Come and explore our precious local chalk streams! Visit hidden places and see familiar ones in a whole new light – what will you discover?

Join us for stream dipping and nature crafts by this lovely chalk stream! Get a close look at freshwater insects with our trays, or catch your own in the shallow water.

This event is part of Open Chalk Streams, a project within the Watercress and Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme. We’re protecting, enhancing, and celebrating the Rivers Test and Itchen headwaters.

Activities are free and no pre-booking is required for this event, just drop in.

Key information:

Age range: All ages (under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian).

Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with very limited mobility, due to grassy and uneven ground.

Meeting point: Cross Winchester Road road to access the meadow via the metal gate in the shape of a fish. Make your way along the footpath to the far back corner of the meadow, where the chalk stream flows.

Car parking: Available at Longmeadow Sports Centre.

Other information: Wellies are needed if you wish to go in the stream (approx. 8cm in depth). There is limited shade on site, so a sun hat and water are recommended. No toilets are available, but public toilets can be found in Whitchurch town centre.

Covid-19 safety: By attending this event, you agree to adhere to the latest Government guidance on Covid-19. We’re following the latest guidance and taking measures to help ensure the safety of everyone involved. A briefing will be provided at the start of each event, to ensure you understand the measures in place and your responsibilities relating to them. If you don’t meet these responsibilities, we reserve the right to stop the event or ask you to leave. If any of our hosts, staff, or volunteers becomes unwell within two weeks of the event, we’ll inform you straight away.

Contact email: winterbournes@hiwwt.org.uk