Winter Walks in Gosport

Walking is one of the best methods of exercise available. It’s free, accessible and of benefit to both the mind and body. If you live in Gosport, you have access to a number of diverse walking routes suitable for all levels of fitness.

Don’t save walking for just spring and summer – winter walks are some of the most beautiful. Of course, following sensible advice before you set off will ensure you are safe and comfortable.

For new walkers

If you are new to walking and would like to make friends while you explore, Walking in Gosport is a local walking group accepting new members. Recent walks have included a stroll to the Anns Hill area of Gosport, combined with a walk around Hermitage Wildlife Garden, a visit to Alverstoke and a gentle wander along the foreshore at Seafield.

Another local group is Gosport Healthy Walks. All walks have a leader and are open to everyone. There are organised morning walks Monday to Friday, and routes include the St George’s Barracks circular and the Privett Park circular. In addition are special history walks on the last Sunday of every month.

For dog walkers

Walking in winter means more of Gosport’s beaches are accessible to dog owners, so there’s no need for your pet pooch to miss out. The main part of Stokes Bay and the shingle beach at Lee-on-the-Solent welcome dogs between 1^st October to 30th April. Additionally, dogs are allowed at the Gilkicker end of Stokes Bay all year round, meaning long walks, paddles and pup fun are permissible come rain or shine.

For wildlife enthusiasts

Gosport is teeming with natural habitat and some of the most unspoilt areas can be found in the Alver Valley. There are several walking routes to follow, depending on what you’d like to see. West of the River is a conservation area and the largest greenspace in Gosport at 583 acres, while The Wildgrounds is a Site of Special Scientific Interest comprising unspoilt woodland pastures.

For experienced walkers

If your aim is to walk and enjoy south coast views, The Solent Way is an excellent starting point. This pre-set, 60 mile coastal route runs from Milford-on-Sea to Emsworth Harbour. One of the eight sections is Hill Head to Gosport – a distance of eight miles, which should take between 3 and 4 hours to walk, depending on your speed and inclination to stop and take scenic photographs.

From your starting point at Hill Head harbour, you’ll pass shingle beaches, walk along Lee-on-the Solent promenade and spot old naval forts in the Stoke Bay area before ending at Gosport’s water’s edge.

Top tips for winter walking in Gosport

Unless you’re just nipping to the local shop, you should prepare in advance for a walk. The right route, clothing and supplies will be the difference between enjoyable exercise and a miserable experience. Always:

• Let someone know your walking route, including your start and end points plus approximate timings
• Start with a fully charged mobile phone and consider carrying a power bank for extra charge
• Check the forecast, and wear/pack clothes suitable for all weathers – include a hat, gloves, hand warmers, scarf and walking socks when walking in winter
• Consider a backpack with waterproof cover to store your essentials
• Check the tides if you are planning a beach walk
• Carry a small first aid kit, sun cream and blister plasters
• Take plenty of water, a flask of something hot and some snacks
• Wear footwear suitable for the weather and terrain
• Take measures to avoid being bitten by ticks
• Downloads a navigational app, such as OS Maps, AllTrails or Outdooractive
• Familiarise yourself with What3Words in case you get lost
• Check if dogs are permitted on walking routes – if they are, keep them on a lead and clear up all mess
• Always respect rights of way and military land
• Keep your distance from any livestock
• Leave nothing but footprints – take home all rubbish
• When walking on roads with no pavements, face the traffic and be aware of your surroundings
• Wear reflective gear or high-vis items and carry a torch if walking at dawn, dusk or at night
• Don’t walk on frozen ponds or lakes