Beacon Hill
Children will enjoy a picnic at the top and running around the circular track on this walk.
The views are well worth the short climb
The Basics
Time: About 15 minutes to reach the top of the hill and the same to walk around the top
Distance: 2km
Terrain: There is no denying the initial climb is steep, but don’t let that put you off. It is a very short climb and the views are well worth it. There are steps cut into the chalk, which I can imagine being slippery after wet weather.
Pushchair: No
Dogs: Yes, on leads in spring/summer due to ground nesting birds
Refreshments: A picnic area at the bottom of the hill, but we think it is nicer to picnic at the top
Toilets: None
Public Transport: There is no public transport to this location
Parking: Two free parking areas signposted just after the turn off from the A34 (Postcode: RG20 9LP - W3W - dozens/suitable/takes)
View over the Highclere Estate from Beacon Hill
You cannot miss this walk if you are a fan of Downton Abbey as the view from the top of this iron age hill fort has views to Highclere Castle. These have to be the most far reaching views we have found in Hampshire, and you can enjoy them in every direction.
The Route
This is a walk where directions are not really necessary. Follow the paved path from the first parking area into the second parking area, and at the end you will see the start of the path on your right.
The path will climb through vegetation first before soon opening out onto chalk downland. It is just one, straight climb up.
At the top, the chalky path circling the hillfort will be obvious and does not take long to complete. You will find views to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) on the north side as well as the grave of the 5th Earl of Canarvon, best known as the financial backer in the excavation of Tutenkhamun’s tomb.
Did you know?
There are a few public footpaths that pass through the estate and on certain days of the year you can walk and explore the estate even closer.
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