The sun has returned and so have our hikes in Hambledon! After the wet weather last year, we’ve been eagerly waiting for the chance to get back on the trails—sans waterproofs. This week has provided the perfect opportunity to do just that.
With The Restaurant open onsite, these longer days have created the ideal setting to enjoy exceptional cuisine and our award-winning sparkling wines—especially now that our outdoor terrace is open. In our opinion, there’s no better way to work up an appetite before a meal, or to regain some energy afterwards, than with a hike in the beautiful South Downs.
This is one of our team’s favourite lunchtime strolls: it takes in the best of the Hambledon Vineyard estate and, at only 2.5 km long, is just enough to stretch the legs while still being an easy walk. Beginning at the top of our Windmill Down West vineyard, the path follows the boundary hedge between the vineyard and the neighbouring field (the footpath runs through the neighbouring field), offering views of the rolling South Downs hills. It’s especially beautiful at this time of year, when the hedgerows are dotted with delicate white cow parsley, speedwell, and dandelions. This long, straight path has a gradual incline that slowly reveals stunning views of the lush, green hills as you pass over the peak.
At the end of the field, exit through the gap in the hedge and turn right onto Brook Lane. This is a very short segment of the walk—however, do take care here, as the road can get busy.
As you approach the white signpost for Chidden, turn right again and enter the field at the bottom of Windmill Down West. This opens onto an expanse of green, brushing the lower edge of our Hambledon site and offering the first glimpses of our beautiful, historic village. Follow the path and bear slightly right where it splits, skirting East Block (a whole block of Pinot Noir!) and leading into a small patch of woodland—a haven for pheasants, rabbits, and deer alike.
You’ll then pass a herd of sheep and enter another short, tree-lined path before climbing over the stile and entering our home vineyard. The wide path through the vines leads you to the iconic Mill Down House, from where Sir Guy Salisbury-Jones looked out across bare fields in 1951 and made the decision to plant a vineyard—where our story began.
Entering yet another tree-lined path, you’ll enjoy views up the gentle slope of our Mill Down West vineyard, while on the opposite side sheep and horses bask in the sunshine. When you reach the school, take a sharp right turn onto our vineyard path, which winds gently uphill through the vines and brings you back to the starting point.
In our opinion, this is the perfect way to end a meal at The Restaurant, or explore the Estate further after a Tour & Tasting—though nothing says you can’t enjoy the walk on its own and join us afterwards for a glass of English Sparkling Wine on the terrace, soaking in stunning views far beyond the hill you’ve just climbed.
As always, the full route is available on our AllTrails account.
Please be respectful when hiking and always follow the Countryside Code—available via the South Downs National Park:
- Be safe, plan ahead and follow any signs.
- Leave gates and property as you find them.
- Protect plants and animals, and take your litter home.
- Keep dogs under close control, especially near farm animals and during nesting season.
- Consider other people.