge Closes…

The swing bridge at the Canal Centre closes towards the end of the afternoon. The exact time is usually stated on a sign on the bridge. 

After it closes, you can reach the Canal Centre by crossing the canal at the nearby road bridge, although there is a flight of steps to climb up.

…and so Does the Barrier!

There is a barrier at the entrance to the car park that closes at the end of the day. You cannot enter the car park after it has closed but you can leave – just drive up to the barrier and it will lift. 

Nearest Town: Mytchett, near Farnborough
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU16 6DD

Opens: The canal is open daily but the Canal Centre has seasonal opening hours. Please see their website for details. 

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat at the cafe.
Facilities: Picnic area, cafe, snacks, ice creams, and toilets. 

How Long We Spent There: About 2 hours.
Buggies: I use an all terrain buggy as the tow path is generally even but has quite a few stones on it, which can be bumpy with a normal buggy.

Parking: There are two car parks, one just through the entry barrier and another tucked away past the Canal Centre. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks, swans, Canada geese, herons, coots, moorhens, other birds, foxes, stag beetles, butterflies and insects.

Information Written: March 2017
Information Checked: June 2024

Our visit to Basingstoke Canal Centre and Play Area in Mytchett, near Farnborough, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Lakeside Nature Reserve

A path leads around the lake

past the brass rubbing posts.

boardwalks

and woodland.

The River Blackwater

To find Section 3 of the Blackwater Valley Path, follow one of the paths next to the play area (heading away and to the right of the car park). 

The Paths

Most of the paths through the nature reserve are buggy friendly and easy to walk on. 

There are a few paths that are wilder too, like this path through the meadow. 

Lakeside Nature Reserve Play Area

Next to the lake and the car park is the Lakeside Nature Reserve Play Area.

The play equipment includes: 

• basket swing
• a climbing wall 
• rocks to climb on
• a zip wire 

• a spinning seesaw
• a large spinning seesaw (which was fenced off)
• a spinning disc 
• picnic tables.

Nearest Town: Ash Vale, near Aldershot
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU12 5AA

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic tables

How Long We Spent There: 2.5 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a good-sized car park.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks, geese, woodpeckers, hedgehogs, tadpoles, frogs, birds and insects.

Information Written: June 2021
Information Checked: June 2022

Our visit to Lakeside Nature Reserve is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Rowhill Nature Reserve

There are stumps to balance on, trees to climb, hills to explore, bridges to build and places to paddle. 

The Source of the Blackwater

The source of the Blackwater River is an area of bog. It is next to the pond and marked with an information board.  

There isn’t much to see but the bog trickles into a stream that flows into… 

Stickleback Pond

…Stickleback Pond, which has a small dam and waterfall. 

The River Blackwater

The River Blackwater quickly becomes stream-sized 

and has little waterfalls and spots to paddle in.

Den Building

The paths wind through deciduous woodland with a spot for den building…

Rhododendron Avenue

…and along Rhododendron Avenue before coming to a tranquil meadow and field surrounded by trees.

The Paths 

I found the paths easy to use and push an all terrain buggy along. There are paths that are narrow in places but they were all just ok for my narrow double buggy.

There are two paths that both start from the car park on Cranmore Lane:

1. The Blackwater Valley Path

The Blackwater Valley Path starts at the end of the car park near the white house and meanders through the reserve staying close to the River Blackwater.

This is Section 1 of the Blackwater Valley Path and is not a circular path and follows the river out of the reserve at Parkland Grove.

2. The Nature Trail

This is about 1.5 miles long and is marked by a series of posts, starting at the field centre (the wooden building next to the car park).

This is a circular path and begins and ends at the car park on Cranmore Lane.

This trail leads up over steps and a steep hill but these can be avoided if you follow the Blackwater Valley Path to the source of the River Blackwater, where the two paths meet up.

A copy of the nature trail can be found on the Rowhill Nature Reserve website, which marks the steps and an easy access, special needs path that can be accessed from Parkland Grove (GU9 9HA).

50 Things to Do

You could also tackle the 50 Things to Do at Rowhill Copse sheet the reserve have put together.  

How many can you complete?

Nearest Town: Aldershot
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU11 3BD

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a small car park on Cranmore Lane (GU11 3BD). This can be busy.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Kingfishers, birds, badgers, lizards, butterflies and other insects.

Information Written: April 2017
Information Checked: May 2024

Our visit to Rowhill Nature Reserve in Aldershot is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Rowan Field

Rowan Field has open grassland

a pond and 

the Blackwater River running along one edge. 

The field also has benches, a small seating area and a path around the outside.

The A331

The A331 dual carriageway splits Rowan Field in two so there is a continuous rumble of traffic.

These two parts of the field are joined by a footbridge, which we enjoyed crossing to watch the traffic whizz underneath.

Shawfields

On the other side of the dual carriageway is Shawfields. 

Other Things to Try

From Rowan Field you can try three different places – two are play areas and the other is a walk along the River Blackwater.

Shawfield Recreation Ground

To find Shawfield Recreation Ground from Rowan Field, walk down Shawfield Lane and turn left onto the unsurfaced road on your left. 

Follow this road until you come to a little path on your right. This will take you to Shawfield Rec. 

Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area 

To find Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area from Rowan Field, turn left and walk up the bridge over the dual carriageway. 

At the end of the bridge, turn left and when you read the field, cross to the right. Ivy Road is on the other side of the river.  

The Blackwater Valley Path

You could also have a walk along the Blackwater Valley Path. 

Section 2 of the Blackwater Valley Path runs past Rowan Field and is surfaced so you can cycle and scooter too. 

The Paths

The path around Rowan Field and also Shawfield is not surfaced and can be muddy. 

The field can also be muddy and boggy in places so you may need wellies when you visit. 

Parking

There are two car parks you can use. The first is on Shawfield Lane in Ash (GU12 6QY) but it was chained shut when we visited. 

There are a couple of spaces near the gate and you could also try to park on Shawfield Lane itself. 

The second car park is at Ivy Road Recreation Ground and Play Area (GU12 4XG), which has several spaces. 

Nearest Town: Ash, near Aldershot
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU12 6QY or GU12 4XG (see above for parking details)

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic table.

How Long We Spent There: 1 hour
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There are two car parks you can use – please see above. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks and other birds, butterflies and other insects. 

Information Written: March 2017
Information Checked: May 2024

Our visit to Rowan Field in Ash, near Aldershot, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Hawley Meadows Today

Life has moved on during the last 100 years and the modern world now surrounds the meadows – they are bordered by the M3 and the A331 as well as an industrial estate.

The continuous drone of road noise detracts from the picturesque surroundings of the rolling fields, lazy river and wading herons.

Hawley Meadows

This is an area of floodplain meadow with a river walk, bridges to play Poohsticks.

The Story of the Nymphs and the Boggart

It also has a Story Trail called “The Story of the Nymphs and the Boggart” which leads you around the meadow, telling tales of wood nymphs, water nymphs and a cheeky boggart.

The Paths around Hawley Meadows

There is a path around the outside of the meadows, which took us about an hour to walk around at a slow pace.

 

The Blackwater Valley Path

The Blackwater Valley Path is 23 miles long, marked by signposts and divided into 12 sections.  

These sections follow the river, are not circular and do not finish where they start.  

Section 6 of the Blackwater Valley Path runs through Hawley Meadows. It is a walking and also cycling trail but is not hard surfaced.

Hampshire County Council’s Story Trails

These are walks with interactive stories to read along the way, as told by a cute character called the Story Snail. 

Each Story Trail is about one mile long and is divided into numbered sections that you read out as you reach number markers along the trail.

Nearest Town: Camberley
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU15 3YH

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 1.5 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly but with some uneven paths.

Parking: There is a car park.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Herons, birds and butterflies.

Information Written: April 2017
Information Checked: June 2024

Our visit to Hawley Meadows in Camberley is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Stockbridge Common Marsh

As you enter, you pass a National Trust sign that says ‘The Lions Den’ and I have absolutely no idea why! 

The common is mainly grassland where you can walk and picnic during dry weather.

A tributary of the River Test flows along one edge. 

If you look carefully you may spot brown trout.

Paddling 

Children can have a little paddle by the bridge 

but they may not be alone!

Stockbridge Town

If you cross the bridge and walk a short way, you come to the pretty town of Stockbridge. 

The River Test flows through the town, past shops and places to eat. 

The Paths

The paths are flat and easy to walk on but can become boggy and muddy during wetter weather. 

Nearest Town: Stockbridge, near Andover and Winchester
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO20 6JA 

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: You might be able to use an all terrain buggy.

Parking: There is a car park but it can be very busy. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies and other insects; herons, kingfishers and other birds; brown trout,  other fish and pond life; cows and water voles.

Information Written: June 2022

Our trip to Stockbridge Common Marsh in Stockbridge, near Andover, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

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.

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

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.

Normandy Common

Normandy Common is a wooded area with an orchid meadow, pond, orchard, woods, various sports areas, and a small adventure play area.

There is a map in each of the car parks that shows you where everything is. The three main areas we visit are below but there are other little areas you can discover for yourself!

The Stream and Pond

The stream flows through the play area next to the car park on the main road. It can flow quite quickly in wet weather and sometimes there are ducks on it. 

The pond is in the woods at the end of the stream on the other side of the road. 

To find the pond, cross Hunts Hill Road (the road the car parks are on). There is a footpath and bridge immediately on your left, which takes you into the woods and then onto Normandy Pond. 

The Wispy Woods

We call the wooded area between the cricket pitch and the orchard the Wispy Woods because some of its enormous and feathery fir trees. 

It’s a smallish patch of mature woodland with a wild feel.

The Secret Orchard

This is a Traditional Orchard, a conservation area that is being preserved as a habitat for plants and animals. It is planted in grassland and managed in an organic way. 

The boards say, “All wildlife and visitors can enjoy a variety of true and traditional fruit flavours.”

 We visited in September and found pear, apple, plum, and cherry trees. 

We also saw a mulberry bush, which I knew from the nursery rhyme but had never actually seen. 

Finding the Woods and Orchard

Leave the play area and walk over the football pitch towards the red bin. Walk over the bridge and onto the cricket ground until you reach the cricket building.

Walk across the car park to the woods and take the footpath marked as a Permissive Horse Ride.

Follow this path until you come to the entrance to the Wispy Woods on the left.

To reach the orchard, keep following this path beyond the woods, ignoring any side paths. 

There is a large bend to the right and then a smaller bend to the left and the orchard is up a slight hill and on the right. It is about a five minute walk from the Wispy Woods.

The orchard and woods are clearly marked on the car park maps. If it is your first visit, then consider taking a photo of the map with you. 

The Adventure Play Area

Large trees surround Normandy Common Play Area, making it a shady, peaceful place to play. 

The equipment includes:

• a slide
• various climbing frames
• swings
• toddler swings
• a swinging basket

• a seesaw
• a ground level trampoline
• a zip wire
• scramble nets
• a climbing wall and balance beams that together make an obstacle course.

Sports Facilities

There are also plenty of places to play sports:

• a table tennis table (bring your own bats!)
• a street snooker wall and court (a cross between football and snooker)
• tennis courts
• a football pitch
• a cricket ground.

Nearest Town: Normandy, Near Guildford and Aldershot
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU3 2DB

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: None but there some picnic tables.

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: Generally buggy friendly but some of the paths can be narrow.

Parking: There are two play area car parks on Hunts Hill Road. The first is on the corner with the main road (GU3 2DB). The other is further down Hunts Hill Road (GU3 2DB).
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Birds, butterflies, insects, slow worms, snakes, lizards, stag beetles, glow worms, newts, frogs, kingfishers and dragonflies.

Information Written: July 2016
Information Checked: January 2024

Fun at the Beach…

The pond has several sandy beaches where you can have fun wading, paddling and splashing. You can also pond dip, build sand castles and feed the ducks. 

The biggest beaches are on the car park side of the pond but there are a few smaller beaches in other parts too. 

…but No Swimming

Swimming is not allowed at Frensham Little Pond to protect the pond habitat, but you can swim at the nearby Frensham Great Pond. 

The Tern Cafe

The Tern Cafe is next to the pond and only a short walk from the car park. It offers snacks, drinks and ice creams and has picnic tables, some under cover. 

Bird Hide

What will you spy from the bird hide?

The Walks

Although this is called Frensham Little Pond, it is not small – it took us about an hour to walk all the way around. There are benches and a boardwalk along the way. 

There is also a Frensham Little Pond Family Trail you can follow around the pond. 

The Paths

Most of the paths were easy to push a normal buggy across. Some do have tree roots. There are sandy stretches onto Frensham Common that are tougher.

Frensham Common

Frensham Little Pond is part of Frensham Common, an area of open and airy heathland with woods and beautiful viewpoints.

Nearest Town: Frensham, near Farnham
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU10 3BT

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat at the Tern Cafe. 
Facilities: Cafe, snacks, ice cream, picnic area, toilets, accessible toilets. 

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: You can push a buggy around the pond but choose one that can cope with sand and roots. 

Parking: There are several car parks but they can be very busy when the weather is warm.
Cost of Parking: Free for National Trust members or from £1.50 per hour.

Wildlife You Might See: Lots of birds, including ducks, swans, coots, moorhens and squirrels.

Information Written: March 2016
Information Checked: November 2023

Our visit to Frensham Little Pond near Farnham is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

The Two Beaches

You can paddle and swim from either beach within the area marked with buoys and ropes. Neither has much shade so you may want to bring some with you. 

Both of the beaches are near the car park, cafe and toilets. 

The first beach you come to is the larger of the two. 

The second beach is a little further from the car park and is smaller but often less busy.

Sometimes the pond has to be closed to bathers so be sure to check the Frensham Great Pond website before you go to make sure swimming is allowed.

The Cafe

There is a cafe next to the beach and car park that sells snacks, drinks and ice creams and has picnic tables. 

There are also public toilets in this building.

Frensham Little Pond

Frensham Little Pond is about a five minute drive. It offers more shady spots but swimming is not permitted there.

Frensham Common

Both ponds are part of Frensham Common, an area of heathland with beautiful views, heather and lots of paths to explore. 

Nearest Town: Frensham, near Farnham
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU10 2QB

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic or eat at the cafe. 
Facilities: Cafe, snacks, ice cream, picnic area, toilets, accessible toilets. 

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: It is sandy so it can be hard work to push a buggy to the beach. 

Parking: There is a large car park but it can be very busy when the weather is warm – the website suggests arriving before 10am.
Cost of Parking: Free for National Trust members or from £1.50 per hour.

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks.

Information Written: May 2022
Information Checked: November 2023

Our visit to Frensham Great Pond near Farnham is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

The Chilworth Gunpowder Mills

The Gunpowder Mills were established in 1626 by The East India Company and initially built by a dam near Blacksmith Lane.

By the 1700s there were 18 watermills using huge millstones to grind gunpowder, sulphur and charcoal.

These mills were an important manufacturer and supplier of gunpowder but were abandoned in 1920 and left to go to ruin.

Further details of the history of the Gunpowder Mills can be found on the Albury History Society’s website or pick up a leaflet at the entrance to the Gunpowder Mills.

The Ruins

We started the trail at Blacksmith Lane (see below details on parking) and saw the mill pond and West Lodge, where workers were checked in.

We then walked past the remains of the Corning House, which sadly exploded in 1901, killing 6 men.

Next along the trail are the ruins of an Incorporating Mill, with a fallen chimney and runner stones that were their sides to provide protection in the event of a blast.

There are also two bridges – a modern footbridge (that takes you to Vera’s Lane – see below notes on parking) and a swing bridge used by trams carrying coal to the mills from Chilworth and Albury railway stations.

At the end of the path we found the most complete Gunpowder Mill buildings. There are steps down into these ruins but we did not venture in very far as the floor was very uneven.

Paddling in the River Tillingbourne

The River Tillingbourne runs through this area. It is shallow with a log bridge and a large wooden snail sculpture.

It is perfect for a splash and a paddle. We waded a little way along the river and found a tree that has been made an island by the flowing water.

The Picnic Area

In a clearing in the centre of the woods we found a good sized picnic area.

The Paths

The paths around the Gunpowder Mills were generally earth and grass, which was dry when we visited but may well become muddy after rain.

We found the main paths to be generally wide and flat and we used our all terrain double buggy on them without any problems.

Keep to the Paths

We only walked on the paths because the leaflets and information boards warn that you enter this site at your own risk, you should not climb on the buildings and that there are hidden pits, water features and boggy areas around the grounds.

Chilworth Heritage Trail

If you fancy a longer walk then have a look at the Chilworth Heritage Trail, which starts and ends on Vera’s Path and leads past the ruins and ponds, up to St Martha’s Hill and then back down to the Gunpowder Mills.

Nearest Town: Chilworth, near Guildford
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: GU4 8NP or GU4 8NF

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic area.

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: We used an all terrain buggy but some of the paths can be narrow.

Parking: There are a couple of parking spaces on Blacksmith Lane (GU4 8NF) opposite the entrance to the Gunpowder Mills, which is next to the little bridge. You can also park on the roadside next to Chilworth C of E Infant School (Dorking Road – GU4 8NP) from where there is a footpath, called Vera’s Path, that leads you to the Gunpowder Mills (see photo).
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Frogs, toads, butterflies, insects and birds.

Information Written: August 2017
Information Checked: September 2023

Our visit to the Chilworth Gunpowder Mills in Chilworth, near Guildford, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

River Tillingbourne 

When we visited the river was shallow, slow flowing and ideal for paddling, playing and splashing. 

Some children were catching little fish in nets by the bridge. 

Picnics!

There is plenty of space for a lazy picnic next to the river.  

The Tea Rooms

Opposite the green there is a friendly tea room and shop that sells snacks, sandwiches, drinks, nets and buckets.

Abinger Hammer Play Area

Nestled behind some trees on the side of the cricket pitch, is the Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area with equipment that includes:

• a wooden climbing frame with a slide, climbing walls, nets and a fireman’s pole
• a swing
• a toddler swing
• a seesaw
• a springer
• some balance beams
• a wooden house
• a tunnel
• a rope wall.

Together these last four items can be used as a mini obstacle course.

As the name would suggest, there is a cricket pitch too! 

Nearest Town: Abinger Hammer, Surrey Hills, near Dorking
County: Surrey
Nearest Postcode: RH5 6QP

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic and a blanket.
Facilities: None but opposite the green is a small shop that sells nets, coffees, snacks etc.

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a small car park with about 8 spaces next to the river on Felday Road. It can be very busy during warm weather. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Information Written: June 2017
Information Checked: August 2023

Our visit to Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground, the River Tillingbourne and the Abinger Hammer Cricket Ground Play Area in the Surrey Hills, near Dorking, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

River Hamble Country Park

There are three main areas to the country park – Topfield, Manor Farm and Barnfield.

Topfield

Topfield has a dog walking field and barbecues for hire but we spent most of our time at Barnfield and Manor Farm.

Manor Farm

Within the country park is Manor Farm, a Victorian farm with costumed farm workers, historic farm buildings, free-ranging animals and antiquated tractors.

It has plenty of farm animals, including cows and calves, pigs and piglets and hens and chicks.

There are also two play areas on the farm with climb-on tractors, drivable mini-tractors, sand play tables and balance courses as well as a cafe.

Barnfield

The Barn

Next to the car park is The Barn, a visitor centre and a cafe.

The Adventure Play Area

Also next to the car park is the River Hamble Country Park Adventure Play Area, which is inspired by the Grace Dieu (see below).  It has a ship theme and equipment that includes two ships to play on with slides, climbing walls, nets, bridges and ropes. 

It has a ship theme and equipment that includes two ships to play on with slides, climbing walls, nets, bridges and ropes.  There is also a crow’s nest, a large rope swing and musical instruments. 

The Grace Dieu

The stretch of the River Hamble at Barnfield is the site of the Grace Dieu ship wreck. The Grace Dieu was finished in 1418 and became Henry V’s enormous flagship.

Sadly, she never sailed beyond the Isle of Wight as the crew mutinied. Instead, she was brought to the River Hamble.  In 1439, she was struck by lightning, caught fire and burned to the water level.

The size of the Grace Dieu is marked out next to the adventure play area. The mast of the ship would have been the same length!

The Trails

Waymarked trails criss-cross the country park, passing through woods, along the River Hamble and to a pontoon.

The path from the adventure play area leads you into the woods and along the River Hamble. 

The River Hamble

There are a couple of places along the path to the pontoon where you can access the river. 

People paddle, swim, kayak and paddle board but there are two things to note:

• the currents can be strong and 
• when the tide is out it can be very muddy. 

Please be sure to make all the necessary checks before you go. 

Crabbing on the Pontoon

From this pontoon you can fish for crabs with a line. 

The Barn sells the equipment you need but you have to bring your own bait. Their website has further details and some crabbing guidelines.

HMS Cricket

The country park was home to HMS Cricket, a camp built during World War 2 to house and train the assault craft crews that took part in the D-day landings of 1944.

The remains of the buildings can still be seen around the park and there is also a memorial at Barnfield.

The Manor Farm Fairy Folk Story Trail

Alternatively, try the Hampshire County Council Story Trail* called Manor Farm Fairy Folk.

Hampshire County Council’s Story Trails

*These are walks with interactive stories to read along the way, as told by a cute character called the Story Snail. 

Each Story Trail is about one mile long and is divided into numbered story sections that you read out as you reach number markers along the trail.

Finding a Copy of the Story Trail

To follow the Story Trail you need a free pack that you can either borrow from a specified place (with a Hampshire Library card and a £20 returnable deposit) or download a story trail from the internet in written or audio form. Each pack has a map to follow and the trail itself is marked with arrows and/or pictures of the Story Snail.

Nearest Town: Bursledon, near Southampton
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO31 1BH

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free but there is an entry fee for Manor Farm.

Where to Eat: At one of the cafes, rent a barbecue or bring a picnic.
Facilities: Ice creams, picnic areas, cafe, snacks, toilets and accessible toilets.

How Long We Spent There: 4 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: Several car parks. The ticket machines take cash but you can buy a car park ticket with a card at the Manor Farm Visitor Centre.
Cost of Parking: From £2.50 for the first hour but capped at £7.

Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies, birds, deer and maybe the odd fairy or two if you follow the story trail!

Information Written: June 2017
Information Checked: April 2023

Our visit to River Hamble Country Park in Bursledon, near Southampton, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Puttles Bridge

Next to the car park is a bridge you can paddle and picnic at.

The Ober Water Trail

Alternatively try the waymarked and circular walk called the Ober Water Trail that starts and finishes at the car park.

The 1 mile route is aimed at families and takes you through the trees,

along the Ober Water

and over bridges.

Nearest Town: Brockenhurst, New Forest
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO42 7QB

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Choose a buggy that can handle stony paths.

Parking: There is a small car park next to the river but this can be very busy. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Ponies, fish, butterflies and other insects, rabbits and birds.

Information Written: July 2022

Our visit to Puttles Bridge, near Brockenhurst in the New Forest, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Chilbolton Cow Common

Chilbolton Cow Common is a Site of Special Scientific Interest that is home to rare plants and animals. 

It also has two bridges.

Chilbolton

On one side of the common is the village of Chilbolton 

and the War Memorial Play Area. 

Wherwell Village

On the other side of the common is the beautiful village of Wherwell. 

To find it you have to walk over the Long Bridge.

Paddling in the River Test

The River Test runs through the common and there is a gorgeous spot for a little paddle.

No Facilities

Chilbolton Cow Common is a beautiful place to visit but as it is also a Site of Special Scientific Interest with rare plants and animals in need of protection, and does not have any facilities, it is not somewhere you can spend a full day. 

The Paths

The paths are easy to walk on and generally grass or chalk. 

They are marked out with wooden posts.

Parking 

The common can be very busy during warm weather and parking can be tricky. 

We found two places to park. There is a car park on the Chilbolton side of the River Test (SP20 6BD). 

On the Wherwell side of the river there is a small lay-by on Fullerton Road (SP11 7JS). This is next to the Long Bridge and can fit a couple of cars. 

Finding Your Way

From the Chilbolton Cow Common car park you can walk two ways. 

The path on the right leads to the common, the River Test and eventually the Long Bridge. The River Test is about a five minute walk. The Long Bridge is about a ten to fifteen minute walk. 

The path on the left, which is actually a quiet road, leads to the War Memorial Play Area. It is about a five minute walk. 

Chilbolton War Memorial Playing Field and Play Area

The play equipment at War Memorial Play Area includes a zip wire, slide with a tunnel and various swings.

Nearest Town: Chilbolton, near Andover and Winchester
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SP20 6BD (or SP11 7JS)

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic.
Facilities: None.

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is a small car park. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Butterflies and other insects, herons, kingfishers and other birds, trout and other pond life and cows.

Information Written: June 2022

Our trip to Chilbolton Cow Common in Chilbolton and Wherwell, near Andover, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Pinewood Activities Adventure Play Area

The play equipment is divided between two areas, Pinewood Adventure and another, more traditional playground. 

The adventure play area has equipment including:

• toddler swings
• basket swings
• a small multiplay and slide for the very young
• a long rope swing
• a wooden climbing frame

• a rope climbing frame
• spinners
• a balance course with bridges, logs and ropes
• a tunnel
• a zip wire.

The Railway Play Area

The second play area has:

• swings
• toddler swings
• a small wooden train to walk along 
• a large play train with a tunnel and carriages 
• a play house
• a seesaw

• a long slide set into a hill
• a trampoline
• a climbing frame with a climbing wall, nets and monkey bars
• springers 
• picnic tables.

The Cafe

There is a cafe that serves refreshments and ice cream.

Pinewood Miniature Railway

Next to the play areas is the Pinewood (Wokingham) Miniature Railway.

It does not run everyday so please see their The Pinewood (Wokingham) Miniature Railway website for details of their open days.

Sports Areas 

On the other side of the car park is a field with a football pitch and a trim trail with six equipment stations (all aimed at those over 12 years).

Pond Dipping

Dickie’s Pond is also nearby and has a pond dipping platform.

Pond dipping equipment (nets, information sheets, a tray and magnifying glasses) can be borrowed from the cafe by leaving a deposit of £5. Near the pond is a woodland walk, with sculptures of woodland animals.

Nearest Town: Wokingham Without, near Crowthorne and Wokingham
County: Berkshire
Nearest Postcode: RG40 3AQ

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Cafe and a picnic area. 
Facilities: Cafe, shop, ice creams, toilets, picnic area.

How Long We Spent There: 2 hours
Buggies: Buggy friendly

Parking: There is good sized car park.
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Ducks, birds, insects and pond life.

Information Written: July 2017
Information Checked: July 2022

Our visit to the Pinewood Activities Centre in Wokingham Without, near Crowthorne and Wokingham, is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Flood Meadows

Flood Meadows has 15 acres of fields, flowers and mature trees.

A peaceful footpath winds along the northern branch of the River Wey

under trees

and over a pond.

This was originally water-cress beds and is now home to frogs, newts, snails and lots of water birds.

The River Wey

The River Wey has two branches – the northern and the southern branch.

The source of the northern branch is just a short walk from Flood Meadows.

The Wey Walk

This is a signposted 1.75 mile walk that starts at King’s Pond and follows the River Wey through Alton to its source. 

A copy of the Wey Walk leaflet can be found on the Walk Alton website. 

To the Source!

You can walk to the source of the northern branch of the River Wey by following the Wey Walk signs through Flood Meadows and on to its main gateway.

When you join Basingstoke Road, turn right and walk down the pavement to the corner.

The Source of the north branch of the River Wey is in the field opposite you. 

If you follow the path to the end of the field, there are some drainage pipes, which were dry when we visited.

The field was too overgrown to see where the River Wey springs out of the ground but you might have a better view in the winter when everything has died back. 

Bring Everything You Need

There are fields where you can have a picnic but there are no other facilities so be sure to bring everything else you need. 

Nearest Town: Alton
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: GU34 1HR

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a picnic. 
Facilities: Picnic table.

How Long We Spent There: About three hours.
Buggies: Buggy friendly.

Parking: There is a small car park with a few parking spaces at the end of Tanhouse Lane (GU34 1HR). You can also try parking on Basingstoke Road (GU34 1QA) by the main entrance to Flood Meadows or in one of the main Alton car parks. 
Cost of Parking: Free

Wildlife You Might See: Insects, birds, lots of water birds, fish and other pond life.

Information Written: August 2016
Information Checked: June 2022

Our visit to Flood Meadows in Alton is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.

Millyford Bridge Inclosure

From the car park there is a main path that follows the Highland Water to a wooden gate.

Beyond this gate is a network of paths to explore. 

The Highland Water continues to the left. 

On the right is woodland and some other streams. 

A Portuguese Fireplace

Depending on which way you drive to Millyford Bridge, you may notice a fireplace standing all alone in the middle of nowhere. This known as the Portuguese Fireplace and it is the last remnant of a camp established by the Portuguese army during World War 1 to assist in the production of timber. 

Finding the Car Park

The closest post code I could find to Millyford Bridge is SO43 7GQ, which takes you to the car park for Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. From here, follow the road to Lyndhurst and the Millyford Bridge car park is on your left. 

As the post code is close but not exact, please be sure to have a look at map before you go. 

Nearest Town: Near Lyndhurst, New Forest
County: Hampshire
Nearest Postcode: SO43 7GQ – but please see note above on finding the car park.

Opens: Daily
Cost: Free

Where to Eat: Bring a blanket and a picnic.
Facilities: None

How Long We Spent There: 3 hours
Buggies: Choose a buggy that can handle stony paths.

Parking: There is a car park. 
Cost of Parking: Free.

Wildlife You Might See: Ponies, fish, insects, butterflies, rabbits and birds.

Information Written: June 2022

Our visit to Millyford Bridge in the New Forest is summarised below and you can add your own rating under ‘User Rating’ or in the ‘Add Comment’ section below.