This run is about 70% offroad and offers some fabulous views. Oh, and some fearsome steps:
From Hursley you head out over the fields parallel to Poles Lane. Follow the footpath signs to Compton. Take the underpass to get to the other side of the M3 and turn left on the main road.
Turn right before and in to the car park and enter Shawford Down, admire the view over Twyford and head down the steep hill and under the railway bridge. Turn left after The Bridge pub and head along the path next to the Itchen Navigation until you go under the M3. Cross the road and keep on the footpath until you see the Steps. Can you manage them without stopping? How long does it take? (Bonus points if you can count the number of steps). There's a Strava segment for them too
After you step off the last step, turn left around the perimeter track. You can go straight at the top of the steps but that way immediately carries on uphill and you probably fancy a break. The left route also gives the best views over Winchester. The route shown skirts round the hill and takes the short way back to the Itchen.
Cross the river on Garnier Rd and after 0.3 miles take the Clarendon Way footpath on the left. Don't take the first mini-bridge on the right but head right at the next opportunity. Cross over St Cross Rd on to Mead Road. Cross the footbridge over the railway line and take the track between the trees.
This begins a 0.7 mile long stretch that ascends 52 metres. There is a Strava segment for this bit so feel free to race. After 0.25 miles take the gentle right path that leads out of the trees on to Whiteshute Ridge and keep on climbing. The Strava segment ends at the bridge over Badger Farm Road.
Cross the bridge and carry straight on, all the way to Port Lane, where you can finish off with a speedy return from the sign.
Here's a link to the route on Bike Route Toaster if you want to explore variations.
See also http://www.dailymile.com/people/finnr/entries/13994431
