If the Easter holidays are looming and you are hunting for something to do that does not involve a car park queue or a soft play centre, an alpaca walk deserves a place on the shortlist. Our Easter alpaca walks in Hampshire take place at Itchen Valley Country Park, just outside Southampton, and they suit almost every age and ability.
What actually happens on the day
You arrive at Itchen Valley Country Park on Allington Lane in West End (postcode SO30 3HQ) a little before your start time. A handler greets the group, introduces the herd and explains the basics: how to hold the lead rope, where to walk beside your alpaca, and how to read their body language. Each walker is then introduced to their own halter-trained alpaca, and the two-hour stroll begins.
It is not a race and it is not a hike. Think of it as a slow, sociable wander with a very fluffy companion who stops regularly to nibble the grass.
Who it suits
All ages are welcome. Children aged 3 to 12 share a lead with an adult, which makes it a lovely thing to do with younger ones. Twelve to sixteen-year-olds can lead their own alpaca with an adult present, and anyone aged 16 or over walks independently. Grandparents, parents and cousins can all join in the same session, which is rare for a family outing at Easter.
If someone in your group needs a step-free approach, our accessible walks run every Wednesday from April to October, with free carer tickets. Have a look at our accessible alpaca walks for details.
What to wear in early spring
Spring weather is famously changeable, so dress in layers you can add or remove. Sturdy, closed shoes or wellies are best, as the paths and fields can be damp after rain. A waterproof jacket is sensible even on a bright morning. Sunglasses and a hat are worth packing for clearer days, and gloves are handy for the cooler start to the season. Leave large umbrellas in the car, as they can unsettle the alpacas.
Making a day of it
The park itself is a pleasant spot for a picnic or a riverside amble before or after your walk. If you are travelling from further afield, we are about 15 minutes from Southampton, Winchester and Eastleigh, and an easy run from Portsmouth, Fareham, Romsey, Basingstoke and the New Forest.
Prices and booking
Walks start from £32 per person. Family packages begin at £92, baby alpaca walks from £54, and an extra walker costs £18. If you would like peace of mind over the weather, rescheduling insurance is £4.50. Easter slots are popular, so book early through our online calendar.
Prefer to give the experience as a present? Gift vouchers are available, and make a thoughtful alternative to another chocolate egg. Our family-run team has looked after alpacas for 16 years and is BAS-registered, so you can book with confidence. For any questions, ring us on 0333 050 4012.
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Article title: Easter in Hampshire: A Family Guide to Walking With Alpacas
If the Easter holidays are looming and you are hunting for something to do that does not involve a car park queue or a soft play centre, an alpaca walk deserves a place on the shortlist. Our Easter alpaca walks in Hampshire take place at Itchen Valley Country Park, just outside Southampton, and they suit almost every age and ability.
What actually happens on the day
You arrive at Itchen Valley Country Park on Allington Lane in West End (postcode SO30 3HQ) a little before your start time. A handler greets the group, introduces the herd and explains the basics: how to hold the lead rope, where to walk beside your alpaca, and how to read their body language. Each walker is then introduced to their own halter-trained alpaca, and the two-hour stroll begins.
It is not a race and it is not a hike. Think of it as a slow, sociable wander with a very fluffy companion who stops regularly to nibble the grass.
Who it suits
All ages are welcome. Children aged 3 to 12 share a lead with an adult, which makes it a lovely thing to do with younger ones. Twelve to sixteen-year-olds can lead their own alpaca with an adult present, and anyone aged 16 or over walks independently. Grandparents, parents and cousins can all join in the same session, which is rare for a family outing at Easter.
If someone in your group needs a step-free approach, our accessible walks run every Wednesday from April to October, with free carer tickets. Have a look at our accessible alpaca walks for details.
What to wear in early spring
Spring weather is famously changeable, so dress in layers you can add or remove. Sturdy, closed shoes or wellies are best, as the paths and fields can be damp after rain. A waterproof jacket is sensible even on a bright morning. Sunglasses and a hat are worth packing for clearer days, and gloves are handy for the cooler start to the season. Leave large umbrellas in the car, as they can unsettle the alpacas.
Making a day of it
The park itself is a pleasant spot for a picnic or a riverside amble before or after your walk. If you are travelling from further afield, we are about 15 minutes from Southampton, Winchester and Eastleigh, and an easy run from Portsmouth, Fareham, Romsey, Basingstoke and the New Forest.
Prices and booking
Walks start from £32 per person. Family packages begin at £92, baby alpaca walks from £54, and an extra walker costs £18. If you would like peace of mind over the weather, rescheduling insurance is £4.50. Easter slots are popular, so book early through our online calendar.
Prefer to give the experience as a present? Gift vouchers are available, and make a thoughtful alternative to another chocolate egg. Our family-run team has looked after alpacas for 16 years and is BAS-registered, so you can book with confidence. For any questions, ring us on 0333 050 4012.
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