If you're in Wickham and looking for something to do that isn't a soft-play centre or another walk round the square, alpaca walking is worth the short drive. Hensting Alpacas' guided walks take place at Itchen Valley Country Park, near West End in Southampton — about 20 minutes from Wickham — and this guide covers exactly what to expect, who it suits, and how to make the most of a visit.
What actually happens on the walk
You'll arrive at Itchen Valley Country Park and meet the herd in the paddock first, where a handler matches you with an alpaca suited to your group — calmer animals for nervous first-timers, more confident ones for people who've done this before. Once you're comfortable holding the lead, the group sets off together for a two-hour walk through the park's woodland and open meadow, with the handler alongside the whole time to answer questions and keep things moving at an easy pace. It's a proper walk rather than a static encounter, which is what tends to surprise Wickham visitors who've only seen the quick "meet an alpaca" photo experiences advertised elsewhere.
Who it's for
Nearly everyone. Children aged 3 to 12 share a lead rope with an adult, 12 to 16 year-olds can lead on their own with an adult close by, and adults lead independently. If someone in your group has limited mobility, book one of the accessible walks that run every Wednesday from April to October — carers go free, and the paths are chosen to be manageable. Baby-alpaca walks, when the year's crias are old enough to be introduced to the herd, are a particular favourite with younger children.
Making a day of it from Wickham
Because the drive is only around 20 minutes, it's easy to build a walk into a longer Hampshire day out. Some Wickham visitors combine a morning walk with lunch back in the village, or time their visit for one of the shoulder seasons — the woodland at Itchen Valley is particularly good through autumn, when the tree cover along the walking trails turns before the weather properly closes in. Booking early is worth it around half-term and school holidays, when weekend slots for groups from Wickham and the wider Meon Valley fill up fastest.
What to wear and bring
Sturdy, closed shoes are the main essential — the park paths cross grass and can be muddy after rain, whatever the season. Bring a waterproof layer rather than relying on the forecast, since Hampshire weather changes its mind more often than the Met Office does. Everything else, including the lead ropes and any handling guidance, is provided on the day.
Prices and how to book
Walks start from £32 per person, with family packages from £92 and baby-alpaca walks from £54. An extra walker can be added to a group booking for £18, and rescheduling insurance is £4.50 if you'd rather not risk losing a slot to weather. Gift vouchers are available too, which is a popular option for Wickham residents booking for a relative's birthday rather than themselves. You can see availability and book directly online, or call 0333 050 4012 if you'd rather speak to someone first. Full details and the current calendar are on the Alpaca Walking near Wickham event page.