SPRING is here, with gardens and meadows blooming into life, why not go for a nice walk in the Hampshire countryside?

Warmer weather and longer days give us all the chance to get back outside and enjoy the fresh air and wildlife.

Here are some of the best places to check out, many complete with a pub pit-stop which could provide an incentive for even the most stubborn people to venture out of the house.

1. Herbert Plantation, near Burghclere

This woodland in the North of Hampshire was originally part of Adbury Estate, and is named after the owner, Herbert Fox.

It's an ancient woodland of oak, birch, alder and pine, with many rare plants that thrive in this environment.

Visitors with a keen eye for wildlife might spot roe and muntjac deer, rabbits, adders and grass snakes and even long-eared bats.

The nearest pub is the Carpenters Arms, which is only a stone's throw away and can provide much-needed refreshments to keep you going.

READ MORE: Top 10 best bluebell woods in Hampshire for a beautiful country walk

2. Ashford Hangers National Nature Reserve, East Hampshire

Known locally as "Little Switzerland", this beautiful Hampshire woodland is a sight to behold.

The reserve is a woodland of beech, ash and yew trees on steep chalk hillsides, with areas of chalk grassland and plenty of rare plants to marvel at.

Access is a bit tricky, but there are networks of footpaths and tracks that walkers can use, with the nearest pub being an eight-minute drive away.

3. Crab Wood Nature Reserve, Winchester

Another ancient woodland, located near the historic city of Winchester, these woods are home to a hazel coppice and are ideal for a nice afternoon stroll.

Spring flowers and bluebells provide idyllic scenery as you walk through the reserve.

There are quite a few paths suitable for pushchairs, so you can bring the whole family.

Pub-wise, you will need to make a short trip in the car either towards Longparish where you can bring your dog to enjoy a roast dinner at the Plough Inn, or you can head into Winchester and visit one of the many establishments the city has to offer.

4. River Hamble Country Park, Southampton

A beautiful river ideal for a picnic, with a walk full of bluebells and wildlife.

Keen birdwatchers should look out for curlews along the river and skylarks in the fields, while children can enjoy crabbing off the pontoon, and even a visit to Manor Farm.

A short drive away is the Jolly Sailor, the perfect place to enjoy a drink and a bite to eat.Hampshire Chronicle: 5. Crabtree Plantation, Basingstoke

Perhaps an underrated pick, but it makes for an enjoyable afternoon with the family.

Originally part of the Hackwood Estate, Crabtree Plantation in Old Basing has a lot to offer, including a woodland to explore, grassland to enjoy a picnic on and even a play area for the kids to enjoy.

A short drive (or walk if you have the legs for it) away is Bartons Mill, a picturesque pub on the river Loddon, which makes for a perfect setting fr a spot of lunch and a drink.