HAMPSHIRE is full of great walks to try out this Christmas Day.
A tradition for many each year, a walk is a great way to burn off the chocolates, sweets and Christmas lunch after a day of giving and receiving gifts.
So for this reason, we've put together a list of some of our favourite walks across the area to try out:
1. Southampton Common
The largest of Southampton’s open spaces, the common's first written record dates back to 1228, although it is possible that the areas status as a common dates back to around 500AD.
The 365 acre site offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city but is not too far to travel if you're living in Southampton.
The Common offers 326 acres of woodland, parkland, rough grassland, ponds and wetlands and has several paths and cycle lanes for you to explore.
2. Farley Mount Country Park
This walk is located in a large area of woodland and downland and offers views over the centre of the county.
Along the walk, you will find a monument, especially dazzling in the day when it's white walls reflect the sunlight.
The building can be seen from miles around, and there are several car parks in the area making it easily accessible.
3. Hamble-le-Rice and Royal Victoria Country Park Circular
Stretching in a loop for 8.4km, this route primarily used for hiking, walking and bird watching, features a range of wildflowers and is said to be good for all skill levels.
Starting and finishing at Hamble Square, the route comes out of the village from the North, heads along Hamble Rail Trail and down into Royal Victoria Country Park.
Leaving the country park to the South, the route then follows the coast and then turns at School Lane before heading back into Hamble.
4. Bolderwood Deer Spotting
If you want to see wildlife as you exercise this Christmas, then this is the walk for you.
These three short walks at Bolderwood includes a deer viewing platform which overlooks a large meadow where the deer tend to reside.
The Deer Watch Trail, Jubilee Grove Trail and Radnor Trail are all a short walk from the platform with a gravelled surface and benches along the way to sit and admire the view.
5. The Weirs
This is an easy walk and good for anyone who lives in Winchester and doesn't want to leave the embrace of the city.
It is just over three miles long and starts at Sparkford Road bus stop. On the journey you will get the chance to see the local wildlife as you pass by the weirs.
Then to the guildhall and past the mall, and even the oldest bar in England.
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