East Meon: Trails, River and Village History

East Meon is surrounded by the South Downs National Park and offers three specific points to consider when planning a trip: walking and cycling trails, the River Meon, and village history. If you are looking for a hotel for a stay in East Meon, you can start by considering which focus you want your stay to have. The trails offer different points of interest and ways to enjoy them; the river and historic buildings add nature and culture to the picture. These differences can help you weigh up which themes are relevant to your stay.

Walking and cycling trails

A circular walk from East Meon meets the South Downs Way; another walk leads from Queen Elizabeth Country Park to East Meon. The two walks therefore differ in how they relate to the village: East Meon is the starting point for the circular walk and the destination for the other route. The South Downs Way is hilly and a route for walkers and mountain bikers; it is open to walkers, cyclists and horse riders. There is also a 10-mile cycling route in East Meon. Different features are therefore relevant when planning: for the walks, it is the route; for the South Downs Way, the terrain and permitted activities also come into play; and for the cycling route, it is the distance.

The River Meon and the landscape

The River Meon rises in East Meon and runs alongside the village street; it is also a chalk stream. The river supports habitats and species such as water crowfoot, brown trout, kingfishers and otters. Its source and course place the river in the village, while the species mentioned add to its natural significance. If, alongside trails, you would also like to consider a riverside landscape and nature when choosing a destination, the River Meon offers a distinct focus for your plans.

Church and local history

The Church of All Saints is listed as a Grade I building and is open daily during daylight hours. Please check the opening information before your visit. Inside is a font made of black Tournai marble, one of only seven examples in the United Kingdom. In addition to its listed status, this distinctive feature offers a specific point of interest for those interested in cultural history.

The present-day Court House is another historic point of interest in East Meon. It dates from around 1370 and is associated with East Meon Manor. Its approximate date offers a different way to explore local history than the font: the age of the building is the focus at the Court House, while at All Saints it is a distinctive feature inside the church.

Plan your journey

East Meon is regularly served by buses from Petersfield and Winchester; the nearest railway station is in Petersfield. If public transport is a factor in your choice of hotel, include the bus services and Petersfield station in your plans. Check the latest timetables before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Eastleigh, Wolverton, Sherfield English, Botley, Fleet, Havant, Cheriton, Sandleheath

For the broader travel overview: Hampshire.