Every January, the same question starts doing the rounds among couples across Hampshire: what do we actually do for Valentine's Day this year that isn't a repeat of last year? A set menu at a busy restaurant is the default answer, but it is rarely anyone's favourite. An alpaca walk at Itchen Valley Country Park has quietly become one of the more popular alternatives, and having watched a lot of couples try it, we think we understand why.
What actually happens on the walk
You will arrive at Itchen Valley Country Park, West End, Southampton, and meet your handler along with a first look at the wider herd â we keep over 40 alpacas, so there is always a personality or two that stands out immediately. After a short briefing on handling your halter-trained alpaca, you and your partner each take the lead rope for your own animal and set off on a route through the park, with your handler walking alongside for the full two hours. It is genuinely hands-on: you are steering, encouraging, occasionally negotiating with an alpaca that has spotted something more interesting than the path.
Who it suits
This one works for couples at almost any stage â a low-pressure first or second date where there is always something to talk about besides each other, an anniversary for people who have already done the fancy-dinner version a dozen times, or a way to surprise a partner who would rather be outdoors than in a restaurant. It also suits couples who simply do not enjoy being watched while they eat; nobody is examining your conversation on an alpaca walk. All ages 16 and over can walk independently, so it works well whether you are in your twenties or your seventies.
What to wear and what to expect from February weather
Hampshire in February can mean anything from a crisp, bright morning to standing drizzle, so warm layers and sturdy, waterproof boots matter more than looking smart. The alpacas walk regardless of light rain, and the park's paths are chosen to stay manageable underfoot through winter. If the weather turns properly severe on the day, our £4.50 rescheduling insurance means a rebooking rather than a lost booking.
Prices and how to book
Walks start from £32 per person, with an additional walker able to join for £18 if you want to bring a friend along or turn it into a small group outing. Because Valentine's slots are limited and tend to book out earlier each year, we would suggest reserving your date as soon as you know it, either directly or via a Hensting Alpacas gift voucher if you want to leave the exact date as a surprise for your partner to arrange. You can see live availability and book directly through our calendar.
Getting there
Itchen Valley Country Park sits just off Allington Lane in West End, around fifteen minutes from Southampton, Winchester and Eastleigh, and an easy drive from Portsmouth, Fareham, Romsey and Basingstoke, so most couples across Hampshire are looking at well under an hour on the road. There is on-site parking at the park, and your handler will meet you at the gate rather than leaving you to find the herd yourselves, so arriving in good time for your slot is really the only planning required.
For the full detail on dates and pricing for this year's Valentine's season, see our Valentine's Day Alpaca Walks event page, or give us a call on 0333 050 4012 if you would rather talk it through first.
One last thing
Alpacas are herd animals with strong opinions, and it is entirely normal for yours to take a sudden dislike to your partner's alpaca, or vice versa. Do not take it personally â it happens on almost every walk, and it usually ends up being the story you tell everyone afterwards.