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.

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.

It is easy to understand why royalty have been coming to Avington Park for centuries; the setting beside the Itchen is idyllic. This walk provides great views of the house, bridges over the river, a hilltop swing and Hampshire countryside at its finest.

A new play trail has arrived at Itchen Valley Country Park, adding to the already excellent play facilities. Enjoy the new wooden, nature themed structures as well as walks through woodland, wildflower meadows and water meadows.

Easily accessible from the centre of Winchester, St Catherine’s Hill not only has great views but it also is home to an intriguing mizmaze; a turf labyrinth that children will love to solve.

This is a fantastic family walk that starts from the delightful Georgian town of Alresford, with its independent shops and eateries, before joining the crystal clear river where you will spot one of Hampshire’s most photographed homes.

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.

Leave plenty of time for this walk beside the River Itchen as there is a wealth of diversions on route including St Catherine’s Hill, Hockley Viaduct, Hospital of St. Cross, Wolvesey Palace and Winchester Cathedral.