Skip to content

The estate at Hinton Ampner

Black iron gate with views over autumn parkland and trees, Hinton Ampner, Hampshire
View over the estate at Hinton Ampner | Hampshire | © National Trust/Hugh Mothersole

Hinton Ampner sits within the South Downs National Park and has stunning views and rolling countryside surrounding it. There are estate walks which take in the nature, fields and woodland that enclose the house. Discover ancient oaks, walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers and uncover over 700 years of history.

Estate walks

Take a picture of our estate walks routes on the board by the Church and let the adventure begin. As you wander, you’ll come across ancient woodland that’s home to rare native flora and fauna, like the barbastelle bat. Explore beech avenues that stretch as far as the eye can see, and endless views over the South Downs. Discover dazzling colours across the estate as the beautiful trees and winding hedgerows put on their autumn glow.

Dutton Estate Walk This route takes in the historic estate at Hinton Ampner, which is the final part of former owner Ralph Dutton's vision for an estate, garden and house that would blend harmoniously into the surrounding Hampshire countryside. 2 hours.

Stewkeley Walk Enjoy the open spaces on this short walk taking visitors across the Hinton Ampner estate countryside towards the village of Kilmeston before looping back to the entry of the estate in Hampshire. 50 mins - 1hr.

Battle of Cheriton walk The Battle of Cheriton was a major turning point in the English Civil War and resulted in an important Parliamentarian victory that helped shape the future of England. Starting at Hinton Ampner church, this trail follows in the footsteps of the men who fought on both sides of this important battle. 2 - 2 hours 30 mins.

A short stroll can be taken on a 2-mile trail, or for the more adventurous there's a 4-mile trail around the Hinton Ampner estate. To spot some of the oldest, veteran trees on the estate, an ancient tree trail will take you across the parkland.

Battle ground

On your visit, discover how the Roundheads set up camp in the parkland during the Battle of Cheriton in 1644 on this specially curated walk. Imagine rows of cannon, lines of cavalrymen and the smell of musket fire swirling through the mist. This was a pivotal battle in the English Civil War and the entire battle could be seen from the old house.

Ancient breed Gloucester cattle

Since the rangers and local grazier introduced Gloucester cows to the parkland behind Hinton's house, we've seen numerous benefits as a result. From rare wildflower sightings to an overall increase in the diversity of the wildlife within the grass, these resourceful ancient breed cows are making a big impact.

Children building a den from sticks at Longshaw, Burbage and the Eastern Moors, Derbyshire
Children building a woodland den at Hinton Ampner | © National Trust Images / Trevor Ray Hart

More to explore

The woodland is not just for walking. Children can try their hand at den building or tree climbing.

Accessibility

Please note that there are a few gates around the estate walks, please call in advance and speak to a member of the team if you have access requirements to discuss a suitable route.

The south front at Hinton Ampner, Hampshire

Discover more at Hinton Ampner

Find out when Hinton Ampner is open, how to get here, the things to see and do and more.

You might also be interested in

Dog on a lead at Nostell Priory in West Yorkshire
Article
Article

Visiting Hinton Ampner with your dog 

Hinton Ampner is a two pawprint rated place. Discover more about getting the most out of your visit with your dog, where they can explore and things to consider when you are on the estate.

Christmas cards hang on a wall and stand on a mantlepiece
Article
Article

Eating and shopping at Hinton Ampner 

Discover a menu using freshly grown ingredients from the Walled Garden, hot meals and drinks. Pick up gifts and second-hand books, with something for everyone in the shop.

View in winter up garden steps to the house at Hinton Ampner, Hampshire
Article
Article

The garden at Hinton Ampner 

Discover clipped topiary contrasting with brick walls, lilies floating on the surface of a pond and flower borders that transform throughout the seasons.

A family exploring the gardens at Christmas at Hinton Ampner, Hampshire
Article
Article

Family-friendly things to do at Hinton Ampner 

Hinton Ampner is the ideal place for a festive family day out. Discover more about our activities and decorations in the house.

A group of people gathered together in the grounds at Stowe in Buckinghamshire discussing the tasks that need to be done for the day
Article
Article

Volunteering on the Hinton Ampner estate 

As the Reimagining a Hampshire Estate conservation project unfolds, there will be plenty of opportunities for visitors and the local community to get involved and share their experiences.

Man and woman in warm clothing walking along footpath covered with leaves, with autumn foliage all around

Countryside and woodland 

Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.

Visitor crossing water via stepping stones with their dog on an autumnal walk at Wallington

Walking 

Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.

View of Cadnam Common from Stagbury Hill in summer, with path through green bracken, New Forest, Hampshire

Countryside and woodland in Hampshire 

Enjoy the varied landscapes around Hampshire, from the huge expanses of New Forest common to the wildlife-rich downland and marshes of Stockbridge.