Our Home at Itchen Valley Country Park
Hensting Alpacas is proud to call Hampshire's most spectacular country park our home
Experience Our Location
Hensting Alpacas is proud to call Hampshire's most spectacular country park our home
Experience Our Location
We didn't choose our location by chance. Itchen Valley Country Park provides the perfect environment for our alpacas to thrive and for visitors to experience the magic of these gentle creatures in one of Hampshire's most beautiful settings.
Consecutive years of environmental excellence recognition
Of pristine Hampshire countryside and water meadows
When 350 acres were acquired by Eastleigh Borough Council
Site of Special Scientific Interest status
Our alpacas graze alongside the famous River Itchen, renowned for its crystal-clear chalk stream waters. This Special Area of Conservation supports otters, water voles, and the nationally rare Southern Damselfly.
Our walks wind through a mix of ancient broad-leaved woodland and carefully managed coppiced areas. This traditional woodland management creates excellent conditions for wildlife and provides natural shelter for our herd.
The 250-acre nature reserve features nationally designated water meadows (SSSI) with traditional flood management. These nutrient-rich pastures provide ideal grazing conditions that have supported livestock for centuries.
Over 100 species of birds have been recorded, including sedge warblers and whitethroats. The park attracts significant numbers of overwintering birds and supports rare wildflowers like Southern Marsh Orchid.
Located just minutes from Southampton, Winchester, and the M27, we're perfectly positioned for visitors from across Hampshire and beyond. Ample parking with ANPR system - pay on exit (1hr £2.20, 2hr £3.50, 4hr+ £5.20). Blue Badge holders can use dedicated wider bays (standard parking charges apply).
Over 5km of wheel-friendly paths, wheelchair accessible toilets, and all buildings at ground level. Priority parking bays for Blue Badge holders in the main car park.
The park's 16 Green Flag Awards guarantee the highest standards of environmental management, safety, and visitor experience - values we share in our alpaca care.
Address:
Itchen Valley Country Park
Allington Lane, West End
Southampton SO30 3HQ
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Parking Charges:
1 hour: £2.20
2 hours: £3.50
3 hours: £4.40
4+ hours: £5.20
Blue Badge holders: Standard charges apply, dedicated wider bays available
Our relationship with Itchen Valley Country Park is built on shared values of conservation, education, and providing exceptional visitor experiences.
Working together to protect and enhance this precious Hampshire landscape for future generations.
Combining the park's environmental education with our alpaca expertise to create unforgettable learning experiences.
Both committed to providing world-class experiences that exceed expectations and create lasting memories.
Combine your alpaca experience with everything else Itchen Valley Country Park has to offer!
Book your alpaca walk for the morning when our herd is most active, then spend the afternoon exploring the park's many attractions. It's the perfect combination of animal encounters and outdoor adventure!
Itchen Valley Country Park offers excellent facilities to enhance your alpaca walking experience.
Historic barn café serving fresh food daily 10am-4:30pm (9am Saturdays). Well-behaved dogs welcome inside on leads. Vegan and gluten-free options available.
Dogs allowed off-lead on High Hill Field, on-lead elsewhere. Self-service dog wash available (£4, card only) plus dog bins throughout the park. Perfect for post-walk cleanup!
All paths wheel-friendly, ground-level buildings, accessible toilets including Changing Places facility, and dedicated Blue Badge parking bays. Everyone can enjoy the alpaca experience!
ANPR system for easy entry/exit. Pay on departure at machines. Season permits available for regular visitors. Coach parking £28/day with café assistance.
BBQs are prohibited due to fire risk. Drones cannot be flown due to proximity to Southampton Airport. All buildings closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day (park remains open).
Easy access from M27 Junction 5. Follow signs to West End, then brown tourist signs to the country park. Sat Nav: SO30 3HQ
Distances:
Southampton: 8 miles
Winchester: 12 miles
Portsmouth: 25 miles
Regular bus services from Southampton and Eastleigh. The nearest bus stop is a short walk from the park entrance.
Train: Nearest stations are Eastleigh (6 miles) and Southampton Central (8 miles).
Large car park with ANPR system. Pay on exit at machines by café or entrance. Current charges: 1hr £2.20, 2hr £3.50, 3hr £4.40, 4hr+ £5.20.
Opening times:
Apr-Sep: until 8:30pm
Oct-Mar: until 6:00pm
Blue Badge holders: Dedicated wider bays available, standard charges apply. Season permits: 3 months £23, 6 months £35, 1 year £70.
Experience the magic of alpaca walking in one of Hampshire's most spectacular settings. Book your adventure today!