Mental Heath Awareness Week 2021: North Hampshire walks perfect for connecting with nature

Danebury is one of an extensive network of fortified sites across the Hampshire countryside.

The site is a rich chalk grassland and from the hillfort, there are magnificent views including several other hill forts and prehistoric burial mounds.

History: Evidence suggests that Danebury Iron Age Hill Fort was built 3000 years ago. It started life as a Late Bronze Age stock enclosure, while the main defenses that are now visible were built around 2500 years ago. The fort remained in use until c.100BC.

Route distance: 0.8 miles

Hannington is situated high in the North Wessex Downs.

A network of public rights of way gives walkers opportunities to explore and enjoy spectacular views that extend south and west from For Down, and north and south from Michael’s Field.

During most seasons you can see skylarks, yellowhammers, and many other wild birds. Fieldfares and redwings are regular visitors in winter.

Route distance: 4.5 miles.

The valley is about half a mile wide, flanked by low ridges, with Harewood Forest to the north and west.

An excellent network of footpaths, including part of the Test Way, links the settlements. The paths provide some memorable views of the old cottages, the landscape, and the river.

History: Dead Man's Plack itself is a Grade-II listed 19th-century monument erected in the memory of Earl Athelwold. According to legend, Athelwold was killed there in 963 by his rival in love.

Route distance: 6.5 miles