Looking for the perfect afternoon escape into the English countryside? This is a classic Hike around Hambledon (and popular with cricket fans), with an easy distance of six miles, and a pub stop in between for a much-needed refreshment, and a rest. This is ideal for a range of fitness levels and undoubtedly makes for the ideal afternoon in the English countryside.
Begin your journey at Hambledon Vineyard, where the rolling vines set the tone for a day of relaxed exploration. As you make your way along the diagonal path through the vineyard, you’ll soon find yourself descending towards the historic village church. Before beginning the hike in earnest, why not pause for a quick refreshment? The Stores is just the spot for a freshly brewed coffee, or if you prefer, you can stock up on water and snacks at the People’s Market.
An easy hike to navigate, this is one where you can really relax and enjoy lovely views and good company. As you head up Speltham Hill, the trail is clearly marked with a public footpath sign on your right. During the warmer months, the path ahead is dotted with wildflowers, blackberries and more, filling the landscape with vibrant colors and a haven for foragers, botanists and wildlife enthusiasts. It’s a scene straight out of a postcard, and every hedge is a snack*.
After this point, the path guides you through a series of farm tracks. Depending on the time of year, you might be treated to the sights and sounds of harvest—the rhythmic hum of combine harvesters, the earthy scent of freshly turned soil, and the golden glow of grain waiting to be gathered. It’s a quintessential countryside experience- showing all the best that our land has to offer. The trail then leads you into a serene stretch of pine woodland; the perfect contrast to the open fields, offering a moment of peace before you reach the halfway point of your hike.
Emerging from the woods, you’ll take the footpath through a field, coming out on East Street: be very careful here as it's a busy road with narrow grass verges. After a short stretch on the road, you'll arrive at the Bat and Ball pub, a historic gem nestled next to Broad Halfpenny Down cricket club, credited as the birthplace of the sport as we know it today. Imagine the thrill of 18th-century matches, where the legendary bowler Lumpy Stevens once made history by bowling through the stumps three times without dislodging the bails, leading to the introduction of a third stump.
Take a moment here to relax under a Hambledon parasol with a drink, enjoy in the views of the surrounding farmland, and gaze across to our Hinton vineyard. Refreshed and ready to continue, the return leg of your hike is just as simple and enjoyable as the first half. The path meanders through local farms and eventually brings you to Hambledon Cricket Club, which sits right next to Hambledon Vineyard.
Cross the road and you’ll find yourself passing by the East Block plot of Hambledon Vineyard. The path takes you through a quaint section of woodland before you emerge onto the vineyard track, with the elegant Mill Down House visible in the distance—a fitting end to a day spent exploring the beauty of Hambledon.
Of course, on your return to the start point, you’re welcome to drop in, and join us for a much-deserved glass of our award-winning English Sparkling Wine,, or purchase a bottle to take home.
Find the Full Route on our AllTrails Account
Please remember to stick to designated public footpaths and please respect our local farms and wildlife. Leave no trace.
*Always exercise caution when wild foraging, and only eat things that you are confident are safe.
