Wildlife trust launches new interactive chalk stream trails

New interactive walking trails, known as the Chalk Stream Quest, are being delivered by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust in partnership with Wessex Rivers Trust to help people engage with nature on their doorstep through conservation, storytelling and outdoor play.

Part of the wider Watercress & Winterbournes Landscape Partnership, the Chalk Stream Quest features eight family-friendly routes spread across the county.

The stories will bring to life the Kingfisher. (Image: Jon Hawkins Surrey Hills Photography)

Each route is dotted with QR codes that, when scanned, reveal short animated videos introducing children and adults to the wildlife that depend on chalk streams.

Kathryn Boler, partnership manager for the Watercress & Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme, said: "Chalk Stream Quest is all about helping local families reconnect with the rivers on their doorstep.

"Hampshire is one of the most important places in the world for chalk streams, yet many people don’t realise they’re walking alongside a globally rare habitat which supports an extraordinary array of wildlife.

"By combining simple walks with animation and storytelling, we’re encouraging children spend time outdoors, explore riverbanks, notice the wildlife around them and what’s living in the water, and start building a real sense of care for their local environment."

The animated content brings to life species including kingfishers, otters, brown trout, water voles and the rare southern damselfly.

The otter will feature in the animated stories. (Image: Luke Massey)

Designed for primary-aged children, the trails encourage hands-on learning through curiosity and exploration.

Unlike one-off visitor attractions, the Chalk Stream Quest is intended for local families and residents who may already be familiar with the routes, offering them a fresh perspective on their everyday surroundings.

Each walk is along established footpaths through towns, villages and nature reserves and is designed to fit easily into daily life.

The eight Hampshire locations are Alresford, Anton Lakes Nature Reserve, Laverstoke and Freefolk, Overton, Pillhill Brook, Rooksbury Mill Nature Reserve, and Whitchurch.

The Watercress & Winterbournes Landscape Partnership Scheme is a collaborative effort to celebrate, restore and protect the headwaters of the Rivers Test and Itchen.

It brings together conservation organisations, landowners and communities, with funding support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players.

Trail lengths vary, with options for all ages and abilities.

For more information about the Chalk Stream Quest, trail locations, and how to take part, visit hiwwt.org.uk/watercress-and-winterbournes.