Rural Strides

Sharing the secrets of the Western Weald through walks. Pure escapism…. just one hour from London

17/01/2026

Who remembers this childhood rhyme? On a walk called ‘steeple chasing’ it just had to be done!

Holy Trinity, Privett
160ft spire, 2nd highest in Hampshire
Described as gin magnate William Nicholson’s “Fire escape to heaven from the flames of hell”

13/01/2026

Walkers worship at the spire of Holy Trinity, Privett. At 160ft, it is taller than Wi******er Cathedral & the second highest steeple in Hampshire. As such, it is a landmark visible for miles around…..and invaluable for getting your bearings!

Given its size and grandeur, it is hard to believe that Privett had a population of just 172 before the parish was merged with its larger neighbour Froxfield. Holy Trinity was clearly designed as a statement piece, demonstrating both the wealth of the person who paid for it, and the idea that a church stands at the centre of a community however small.

Redundant since 1975, this beautifully-preserved, almost cathedralesque building is now, fortunately, in the care of . It also provides the inspiration for this Saturday’s ‘Steeple Chasing’ walk. Afterall, who needs a map when you have a 160ft spire to follow?!

10/01/2026

Chalk laid bare - layers of time revealed.
Even industry has its own beauty

06/01/2026

When in doubt ……always go out.

I think I need to adopt this phrase as a motivational quote for 2026. Earlier, when the snow was falling I was wavering about going out for a walk. I should have known better. Old Wi******er Hill worked its magic and made me see sense!

04/01/2026

We might just have broken a record today, with so many of us squeezed into the warmth of the Porter’s Lodge at St Cross to receive the Wayfarer’s Dole! The welcome from this medieval home of hospitality was warm in every sense. For one walker, the grandson of a former Master, it was also a special trip down memory lane. If you haven’t visited St Cross you are missing a gem.

03/01/2026

Alms & Legs - the first group walk of the new year.

It had to be around Wi******er. Religion is the city’s life blood. From the late Saxon through medieval period it apparently had the largest concentration of religious houses north of the Alps. Tomorrow we’ll be getting to grips with church architecture, almshouses & requesting the Wayfarer’s Dole 🍺🍞at the magnificent Hospital of St Cross. Not sure any of us are hidden angels mind!😇🪽

02/01/2026

A new year means a new walk theme - Legacy of Belief. Over the course of 2026 we’ll be exploring the stories of faith that have shaped the Western Weald and its landscape for centuries. From ancient pilgrimage routes and striking village churches to seasonal festivals and pre-Christian relics, there’s a rich seam of belief for us to mine. Whether you are drawn by architecture, history or simply the calm found in our timeless scenery, you are sure to find a walk of interest. So lace up your boots, stretch your curiosity and come and join a community of like-minded explorers keen to better understand this distinct and beautiful corner of the South Downs National Park.

📅 Find link to upcoming walks in bio

22/12/2025

A Holy night at St Peter’s Colemore.
May this Christmas bring you peace, health, hope & happiness 🎄

19/12/2025

Upgrading the view with horse….power 🐴⚡️

14/12/2025

Very grateful to receive a hamper ✨

The food was, unsurprisingly, delicious, but the real treat was the wicker basket with lid. It’s officially been promoted to the new home for my flint collection.

The old cardboard box has been ceremoniously retired to the bin, and from now on, future Flintstones walks will see the stars of the show arriving in proper style.

Paul Nash once likened groups of flints to being in nests, well, now they truly are. 🪶🪨

12/12/2025

The final tree-themed walk of the year - Spruce Up Your Xmas from the wonderfully festive in Liss. Portable reindeer an optional extra 😅 No better way to end a seasonal walk than with delicious food from & a warm mulled wine 🍷🎄 Happy Christmas one and all 🎅🏽

Address

Petersfield

Website

http://www.ruralstrides.co.uk/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Rural Strides posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Want your practice to be the top-listed Clinic in Petersfield?