A new play trail has arrived at Itchen Valley Country Park, adding to the already excellent play facilities. Enjoy the new wooden, nature themed structures as well as walks through woodland, wildflower meadows and water meadows.

Near Bentworth, between Alton and Basingstoke, Home Farm is a landscape of meadows and woodland with butterflies and red kites soaring overhead. Surprisingly, much of this wildlife haven was actually created by carefully managed regeneration of cultivated land over the last 30 years.

This isn’t a long walk, but it still has an awful lot to see and do. You will find large grassy spaces for picnics, a shoreline with Southampton Water, a waterside play area, wooded glades with bluebells and the crowning glory of this walk - the magnificent romantic ruins of Netley Abbey.

Step into the enchanted land of Mill Hanger near Dunsfold, where bluebells, wild garlic, bird song and a meandering river produce a scene so beautiful in May time that you will think you are in a fairy tale. Complete the adventure with a visit to the ridiculously good rustic playground beside the charming village green.

Marvel at the medieval mizmaze, breathe in the scent of millions of bluebells, admire the Elizabethan mansion, take in the views, sip tea in the courtyard and wander around the idyllic village. We couldn’t recommend a walk on the Breamore Estate more.

The tall beech trees of Blackwood Forest provide the ideal habitat for spring bluebells. Forest Holidays manage a collection of log cabins here, but you do not need to be on one of their breaks to be able to enjoy some of their excellent facilities and of course, the bluebells.