This walk was originally scheduled for Monday 24th February, but postponed because of rain.
Meet at the Barley Mow at 9.35 and catch the 31 bus at 9.43 to the Havant bus station.
We go along West Street and then turn northwards on a short section of the 10,000 kilometer European E9 path. This takes a surprisingly green route through Stockheath and Leigh Park before entering Staunton Park. There are views of the work going on to build the Havant Thicket reservoir at the edge of Rowlands Castle, and we walk down Redhill Road to the centre.
The route is tarmac or packed hardcore throughout so should be dry underfoot whatever the weather in the preceding weeks. This is a 4.4 mile walk with no stiles and only 100 feet of height gain.
Pub lunch for 8 is booked for 12.30 at The Robin Hood and I have asked if we could be served in time to catch the 13.50 bus back to Havant. The pub would like pre-orders direct from anyone not planning to order a sandwich or a jacket potato.
Rowlands Castle only has 4 buses to Havant per day so if we miss the bus, the best transport to Havant is the train which leaves at 14.21 (single fare £3.60 in 2024).
This is the planned route: