Medstead: East Circular

Start Point: Medstead Village Green, Roe Downs Road, GU34 5LG; SU 65823 36908; what3words ///invite.motorist.combines. Medstead it is one of the highest villages in Hampshire, at over 700 feet (210 metres) above sea level and has a population of around 2,000. The village pub is the Castle of Comfort. We recommend following this route anti-clockwise as described. Other paths may intersect or join this route; unless a turn is indicated proceed straight ahead. If in doubt continue straight ahead. If you would like to include a detour to the The Parish Church of St Andrew and/or the Castle of Comfort Pub please see Step 7.

 1

After parking beside the Village Green, head towards the Village Hall, which is situated beside the cricket pitch. Facing the hall’s entrance, look to your right: a narrow footpath begins at the edge of the tarmac parking area.

 2

Continue along the main tree-lined path directly ahead. At the fork, bear left. Then pass through a kissing gate. The path then leads you gently across an open field, before entering Chawton Wood.

 3

On entering Chawton Wood take the path to your left, loosely following the fence line. In late spring this area of woodland, containing beech trees, comes alive with carpets of lovely bluebells.

 4

When you reach a gate on your left, pass through it and follow the blue bridleway arrow. Continue along the path out of the woods, keeping the horse field on your left.

 5

When you reach New Park Farm Equitation on your right, continue straight ahead along the gravel track. Keep walking straight on, then cross Abbey Road to reach Jenny Green Lane.

 6

Continue for approximately 0.9 miles/1.4 km. Shortly after passing Mayville Cottage on your left, turn left on to a gravel footpath. Before turning, note the view through the trees over a wildflower meadow on your right. Follow the path straight ahead, passing Hazley Cottage on your right. The path continues alongside fields and enters a small, wooded area behind the old convent.

 7

At the old convent building go through the first kissing gate and follow the path, keeping the building to your left. At the next fork, you have a choice:

Optional Detour (0.5 miles/0.8 km): Take the right-hand path to visit the Church of St Andrew and the Castle of Comfort. Afterwards, follow the High Street through the village, past the village pond, and return to your car.

To stay on the main route take the path straight ahead. This footpath leads back to Medstead High Street via the tree-lined convent driveway. Turn left on the main road, pass the village pond, and return to your car.