Old Basing Walks
This circular walk explores the village of Old Basing in Basingstoke, Hampshire. The area includes the historic Basing House, a Tudor Tithe Barn, Basingstoke Common and the Basing Lime Pits.
The walk starts in the village close to Basing House which is one of the primary features of the area. It was built in the 16th century and was the home of the Marquesses of Winchester for several generations before being destroyed during the English Civil War. You can now explore the Tudor ruins and gardens which are operated and funded by Hampshire Cultural Trust.
After exploring the house you can make your way south west across the common to visit the Basing Lime Pits. There's more nice trails around this park and another parking area if you would like to start the walk from here.
The route then heads north east past the civil war earthworks to return to the start point.
Postcode
RG24 7BH - Please note: Postcode may be approximate for some rural locationsOld Basing Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Old Basing Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Old Basing OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Old Basing Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
Head to Barton's Mill for some post walk refreshment. The pub is located in a converted mill in a lovely spot next to the River Loddon. There's good quality food and a good sized garden area for warmer days. You can find them just north of Basing House at postcode RG24 8AE for your sat navs.
Dog Walking
The common is a popular place for dog walkers you you'll probably see other people with their pets on your visit. Barton's Mill mentioned above is also dog friendly.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
Just to the east you can pick up the Basingstoke Canal Walk at Up Nately. If you follow it east you could visit another historical highlight of the area at Odiham Castle. Here you can pick up the Three Castles Path. This historically themed long distance trail will take you from Windsor Castle to Winchester Castle, visiting the canal and Odiham Castle on the way.
Just to the north east there's the village of Sherfield on Loddon where you'll find the historic Longbridge Mill on the banks of the river. The 15th century mill includes a working flour mill, a visitor centre and a fine pub for refreshment.
Just to the south you'll find Hackwood Park. The Grade I listed park has a series of public footpaths taking you past the estate which includes an ornamental bridge, fountains, a statue of George I, deer and the impressive Hackwood House. Just to the east of the park you can pick up the circular Mapledurwell Walk and visit the pretty villages of Mapledurwell and Upton Grey.
For more walking ideas in the area see the Hampshire Walks page.
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
All the trees and undergrowth have been cut back around the edges of the tudor fish ponds which are part of the Basing House estate. Behind the photographer runs the river Loddon.
Basing House dovecote
View at Basing Lime Pits
Amphitheatre, Basingstoke Common. View of Basingstoke looking north west from the amphitheatre, Basingstoke Common near Old Basing
Millpond at Bartons Mill. As seen from the pub garden.
Tithe barn
he Gateway, Basing House. Basing House, (formerly Basing Castle) was the seat of the Royalist Paulet family and was besieged for three years during the Civil War by the Parliamentary forces under Cromwell. Afterwards there was not a lot left, but this gateway is original. The ruins are open to the public in summer from Wednesday to Sunday each week.
Miniature horses. Often mistakenly referred to as Shetland ponies, these miniature horses are a distinctive breed, often in demand as pets.