South Downs Way: Winchester to Exton via Beacon Hill

Start at the Old Station Approach pedestrian exit from Chesil Street Multi Storey in Winchester. Follow the pavements to City Mill and join the South Downs Way beside the River Itchen. Continue through the city streets, cross the M3 by footbridge and take the walking route through Chilcomb. Chalk tracks lead over Cheesefoot Head and Gander Down, then lanes and field paths continue to Beacon Hill. Take the walkers-only descent with its stiles into Exton, finishing along Shoe Lane by The Shoe Inn.

Allow six and a half to seven hours with breaks for this long linear walk. The downland is open to wind and changing weather, and chalk can become very slippery when wet. Expect hills, a steep final descent, stiles, gates and some road walking without pavements. Cross the A272 carefully at both signed trail crossings. Use the pavements in Winchester, and take care around vehicles on rural lanes and Shoe Lane. Keep dogs controlled around livestock, carry water and leave enough daylight.

Chesil is public pay-and-display parking with a 24-hour maximum stay, currently £7.30 for more than four hours during charging times. Vehicle restrictions and current signs apply. Drive to the car park entrance from Barfield Close; the walk starts at its northern pedestrian exit. Arrange a lawful pickup or taxi from Exton before setting out. Pub facilities depend on opening and customer use; no pub parking permission is assumed. Follow current walking diversions and check local works at Chilcomb. Do not follow an A31 vehicle diversion on foot or attempt to pass a closed path.

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors: https://www.openstreetmap.org/copyright