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.

This unique little walk packs so much into a small space. There is a copse with bluebells and wildflowers, a boardwalk over a mire, a toddlers play area, an amazing trim trail for older children and a bridge that takes you out onto the Basingstoke Canal.

A walk along the Basingstoke canal never disappoints and this one has some bonus features such as a waterside pub, a ford to paddle in and the free to entre ruins of King John’s Castle.

Riverside Park in Southampton marks the point where the Itchen Navigation reaches a tidal estuary on its way to the sea. Flat, surfaced paths guide you along the river where you will find play areas and even a miniature railway along the way.

Southwood Country Park is a 57-hectare green space in Farnborough. It is split into two sides, east and west. The east is home to an excellent cafe, a play area, Cove Brook and wilder land and paths. The west side is a former golf course and has an easy, very well surfaced circular walk.

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.

Hartland Country Park is an attractive space comprising woodland, meadows and ponds. Easy, surfaced paths lead to little surprises such as a children’s bike track, picnic area and wooden play area.

If you are visiting The New Forest during the school holidays, then you will not want to miss this walk. Children can view the UK’s native reptiles in a series of pods before embarking on a discovery trail through the forest that will encourage them to engage with their senses.

The tall beech trees of Blackwood Forest provide the ideal habitat for spring bluebells. Forest Holidays manage a collection of log cabins here, but you do not need to be on one of their breaks to be able to enjoy some of their excellent facilities and of course, the bluebells.