Warsash has plenty going for it: the Hamble foreshore, the slipway views and good pubs by the water. But when the same walks start to feel familiar, a trip to meet some alpacas is a lovely change of scene. This guide covers what to expect if you are coming from Warsash, Locks Heath, Sarisbury or Hook.
Getting there from Warsash
Itchen Valley Country Park is on Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 3HQ. From Warsash, allow around 20 minutes by car, travelling up via Bursledon or Hedge End. Parking is at the country park, and it is worth arriving a little early so you are not hurried at the start. Check a map app on the day for the latest road conditions.
What actually happens on the walk
Each walk lasts around two hours. You meet your handler, learn the basics, and are paired with your own halter-trained alpaca. Then you lead it around the park, pausing for photographs and the odd grazing stop. You are not riding or being towed along; you are walking beside a calm, inquisitive animal, which is a surprisingly relaxing experience.
Our herd numbers over 40, so there is a good variety of colours and personalities. The handlers are experienced and always close by, so first-timers need not worry.
Who can come
Everyone is welcome. Children aged 3 to 12 share a lead with an adult, 12 to 16 year olds lead with an adult present, and anybody 16 or older can lead independently. Many Warsash families bring several generations together, since the walking is gentle and unhurried.
We also run accessible walks every Wednesday from April to October, with free carer tickets. See the full details for walks near Warsash.
What to wear
Coastal Hampshire weather changes quickly, so dress for being outdoors. Sturdy shoes or walking boots are best, since the ground can be muddy after rain. Bring a waterproof jacket in autumn and winter, and sun cream and a hat in summer. Avoid dangling items that an inquisitive alpaca might nibble at. Keep valuables in your pocket rather than in a loose bag.
Prices and booking
Walks start from £32 per person. Family packages start from £92, and baby alpaca walks from £54. An additional walker is £18. For £4.50 you can add rescheduling insurance, which is handy if the forecast turns. Gift vouchers are available too, ideal for birthdays and Christmas.
We have been a family-run business for 16 years and are BAS-registered. To book, use the online calendar, or ring us on 0333 050 4012.
Make a day of it
Because the park is only about 20 minutes from Warsash, an alpaca walk fits neatly into a morning, leaving the afternoon free for lunch at a local pub or a stroll along the Hamble. It is an easy, memorable plan for a weekend or a school holiday.
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Article title: A Warsash Day Out: Walking Alpacas Away from the Shoreline
Warsash has plenty going for it: the Hamble foreshore, the slipway views and good pubs by the water. But when the same walks start to feel familiar, a trip to meet some alpacas is a lovely change of scene. This guide covers what to expect if you are coming from Warsash, Locks Heath, Sarisbury or Hook.
Getting there from Warsash
Itchen Valley Country Park is on Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 3HQ. From Warsash, allow around 20 minutes by car, travelling up via Bursledon or Hedge End. Parking is at the country park, and it is worth arriving a little early so you are not hurried at the start. Check a map app on the day for the latest road conditions.
What actually happens on the walk
Each walk lasts around two hours. You meet your handler, learn the basics, and are paired with your own halter-trained alpaca. Then you lead it around the park, pausing for photographs and the odd grazing stop. You are not riding or being towed along; you are walking beside a calm, inquisitive animal, which is a surprisingly relaxing experience.
Our herd numbers over 40, so there is a good variety of colours and personalities. The handlers are experienced and always close by, so first-timers need not worry.
Who can come
Everyone is welcome. Children aged 3 to 12 share a lead with an adult, 12 to 16 year olds lead with an adult present, and anybody 16 or older can lead independently. Many Warsash families bring several generations together, since the walking is gentle and unhurried.
We also run accessible walks every Wednesday from April to October, with free carer tickets. See the full details for walks near Warsash.
What to wear
Coastal Hampshire weather changes quickly, so dress for being outdoors. Sturdy shoes or walking boots are best, since the ground can be muddy after rain. Bring a waterproof jacket in autumn and winter, and sun cream and a hat in summer. Avoid dangling items that an inquisitive alpaca might nibble at. Keep valuables in your pocket rather than in a loose bag.
Prices and booking
Walks start from £32 per person. Family packages start from £92, and baby alpaca walks from £54. An additional walker is £18. For £4.50 you can add rescheduling insurance, which is handy if the forecast turns. Gift vouchers are available too, ideal for birthdays and Christmas.
We have been a family-run business for 16 years and are BAS-registered. To book, use the online calendar, or ring us on 0333 050 4012.
Make a day of it
Because the park is only about 20 minutes from Warsash, an alpaca walk fits neatly into a morning, leaving the afternoon free for lunch at a local pub or a stroll along the Hamble. It is an easy, memorable plan for a weekend or a school holiday.
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