England Coast Path opens in Hampshire

The first complete sections of the England Coast Path in Hampshire have been opened by Natural England.

The nearly 52-mile continuous walking route takes you from Calshot to Portsmouth via Gosport.

The easy-to-follow walking route along the Solent coast, with its unspoiled countryside, busy marinas, industrial heritage, historic castles, and wildlife conservation sites.

Allison Potts, Natural England Area Manager, said: “This new trail covers a wealth of unique environments. It includes the unspoiled countryside with its abundance of wildlife. The industrial and bustling maritime Solent and beside one of the most densely populated areas on the south coast of England.

“At a time when the benefits of connecting with nature are clearer than ever. It is fabulous that we are opening up this nearly 52-mile walking route on the banks of the Solent for people to enjoy.

Councillor Russell Oppenheimer, Executive Member for Recreation, Heritage and Rural Affairs at Hampshire County Council, added: “We are delighted that it will provide an uninterrupted link for the first time between a number of fantastic outdoor attractions managed by the county council. Including Royal Victoria Country Park, Calshot and Hook with Warsash Nature Reserve.”

The route will form part of the 2,700-mile-long England Coast Path, which will become the longest walking route in the world.