Noar Hill
Good walks are even better shared.
SU7431 : A View of Noar Hill, Selborne, Hampshire
John Neilan Photo source
Overview
Noar Hill: A Hidden Gem of the South Downs
Nestled in the heart of the South Downs, Noar Hill stands as an inviting challenge for walkers and an archaeological treasure for the curious. With an elevation of 178 meters, it may not be the highest hill in the area, but it offers a splendid opportunity for a pleasant hike amidst picturesque landscapes.
Geology
Noar Hill boasts a chalky composition typical of the South Downs. The terrain displays a soft, rolling landscape interspersed with patches of grass and wildflowers. The geology here is more than just pretty to look at; for fossil hunters, this area is a veritable treasure trove, with remnants of oceanic life from millions of years ago lying just beneath the surface.
Routes
For those keen to conquer Noar Hill, the North Side Trail begins at the quaint village of Petersfield. The route is about 3.5 km long, generally taking 1.5 hours to complete, making it accessible for families and casual hikers alike. This easy trek winds gently uphill, offering a chance to soak in the serene beauty of the South Downs at a leisurely pace.
Summit Features
At the summit, adventurers are greeted by a humble chalk mound with a stone marker. No, there isn't a flashy monument, but the view and the sense of achievement definitely make up for it. A perfect spot for a well-deserved snack!
Terrain and Views
Once you reach the top, the terrain is a mix of grassy mounds and loose chalk. While the views are rewarding, be careful of the slippery paths during or after rain. From here, you'll enjoy sweeping panoramic vistas that include the idyllic scenery of the South Downs and the iconic Goodwood Racecourse on the horizon. To catch the best of it, aim for late spring or early autumn when the air is crisp and visibility is at its finest.
Hazards
While hiking Noar Hill is a delight, keep your wits about you. The steeper sections can become quite slippery when wet, and it’s not uncommon to encounter some curious cattle. Give them space and all should be well!
Nearby Summits
For those looking to extend their adventure, Harting Down lies nearby with an elevation of 208 meters. It serves as a fine companion to Noar Hill’s gentle slopes.
Access
Accessibility is one of Noar Hill’s strong points. The nearest parking can be found at the South Downs National Park visitor centre. If you’re arriving by public transport, Petersfield Station is just a couple of miles away and provides solid connections. Not to mention, the quaint shops and cafes of Petersfield are perfect for pre- or post-hike refreshment.
Facilities
Once you're back in Petersfield, you can indulge in some much-needed refreshments. The town offers a variety of cafes and shops to help yourself to, along with public toilets for that essential pit stop.
History
Diving into history, Noar Hill’s name possibly comes from Old English, meaning to wash or to stream. Historical significance is etched throughout the landscape, with evidence of human activity dating back to prehistoric times through ancient burial mounds nearby, weaving a rich narrative that makes this hill all the more appealing.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack a snack, and get ready to enjoy what Noar Hill has to offer—a fine day out, steeped in natural beauty and history!
Explore routes near Noar Hill
Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.
Hindhead Sailor's Stroll to Gibbet Hill
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Frensham Little Pond and Snowball Ridge Walk
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Hinton Ampner: Dutton Estate Woodland and Downland Circuit
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Petworth Park: Capability Brown Hills and Lower Pond Circuit
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Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.
North Side Trail
A scenic route starting from the nearby village of Petersfield, offering a gradual ascent through picturesque countryside.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
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SU7431 : A View of Noar Hill, Selborne, Hampshire
John Neilan
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
214m
702 ft
Prominence
59m
Coordinates
51.0811, -0.9348
SU747318
OS Map
186
Explorer: OL33 133
At the Summit
At the summit, you'll find a modest chalk mound with a small stone marker that provides a satisfying sense of achievement, though you won’t find any ultra-modern amenities here.
Terrain & Geology
The hill is primarily composed of chalk, typical of the South Downs, featuring a mostly gentle slope with some steeper sections. These chalk formations are rich in fossils, making them a treat for geology enthusiasts.
Views & Scenery
Panoramic views of the South Downs and the distinctive silhouette of the nearby Goodwood Racecourse can be spotted from the summit.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Noar' may derive from an Old English term meaning 'to wash' or 'to stream,' reflecting the area's natural waterways.
Historical Significance
Historically, Noar Hill is part of the ancient landscape of the South Downs, which has been inhabited since prehistoric times, evidenced by nearby burial mounds.
Getting There & Facilities
Parking
There is ample parking at the South Downs National Park visitor centre, which is a short walk from the trailhead.
Public Transport
Petersfield Station is the nearest rail link, roughly 2 miles from the start of the route; buses also service the area.
Nearby Facilities
The nearest facilities are in Petersfield, where you can find cafes, shops and public toilets.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Steep sections can be slippery in wet weather; be mindful of cattle grazing in the area as well.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Noar Hill?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Noar Hill through the maps
Are there other walkers around Noar Hill?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Noar Hill search or of course create your own walk for Noar Hill
Can I organise a walk to Noar Hill?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Noar Hill.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Noar Hill?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Noar Hill here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
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Location
Grid reference: SU747318
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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