1. All Saints' Church, East Meon

East Meon, SU 6806 2228

One of the finest Norman churches in Hampshire. Of cruciform shape, the church has a square, central Norman tower, topped by a lead covered broach-spire.

The moulded decoration around the openings dates to around 1150AD, contemporary with the Norman elements of Winchester Cathedral and with similar decoration.

There are Norman windows in the north side of the nave (one) and in the south transept (two). The north and south doorways are also Norman in date, although the south door is reset. Other windows range in date from late 13th century to 16th century. The walls of the church are of flint with stone dressings.

The black Tournai marble font from Belgium dates to around 1130-40 and tells the story of Adam and Eve's creation (north side) and expulsion from Paradise (east side). Other Tournai marble fonts in Hampshire are in Winchester Cathedral, St Peter in St Mary Bourne, and St Michael in Southampton.

The Walk

All Saints' East Meon to St Nicholas' Chapel, Westbury
2.6 miles/4.2 km

This is the starting point for all the walks. Follow the footpath uphill across the fields north-west of the church, joining the road at Chalk Dell Cottages. Cross the road and rejoin the footpath on the other side, across the fields towards Drayton.

The path continues to the right of the farm, through some gates and then to the left, where it meets the road.

Turn left here following the road for a short distance until you come to Halnaker Lane on the right. Take the uphill track past Drayton Cottages and after a short distance you will approach a wood on your right.

Turn right along the footpath with the wood on your left. Turn left into the woods at the top of the hill and bear right onto a wide track.

Turn left off this track and continue along the path as it skirts Horsedown Farm, following it past Westbury House to the road and then turn left. The remains of the chapel can be seen on the left.