Behind Stockbridge Village lies Stockbridge Common Marsh – a National Trust site situated on the River Test. The common is easily accessible from the high street, with a gated entrance alongside ‘Kudos Coffee’. The bridge takes you over the water onto the marshes, with plenty of open space for dogs to run freely.

The clear waters of the River Test are populated with a large array of insects including dragonflies and the Mayfly – which can mostly be seen in May and early June. There is also grayling, trout and sometimes even salmon can be spotted in the river.

At the far end of the marshes you can see horses or cattle grazing in the meadow. The path bends back around to Test Way footpath through the woodland, which loops back to the bridge.

Afterwards you can stroll down the high street where there are many independent shops including greengrocers, butchers, and gift shops. From there, we recommend visiting Kudos Coffee – a dog-friendly, independent speciality coffee shop.

Kudos do all the classics – americano, latte, cappuccino and more, all with the choice of non-dairy milk. You can enjoy the likes of a bacon bagel, mac and cheese, brie and cranberry ciabatta or a seasonal soup. For sweet treats they have loaded cookies, banana bread and a variety of milkshakes – Biscoff is our favourite.

There is plenty of parking on the high street or in the Lion’s Den car park. You can read more about this walk here.