Alpaca Walking Portsmouth — Complete Hampshire Guide
Portsmouth has no shortage of things to do — but when families want something genuinely different that gets the kids away from screens and into open countryside, the options are more limited than they might appear. Hensting Alpacas at Itchen Valley Country Park near Southampton is a 25-minute drive from Portsmouth city centre and one of the best-reviewed animal experiences in the South of England. This guide covers journey times from Portsmouth, what an alpaca walk involves, who it works for, and how to book.
What Is an Alpaca Walk at Hensting Alpacas?
A guided alpaca walk at Hensting Alpacas involves meeting your own alpaca companion, learning how to walk them with a halter, and setting off on a 2-hour circular route through Itchen Valley Country Park's ancient woodland and water meadows. The walk covers approximately one mile on level, surfaced paths alongside the River Itchen, led by an experienced handler throughout. It is not a zoo visit or a petting session — you are the handler, walking your alpaca at a gentle countryside pace for the full two hours.
Why Alpaca Walking Portsmouth Is a Special Experience
Portsmouth is one of the largest cities in Hampshire and yet Hensting Alpacas at Itchen Valley Country Park is only 18 miles away — approximately 25–30 minutes via the M27 on a normal day. For PO postcode residents looking for a day out that genuinely feels like an escape from an urban environment, the combination of the country park, the Itchen Navigation, and a herd of alpacas is about as far from the Gunwharf Quays experience as it is possible to get in half an hour. Families from Portsmouth, Southsea, and Gosport regularly book Hensting Alpacas for birthday treats, half-term outings, and weekend activities precisely because the contrast with city living is so immediate and so complete.
What to Expect on the Day
From Portsmouth, Hensting Alpacas at Itchen Valley Country Park is reached via the M27 westbound — junction 7 for Hedge End, then the B3035 north towards West End. Journey time is typically 25–35 minutes from Portsmouth city centre depending on the time of day. Itchen Valley Country Park (SO30 3HQ) has a large car park with charges from £1.30/hour. Alpaca walks are priced from £32 per person for a 2-hour guided experience. Book in advance on 0333 050 4012 — weekend slots for family groups fill 3–4 weeks ahead throughout the summer months.
How Much Does an Alpaca Walk Cost?
Alpaca walks at Hensting Alpacas start from £32 per person. Family tickets and group pricing are available — see the booking page for current pricing by session type. Gift vouchers are available from £32, valid for 12 months, and delivered instantly by email.
Age Requirements & Accessibility
All ages are welcome. Children aged 3–12 walk alongside an adult who holds the second lead on the same alpaca. Children 12–16 may lead independently with an adult present. Infants are welcome in baby carriers — no pushchairs permitted. Accessible Wednesday walks (10:00–11:30am, April–October) are designed for all abilities with free carer tickets.
How to Get There
Hensting Alpacas is located at Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 3HQ. Approximately 10 minutes from Southampton and Eastleigh, 25 minutes from Winchester, 35 minutes from Portsmouth. Parking from £1.30/hour; free Blue Badge parking.
Book Your Walk
Advance booking is essential. Book online via our booking page or call 0333 050 4012. See all our seasonal alpaca events for additional experiences at Hensting Alpacas throughout the year.