Steep

Sylvia Saunders

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A delightful circular walk starting from The Harrow Inn at Steep. The route is quite hilly but there are no strenuous climbs.

There are some wonderful old oak trees to be seen along the way, with fantastic views of the hangers. The word 'hanger' derives from the old English 'hangra', meaning wooded slope.

The Harrow Inn was named by the Good Pub Guide as the most unspoilt pub of the year in 1996 and 2008. It is one of only three "authentic pubs" in Alastair Sawday's guide to British pubs. They boast 'Good ales served from the barrel and outstanding home-made food. Large open fire, beamed ceilings. No fruit machine or juke box - just conversation'. It's quite true - if you take a seat in the tiny public bar around one of the two large tables, others will budge up for you and chat away. If there is no room. then sit on a tree-stump stool by the fire. The menu is small, the portions are enormous - just what you will need after this walk! Note that they don’t take credit cards. Dogs are welcome but children are not. However, there is a lovely garden and also seating outside at the front of the pub. Phone 01730 262685 for more information.

Dogs:
Those of you with dogs may find it useful to know that my dog, a fit, slim Labrador who cannot jump, managed to get through all the stiles with ease.

England - South England - Hampshire - South Downs

Features

Church, Great Views, Pub, Public Transport, Wildlife, Woodland

2/12/2024 - Jonathan Selby

We followed this beautiful walk yesterday in February and highly recommend it. It is dog friendly as our Labrador was able to pass through all the stiles, and with only a small number of fields having sheep grazing. There had been heavy rain and so we found the much of the walk very heavy going with very muddy, water logged, and slippery paths (I wish I had worn wellies, like my wife, instead of my walking boots). Regarding Waypoint 16, you just need to keep your eyes pealed for the yellow arrow on the gate, on the right hand side as you walk up the lane. As far as I could tell, the finger post has long gone. We didn't visit the pub, but it looked charming but with basic pub faire (sandwiches and jacket potatoes).

9/21/2021 - Gary Davis

I love this walk and have done it several times. A word of caution at Waypoint 16: the photograph is no longer useful, since all the buildings here have been renovated, and the fingerpost is difficult to pick out as it is high up and obscured by vegetation. You have to turn right off the line, through a gate, into what appears to be a private drive. Look for the yellow arrow marker on the gate. Once you make that turn it is easy as the farmer has put lots of very obvious signs up to guide walkers on the permissive path.

8/11/2017 - Andy McTaggart

This walk is an absolute gem and is one of the most beautiful woodland walks that I have ever had the pleasure to enjoy. The relatively short distance of under four miles should not deter anyone from exploring this wonderful walk which is packed with beautiful scenery and a stunning variety of trees throughout. We will be back to enjoy this one in the Autumn and winter, as a finer woodland walk we have yet to see. Many Thanks to Sylvia once more for putting together another absolute gem. This is a classic example of less is more. The scenery throughout is beautiful, the church is very unusual and interesting and a querkier pub you would struggle to find. PERFECT. Thank You Sylvia.

7/2/2009 - Sylvia Saunders

Walk updated June 2009. Nice and dry under boot when I did it but the Steep area always has muddy patches after wet spells so it's best to always wear waterproof footwear.

4/21/2008 - Derek Quail

The walk was very muddy. Take waterproof footwear, if you don't it will spoil the walk for you. There is a waterfall on the way which was a lovely find. Otherwise a good walk.

3/30/2008 - Richard Clayton

An enjoyable walk through attractive countryside, very clearly described. Enjoyed by other walkers ahead of us! Richard and Sara Clayton 30/03/08