Romsey has no shortage of lovely ways to spend a day, from a wander round the Abbey to a riverside stroll along the Test. But if you are after something a little more memorable, walking an alpaca is well worth the short drive across to West End. This guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Where it is and how far from Romsey
Our walks take place at Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 3HQ. From Romsey it is around twenty minutes by car; the easiest route is to join the M27 and come off near West End, then follow the brown tourist signs. There is free on-site parking, so you can arrive relaxed rather than circling for a space.
What to expect on the walk
After you arrive you will meet your handler and be introduced to your alpaca. We spend a few minutes on the basics — how to hold the halter, how to encourage your alpaca along and how to tell when it is happy — then set off on a gentle two-hour route through meadow and woodland. Alpacas walk at an unhurried pace and like to stop and graze, which is part of the charm. You will have your handler with you the whole time to answer questions and take photos, and you will finish knowing a good deal more about these gentle, inquisitive animals than when you started.
Who it is good for
The walks suit almost everyone. Families make up a big share of our visitors, and children love being trusted with a rope of their own once they are old enough. Couples come for a calm, unusual date; friends book it as a birthday or hen treat; and plenty of people buy a walk as a gift voucher for someone who is tricky to shop for. Children aged three to twelve share a lead with an adult, twelve to sixteen-year-olds lead with an adult alongside, and over-sixteens walk independently. We also run accessible walks every Wednesday from April to October, with free tickets for carers. You can read the full details and book on our Alpaca Walking near Romsey page.
What to wear and bring
Dress for a country park rather than a fashion shoot. Sturdy trainers or wellies are ideal, as the trails can be soft after rain, and a waterproof is sensible whatever the forecast — Hampshire weather has a sense of humour. Bring a camera or a well-charged phone, because you will want pictures, and perhaps a small bottle of water in summer. There is a café on site for a warm drink or a bite afterwards.
Prices and what is included
Walks start from £32 per person, with family packages from £92 and gentler baby-alpaca walks from £54. An extra walker can be added from £18, and for £4.50 you can add rescheduling insurance in case your plans change. Gift vouchers are available if you would rather give the experience than book a date. Every walk includes your alpaca, a knowledgeable handler and around two hours out on the trails.
How to book
Booking is straightforward: choose a date and time online and you are set. Weekends and school holidays fill up quickly, so if you have a particular day in mind — a birthday, say, or a visit from family — it is worth booking a week or two ahead. We are a family-run, BAS-registered farm with sixteen years of alpaca-keeping behind us, and we would love to show you and forty of our alpacas a proper Hampshire welcome. You can reach us on 0333 050 4012 if you have any questions before you come.