EAST MEON - WINCHESTER HILL-BUTSER HILL- SALT HILL- SOUTH DOWNS 14-16 CIRCULAR

Meeting in East Meon at 10.30 am . We will walk out and Climb the adjoining Hill walking eventually to the highest point on the South Downs Butser Hill at 271 metres (889 ft) high summit.

At the top you can enjoy the views over the South Downs to the Isle of Wight and down to Portsmouth and walking further hills such as Winchester Hill and salt hill .

There is interesting Church in East Meon which dates from Norman times (between 1080 and 1150). However it is believed to have replaced a much older Saxon church. The magnificent spire seen today was added in 1230.

We will also pass through South Farm and see one of the sources of the river Meon, known as the ‘Swift one’. The clear water is typical of a chalk stream where the water has been filtered through the chalk for thousands of years. ideal place to take break . On benches by the Bridge From Here we will walk up onto adjoining ridge and enjoy the views back towards west Sussex

The area has many nature reserves with woodland, lowland, chalk grassland habitats. Well known for variety of butterflies including Duke of Burgundy, Chalkhill Blue and Silver-Spotted Skipper, and Red Kites gliding .

Fans of the comedy Only Fools and Horses may remember a scene with Del Boy reluctantly taking off on a hang glider. This scene was filmed on the western slopes of Butser Hill.

This walks passes across and uses the South Downs Way National Trail

Plan weather permitting Drink after walk - or if we come across Pub on route stop for Lunch time Drink.

There is parking in Village car park GU32 1PF