A Visitor's Introduction to Selborne, Hampshire

Why is Selborne Worth a Visit?

Selborne is worth visiting for its rich natural history, stunning landscapes, and quiet English village charm. The village is world-renowned as the home of Gilbert White, an 18th-century naturalist whose writings about nature, particularly his famous work The Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne, have made Selborne a place of pilgrimage for those interested in ecology and conservation.

Located in the South Downs National Park, the village is surrounded by lush greenery, wooded hills, and walking trails, making it a paradise for walkers and birdwatchers. Selborne’s combination of history, natural beauty, and timeless charm makes it a perfect destination for a relaxing day out or a quiet countryside retreat.

Selborne Highlights: Things to See and Do in Selborne

1. Gilbert White’s House and Gardens One of the key reasons people visit Selborne is to explore Gilbert White’s House and Gardens, the former home of the famous naturalist. The house has been preserved as a museum dedicated to his life and work, with exhibits about White’s contributions to natural history and ecology. Visitors can wander through the beautiful 18th-century gardens that White himself cultivated, including the Great Mead, a wildflower meadow. The museum also houses the Oates Collection, which celebrates the achievements of explorer Lawrence Oates, who took part in Captain Scott’s ill-fated expedition to the South Pole.

2. The Zig-Zag Path The Zig-Zag Path is one of Selborne’s most iconic attractions, designed by Gilbert White in 1753 to access Selborne Hill. This steep path zigzags its way up the hill, leading walkers through beautiful woodland with fantastic views over the surrounding countryside. At the top, you’ll reach Selborne Common, a tranquil area of woodland and grassland managed by the National Trust. The walk is moderately challenging but well worth the effort for the panoramic views and the chance to connect with the landscapes that inspired White’s writings.

3. Selborne Common Managed by the National Trust, Selborne Common is an expansive area of ancient woodland and chalk grassland that sits above the village. It’s a haven for wildlife, particularly birds and butterflies, and offers numerous walking trails. In the spring and summer, wildflowers bloom across the common, attracting nature enthusiasts and photographers. The area is perfect for a peaceful hike, with paths that lead through shaded woods, open meadows, and beautiful views of the South Downs.

4. St Mary’s Church, Selborne Located in the heart of the village, St Mary’s Church is a beautiful medieval church with a rich history. The church dates back to the 12th century and is where Gilbert White served as curate. Visitors can explore the tranquil churchyard, where White is buried, and admire the church’s Norman architecture, including its striking tower. Inside, the church has a serene atmosphere, making it a lovely spot for quiet reflection.

5. The Selborne Arms After exploring the village and its surroundings, The Selborne Arms offers the perfect place to relax. This traditional country pub serves hearty meals and local ales in a cosy setting. With its open fireplaces and beamed ceilings, the pub provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere. During the summer, the beer garden is a delightful spot to enjoy a meal or drink with views of the village and surrounding hills.

6. The Hanger Way For those keen to explore more of the countryside, The Hanger Way is a popular walking route that runs from Alton to Queen Elizabeth Country Park, passing through Selborne. This long-distance trail takes walkers through rolling hills, woodlands, and picturesque villages, offering plenty of opportunities to soak in the beauty of the South Downs. The section of the route around Selborne is particularly scenic, with views over the village and surrounding landscapes.

7. The Wakes Museum The Wakes Museum is part of the Gilbert White House complex and delves deeper into the naturalist’s legacy. It includes personal items, letters, and manuscripts that provide insight into White’s work and life in Selborne. The museum also highlights White’s contributions to ornithology and the understanding of natural ecosystems, making it a fascinating visit for anyone interested in ecology, history, and science.

8. Chawton House Just a short drive from Selborne is Chawton House, the former home of Jane Austen’s brother, Edward Austen Knight. Chawton House is often called the “Great House” in Austen’s letters, and today it serves as a library and museum dedicated to the history of women’s writing. The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland, making it a peaceful and inspiring place to explore. Visitors to Selborne often combine a trip to Gilbert White’s House with a visit to nearby Chawton to learn more about two of England’s most famous writers.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There: Selborne is located in East Hampshire, within easy reach of major cities and towns in the region. By car, it’s about 15 minutes from the nearby town of Alton and roughly 30 minutes from both Petersfield and Winchester. For visitors travelling by public transport, the nearest train station is in Alton, which has regular services to London Waterloo. From Alton, you can take a taxi or bus (No. 38) to reach Selborne.

Parking: There is a dedicated car park at Gilbert White’s House, which is convenient for visitors planning to explore the museum and surrounding areas. Additional parking is available in the village, though spaces may be limited, especially during peak seasons or weekends. The village’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot once you’ve parked.

Dining: In addition to The Selborne Arms, the village has a few lovely spots for dining. The Queens Hotel offers a fine dining experience with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal dishes. Gilbert White’s Tea Parlour, located at the naturalist’s house, is a delightful spot for afternoon tea, with homemade cakes and sandwiches served in a cosy setting. For a more casual meal or snack, there are several farm shops and cafés in the surrounding villages.

Shopping: Selborne may be small, but it has a handful of delightful shops where you can pick up local crafts, gifts, and books. The gift shop at Gilbert White’s House offers a range of nature-themed products, including books, gardening tools, and souvenirs related to White’s work. For local produce, consider stopping at Selborne Village Stores, which stocks fresh goods, local cheeses, and artisan products.

When to Visit: Selborne is beautiful throughout the year, though the best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn when the countryside is at its most vibrant. The gardens at Gilbert White’s House are particularly lovely during the summer months, and the walking trails are ideal for sunny days. Autumn also offers stunning scenery, with the South Downs displaying beautiful autumnal colours. Winter visits are quieter, and while some outdoor activities may be limited, it’s a peaceful time to explore the village and its historical sites.

Local Events: Selborne hosts several events throughout the year, particularly at Gilbert White’s House, which often holds workshops, garden tours, and family-friendly activities. Gilbert White Day, held annually in July, celebrates the naturalist’s legacy with special events, talks, and outdoor activities. Keep an eye on the museum’s event calendar for other seasonal events, including Christmas markets and plant fairs.

Exploring Beyond Selborne: Selborne’s location within the South Downs National Park makes it an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions. The historic town of Alton, with its market square and nearby Jane Austen’s House Museum in Chawton, is just a short drive away. The South Downs Way, a long-distance trail that passes near Selborne, is perfect for walkers and cyclists looking to explore the wider national park. Queen Elizabeth Country Park is also nearby, offering scenic picnic spots, walking trails, and panoramic views of the Downs.