If you are looking for a breath of fresh air then there is nothing better than a coastal walk. The three-mile stretch from Old Portsmouth to Eastney along Southsea seafront makes it to perfect walk for everyone as whether you take in the whole walk or just some of it. And the fantastic bonus is that the section between Clarence Pier and Blue Reef has now reopened. Picture by Marcin Jedrysiakplaceholder image
If you are looking for a breath of fresh air then there is nothing better than a coastal walk. The three-mile stretch from Old Portsmouth to Eastney along Southsea seafront makes it to perfect walk for everyone as whether you take in the whole walk or just some of it. And the fantastic bonus is that the section between Clarence Pier and Blue Reef has now reopened. Picture by Marcin Jedrysiak | Marcin Jedrysiak

19 of the best autumn walks in and near the Portsmouth area

By Kelly Brown

Editor

Published 10th Oct 2023, 10:46 GMT
Updated 7th Oct 2024, 15:15 GMT

Autumn leaves and hot chocolates – two perfect things to accompany any walk this season as the days have turn decidedly colder (and wetter!).

With our perfect location of being both right on the coast and at the edge of the South Downs National Park, Portsmouth and its surrounding towns have a whole host of fantastic walks to enjoy this autumn to enjoy the changing season. And the great news is so many of them are right near a cafe so you can grab that all important hot chocolate!

Here are just some of our favourites:

Portchester Castle and coastal path is the perfect place to take a stroll taking in some history, stunning scenery and opportunities to explore all year round. Along the route from the castle there are two play parks as well as a take away cafe. You can also follow the coastal path all the way along to the Salt Cafe and beyond to Cams Hill if you are feeling adventurous. It is the perfect mix of trees and coast. Picture by Jo Bryant. Instagram: @jobryantphotography

5. Portchester Castle and coastal path

Portchester Castle and coastal path is the perfect place to take a stroll taking in some history, stunning scenery and opportunities to explore all year round. Along the route from the castle there are two play parks as well as a take away cafe. You can also follow the coastal path all the way along to the Salt Cafe and beyond to Cams Hill if you are feeling adventurous. It is the perfect mix of trees and coast. Picture by Jo Bryant. Instagram: @jobryantphotography Photo: -

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Often called 100 acres because of its location off Hundred Acres Road in Wickham, this walk is a firm family favourite all year round - but is fantastic in the autumn. It has woods to explore, paths to follow, plenty of places to go den building and a play area with a sand pit for the children to enjoy.

6. West Walk, Forest of Bere

Often called 100 acres because of its location off Hundred Acres Road in Wickham, this walk is a firm family favourite all year round - but is fantastic in the autumn. It has woods to explore, paths to follow, plenty of places to go den building and a play area with a sand pit for the children to enjoy. Photo: Google Streetview

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With its accessible paths around the Heath Pond, playground and cafe situated right next to the heath itself, Petersfield Heath is a great place to visit. Just make sure you bring food for the ducks and geese! Picture: Anne Purkiss

7. Petersfield Heath

With its accessible paths around the Heath Pond, playground and cafe situated right next to the heath itself, Petersfield Heath is a great place to visit. Just make sure you bring food for the ducks and geese! Picture: Anne Purkiss Photo: Anne Purkiss

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The five-mile mile off-off round trip starts at the car park to the rear of the garage at North Hayling Halt, Havant Road, Hayling and leads down to West Town, following the route of the former Hayling Billy railway. Taking in the shoreline, the trail is an accessible footpath, cycle route and bridleway and is popular with bird and nature watchers, cyclists, runners and mobility vehicle users. It has also been recently upgraded to will be great this Autumn Pictured: A view of the remains of the old train bridge from the trail by Mike Fooks

8. Hayling Billy Trail

The five-mile mile off-off round trip starts at the car park to the rear of the garage at North Hayling Halt, Havant Road, Hayling and leads down to West Town, following the route of the former Hayling Billy railway. Taking in the shoreline, the trail is an accessible footpath, cycle route and bridleway and is popular with bird and nature watchers, cyclists, runners and mobility vehicle users. It has also been recently upgraded to will be great this Autumn Pictured: A view of the remains of the old train bridge from the trail by Mike Fooks Photo: -

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