The charming village of Wickham combines ancient history, intriguing shopping, quality produce, delicious dining, beautiful countryside and miles of walks and cycle rides. At the heart of this historic village lies The Square – one of the largest in the country covering almost two acres and always alive with residents and visitors.
The nearby naturally formed water meadows form a tranquil oasis in the middle of the village, offering a peaceful place to walk, picnic or simply spend some time by the water’s edge.
One of the village’s most impressive buildings is St Nicholas Church which dates back to 1120 and sits perched on a very large sacred mound.
If you’ve an eye for a bargain or simply like to browse, make sure you allow time to visit Chesapeake Mill which is filled to the brim with exclusive collections of antiques, home furnishings, art and jewellery. Why not stop for a drink in the tea room and soak up the surroundings of this extraordinary Grade II listed mill which was built in 1820 incorporating timber from the US Frigate Chesapeake, captured by the British HMS Shannon in 1813.
Wickham is a little paradise for those who enjoy getting out and about as it is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside in Hampshire. There are many walking, cycling and riding trails that will take you through woods, fields and water meadows. So why not have a stroll around the Meon Valley and see what you discover?
A highlight is the West Walk in the Forest of Bere. West Walk is an ideal wood for a complete day out for all the family with walking trails, cycling and picnic spots. Find out more here.
The Meon Valley Trail is a favourite to walk or cycle for many. A 10 mile trail starts in Wickham and runs up to West Meon along the disused railway track which provides a safe and flat surface for all the family. Here it connects with the South Downs Way and Wayfarers’ Walk, enabling you to create an extended circular route. Find out more here.
Meon Valley Churches Trail explores churches along the Meon Valley including that of St Nicholas in Wickham. Download the leaflet below for more details.
Wickham Wander is a 5.27 mile walk beginning in Wickham square and takes you along the disused railway line and working back along to the square via part of Pilgrims’ trail and past the Forest of Bere. Discover the full trail in the Meon Valley Churches Trail.
How to get to Wickham
Just over 30 minutes from Winchester by car.
By car: leave Winchester down Southgate Street and at Bushfield roundabout follow the signs for Bishop’s Walton on the B3335. After Twyford keep left on the B3354 until Fisher’s Pond. At the Fisher’s Pond traffic lights turn left onto the B2177 to Bishop’s Waltham. Pass through Bishop’s Waltham, staying on the B2177 until it meets the A334. Turn left for Wickham. Alternatively, take the M3 south from Winchester and then the M27 for Portsmouth. Exit the M27 at junction 10 for Wickham and the A32.
By bus: on bus route 69 to Fareham.