It is 3.5 miles (5.7 km) north of Petersfield, to the west of the A3 road.

The nearest railway station is 2.2 miles (3.5 km) to the southeast in the village of Liss.

Hawkley is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, sitting on the Hangers Way.

Hawkley Warren, an important site for Red Helleborine, borders the village.

The village's St Peter and St Paul Church (with its Rhenish helm on its tower), and Hawkley Hurst house, were both designed by celebrated architect Samuel Sanders Teulon.