East Hampshire Hangers facts for kids
The East Hampshire Hangers are a cool line of hills in Hampshire, England. They have really steep slopes and mark the eastern edge of the Hampshire Downs. Think of them as a natural border between the Downs and another area called the Western Weald, which is full of rolling countryside. These hangers stretch from near Farnham all the way to Petersfield, and then curve east towards the South Downs. The main villages you'll find here are Selborne, Hawkley, and East Worldham.
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Discovering the East Hampshire Hangers
What Are "Hangers" Anyway?
The name "Hangers" might sound a bit strange, but it's actually quite descriptive! It comes from an old English word that means a wooded slope. So, the "hangers" are long, narrow strips of ancient woodland that seem to "hang" onto the steep sides of these hills. Imagine trees clinging tightly to a cliff – that's what a hanger looks like! Some famous examples include Milking Hanger, Warner's Hanger, and Wick Hill Hanger. These woodlands are very old and have been around for a long time.
Where Can You Find These Hills?
These unique hills are located in the eastern part of Hampshire. They form a clear line, almost like a natural wall. This line of hills marks where the Hampshire Downs end and the Western Weald begins. The Western Weald is an area with gentle, rolling hills and fields, found east of towns like Petersfield and Liss. The Hangers start near Farnham and continue south to Petersfield. After that, they turn east to meet the north-facing slopes of the South Downs.
Why Are the Hangers Special?
The East Hampshire Hangers are more than just pretty hills. They are considered an important historic landscape. This means the area has a long history of human activity and natural development that has shaped it over time. Because of their special nature, a large part of the Hangers, about 577 hectares (which is about 1,426 acres), has been named a Special Area of Conservation. This is a special title given to places in Europe that are important for their plants, animals, or habitats. It helps protect the unique environment of the Hangers for the future.
What Are the Highest Points?
The East Hampshire Hangers have several high points that offer great views. Some of the tallest hills include:
- Wheatham Hill, which stands at about 249 meters (817 feet) tall.
- Noar Hill, reaching about 214 meters (702 feet) high.
- Selborne Hill, which is around 211 meters (692 feet) tall.
- Shoulder of Mutton Hill is another notable high point in the area.
These hills are popular spots for walking and enjoying nature, letting you see the beautiful landscape of Hampshire.
