WITH the holidays just around the corner, there is nothing better to do than go for a nice walk.

If you’re looking to get some time away from visiting relatives, want to burn off that Christmas dinner or are hoping for a snow-covered adventure, we have rounded up some of the best walks in and around the area.

All of the walks that we are showcasing are circular, so you will not have to worry about finding that you are only halfway when you reach your destination.

Great Binfield – 1.09 miles

Starting at Chineham library, this walk will take you into a wonderful area of ancient woodland, a remnant of the extensive forest of Eversley.

The site itself is mainly mixed deciduous woodland, with beech, ash and hornbeam at the drier west end and a neglected plantation of scots pine at the south east corner.

The walk is easily accessible from the surrounding estates and will take you on a gentle short lap of the area.

Full directions can be found here.

Basingstoke Canal – 1.29 miles

Basingstoke Gazette: The route takes walkers near Odiham Castle (Credit: Jack Lees)The route takes walkers near Odiham Castle (Credit: Jack Lees) (Image: Jack Lees)This particular section of Basingstoke Canal, running from Greywell to Odiham Castle, offers a mixture of spectacular views and history that is perfect for a relaxing walk.

The route starts at the Fox and Goose pub, and takes walkers along the canal until they reach the castle.

Hampshire County Council also has a story, Henry the Forgetful, which will entertain any children who are completing the walk with you.

Full directions can be found here.

Wootton St Lawrence and Malshanger Park – 5.9 Miles

Basingstoke Gazette: Near Malshanger Park (Credit: Tim Chase)Near Malshanger Park (Credit: Tim Chase) (Image: Tim Chase)This slightly longer circular walk near Basingstoke is popular with hikers, runners and walkers alike.

The route explores local footpaths and bridleway tracks, taking you through woodlands and open fields, both of which have stunning views.

Along the way, you will pass through Malshanger Park, which offers glimpses of the mansion and old parkland.

This route is longer than the prior walks, taking around three hours to complete.

Full directions can be found here.

Old Basing Northern and River Loddon Circular – 2.6 miles

Basingstoke Gazette: Old Basing Barn (credit: Anna Mikulich)Old Basing Barn (credit: Anna Mikulich) (Image: Anna Mikulich)Another shorter walk, this route takes walkers out from Old Basing Village Hall to a path along the River Loddon, crossing the river three times during the course of the walk.

The area is popular for fishing, birding and hiking, so walkers are likely to meet lots of friendly faces if they decide to tackle this route.

Full directions can be found here.

Cliddesden and Ellisfield – 6.2 miles

Basingstoke Gazette: Near Cliddersden (Credit: Mark P Halls)Near Cliddersden (Credit: Mark P Halls) (Image: Mark P Halls)With this walk taking in woodland tracks, byways ad fields in the Hampshire countryside near Cliddersden and Ellisfield, few are likely to complain about its length!

Most of the walk is on woodland tracks and or across fields, with a few sections of quiet road.

Part of the route also ventures along the old trackbed of the Basingstoke and Alton Light Railway, sure to be a hit for train enthusiasts.

Full directions can be found here.