Meet Fiona – stepping out for HILS!
Meet Fiona from the HILS Communications Team – she’s taking on a huge challenge to help raise awareness and much needed funds for our services. This autumn, Fiona and her partner Stephen will be walking 26 miles along The Test Way in Hampshire, fundraising to support older and vulnerable people across Hertfordshire, Hampshire and West Sussex.
In the run-up to the big day, Fiona is sharing her training journey through a series of blog posts – from early morning walks to sore feet and small victories. Whether you’re looking for Hampshire walking inspiration, love a good charity story, or want to learn more about the work of HILS and our meals on wheels service, follow along and support her every step of the way!
If you’re looking for a scenic walk in Hampshire, the River Itchen Way is a stunning and accessible trail that follows one of England’s most beautiful chalk streams. Stretching for around 28 miles from mid-Hampshire to Southampton, the River Itchen is a haven for wildlife, history, and outdoor adventures – and it’s also perfect if you’re looking for a dog-friendly walk near Winchester.
Starting in Woolston, Southampton
“We began our walk in Woolston, after catching a train from Eastleigh to the mouth of the River Itchen at Weston Point Shore Promenade. From there, we followed the Itchen Way trail through Woolston, passing under the iconic Itchen Bridge. Along the way, we passed local highlights including Chessel Bay Nature Reserve, a miniature railway, and Riverside Park – all great spots for families and nature lovers.
Through Itchen Valley Country Park
The path soon leads to Itchen Valley Country Park, where we spotted people trying axe throwing and even alpaca walking – proof that this walk has something for everyone! Ash, our dog, loved splashing in the river and even managed to balance on a log, proving that this is one of the best dog-friendly walks in Hampshire. 
Following the Itchen Navigation
From this point, the public footpath follows the River Itchen Way alongside the Itchen Navigation. This historic waterway, originally a canal built in the 17th century, once connected Southampton to Winchester by barge. Although it closed in 1869 with the arrival of the railway, traces of its industrial past can still be spotted today, making it a fascinating walk for history lovers.
Bishopstoke, Shawford, and Twyford Water Meadows
We continued past Bishopstoke near Eastleigh, where I grew up and have fond memories of swimming in the river and spotting fish with my sisters. At Shawford, a pretty village just outside Winchester, we stopped for tea and cake in a café converted from the old train station waiting room. Ash, of course, was rewarded with a doggy ice cream for his efforts!
My favourite stretch of the walk is between Shawford and Winchester, where the trail winds past the Twyford Water Meadows. This area is rich in wildlife and offers stunning views of the Hampshire countryside.
Approaching Winchester
As you near Winchester, you can take a worthwhile detour up St Catherine’s Hill, home to Iron Age remains and incredible views across the city. The route continues through the famous Winchester water meadows, past St Cross Hospital, and alongside Winchester College, before finishing by Winchester Old Mill.
We caught the train back from Winchester, a little footsore but happy after a rewarding walk. The trail is largely flat, well-maintained, and not too overgrown, making it accessible for most walkers.
Why walk the River Itchen Way?
Whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or just want a peaceful countryside walk with your dog, the Itchen Way walk from Southampton to Winchester has it all. It combines riverside scenery, fascinating heritage, and plenty of places to stop for refreshments. It’s also easy to reach by train, making it a great choice for a weekend adventure in Hampshire.
Support Fiona’s 26-Mile Walk for HILS
Fiona is walking 26 miles along The Test Way in Hampshire to raise vital funds for HILS. Your donation will help us continue to provide life-changing services like Meals on Wheels, Active Ageing which helps prevent falls and frailty, emergency grocery packs for those in need, and Community Hubs to help fight loneliness and isolation, to people who need support to stay independent and well at home.
If you’d like to sponsor Fiona’s charity challenge, please donate here. Every pound raised helps HILS deliver care and kindness, right to people’s doorsteps.
Thanks for supporting Fiona, and for helping HILS be there for our communities.
