Once a claypit for the local brickworks, this nature reserve is now a wildlife oasis with a series of little lakes and woodland alive with birds. In between Portsmouth and Southampton, and close to the M27, it is easy to access and easy to explore.

Pagham Harbour is a nature reserve on one of the few undeveloped stretches of the West Sussex coast and it is an internationally important wetland site for wildlife.

A delightful country walk connecting Swanmore and Soberton with sections beside The River Meon and along The Meon Valley Trail.

Testwood Lakes is a wildlife haven on the edge of Southampton. You would never guess how close you are to the M27 while you are enjoying easy paths around the beautiful nature reserve.

Kingley Vale, near Chichester, is one of the UK’s original national nature reserves with some of the oldest trees in the country. It is a truly atmospheric place to walk, and as well as the grove of ancient trees, you will also find spectacular views that stretch as far as the sea.

There aren’t many walks we do that I actually think are better in the winter, but this could be one. During the colder months especially, this habitat is home to an internationally important population of wading birds and wildfowl. And all just a hop across the water from the city of Portsmouth.