Southampton City Council and Hampshire County Council jointly manage Westwood Greenway. More information on Westwood Woodland Park is available on Hampshire County Council’s website.
Westwood Greenway is on the south eastern edge of Southampton between Botley Road and Weston Shore. At its southern end the greenway links to the Solent Way a long distance footpath that runs along the coast. The greenway comprises a well wooded valley which is important in ecological and visual terms since the trees form a soft but definite edge to the city.
Car Park at Weston Parade to Staplehurst Close
Starting from the car park at the bottom of Abbey Hill go through the metal kissing gate in the corner and proceed up the slope and turn right at the top. You are now entering the ancient woodland of West Wood one of the few sites in the area where dormice can be found.
Take the right fork down a small hill and fork left along the high path over Tickleford Gulley. To the right can be seen an old Victorian lake which is a haven for wildlife.
Just before the picnic site take the left path. On the left is a mediaeval boundary ditch. Above the woods on the right the extensive grass slopes attract butterflies and hunting barn owls.
At the end of this path take the left path down the steps and over the stream bridge and then turn right. Follow the path along the stream until you find wooden steps leading to Staplehurst Close.
Copyright © Southampton City Council 2009
