Just a stone’s throw from the heart of Winchester is this wetland nature reserve, known as the gateway to The River Itchen. The all access pathways take you over reedbeds, past ponds and sections of the river.

The fifty-five acre Rowhill Nature Reserve is mainly made up of secondary ancient woodland. The well-signed Nature Trail follows the highlights of the reserve that include bluebell glades, boardwalks, ponds and a large meadow.

Beginning at Meon shore this linear walk follows the canal on its way to the historic village of Titchfield. For much of the journey, Titchfield Haven Nature Reserve is clearly in view where you will spot a variety of wetland birds and hear their calls.

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.

There is plenty of appeal along this easy route along the River Ems from the busy harbour town of Emsworth with its picturesque mill pond, to the pretty village of Westbourne and Brook Meadow Nature Reserve.

Walk along the seawall and enjoy stunning views of the marshes and mudflats that make up this nature reserve, which is not only beautiful, but also an internationally important habitat for migratory birds. The walk is entirely flat and very easy to follow.

Like a phoenix from the ashes, the boardwalk across Thursley Common Nature Reserve has risen again. Snaking its way from Moat Pond to Pudmore Pond across the lowland heath and marshes, this beautiful wooden structure appears to actually enhance the already spectacular natural scenery.

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.

Pagham Harbour is a nature reserve on one of the few undeveloped stretches of the West Sussex coast and it is an internationally important wetland site for wildlife.