Horsebridge to Houghton
On this walk, children will enjoy paddling in the wide, shallow ford, the many footbridges, a field full of pigs and a path suitable for bikes.
The water meadows around the River Test
The Basics
Time: 30 minutes each way
Distance: 2.2 km each way
Terrain: Flat gravelled paths and wooden footbridges
Pushchair: Yes
Dogs: Yes
Refreshments: The John O’Gaunt Inn, Horsebridge and The Boot Inn, Houghton are both just off this route
Public Transport: Stagecoach service 16 between Broughton and Winchester stops at The Boot Inn in Houghton - reverse the route to begin in Houghton.
Parking: The Test Way car park opposite the John O’Gaunt Inn or some on road parking where the Test Way crosses the road at the start of this walk, a few metres down the road from the inn (Postcode: SO20 6PU - W3W: lifeboats/exhaled/materials)
Paddling beside the footpath
A there and back again walk from Horsebridge to Houghton along an old railway track and a path that crosses over gently flowing tributaries of The River Test. The shallow crystal clear waters are perfect for a cooling paddle and you can stop at the riverside pub before returning home.
The Route
The non-circular route begins just down the hill from the John O’ Gaunt Inn. The Test Way crosses the road from Horsebridge to Houghton. You should join it on the right hand side, if travelling from Horsebridge. The first part of the walk follows the ‘sprat and winkle’ old railway so is flat and even. At the very start, children should look out for pigs in the field to the right.
Follow the path, crossing the river for the first time on an old iron railway bridge. The path continues through trees with the river away to your left on private land.
At a crossroads, turn left. The path will lead you down to your next river crossing. Cross the bridge and continue to another, smaller bridge. A little paddle is possible here. Continue towards Blacklake Farm.
Your final river crossing is your best chance for a paddle with a wide, shallow ford and an easy access point. Cross the wooden bridge to reach Houghton or return the way you came.
Did you know?
The Sprat and Winkle Line was the common name of the Andover to Redbridge railway line which ran between Andover and Redbridge. The railway is now long gone, but much of the old route is now used by The Test Way, a long distance footpath.
If you enjoyed this walk…
…try this one at Chilbolton Cow Common where you can also paddle in the River Test.
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