Hidden Hampshire: Jane Austen’s Countryside, Selborne & Hangers Way HIKE
Schedule
Sat Jan 31 2026 at 08:30 am to 04:30 pm
UTC+00:00Location
Waterloo Station | London, EN
About this Event
🌟 Highlights
- 🌳 Visit the ancient yew tree in Selborne churchyard, estimated to be over 1,000 years old.
- 🧪 Discover Gilbert White, pioneering 18th-century naturalist, and his beloved village of Selborne.
- 🏡 Explore Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, where she wrote many of her famous novels.
- 🌄 Enjoy sweeping views across the South Downs and peaceful woodland trails.
- 🌀 Walk the famous zigzag path and stretches of the scenic Hanger Way.
## 📖 Description
🥾 “Step into a timeless landscape where history and nature intertwine!”
This walk explores a quiet corner of Hampshire that once inspired two literary giants: Gilbert White, the pioneering naturalist, and Jane Austen, the beloved novelist.
Starting from Alton, we cross wide upland fields to East Worldham before plunging into the enchanting arcadia of woods, hangers, and hidden pastures surrounding Selborne, immortalized in White’s Natural History. From there, we traverse the zigzag path, wander across Selborne Common, and follow stretches of the scenic Hanger Way, leading us to Chawton, Austen’s home for her most creative years.
Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the South Downs, reflect on Austen’s witty observation that villages only three miles apart can feel like ‘different worlds,’ and soak in the serene beauty that has captivated writers for centuries.
🗺️ Hike Details
- Distance: 23 km
- Duration: 6–6.5 hours
- Grade: Intermediate (some slop ascents and descents)
- Ascent: ~358 m
- Terrain: Woodland paths, country lanes, and open fields
- Pace: Steady social pace with regular breaks for views and photos
🕒 Meeting Point & Time
- 📍 Meeting Point: London Waterloo Rail Station at 08:10 AM (near WH Smith opposite to platform 10 & 11))
- 🚆 Train: 08:30 from London Waterloo, Arrives Alton 09:37.
Buy a day return ticket to Alton on the day or in advance. (1/3rd off on Group Save & Railcard). - 🏁 Hike Starts: Alton at 09:40
- ⏳ Hike Finishes: Alton approx. at 16:30
- 📞 Hike Guide: Raj – 07788839784
🎒 What to Bring
- 👟 Comfortable hiking boots
- 💧 Water & packed lunch/snacks
- 🧥 Weather-appropriate clothing
- ☀️🌧️ Sun/Rain/Wind protection (hat, sunscreen, raincoat)
- 📷 Optional: camera, walking poles
📌 Additional Info
- 🍻 Optional social drinks (BYOD) after the hike at a local pub near the station
- 🌱 Some paths may be muddy after rain
- 👥 Let’s keep the group together so we can all enjoy the views and finish safely
- 🔗 This event is posted on multiple platforms
Cost & What’s Included
- 💵 Cost: £10 per person
- ✅ Includes: Organiser/guided hike fee only
- ❌ Not included: Train tickets, food, drinks, or other personal expenses
- ⚠️ Note: Participants who purchase train tickets through the organiser must stay with the group until the end of the hike (London).
✅ How to Join
RSVP by Tuesday to secure your spot for this Saturday hike!
We’d love to have you join us on the trail!
Click Join to RSVP
Where is it happening?
Waterloo Station, waterloo road, London, United KingdomEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 11.55
