The Meon River completes its journey at Titchfield Haven National Nature Reserve, a 369 acre site of river, fen, pools, reedbed and meadows. There are eight bird hides from which to enjoy the wide variety of wildlife, and on the east side they are connected by a series of boardwalks. Tickets need to be purchased from the visior centre.

Start this walk in Southwick, an attractive village that has retained its historical charm, and then head out across the farmland of the wider estate. On your return you can visit the remains of Southwick Priory, now in the stewardship of English Heritage, and the village tea rooms, which come highly recommended.

Once a claypit for the local brickworks, this nature reserve is now a wildlife oasis with a series of little lakes and woodland alive with birds. In between Portsmouth and Southampton, and close to the M27, it is easy to access and easy to explore.

Known to some as Hundred Acre Wood, West Walk is actually part of The Forest of Bere, an ancient landscape that once stretched uninterrupted across much of Southern Hampshire. Today, you will find miles of easy, marked woodland trails as well as an excellent children’s playground and picnic area.

Holly Hill Woodland Park is a restored example of Victorian landscaped parkland. You will find ponds, exotic tree species, rock features and ornamental bridges as well as native woodland with a fabulous viewpoint over The River Hamble.

Take the easy to follow path, passing woodland and streams, to find a large beach backed by cliffs and excellent coastal walks.

Occupying a commanding position overlooking The Solent, Portchester castle makes a fascinating place to walk around in any season.

There are two abbeys for children to explore on this short walk. One is the glorious ruin of Titchfield Abbey and the other is a wooden play structure inspired by the former and set in a brand new park, Abbey Meadows.

There is something magical in the woods of this National Trust Nature reserve, near Whitely. As you follow the creek that leads to the River Hamble, look out for the fairy tree and bring an offering to the little folk who reside there.