Hedge End sits right on the doorstep of one of Hampshire's more unexpected days out. A short drive past Botley on Allington Lane brings you to Itchen Valley Country Park, home to Hensting Alpacas and more than 40 halter-trained alpacas — and a proper alternative to the usual soft-play-and-shopping-centre weekend routine.
What to Expect
Each walk runs for roughly two hours. You're introduced to your own alpaca, given a quick briefing by an experienced handler, and then you lead the animal yourself around the park's fields and woodland tracks. It's slower-paced than you might expect — alpacas amble, graze, and stop to investigate things — which is exactly what makes it relaxing rather than a route march. Our full walk is detailed on the Hedge End alpaca walking page, including current availability.
Who It's For
We get a real mix from the Hedge End area: young families looking for something different to do with the kids, couples wanting an unusual date, and groups celebrating a birthday. Children between 3 and 12 share a lead with an adult, those aged 12 to 16 can lead with an adult nearby, and anyone over 16 walks independently. If accessibility is a factor, we run dedicated accessible walks every Wednesday from April to October with free carer tickets — it's worth mentioning when you book.
Getting There from Hedge End
The park is on Allington Lane in West End, Southampton, SO30 3HQ — from most parts of Hedge End it's a journey of well under fifteen minutes, avoiding the M27 entirely if you come via Botley Road. There's parking on site, and the walking field is a short walk from the car park with clear signage.
What to Wear and Bring
Sturdy shoes are the main thing — the fields can be muddy underfoot, especially after Hampshire's wetter spells, so wellies or walking boots are a safer bet than trainers. Bring a layer even in summer, as the Itchen Valley catches a breeze, and a camera or phone, because most people end up with far more alpaca photos than they planned on.
Prices
Walks start from £32 per person. Family packages start from £92, baby-alpaca walks from £54, and you can add an extra walker for £18. Rescheduling insurance is £4.50 if you'd rather have peace of mind against last-minute weather changes, and gift vouchers are available if you're booking for someone else in the family.
How to Book
Book online through our calendar or call 0333 050 4012 to check the next available slot. As a family-run, BAS-registered business with 16 years behind us, we keep group sizes manageable so every walker — Hedge End locals included — gets proper time with their alpaca.