We begin in the historic city of Winchester, former capital of England and seat of legendary Anglo-Saxon king Alfred the Great.
We climb St Catherine's Hill (100m), to enjoy views over the city and the South Downs. We then venture out along the South Downs Way, with spectacular views of Hampshire farmland before circling north to stop for lunch in the pretty village of Itchen Abbas (approximately 2pm).
We conclude by following the path of the river Itchen back into Winchester, with an optional pub stop at the end.
Bring a packed lunch.
Travel: Take the 09:05 train from London Waterloo (9:12 Clapham Junction), arrive Winchester 10.04.
Buy return to Winchester.