Beacon Hill
Burghclere
Children will enjoy a picnic at the top and running around the circular track on this walk.
The views are well worth the short climb
The Basics
Time: 50 mins
Distance: 2.7 km / 1.7 miles
Terrain: A short, steep climb. Steps cut into the chalk, which can be slippery after wet weather.
Pushchair: This route is not suitable for pushchairs due to the steep gradient.
Dogs: Dogs are welcome but should be on leads in spring/summer to protect ground nesting birds.
Refreshments: There is a picnic area at the bottom of the hill, but we think it is nicer to sit on the grass at the top and enjoy the view.
Toilets: There are no public toilets.
Public Transport: There is no public transport to this location.
Parking: Two free parking areas signposted just after the turn off from the A34 (Postcode: RG20 9LP - W3W: ///dozens.suitable.takes)
View over the Highclere Estate, AKA Downton Abbey, from Beacon Hill
You cannot miss doing this walk if you are a fan of Downton Abbey as the iron age hill fort of Beacon Hill overlooks Highclere Castle, the filming location for the TV series. These have to be the most far reaching views we have found in Hampshire, and you can enjoy them in every direction on this straightforward walk.
The Route
Follow the paved path from the first parking area into the second one and at the end you will see the start of the foot path on your right.
The path will climb through vegetation before soon opening out onto chalk downland. It is just one, straight climb up.
At the top, the chalky path circling the hill fort will be obvious. You can loop around in either direction. You will find views to Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey) on the north side as well as the grave of the 5th Earl of Canarvon, best known as the financial backer in the excavation of Tutankhamun's tomb.
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Did you know?
There are a few public footpaths that pass through the estate and on certain days of the year you can walk and explore the estate even further.
If you enjoyed this walk…
…try this one just along the North Wessex Downs at Watership Down. It has equally stunning views.
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