Itchen Stoke and Ovington
Children will enjoy spotting fish from the foot bridges and paddling in the river on this walk.
The Basics
Time: 50 mins
Distance: 2.4 km
Terrain: Riverside paths, meadows, footbridges, narrow rough path and quiet country lane
Pushchairs: You could probably get as far as the pub, but not the full circuit
Dogs: Yes
Refreshments: The Bush Inn, Ovington
Toilets: Only at the pub
Parking: Free parking are at the end of Water Lane, Itchen Stoke (Postcode: SO24 0QZ - W3W: honeybees/tells/fanfare)
This walk is the perfect length for little legs, and there will be no complaining, as the impeccably clear waters of the Itchen will provide them with plenty of river wildlife to observe, and at one point they can even get their toes in the water too.
The Route
The walk begins at the very end of Water Lane, after the parking area. Within about 25 metres, you will arrive at the first little bridge and a paddling area.
The path continues with the river on either side. There are many opportunities to stop and look for fish and other wildlife along the way. Cross the wooden bridge and very soon you will be presented with the welcoming sight of The Bush Inn, Ovington with a large beer garden beside the river.
The path passes the pub and arrives at the road. Cross and take the road going up hill straight ahead. After a short climb, take the first right at a barn type building with a large notice board on. Follow Lovington Lane. It has no pavement, but is quiet and we met no cars on our walk.
Pass by Lovington House on your right and look for the narrow footpath on your right. Follow this as it heads back down towards the river.
Cross a series of two bridges to come out in a meadow on the other side of the river. Follow the signs to cross the meadow and at the other side, do not go through the gate but instead turn right inside the meadow with the houses to your left.
You will come to another gate which you should go through to get back to the car park.
We recommend viewing the map as a ‘Trails Map’ to ensure all the paths are visible:
Did you know?
The River Itchen is not just good for a paddle; it is one of the world’s premier chalk streams for fly fishing and in its upper reaches watercress is farmed.