Kingley Vale, near Chichester, is one of the UK’s original national nature reserves with some of the oldest trees in the country. It is a truly atmospheric place to walk, and as well as the grove of ancient trees, you will also find spectacular views that stretch as far as the sea.

There aren’t many walks we do that I actually think are better in the winter, but this could be one. During the colder months especially, this habitat is home to an internationally important population of wading birds and wildfowl. And all just a hop across the water from the city of Portsmouth.

This is a gem of a walk starting out beside a beautiful old village church (and pub!) with access to The River Meon via a peaceful little nature reserve.

There is something magical in the woods of this National Trust Nature reserve, near Whitely. As you follow the creek that leads to the River Hamble, look out for the fairy tree and bring an offering to the little folk who reside there.

Fishlake Meadows is a wetland nature reserve in the southern Test Valley, just outside Romsey. There is a wealth of wildlife to be found here from osprey to dragonflies to water voles.

The largest freshwater lake in Hampshire is set within a variety of landscapes from heathland to woodland to marshland.

Noar Hill is a nature reserve near Selbourne. It has far reaching views from the hilltop common, a wooded hanger and masses of wild garlic in Spring.