Four Marks: Woods and Copses Loop

Start Point: Four Marks Parking (Behind BP Garage), Oakgreen Parade, 57 Winchester Rd, Four Marks, GU34 5EY; SU 67034 35085; ///clarifies.drop.easygoing

 1

From the car park, head towards the two Salvation Army donation bins. Just to their right, take the narrow footpath that cuts through to Hazel Road. Turn left onto Hazel Road and continue along the pavement. After the corner, turn from Hazel Road right into Pine Road.

 2

When you reach the Badger Close road sign, turn right just after it, onto the tarmac footpath. Follow the path briefly, then turn left and continue straight ahead to the end of Badger Close. At the end of Badger Close, look for a narrow cut-through on the left-hand side. Follow it, then take the first right to continue along the route between two tall wooden fences. Then cross Blackberry Lane, the footpath continues straight ahead.

 3

You’ll reach a gravel drive with a footpath continuing straight ahead. The footpath can be quite overgrown, especially in summer, so you may prefer to follow the gravel drive instead. Both routes lead to the main road, Telegraph Lane. Cross over Telegraph Lane then follow it briefly to the right. Turn left onto a footpath beside a telegraph pole.

 4

After a short walk you reach the first Copse, a peaceful patch of woodland that marks the start of the next stretch. Continue straight ahead along the main footpath for approximately 0.75 miles (1.2 km) until you reach Brightstone Lane. The first section of this route overlaps with the Writers’ Way, a long-distance trail celebrating Hampshire’s literary heritage.

 5

Turn left on to Brightstone Lane and continue downhill, ignore the left-hand turn towards Pies Farm (unless you fancy a detour to pick up fresh milk or local treats from the vending machine). After passing Hill House, take the wide bridleway on the right into the forest. Do not to turn off too early, the correct path is broad and well-marked. Stay on the gravel footpath as it winds through Lord's Wood, offering a peaceful stretch beneath the trees.

 6

When you come to a wooden gate continue uphill along the gravel bridleway (Kitcombe Lane). As the bridleway curves sharply in a 90° bend, look for a kissing gate tucked into the left-hand side - this leads onto an open field. Enter the field, keeping the large oak tree to your right, and follow the faint path that traces the hedgerow along the field’s edge.

 7

Exit the field through a metal kissing gate at the far end. The footpath continues slightly to the right, crossing another open field. Aim just to the right of the buildings ahead, and head towards a wooden stile at the far boundary.

 8

When you reach Mary Lane, turn right and continue straight ahead as it becomes Headmore Lane. Shortly after the junction, just before a wooden fence, take the footpath on the left - it’s easy to miss, so keep an eye out.

 9

As you enter the next field, be aware that livestock (usually cows) may be present. Follow the fence line on your right. When the fence ends, bear diagonally across the field, keeping just to the left of the telegraph pole, and aim for the gates in the far left-hand corner. Yellow footpath arrows will help guide you. Exit the field through a metal kissing gate, which leads into a small Copse a quiet, shaded stretch before the next open section.

 10

After passing beneath electricity lines, look out for a footpath on your right. A helpful waymarker pole stands on your left, with signs pointing you in the correct direction — a reassuring cue that you’re on track. You come out onto a field, continue straight ahead into a wood. Here the path turns right straight away.

 11

The footpath emerges onto Hawthorn Lane and continues slightly to the right, just past a residential building. Go through the kissing gate and follow the gently rising path, with a horse field on your right.

 12

When you reach Willis Lane continue straight ahead on the footpath. The route leads you through a stretch of woodland, past kissing gates, and across an open field. At the far side, you’ll arrive at Garthowen Garden Centre - a welcoming spot to pause for refreshments.

 13

After heading past the front of the Garden Centre, cross Alton Lane and continue straight ahead along the farm track. Before reaching the metal farm gate, turn left - do not follow the signs for St Swithun’s Way. Stay on this footpath, crossing Blackberry Lane, through the metal barriers and continue until you reach the Badger Close road sign. From here, retrace your steps to the left, following the familiar route back to the starting point.