East Hampshire AONB, Protected landscape area in Hampshire, England.
East Hampshire AONB is a protected landscape region with rolling chalk downland, steep wooded hills, and heathland in southern England between Winchester and Petersfield. The region contains several nature reserves and archaeological sites scattered throughout its rolling terrain.
The region gained protection as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1962 and was integrated into South Downs National Park in 2010. This status safeguarded the landscape from urban development and changing land use patterns.
The landscape shows centuries-old farming patterns visible in open fields and pastures throughout the region. Small villages and farmsteads blend into the countryside, and traces of traditional land use and settlement are visible everywhere.
Four main walking routes run through the region: Hanger's Way, South Downs Way, Staunton Way, and Wayfarer's Walk, connecting different parts of the landscape. Car parks and information points are located at the entrances to the most popular trails.
A chain of chalk hills including Butser Hill, Beacon Hill, Old Winchester Hill, and Cheesefoot Head forms the visible backbone of the landscape. These prominent summits offer sweeping views across the countryside and serve as natural landmarks throughout the region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
