8k Run Havant: Scenic Circuit Through Havant Thicket

Route Overview & Local Insights

This 7.5km circuit offers a refreshing escape into the woodland trails of Havant Thicket, starting from Park Lane. The terrain is entirely unpaved, consisting of a mix of wide gravel tracks and softer forest paths that become beautifully rugged after a local rainfall. With a gentle ascent of only 34m, this route is delightfully flat, making it an ideal choice for runners looking to maintain a steady tempo or those transitioning from road running to trail. You’ll experience the peaceful atmosphere of ancient woodland and open clearings, providing plenty of shade and a natural windbreak during your loop.

Located on the edge of the South Downs National Park, Havant Thicket is a site steeped in local history and ecological importance. Once part of the great Forest of Bere—a royal hunting ground dating back to the Middle Ages—the area is now a haven for local wildlife, where lucky runners often spot roe deer or hear the distinct call of the nightjar in the summer months. Interestingly, the landscape you are running through is slated for significant transformation over the coming years with the development of a new reservoir, making now the perfect time to log miles on these historic paths and enjoy the tranquil Hampshire countryside in its current, serene form.