Ask a local what to do in Southampton and you will hear about the Bargate, Mayflower Park, Westquay and the Common. All good. But if you have done those, or you want something that does not involve queuing, there is a quieter option on the edge of the city: a guided walk with an alpaca of your own.
Where it happens
Our walks start at Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, SO30 3HQ. It is around fifteen minutes from Southampton city centre and a similar distance from Eastleigh and Winchester, so it slots neatly into a morning or afternoon without eating the whole day.
What actually happens on the walk
You arrive, meet your handler and are introduced to your alpaca. Each animal is halter-trained, and you lead yours on a soft rope along the park's paths for about two hours. The handler explains how alpacas behave, why they hum, and what the odd ear position means. Along the way there are plenty of pauses for photographs and, if your alpaca is in the mood, a nose-to-cheek greeting. Our family has looked after alpacas for sixteen years and keeps over forty, so there is always a character to suit you.
Is it right for your group?
It works for more groups than you might expect. Children aged three to twelve share a lead with an adult. Twelve to sixteen-year-olds lead their own alpaca with an adult nearby, and anyone from sixteen up walks independently. For anyone who finds ordinary walks difficult, we run accessible walks every Wednesday from April to October, and carers come free. If you would like to see our baby alpacas, ask about the baby alpaca walks.
How it compares with other Southampton days out
Most city attractions are about looking at things. This is about doing something slowly. There is no screen, no timetable pressure and no crowd, just a river valley, fresh air and an animal that is far more interested in the grass than in you. That makes it a strong pick for a first date, a birthday, a catch-up with friends or something to occupy visiting relatives.
What to wear and bring
- Sturdy, closed shoes or wellies, as paths can be muddy after rain
- Layers, plus a waterproof when the forecast is doubtful
- A camera or phone with a wrist strap
- Water, and sun cream in summer
Prices and booking
Walks start from £32 per person. Family packages begin at £92, baby alpaca walks at £54, and an extra walker is £18. Rescheduling insurance costs £4.50 if your plans might change, and gift vouchers are available. You can read the full details on our Southampton things-to-do page, book online, or phone us on 0333 050 4012.
Next time someone asks what there is to do in Southampton, you will have a better answer than the shopping centre.