A walk for the whole family around the village of East Meon — The Ambling Path

Children will enjoy the young Meon River as it winds its way through the pretty main street and a play area beside the village green on this walk.

The Basics

Time: 55 mins

Distance: 3.1 km

Terrain: Country lane with no pavement, woodland paths, fields that can be muddy in winter and a few steady inclines

Pushchairs: No

Dogs: Yes

Refreshments: The Izaak Walton (children’s play area, dog friendly) or Ye Old George Inn are both pubs along the main street

Toilets: None

Parking: Village car park, free (Postcode: GU32 1PF - W3W: hints/causes/wobbles)

East Meon is a traditional country village near the source of the River Meon. It boasts two excellent pubs and some beautiful downland for walking.

The Route

From the entrance to the car park, veer left, cross the road and head through a little opening onto the village green. At the opposite side is a small play area beside the village hall.
Look out for the footpath marked through the row of pretty cottages overlooking the top of the green. Head between the houses and continue straight on and slightly up hill, passing by lots more houses in a more modern residential area. Keep following the street up to meet a country lane where the houses end.
Turn right here and walk along the quiet country lane. There is quite a large chunk of lane walking from here and those with very small children should be warned there is no pavement. The road is wide and you shouldn’t encounter much traffic.
Pass some houses on your right and then a farm where the road crosses a stream. Keep going along the road until, just as it bends to the right, you will spot a footpath on your left going up hill into woodland. Take the path through the woodland. Part way along, children can have a try at hauling themselves up a very steep path using the rope (you do not take this path, just a fun diversion for kids).
At the end of the woodland, you will come to a gate. Go through it into the large field and follow the path keeping the fence to your left. As soon as you spot the next gate on your left, go through it and head downhill into the trees again.
The path will soon open out into a field and you should walk with the hedge to your right. At the opposite side of the field, go through the gap in the hedge and climb up the next field. Turn left at the top and cross the top of the next field to the gate on the other side. Follow the path down the hill back towards the village.
When you arrive at the lane, and a small resident’s car park, turn right and follow the pavement into the attractive village centre. A signpost will guide you from there in the direction of the car park.