One of my favourite local views has to be from atop Beacon Hill which lies to the west of Warnford and is crossed by both the South Downs Way and Monarchs Way.

Approach by car from Exton along ‘the white way’, and take a leisurely walk along a track from the car park which emerges at a trig post. As you walk, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the twenty-five species of butterfly known to breed here and pause to take in views over the Hampshire basin to the south. On a clear day you’ll spot the New Forest, Portsdown Hill, the Spinnaker Tower and the Isle of White.

Continue along the path and you’ll find yourself atop a beautiful rolling hill which sweeps down to a valley dotted with grazing Aberdeen Angus. This is a wonderful place to relax with friends and watch children exploring the steep slopes. If by yourself however, throw down a rug, put a favourite track on your iPod and enjoy the spectacular panoramic views over the Meon Valley and the South Downs. If you’re lucky, you might just see a hot air balloon drift by. Enjoy!

Grid Reference SU603227

Image courtesy of HerryLawford on Flickr