Old Winchester Hill

Leaders: Julia Cooper and Ian Duddle

Meet in the NNR car park on Hayden Lane (///doves.frogs.sleepers, GU32 1HN nearest postcode). It is signposted off the A32 at Warnford but the sign is partially obscured by branches. The turning is almost opposite the George and Falcon pub (now closed).

The reserve of chalk downland, scrub and woodland has a rich chalk flora including the rare Round-headed Rampion, butterflies such as Dark Green Fritillary and Chalkhill Blue, and farmland birds. Circular walk of 2.5 miles with some steep slopes; Rampions near the hill fort can be accessed via level ground. Bring a picnic lunch to eat during the walk which should finish by 3pm; depending on time and conditions we might visit another local site afterwards. There are no facilities at the NNR but a café in the village shop and the Thomas Lord pub (GU32 1LJ or N) both open at 9am in nearby West Meon High Street. Please let Julia know by Thursday 23 July if you intend to come, or by Tuesday 21st if you can offer a lift or would like one.