Wessex Adventures

Guided Walks

Interesting, varied and fun guided walks and activities

A lady looks back to group of walkers on a fully guided walk

Walk, learn & discover

Guided walks & actvities

Wessex Adventure guided walks and activities are available for everyone! Novice walkers who wants some advice and coaching or those wanting to stretch the legs, and lungs a bit. Those that want time to look and learn and those that want cover the miles and fancy a challenge.

Regular weekend and midweek guided walks throughout the year

Two day 'location' focussed walks with an option to walk one or two days and experience the best walking that the area has to offer.

Walk and learn, seasonal and discovery walks are slower paced, with an opportunity to learn about a new countryside skills or interest or just enjoy what seasonal delights can be found.

Guided walks and activities start from locations in Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire and across the south of England

A number of walks will start in the Cranbourne Chase area, north New Forest, Meon Valley but also occasionally on the counties, South Downs and very occasionally in South Wales.

Read the walk description, length, duration and indication of fitness required before you book a walk. Seasoned walkers will have a good idea of how far they can walk - novice walkers may want to start with something shorter the first time out. Many of the group walks will be long loops without any opportunities to stop early or return to start. Training walks, and bespoke walks can be arranged as figure-of-8 loops or with 'shortcut' options to reduce the distance and duration.

Guided walks and activities will usually take place regardless of the weather. The route, length and duration may be changed on the day. Nigel has spent some time walking in the area and can usually winkle out some where to go! A suggested equipment list is sent with the joining details and can also be viewed on the website here - no walk will be a test of endurance but some form of walk will take place unless the weather is really terrible or dangerous!

Two people rest and lean each side of a large tree trunk on a woodland walk

Check out the walk dates, locations and details below...

Why choose Wessex Adventures

Fully qualified, fully insured and first aid trained

Bespoke activities available for groups, couples and individuals

Comprehensive joining details and suggested kit list

Over 30 years experience leading , instructing and guiding

Contact Nigel if you need some help choosing a walk, want to arrange a bespoke walk or need want with booking

The next few...

Hedgerow Safari

A guided walking adventure with no particular aim but to discover what ever we see along the way!

This guided walk will explore the hedgerow and countryside tracks, paths and woodlands to see what we can see, hear and enjoy along the way.

  • 6th February - Learn how to identify common animal tracks, trails and sign
  • 22nd February - Learn how to identify common animal tracks, trails and sign
  • 6 March - Signs of spring - Emerging plants, animals and birds getting active for spring
  • 22 March - Signs of spring - Emerging plants, animals and birds getting active for spring

Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Cranbourne Chase and surrounding counties

A variety of fully guided walks and seasonally themed walks and activities

A variety of fully guided walks and seasonally themed walks and activities in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire, Cranbourne Chase and surrounding counties.

Regular midweek and weekend guided walks take place throughout the year in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and surrounding counties but are generally 'centred' around Cranbourne Chase and south Hampshire.

Two day 'area focussed' walks take place across the south of England and feature a walk on each day with the option to book one of the days only or both days together to take in the best walking the area has to offer.

Most guided walks take place in small groups and are at an enjoyable pace with plenty of time to enjoy the countryside. Summer long walks and fitness walks might be at a moderate pace to cover the ground and feature a few more ups and downs.

Seasonal guided walks and 'Walk & Learn' walks allow time to discover, absorb and appreciate some of the best that 'Wessex' has to offer. These walks tend to be shorter and will have focussed on looking, learning and enjoying what the season has to offer.

A lady with thumbs tucked in  rucksack straps ascends a hill on cranbourne chase guided walk
yellow footpath public rights of way signs on a leaning over post in the dorset countryside

A variety of fully guided walks and seasonally themed walks and activities

Guided walks and guided activities

Guided walks are a fantastic way to get out and explore the countryside of Wessex

Regular midweek and weekend guided walks take place throughout the year from a variety of locations across Cranbourne chase and the surrounding area. Routes take place on a variety of tracks, paths and rights of way that are suited to the season. Spring and winter walks will use better surfaced tracks and paths and will be generally shorter in duration and may be modified at the last minute if the weather is bit rubbish.

Area focussed walks will take in the best routes that area offers with the option to walk both days, or just one of the days. Area walks are published well in advance so you can arrange accommodation if you want to stay in that area and make a weekend of it.

Generally walks will start at around 09:30 until around 4:30 and full full joining details will resent around two weeks before the walk date.

You can read a description of each walk and the Frequently asked Questions for more information about what to bring, fitness required and what happens of the weather is not too great.

Dates, locations and bookings

Scroll down to the bottom of the page for a list of walk published walks dates, locations, information and how and where to book.

Take a walk and learn something new along the way

Walk and learn is a great way to learn a new skill or take a more focussed interest while out on a walk. Each walk will feature a learning focus with time to learn, explore and practice new skills while out and about and smaller group sizes allows everyone to take part fully.

Walk and learn walks can be arranged on a bespoke basis for small groups and are ideal for families that want to learn a new skill together.

2024 walk and learn dates will be going up on the website very soon.

Introduction to natural navigation

Learn the basics of natural navigation on a walk around the countryside. Understand how the sun and moon interacts with plants, animals and nature to give clues to where you are and what direction you are going in. Natural navigation is not just about 'navigation' but about learning how to observe and join natural clues together to keep a 'sense of direction'.

Introduction to tracks and signs of animals in the countryside

Take a walk learn about commonly found animal tracks and the signs they leave behind. Learn how to tell the difference between the tracks most common species of countryside animals and birds and how the signs they leave can help you observe the animals themselves.

Walks will, depending on the start location take in a variety of countryside locations and maximise you chance to see and learn about a number of tracks and signs.

Depending on the season you may see lots, or not so many tracks and signs. Nature can be fickle but generally the walks will take place in spring and autumn when the ground is softer and the animals are active. Either way you will spend time outdoors learning a new skills and enjoying the countryside.

Introduction to nature watching and observation

These small group walks are a chance to learn where to observe wildlife, how to do so with as little presence as possible and some tips and tricks to blend into your natural surroundings. On the day you will learn about natural movement, how to do a sit spot and where to go to observe wildlife and nature.

You will discover that it's not about donning full camouflage but more about how to become more aware of your nature surroundings and reducing your presence in nature.

Group sizes will be kept to around 3/4 participants only so there is a chance to see some wildlife. Just remember that nature can be fickle, either way you will have a fun and relaxing time out in the countryside.

Guided walks with a seasonal purpose and time to discovery!

Guided walks with a seasonal purpose and time to discovery!

Guided walks with a seasonal theme and purpose, time to explore and discover something new in the countryside. Most walks are focussed around the changing seasons with some taking place later in the day, or early evening during the summer when the chances of seeing wildlife or the sunset are at there best. Start locations vary across Cranbourne Chase and surrounding area depending on the season, weather and what is a going to be a seasonal highlight.

Hedgerow Safari

Bring your binoculars, spotting scope, hand lens, ID books or just yourself and a sense of curiosity. The hedgerow safari is a wandering discovery walk for those that want to spend time looking, observing, touching and exploring whatever comes your way. Who knows what you will see; depending on the start location you could see woodland plants and animals, soaring red kite, hare, deer and some of the smaller creatures lurking in the hedgerow!

Spring into Summer

A walk to see what is emerging for spring. Wild garlic, new growth on tree, shrub and hedgerow, courting and early birds are all up for grabs! The pace of the walk slows time to look and enjoy what is emerging for spring and deepening on the start location you might see woodland, pasture and hedgerow all on one day.

    • 04
      April

      Introduction to Natural Navigation

      Learn at least 8 natural indicators of direction and how to use them
      location_on New Forest (north west) groups Walk and Learn

      Walk and Learn - Natural Navigation

      £49 per person (first walk voucher discount can be used for this)

      Learn at least 8 natural indicators of direction and how to use them to determine direction when out and about in the countryside. Learn how to discover more for yourself and simply spend a pleasant day looking and enjoying this quiet corner of the New Forest. 10-4pm with full joining details sent a couple of before the walk.

      • 4 April (Thursday) - North west New Forest - Deposit to reserve a place
      • 26 May (Thursday) - North west New Forest - Deposit to reserve a place
      • 20 June (Thursday) - North west New Forest - Deposit to reserve a place
      • 30
        March

        Cranbourne Chase walks weekend

        Signs of Spring & Spring Greens - emerging headgerows and some wild garlic
        location_on Near Martin & Broadchalke groups Guided walk weekend
        Guided walk weekend

        Easter weekend - two great walks on Cranbourne Chase

        Two great days of walking looking for 'Spring Greens' and emerging signs of spring. Mixed walking through woodland, open countryside and emerging hedgerows. Book one of the days or book both for a fantastic weekends walking.

        Saturday 30 March and Sunday 31st March - Easter holiday weekend.

        Book just the Saturday, Sunday or both days!

        £35 per person for one day or £65 per person for two days

        • 25
          May

          South Downs walks weekend

          Some great walking in the south downs area - get those hill legs on!
          location_on South Downs nr Harting groups Guided walk weekend
          Guided walk weekend

          South Downs - walks will start near South Harting.

          Two great days of walking - discover some of the lesser walked areas of the South Downs. Book one of the days or book both for a fantastic weekends walking.

          Saturday 25 May and Sunday 26 May - Bank holiday weekend.

          Book just the Saturday, Sunday or both days!

          £35 per person for one day or £65 per person for two days

        Just three 'steps' to choosing and booking a guided walk or activity

        Choose Book GO..

        Guided walks - Frequently asked questions

        Guided walks are all weather. Walks that take place in the wetter, colder months will make use of better surfaced tracks and paths or use drove roads and tracks to stitch sections of paths together.

        Walks will only be postponed if there are weather warnings or the ground conditions are deemed to be to wet/hazardous for the walk to go-ahead. If walks are postponed then you will be offered an alternative date.

        The walk leader knows the area well and can alter the walk start location, route and duration to take account of the weather conditions. When you book you should give a mobile number that you can be contacted on a few days or the day before the walk start date should any changes need to be made.

        Routes are chosen where possible to fit into the pattern of the seasons and might be modified, and/or a different start location at short notice to fit with the weather, ground conditions etc. Walks in the countryside take place on a variety off paths surfaces!

        Guided walks take place outdoors, all year and in most weather conditions on countryside rights of way that may include a variety of tracks, paths, paths across, alongside and through agricultural fields and woodland tracks and paths. Some paths may be rough underfoot and have 'natural' trail hazards such as roots, slippery smooth surfaces and might be wet, loose and muddy depending on the time of year.

        In the spring and summer some paths may be a bit overgrown with nettles, bramble, long grass and other vegetation that can intrude onto the rights of way.

        It is suggested that participants wear appropriate footwear for the season, long trousers and or gaiters if required and a long sleeved top, or shirt.

        Have a read of the walk descriptions for the length of the walk and how much up and down there will be. The walk description will also give you an idea of the maximum length of the walk and if it might be on the strenuous side due to any steep hills. Regular walkers will know how far they can walk and how much up and down they can do in a day. Many of the guided walks will be between 16km and 20/26km (10 to 13 miles) maximum, hiller and more strenuous walks will be indicated as such. Some walks will be advertised as a longer more challenging walks and will be for those that walk regularly and know they can walk a long one of around 30km (18 miles).

        You can view guidance for that on the on foot what to bring pages It is always best to carry a little too much and not need hot than get soaked or run out of water on a really how day.

        You are welcome to Obscurenigelwessex or you can use the website contact form to get in touch.

        Have a look at the guided walks and activities booking form page if you want information about booking and payment.

        Most walks start from remote countryside car parks without any toilet facilities.

        There are usually no toilets when out and about in the countryside. Some walks may pass through villages but there can be guarantee that you will be able to find or use a toilet.

        Most walks start from remote public or remote parking 'spots' in the countryside. None have public toilets and may have height barriers. The security of your car and any belongings incise are your responsibility. It highly advisable to not leave any valuables in your car, even in the boot or glove box.

        Most walks are full day walks and take place out in the countryside. Generally snack and lunch stops are made outside. Some walks will pass through small villages where community buildings or churches might have a bench or two to sit on. Walkers are advised to bring enough food and water for the entire day.

        As a regular walker you will know how far you usually walk and what length of walk you can finish. If there is an emergency or something unexpected happens then the walk leader will have a plan to get things sorted. This may mean shortening, or adjusting the walk, trying to arrange a lift or pick up after the walk to get you back to your car. The walk leader is first aid trained and very experienced leading groups out and about.

        If you are unable to complete a walk due to a lack of fitness or do not have the correct clothing, footwear and equipment and cannot complete the walk you might have to make arrangements to get back to the start yourself, or arrange to get picked up. This is usually a last resort but it is always best to commit to a walk you know you can finish.

        Unfortunately not, as most group guided walks are dog free. This makes it easier when deciding what dogs are suitable, or not for a walk, if its too hot, too cold, too long for that dog etc. Many sections of walks cross open fields with livestock, or through woodland etc where dogs would have to be predominately on a lead.

        Also those participants that do not want to walk with dogs know they will not have to accommodate them when they turn up.

        Every walk: Date, start location, description, fitness required, walk length and other information

        Contact Nigel if you need any further information before you book or check out the Frequently Asked Questions

        Very latest guided walk information

        Hedgerow Safari

        A guided walking adventure with no particular aim but to discover what ever we see along the way!

        This guided walk will explore the hedgerow and countryside tracks, paths and woodlands to see what we can see, hear and enjoy along the way.

        • 6th February - Learn how to identify common animal tracks, trails and sign
        • 22nd February - Learn how to identify common animal tracks, trails and sign
        • 6 March - Signs of spring - Emerging plants, animals and birds getting active for spring
        • 22 March - Signs of spring - Emerging plants, animals and birds getting active for spring

        October 2018

        Friday, 19th

        2018

        October

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        Available for hire? - 1:1, 1:2, groups. - Email Nigel for details. - securemail
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        Check out the tables below for dates, details and descriptions of guided walks, walk and learn and regular training walks

        Guided walks weekends and two day area focussed dates and details

        DateLocationTitleDescriptionPlaces & bookingTimesDistance
        ANY DATECranbourne ChaseBespoke guided walk for individuals, coiuple and small groupeBespoke walks can be arranged at most locations - Half day and full day walks. Great value for midweek walks.Email for great midweek prices!10am to 4pmVarious
        ANY DATEWestern New ForestBespoke guided walk for individuals, coiuple and small groupeBespoke walks can be arranged at most locations - Half day and full day walks. Great value for midweek walks.Email for great midweek prices!10am to 4pmVarious
        ANY DATESouth DownsBespoke guided walk for individuals, coiuple and small groupeBespoke walks can be arranged at most locations - Half day and full day walks. Great value for midweek walks.Email for great midweek prices!10am to 4pmVarious
        30 & 31 March (Easter Weekend)Cranbourne Chase - Wilton wood & BroadchalkeSigns of spring - Easter weekend walk/s on the southern Chase looking for signs of spring - woodland, open countryside and hedgerow
        ,"Emerging spring greens hedgerows and tree growth. Views and time to enjoy ,8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place,10am to 4pm,Up to 24km/15miles
        30 March (Easter Weekend)Cranbourne Chase - Wilton wood & BroadchalkeSigns of spring - Easter weekend walk/s on the southern Chase looking for signs of spring - woodland, open countryside and hedgerow
        ,"Emerging spring greens hedgerows and tree growth. Views and time to enjoy ,8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place,10am to 4pm,Up to 24km/15miles
        31 March (Easter Weekend)Cranbourne Chase - Wilton wood & BroadchalkeSigns of spring - Easter weekend walk/s on the southern Chase looking for signs of spring - woodland, open countryside and hedgerow
        ,"Emerging spring greens hedgerows and tree growth. Views and time to enjoy ,8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place,10am to 4pm,Up to 24km/15miles
        4 April (Thursday)New Forest - North WestIntroduction to Natural Navigation - learn at least 8 indicators of natural direction and how to use them!8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place10am to 4pmup to 14km at a slow pace looking at things!
        25 & 26 MaySouth DownsA coupls of leg stretchers on the South Downs. At least one walk will be on a quieter section of the South Downs and not the usual SDW!Stretch the legs on the South Downs. Few ups and downs, great views and hopefully some sunshine!8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place10am to 4pmHilly - Up to 24km/15miles
        25 MaySouth DownsA coupls of leg stretchers on the South Downs. At least one walk will be on a quieter section of the South Downs and not the usual SDW!Stretch the legs on the South Downs. Few ups and downs, great views and hopefully some sunshine!8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place10am to 4pmHilly - Up to 24km/15miles
        26 MaySouth DownsA coupls of leg stretchers on the South Downs. At least one walk will be on a quieter section of the South Downs and not the usual SDW!Stretch the legs on the South Downs. Few ups and downs, great views and hopefully some sunshine!8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place10am to 4pmHilly - Up to 24km/15miles
        23 May (Thursday)New Forest - North WestIntroduction to Natural Navigation - learn at least 8 indicators of natural direction and how to use them!8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place10am to 4pmup to 14km at a slow pace looking at things!
        20 June (Thursday)New Forest - North WestIntroduction to Natural Navigation - learn at least 8 indicators of natural direction and how to use them!8 places left - Deposit now to reserve a place10am to 4pmup to 14km at a slow pace looking at things!
        22 JuneLocation TBC - Dorset or WilshireLong days and fine weather so will pick somewhere with some shade and varietyTBC8 places10am to 4pmTBC
        23 JuneLocation TBC - Dorset or WilshireLong days and fine weather so will pick somewhere with some shade and varietyTBC8 places10am to 4pmTBC
        22 & 23 JuneLocation TBC - Dorset or WilshireLong days and fine weather so will pick somewhere with some shade and varietyTBC8 places10am to 4pmTBC

        Walk and learn - dates and details

        DateLocationTitleDescriptionPlaces & booking
        2024 dates coning soonMartin DownIntroduction to track and signLearn to recognises basic track and sign of common animals - [INFO](https://newforestnavigation.co.uk/)8 places
        4 April (Thursday)New Forest - North West sideIntroduction to natural navigationLearn at least half a dozen easy to find indicators of direction and have practice using them8 places - You can pay a deposit to reserve a place
        23 May (Thursday)New Forest - North West sideIntroduction to natural navigationLearn at least half a dozen easy to find indicators of direction and have practice using them8 places - You can pay a deposit to reserve a place
        20 June (Thursday)New Forest - North West sideIntroduction to natural navigationLearn at least half a dozen easy to find indicators of direction and have practice using them8 places - You can pay a deposit to reserve a place
        More dates on way...New Forest - North West sideIntroduction to natural navigationLearn at least half a dozen easy to find indicators of direction and have practice using them8 places

        regular walks - dates and details

        DateLocationTitleDescriptionPlaces & booking
        67 JuneNew Forest - North WestHeathland stompRegular walk upto 16km and some ups and downsBook and pay on day
        67 JuneMartin DownUps and downsRegular walk upto 16km and some ups and downsBook and pay on day
        67 JuneNew Forest - North WestHeathland stompRegular walk upto 16km and some ups and downsBook and pay on day
        67 JuneMartin DownDrove roads and bywaysRegular walk upto 16km and some ups and downsBook and pay on day
        Guided walks - recommended clothing and kit

        WEAR:

        • Comfortable ruck sack
        • Walking boots or sturdy trail shoes - no sandals, soft soled training shoes/urban shoes.
        • Walking trousers or similar.
        • Long sleeved base layer top and/or shirt. -Warm hat or sun hat.
        • Gloves - thin gloves so you can operate a compass and write on the map with them on. -Water proof jacket and trousers.
        • Personal first kit and any personal medication you are required to take.

        CARRY or WEAR - depending on weather

        • Waterproof jacket and trousers (pack in rucksack anyway even if the weather looks dry)
        • Extra layer/s which could be a thick fleece or a synthetic or down top or thiner fleece and gilet top. Pack these even in summer months.
        • Warm hat, sun hat and spare gloves.
        • Suncream & insect repellant.
        • Drinking water - 1.5-2 litres
        • Lunch and snacks - You MUST bring sufficient food for mid morning snack, packed lunch and mid afternoon snack.
        • Optional extras
        • Flask or stove and bits to make a hot drink.
        • Sit mat
        • Charged mobile phone

        Please be aware of the risks associated with ticks when out and about

        Please follow the advice given on the external websites listed below. The contents and advice of these websites are not endorsed by New Forest Navigation
        Lyme Disease Action website here

        Start locations

        Mountain bike instruction, MTB guided rides, guided walks and NNAS courses start in the New Forest, Hampshire, Dorset, Wiltshire, South Downs and occasionally the surrounding counties of Sussex, Surrey, Somerset and also South Wales. Blue and red route bike park skills can be taught at Queen Elizabeth Country Park (Hampshire). Many of the MTB rides, guided walks and courses are accessible by car from London, Bristol and Swindon.

        Navigation courses - Map and compass on foot! - New Forest Navigation

        Wessex Adventures - Nigel Parrish - ©2023