Romsey coach walk - shorter walk

The Shorter Walk

A 5.6 mile linear walk starting at the entrance to the National Trust site, Mottisfont Abbey, following the Monarch’s Way and the Test Way south to Romsey. 

Heading south the route passes through the Kimbridge nature reserve. Here we cross the river Dun, a tributary of the beautiful river Test. We are now on the way to Awbridge, but we do not not enter the small village itself. Locally, the name of the village is pronounced 'A-bridge', with the letter 'w' silent. It is a peaceful and picturesque environment that is surrounded by stunning countryside. 

Continuing south the route heads towards Stanbridge Earls, an historic estate dating back to AD 858, traditionally linked to Saxon royalty and the burial of King Ethelwulf. The site evolved from a medieval manor into a WWII "Flak Home" for US officers, later becoming a specialized school before its conversion into an Audley retirement village.

By-passing the estate at Hilberry Farm we cross Old Salisbury Lane to pass Roke Manor Farm and Roke Manor, currently occupied by a British technology and engineering company which operates in the defence, national security and geospatial intelligence industries. Now on the Test Valley Way we make our way through Squabb Wood and it’s abundance of Rhododendron bushes on our way to Monk’s Cottage (more modern in appearance than the name / location implies). Suddenly it is open country, complete with views of Romsey Abbey across the river Test as we continue along the Test Way to reach Sadler’s Mill. From here we walk through some medieval streets leading to Romsey Abbey where the walk ends. Romsey town center is a short distance where all can enjoy a well earned beverage at the conclusion of the walk.

Unfortunately the coach will not be able to park or pick up in Romsey due to traffic restrictions. At 4:00pm (16:00) walkers and non-walkers alike will meet at the Palmerstone Memorial, Market Place SO51 8ZH [What3Words - flinches.walked.cable], for a short walk to the coach which will be parked at the Rapids Leisure Center. 

Please be considerate of others and arrive at the Palmerstone Memorial promptly, we plan to board the coach at 4:20 pm, so that the coach can leave on time, 4.30 pm. 

Thank you, Neil