Walking the Test Way for HILS – Fiona’s Fundraising Challenge!
Meet Fiona from the HILS Communications Team. This autumn, Fiona and her partner Stephen took on a huge charity challenge: walking 26 miles along The Test Way in Hampshire to raise awareness and vital funds for HILS. Every step they took helps support older and vulnerable people across Hertfordshire, Hampshire, and West Sussex, including through our much-loved Meals on Wheels service.
In the lead-up to the event, Fiona shared her training journey, from early morning walks to sore feet and small victories. And now, here’s her story of the big day itself – a mix of muddy boots, autumn sunshine, aching legs, and a lot of determination. If you’re looking for Hampshire walking inspiration, love a good charity challenge, or want to know more about the work of HILS, read on!
The start line – bacon baps and drizzle
Stephen and I set off bright and early, heading to Romsey for 7am to catch the coach up to our starting point in St Mary Bourne. The Romsey Scouts gave us the best kind of send-off: a bacon bap! We collected our numbers, maps, and joined fellow walkers on the coach. Around 35 minutes later we were dropped off at the start, surrounded by people walking for all sorts of causes. There was a lovely buzz of excitement, mixed with a few nervous faces. Thankfully, the route was brilliantly organised, with clear signs and friendly volunteers pointing us along the Test Way footpath.
The morning began with drizzle and grey skies, but a couple of miles in the clouds lifted and the sun appeared. Our route took us along historic tracks like the Harrow Way, one of Britain’s oldest roads, then through Harewood Forest. At around the six-mile mark we popped out into the garden of the Plough pub in Longparish, the perfect spot for a quick snack break.
Through pretty villages and across the River Test
The next stretch took us towards the village of Chilbolton, crossing several branches of the River Test on footbridges. Chilbolton Common was particularly beautiful, with cows grazing nearby and a local football match in full swing. By this point my legs were beginning to ache a little, but nothing too serious.
From Chilbolton we followed the old dismantled railway line towards Stockbridge. This was one of the easier sections, with the river winding along beside us. Passing through Leckford and Longstock, we eventually reached Stockbridge High Street, which rests on the seven streams that make up the River Test. The cafés, pubs and shops were tempting, but we pressed on towards Mottisfont.
Halfway there – refuelling and autumn views
By the time we reached the halfway point our legs were definitely feeling the miles, so we stopped for lunch, refuelled, and enjoyed the beautiful autumn views along the Test Way. This section passed through Stockbridge Common, a peaceful spot of reedbeds and waterfowl, plus grazing sheep and even a glimpse of a privately-owned old railway station.
One of the highlights was walking through the grounds of Mottisfont Abbey, a National Trust property with a famous walled garden of old-fashioned roses. It was a lovely little detour before the final push towards Romsey.
The final miles – tired legs but big smiles
Tired but determined, we carried on past St Andrew’s Church at Mottisfont, over the River Dun, around Awbridge, and into Squabb Wood, which felt like a mini New Forest. Emerging from the trees we spotted Romsey Abbey in the distance – a huge morale boost because it meant we were nearly done. Those last few miles were tough, especially with what felt like endless stiles to climb over, but eventually we crossed the finish line in Romsey War Memorial Park.
Waiting for us were medals, proudly handed out by the chairman of Romsey Rotary Club, who had organised the whole event. We were exhausted, muddy, and sore, but also so proud. Together we had walked 26 miles along the Test Way for HILS, raising vital funds and awareness for our services that support older and vulnerable people to live well and independently.
Celebrating the finish
How did we celebrate? With takeaway pizza, of course! Followed by a well-earned lazy day doing absolutely nothing. Luckily there were no blisters, just tired legs and boots in desperate need of a clean after those muddy stretches.
It was a long, tiring, unforgettable day, and we are so grateful to everyone who supported us and donated. Your encouragement kept us going right to the end.
If you would like to support HILS and help us continue providing meals on wheels and other vital services to people across Hertfordshire, Hampshire and West Sussex, please consider donating or sharing our story. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helps make a real difference.
Thanks for supporting Fiona, and for helping HILS be there for our communities.
