If you're searching for something to do with the kids — or just yourself — that isn't the retail park or the same stretch of New Forest you've walked a dozen times, an alpaca walk from the Totton side of Southampton is worth putting on the list. Here's what a first visit actually looks like, written for people who live close enough that "it's a bit of a drive" isn't really an excuse.
Where you're actually going
The walks run from Itchen Valley Country Park on Allington Lane in West End, on the eastern side of Southampton — roughly opposite Totton across the city. From Totton, Testwood or Marchwood, the most reliable route is via the M27, which keeps you off the Redbridge causeway and out of the town-centre traffic that can otherwise eat up your morning. Most visitors from that side of the water are parked up inside 25–30 minutes.
Who it suits
Alpaca walking works for a wider range of people than you'd expect. Families with children from age 3 can take part, with younger kids sharing a lead with an adult and older ones (12–16) holding their own with an adult close by. Couples looking for something other than a pub lunch use it as a proper outdoor date. We also run accessible walks every Wednesday between April and October with free tickets for carers, so it's not an activity that assumes everyone arrives at the same fitness level.
What to expect on the day
You'll meet your handler, get matched with an alpaca, and have a quick rundown of how to hold and lead a halter before setting off. The walk itself runs around two hours and covers parkland, meadow and riverside trail — it's paced for looking around, not for clocking a distance. Alpacas are curious but calm animals, and having an experienced handler alongside you the whole way means there's no moment where you're left figuring it out alone.
What to wear and bring
Country park terrain means proper footwear — trainers are fine in dry weather, but boots are safer after rain, since parts of the trail can get muddy. Layers are sensible year-round; Hampshire weather does what it likes regardless of the forecast. Waterproofs in autumn and winter are worth throwing in the car even if the sky looks clear when you leave Totton.
Prices and how to book
Standard walks start from £32 per person, family packages from £92, and baby-alpaca walks from £54 if you want time with this year's youngsters. An extra walker can be added for £18, and £4.50 rescheduling insurance is worth having given how changeable the weather can be. Gift vouchers are available for anyone booking on someone else's behalf. Full details and live availability are on the Alpaca Walking near Totton event page, and bookings go through our online calendar.
A tip from regulars
Weekday mornings tend to be quieter and the alpacas are generally more alert earlier in the day, so if your schedule allows it, an early slot often makes for a better walk than a busy Saturday afternoon.