Exton to Buriton

Key Landmarks & Highlights

1. Exton to Old Winchester Hill

• Leaving Exton, the route climbs steadily onto the chalk downs, providing fantastic views over the Meon Valley.
• Passes through open grasslands rich in wildflowers and butterflies, especially in spring and summer.
• Old Winchester Hill – An Iron Age hillfort with panoramic views across the South Downs and the Solent.
• A designated National Nature Reserve, home to rare chalk grassland wildlife.

2. Old Winchester Hill to Wether Down

• The trail descends gently, following quiet country paths through farmland and woodland.
• Time for lunch at the Sustainability Centre in Petersfield and a fill up of water bottles.
• A steady climb leads to Wether Down, offering far-reaching views over the rolling landscape.

3. Wether Down to Butser Hill

• The path continues across high open downs with expansive views.
• Approaches Butser Hill, the highest point on the South Downs Way (270m / 886ft).
• On a clear day, you can see as far as the Isle of Wight. Butser Hill is part of Queen Elizabeth Country Park, a popular spot for walkers and nature lovers.

4. Butser Hill to Buriton

• A steep descent from Butser Hill leads towards the A3 road (crossed via an underpass).
• The last part of the trail leads into Buriton, a charming village with a historic church. This is where we stay for our second night at our AirBnB, The Little Annex. The Five Bells pub is only 5 minutes walk away in the village, hopefully we still have enough energy for that!