Exploring the estate at The Vyne

A leafy, green woodland path. — Wander the paths that wind through Morgaston Woods | © National Trust/ Karen Legg

With a network of waymarked paths across The Vyne’s estate, you can really stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Hampshire countryside. Rich in wildlife, a pair of binoculars will come in handy out in the woodlands and looking out across the wetlands from the bird hide.

Dog walking on the estate

Classed as a nature reserve, dogs on leads are welcome on The Vyne’s estate.

Morgaston Woods

A visit to The Vyne isn’t complete without a stroll around Morgaston Woods, where the combination of towering trees and woodland glades support a great variety of wildlife.

From visitor reception, follow the lakeside path, enjoying views of The Vyne's portico across the water before going through the gate into Morgaston Woods. To find the bird hide from here, follow the woodland path straight ahead until you can see the birdhide at the bottom of a short board walk on your left.

The woods are suitable for most people with some sloped paths and no stiles. Tree roots cover short sections of the paths in some areas. After heavy rain some of the paths can be very muddy, so pack your waterproofs and wellies to make sure you don’t miss out.

A view of The Vyne's birdhide on the edge of Morgaston Woods in spring. — Explore the wider estate at The Vyne. | © National Trust / Virginia Langer

Wildlife at The Vyne

The Vyne estate has a variety of habitats, including deciduous woodlands, wetlands and a large ornamental lake. All these areas are homes to various species of birds. During the year you can expect to see anything from waders, birds of prey, owls, grebes, swans, game birds and herons.

Viewing the wetlands from the bird hide

Formed in the early 20th Century from the remains of a water meadow, a conservation project in the 1990s fully established The Vyne’s wetlands as a much-needed habitat for water voles.

Popular with the local birdlife, the wetlands are overlooked by a purpose-built bird hide. The hide is the perfect place for families to head to for the best birdwatching experience.