Stockbridge Common Marsh wildlife walk
Come and enjoy the wide open spaces of Stockbridge Common Marsh, which is situated alongside the River Test. The marsh offers access to the river's edge, in a valley which otherwise has little or no river frontage, and provides an ideal location for walking and picnicking.
Parking
This walk can experience high visitor numbers, and parking is limited. Please park responsibly, and if the area is too busy on your arrival please come back another time.
Total steps: 6
Total steps: 6
Start point
Lion's Den car park, grid ref: SU3565534647
Step 1
As you enter the car park you will see a set of gates directly in front of you. Enter the gates, cross the Test Way and proceed through the next set of gates onto the grassy peat-rich meadows of the common. A well-worn path will lead you straight towards a bridge with white railings.
Step 2
When you reach the bridge turn left and follow the river along the length of the common. (Note: If you turn right and cross the bridge, you will leave National Trust land and follow a path which takes you into the centre of Stockbridge village.)
Step 3
Continue along the river's edge. Trout, grayling and occasional salmon can be seen in the clear waters of the River Test. The characteristic chalk stream plant life and the fast running flows over gravels offer the perfect conditions for these fish to live. Many trout anglers visit the River Test from across the globe during the spring and summer, providing a vital source of income for the valley. Please note: fishing is not permitted within the National Trust boundary.
Step 4
After 1 mile (1.6km) or so, the path will bear left into the meadow. You'll see cattle and horses grazing within the meadows, which are used to graze the area sensitively for the benefit of wildlife.
Step 5
After a short distance of around 175yd (160m), you will come to the Common Marsh boundary fence. Go through the pedestrian gate and proceed left along the Test Way footpath and cycle route.
Step 6
The path will lead you back to the Lion's Den car park, which is situated on your right after a mile (1.6km). It is here that you can either go directly to your car or alternatively, follow steps 1 and 2 again, this time crossing the bridge to walk into Stockbridge village.
End point
Lion's Den car park, grid ref: SU3565534647
Trail map
Get in touch
Stockbridge Marsh, Cow Drove Hill Road, Stockbridge, Hampshire
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A Site of Special Scientific Interest in the peaty river valley of the River Test. A rich wetland habitat, the Marsh consists of unimproved wet grassland and fen-like vegetation.
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