Burhunt Hanger

The steep chalk slopes of Burhunt Hanger rise abruptly from the Hampshire countryside near Alton, and walking through it feels like stepping into proper old England. This is beech woodland at its best - tall, thin trees creating a cathedral-like canopy overhead, the forest floor thick with leaf litter and bracken. In autumn the whole place glows amber and gold.

It's a walker's spot, genuinely. The gradient is no joke - you'll feel your legs working - but that's half the appeal. Twenty minutes of uphill effort rewards you with proper views across the Wey Valley, which on a clear day stretches far enough to make the climb feel earned. The woodland itself is what draws you in though. No crowds, no visitor centre, no signposted loops. Just trees and quiet.

You could spend an hour here easily, maybe two if you're slow or stop often. Bring decent boots - the slope gets slippery when wet. Whether it's free or if there's any formal access isn't entirely clear, but this feels like the kind of spot where you just turn up and walk.

If you're staying at one of the local parks - Feather Down Manor Farm is closest at under three miles, or the more adventurous Adhurst Yurts four miles away - Burhunt makes an excellent half-morning outing. Pair it with Alton's town centre for lunch and you've got a solid day. It's not flashy, but it's exactly what a Hampshire forest walk should be.