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Walking in the local park, sitting by the village pond, cycling along quiet country lanes, watching buzzards circle in the thermal currents, gazing out from the top of a hill – these activities, and others like them, can all be our moments of rest, peace, joy or contentment.

The fact that we might not have to travel long distances to find such places and pleasures is something to value and celebrate. Even if relatively close by, and within reach of many other people, these places may still feel quite personal to us and enrich our lives.

They may not necessarily be the most stunning or significant of places but their presence in our locality allows us to feel better about ourselves and the world around us. This page aims to capture the appeal and experience of such places around the Winchester area, or perhaps even a bit further away and provide some practical tips and suggestions for the reader.

N.B. I have also written about the local music scene on the Winchester Bloggers website. See blogs on the Railway Inn’s efforts to keep it thriving as a grassroots music venue, and a review of the 2018 summer’s local music festivals.

Featured

Oct 7, 2020

Following in the Steps of a King: Walking The Monarch’s Way

Oct 7, 2020

Three days walking across the Hampshire landscape by following The Monarch’s Way proved a great time to catch up with ‘old’ friends. It was reminder of how easy it is, with just a little effort, to still find tranquility and interest in Southern England, along with meeting the unexpected! It was also a reminder of the need to value and preserve our access to Britain’s dense footpath network.

Oct 7, 2020

Aug 28, 2020

Stockbridge Down: chalk slopes full of wildlife and ancient riches

Aug 28, 2020

It’s often easy to undervalue the riches of the natural world that lie short distances from our homes. The chalk downland of Stockbridge Down, near Winchester in Hampshire, is one such jewel which also has some ancient history as a bonus. After the easing of lockdown this summer, visits to witness the varieties of wildflowers and butterflies present, certainly lifted the spirits. The Down is a superb place to wander at any time of year.

Aug 28, 2020

Apr 18, 2020

Exploring the local neighbourhood during lockdown!

Apr 18, 2020

Although the COVID-19 (coronavirus) crisis has forced us all to change our daily lives, the lockdown has provided opportunities to experience and get to know our local areas more fully. An hour’s daily exercise has brought these additional rewards as well as helping to keep us physically and mentally healthy.

Apr 18, 2020

Nov 13, 2019

Hampshire Wilder Strategy tackles the nature & climate emergency

Nov 13, 2019

At a time when the world faces both a climate and nature emergency, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife trust (HIWWT) has launched its ambitious Wilder Strategy for the coming decade to confront the challenges faced in the county. It aims to increase both the numbers of people getting active in supporting nature’s recovery and the amount of land and water environments where nature is given priority.

Nov 13, 2019

Oct 29, 2018

The Isle of Wight: a perfect day trip

Oct 29, 2018

A brilliant day out to the Isle of Wight with friends was a reminder of how much variety the island has to offer for a day trip or short break to cater for all sorts of interests and activities.

Oct 29, 2018

Jul 31, 2018

The Watercress Way: a new path for old routes!

Jul 31, 2018

The recently created Watercress Way not only provides a new walking or cycling route but gives a new identity to the old disused rail routes north and east of Winchester, thanks in large measure to the efforts of a group of enthusiasts and volunteers.

Jul 31, 2018

Jun 5, 2018

Wonders of Winchester

Jun 5, 2018

Maybe we easily take it for granted because it’s all too familiar, but one can usually discover an astonishing amount of interest in and around one’s local area with a little bit of effort.

Jun 5, 2018