Getting There
Leave the M3 at Junction 9 and take the A272 signed Winchester, Northbound 4th exit, Southbound 1st exit.
At the roundabout, take the 1st exit signed A31 Alvesford, Alton.
At the next roundabout follow signs to Easton, on Castle Lane.
Enter Easton and continue to a T-junction. The Cricketers' Inn car park is on the other side of the road.
Return to M3 Junction 9
Turn left out of the car park and immediately right onto Castle Lane.
At the roundabout take the 2nd exit, signed M3. At the next roundabout take the 2nd exit signed M3 to rejoin the motorway.
The Cricketers' Inn, Easton
From the car park, cross the road and follow signs for St Mary's church on Church Lane. Pass the lychgate to the right and a sign with a shell logo indicates that you are now on the Pilgrim's Way. This long distance path runs from Winchester to Canterbury and features frequently on these pages as the walking is so good.
Just after the Old Schoolhouse turn right, and then immediately left to the Public Footpath sign. Cross the football pitch diagonally to go through a kissing gate in the clump of trees in the corner.
Now follow the clear path with the River Itchen to the right, and keep going in this direction in a field – stile – field pattern until reaching your half-way point. Turn round to return with the river to the left.
Water loving dogs will adore this walk, and the Itchen seems to be safe for canine splashing and swimming.
Facilities
At The Cricketers' Inn. Dogs are welcome in the public bar, and at the outside tables. Dog water is provided. Food is served between 1200 and 1400, and the home-made soup I tried was wonderful, and truly home made.