Havant Thicket

Visitor information

Havant Thicket

Pack up your picnic rug and come and enjoy the beautiful setting of Havant Thicket, located within the Forest of Bere

Located north of Havant, near the stunning South Downs landscape, Havant Thicket is home to some impressive trees. The mixture of old and young trees provides a variety of habitats for wildlife, including many woodland plants liked by butterflies and bees.

At a glance

Walking trails
Horse riding
Picnic area
Dogs welcome

Things to do

Horse riding at Havant Thicket

Explore the paths of Havant Thicket on horse back.

Horse riding is by permit only and is informal, there is no marked route. A permit can be purchased through TROT.

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Picnics at Havant Thicket

Enjoy a tasty treat in the forest at Havant Thicket. Just bring along good food and company!

We have a large grassy picnic area for you to enjoy, with good views across the fields. Please bring your own picnic rug.

To prevent forest fires and reduce waste, please do not bring any barbecues into our forests.

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Walking at Havant Thicket

Walking is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes.

From Havant Thicket's car park, you can access the link path that will take you into neighbouring Staunton Country Park. There is also a variety of tracks from the car park all around Havant Thicket. Some are gravel and are suitable for less able walkers, some are grassy and whilst good in summer, may become muddy in winter so wear something suitable on your feet.

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Nearby forests

Creech Woods

A mosaic of woodland with historic interest walks, come and explore Creech Wood

Located west of Waterlooville within the stunning South Downs landscape, Creech Wood is home to conifers as well as a small number of ancient broad-leaved trees. The mixture of trees provides a variety of habitats for wildlife, including patches of heather favoured by butterflies and bees, so bring your binoculars!

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Queen Elizabeth Country Park

Discover endless family fun in the great outdoors at Queen Elizabeth Country Park.

From the top of Butser Hill, the highest point on the South Downs, down to the Visitor Centre with its shop and cafe, the park makes for a great day out.

For further information about current facilities, please visit the Hampshire County Council website

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West Harting Down

Located within the South Downs National Park, West Harting down offers a network of paths and trails, making it very popular with dog walkers and horse-riders.

The higher ground in the north of West Harting Down provides significant views out to the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

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