Test Way Hampshire

by: Malcolm Leatherdale
The Test Way is a beautiful long-distance route of 44 miles from Inkpen Beacon to the Eling Tide Mill near Southampton Water. Following the course of the River Test it passes through Sites of Special Scientific Interest and the Lower Test Nature Reserve.

The River Test is one of the finest examples of only 200 chalk streams worldwide. The sparkling quality of its water has famously been described as 'gin clear'. The Test is renowned for the variety of the landscapes through which it flows; gently sloping tree-clad hills, the occasional remnant of chalk grassland or a former water meadow, all set against a backdrop of a fascinating history and geology.

The Test Way is an easy route, ideal for a first multi-day walking trip. The guidebook describes the route in eight stages. Each stage (ranging in length from 3 to 8.5 miles) is described clearly and concisely, and is accompanied by 1:50,000 OS mapping. The guide also includes information on the history, geology and landscape of the Test Valley, as well as practical information on accommodation and transport. Additionally, it describes 15 circular walks in the Test Valley, which vary in length from 3.75 to 8.5 miles.

The Test Way passes through areas of intriguing history and remarkable natural beauty. There are sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) as well as Iron Age hill forts, medieval churches, age old abbeys, relics from a long-passed railway era and quaint villages brimming with thatch and flint and individual 'hostelries' to match. It is a walk well suited to history and geology enthusiasts, and certainly a must for anyone interested in the iconic Sprat and Winkle railway.

For a full list of the eight stages and 15 circular walks click the link below the 'Add to Cart' button.

ISBN 9781852849535 Pages 155 (2021) 116mm x172mm