An Epic & Beautiful 24.25km (15.2 miles) hike from Rowland Castle

Welcome to an epic, beautiful 24.25 KM (15.2 miles) hike from Rowland Castle through the beautiful countryside of East Hampshire.
The hike will start from Rowland Castle Railway Station. We will hike along the Avenue and past the elegant Stanstead House. We walk through the quiet village of Walderton, up onto a ridgeline through Kingley Vale Nature Reserve and on to Bow Hill. We will then head back to Rowlands Castle via Stoughton village and Stansted Forest. The walk is thought beautiful downlands and woodlands.
Please note that this hike will have over 400 meters of ascent. Please make sure you can do the distance and elevation at a reasonable pace. This is one of my favourite hikes in the area and is well worth the effort.
The hike should take 7-8 hours including rest stops. However, this may vary due to actual individual hiking speeds.
CAR SHARE: I can take up to 3 people from the Winchester area on a first come first serve basis. Please message me.
DRIVERS: Park at Rowlands Castle Station or nearby on the road.
TRAINS: There is a train from Winchester to Rowlands Castle leaving at 08:19, with a change at Hilsea, arriving into Rowlands Castle at 09:28AM.
Depart Winchester 08:19 AM
Arrive Hilsea: 09:04
Depart Hilsea: 09:15
Arrive: Rowlands Castle: 09:28 AM
Return trains leave every 23 mins past the hour. Please remember to re check training times and ticket prices.
The hike will start from the station at 09:40 AM with the option of a quick stop in the village for a final coffee, if required.
PLEASE NOTE:
The group is for people aged OVER 18 years old ONLY.
I encourage lift sharing where possible. It is up to individual drivers whether they ask for money towards fuel for the lift. Please message when appropriate.
Please wear the appropriate attire and footwear. This should include.
Hiking boots, hiking shoes or trail runners together with good socks
Hiking trousers, leggings, or shorts
A good upper base layer
Additional layers depending on weather conditions.
Bring in your backpack.
At least 1.5 litres of water. (Suggest a water bladder if possible)
Additional layers of clothing depending on the weather.
Waterproof jacket or poncho
Waterproof trousers
Gloves
Hat
Sun cream
Lunch and snacks
Please come prepared for all weathers.
There is a subscription of £8 per person, per hike. Subscriptions will cover planning, membership fees and administration. Once booked and paid no refunds will be allowed for any reason. However, you can sell your place to another person.