If you live in Havant, Waterlooville, Emsworth or Hayling Island and you're after a day out that doesn't involve the seafront, the shops, or another trip to a soft play, alpaca walking is worth putting on the list. Hensting Alpacas run guided walks at Itchen Valley Country Park, a 25-minute drive up the A27 and M27 from Havant, and this guide covers exactly what to expect, who it suits, and how to make the most of the trip.
What actually happens on the walk
You'll arrive at Itchen Valley Country Park in West End, Southampton, and be introduced to your alpaca along with the rest of your small group. After a short briefing from one of our experienced handlers on how to hold the lead and what your alpaca likes (and doesn't), you'll set off on a two-hour route through the park's meadows, woodland edges and paths along the River Itchen. You lead your own alpaca throughout, with the handler walking alongside the group the whole way rather than just at the start.
Who it suits
This works well as a family outing, a couple's day out, a birthday treat, or simply an alternative to the usual Havant-area weekend routine. Children aged 3 to 12 share the lead with an adult, ages 12 to 16 can hold the lead themselves with an adult close by, and anyone 16 or over walks independently. We also run accessible walking days every Wednesday between April and October, with free carer tickets, for visitors who'd prefer a gentler pace or need extra support getting around the park.
Why it's worth the drive from Havant
Havant and Waterlooville sit close to the coast, which is great for a sea view but not much else in the way of open countryside. Itchen Valley Country Park is a proper change of scenery: 440 acres of grassland, woodland and river frontage, a world away from the pavements and retail parks most Havant residents see day to day. It's also an easy run in, straight along the motorway with no need to navigate Southampton itself, and there's free parking on site.
What to wear and bring
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential since the paths cross grass and can be muddy after rain, which is common enough in Hampshire that we'd suggest checking the forecast before you set off from Havant. Bring a waterproof layer regardless of season, and dress for the temperature rather than for a walk into town, since two hours outdoors in the country park can feel cooler than the coast. Wellies are fine but not required in dry weather.
Prices and how to book
Walks start from £32 per person, with family packages from £92, baby-alpaca walks from £54, and an extra walker slot for £18. If you'd rather keep your options open given British weather, rescheduling insurance is £4.50. Gift vouchers are available too, which is a popular option for Havant residents wanting to treat someone to a day that's a bit different from the usual. You can see full details and book your slot on our Alpaca Walking near Havant event page, or call the team directly on 0333 050 4012.
Making a day of it
Since you're already driving out from the Havant direction, it's easy to combine your alpaca walk with a stop in Winchester or Eastleigh, both close by, or simply enjoy Itchen Valley Country Park itself before or after your walk — there's plenty of parkland to explore beyond the alpaca route. Either way, booking ahead is recommended, especially at weekends and during school holidays when slots from the Havant and Portsmouth area fill up quickly.