The New Forest Essential Guide - FREE - Forestry England
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FREE
The New Forest
Essential Guide
to the National Park 2019
Maps
Events guide
Places to explore
Walking & cycling
The New Forest Essential Guide
is brought to you by:
Welcome
Year of Green Action
Meet
the locals!
in the New Forest If you enjoy seeing the
commoners’ animals
in the National Park
When you visit the New Forest one of the first
things you will notice is the free roaming animals.
The New Forest National Park is a world-class landscape It’s rare to travel more than a few miles without
then help us protect
of spectacular beauty, rare wildlife and ancient traditions - them through some coming across these famous Forest residents.
thanks to a range of organisations working together. simple actions: The ponies, cattle, pigs, donkeys The ponies and cattle are
and, in certain areas, sheep sometimes described as ‘the
Join us in celebrating UK National Parks’ 70th birthday 1. Please #keepyourdistance
graze and forage on unfenced architects of the Forest’. Their
from the animals. However
and the Forestry Commission’s 100th birthday with tame they may appear they are
common land and are owned grazing creates the special qualities
by local families using their of the New Forest, that we all love
exciting activities throughout 2019. unpredictable, and can bite and
commoning rights. and enjoy – the open landscape,
kick. Take particular care around
the close-cropped ‘lawns’ and the
ponies with foals and cattle The members of these families
Celebrating 100
distinctive ‘browse line’ on the
especially if you have a dog are called ‘commoners’ – ordinary
trees marking the highest point
with you. people with an extraordinary
years of forestry 2. Please don’t feed the animals.
commitment to this special place.
They have commoning rights from
they can reach. This supports
incredible biodiversity, making
It is vital that they graze naturally, the New Forest a home for many
land they own, rent or share that
both for their own survival all year rare and threatened species.
The New Forest events are part
of a nationwide Year of Green
• Atosmall grants scheme for groups
bid for financial support for
round and for the benefits this
brings to the landscape.
allows them to graze their animals
on the Open Forest.
Action - a year-long drive to get their green action ideas
3. Please help reduce animal
more people from all ages and
backgrounds involved in improving •The Big Pedall Ride Out– an all-
inclusive celebrity-led bike ride
accidents by driving with
extra care, particularly in poor Did you
the natural world.
for all. visibility. Just #add3minutes The area in which a
Many of the initiatives are
specifically aimed at those aged
to your journey across the New
Forest to keep yourself and the
know? pony lives is known
20 or under and include:
Plenty more events are planned.
commoners’ animals safe. as its haunt.
Read on to see our events pages
•Fun wildlife activities for all ages
at the New Forest Show in July
or visit newforestnpa.gov.uk/
YOGA for more details. Animal emergency
The ponies move around their
haunt according to the seasons
•Opportunities
hotline cards are and weather. In the summer
for hundreds Plus find out more at: available from Local ponies often go to shade under
Information Points
of youngsters to take part in forestryengland.uk/newforest and garages across the same trees each day,
outdoor experiences as part newforestnpa.gov.uk the Forest, keep one commoners have names for
of the John Muir and National in your wallet so you
each of these ‘shades’ and will
know what to do if
Citizenship Service schemes @newforestnpa you are involved in search them out when looking
newforestnpa an accident.
for their ponies.
2 3
Walking in the
FREE
Walking p
ack
Subscribe
email new to our
New Forest
Free walking newfores sletter at
tnp
and receiv a.gov.uk
online wa
e a free
routes app
lking pack
of routes
and
ranger tip
s.
There’s an easy way
for you to follow the
best walks routes in the
Follow our waymarked walks and trails... New Forest this year
The following trails are marked on the ground by wooden marker posts –the National Park’s
with coloured bands. An overview map of each route is displayed at the walking routes app.
start point in the car park. All routes are circular and will bring you back to
Available for Android and iPhone,
your starting point. The numbers refer to map locations on centre pages. the app features 27 walking routes
of various lengths from coastal
strolls to woodland walks.
2 From Bolderwood car park 6 From Blackwater or 3 Reptile Centre car park: It makes following the routes easier
Deer Watch Trail Brockhill car parks: Reptile Trail than ever, with GPS navigation
0.75km/0.5 miles Tall Trees Trail 2km/1.5 miles allowing you to see your location
A short stroll leading you to a 2.5km/1.5 miles Enjoy a circular walk through the at all times. This removes the need
deer viewing platform overlooking Follow the marker posts and you woods. The trail mainly follows a to read a map or decipher written
fields where wild herds of fallow will be guided along a shady path fairly smooth, gravelled surface. directions, making it perfect for the
deer are frequently seen. The beneath mighty Douglas firs and casual walker.
8 Wilverley car parks:
path is a moderately smooth, redwoods that were planted
gravelled surface with gentle during the reign of Queen Victoria. Wilverley Wander
Each route on the app also features
points of interest, where you can
No smartphone?
slopes and benches along the The path has a fairly smooth, 4.2km/2.5 miles
A longer and more informal trail
ut
ore abo ties
find out about interesting history No problem!
way. The trail is accessed by a gravelled surface. The trail is flat a r n m
Le ali or nature facts along the route.
which winds through this diverse cial qu All walks are available to
the spe ew Forest
gate which has a low catch. with frequent resting places and
no gates. and working woodland. The paths Download for free at download and print at
N
Jubilee Grove Trail are moderately smooth, gravelled of the joying a newforestnpa.gov.uk/walksapp newforestnpa.gov.uk/routes
e n
1.5km/1 mile Blackwater Arboretum Trail surfaces with some short, steep while stroll.
y
health
Including the deer fields, this 0.75km/0.5 miles slopes. Please note that part of this
meandering route leads you past A circular route which leads you trail is on a cycle route.
some majestic trees, the oldest
of which date back to 1860.
past tree species from around the
world. By following the unique 5 Knightwood car park: Sample walks
Benches from which to admire panels you can use your senses Knightwood Oak Keyhaven Marshes
their beauty can be found along to discover the secrets that these Less than 0.25 miles A 3.5 mile walk with coastal
the way. The path is a moderately trees hold. Benches are located A short stroll to one of the most birdlife and views of the Isle
smooth, gravelled surface with two along the walk. The path has a famous trees in the New Forest. of Wight.
short ‘but fairly steep’ slopes and fairly smooth, gravelled surface Believed to have been planted
frequent resting places. The trail with one very gentle slope. before 1600, this tree is still Burley village
is accessed via a gate which has going strong and is a spectacular A 4.2 mile walk full of stories
7 From Whitefield Moor or
a low catch. example of the ancient practice of of folklore and smuggling.
Puttles Bridge car parks:
pollarding. Benches are located Brook to Minstead village
Radnor Trail Ober Water Trails throughout. The path has a fairly A 7.2 mile walk to the Rufus
3km/2 miles 1.5km/1 mile (red trail) smooth, gravelled surface. Stone to discover the mystery
A longer route which takes you 2.5km/1.5miles (yellow trail)
into the heart of the forest and Two circular routes follow the surrounding the death of
across the Bratley Water stream. Miles of waymarked trails King William II.
Ober Water midway between its
Benches and picnic benches are to explore!
source and the sea. Close to this Godshill and Castle Hill
located along the trail. The path meandering stream is the open A 2.6 mile walk along quiet field
is a moderately smooth, gravelled grassy expanse of Whitefield Moor. and woodland paths to the site
surface with two short ‘but fairly The paths are moderately smooth, of an Iron Age hill fort.
steep’ slopes and frequent resting gravelled surfaces and compacted
places. The trail is accessed via a grassy ground with some gentle
gate which has a low catch. slopes and a few resting places.
This trail can be muddy after
wet weather.
4 5
We’ve got
the trails
to ride?
are you ready
Explore the National
Park on two wheels,
Follow the New
Forest Cycle Code
Adventure
with more than 100
miles of waymarked
The New Forest is a working
forest, with forestry, farming and
cycling
equestrian activity on its narrow For more adventurous cyclists,
family-friendly cycle roads and tracks. Ponies, cattle and there are purpose-built mountain
routes, much of it off other animals are free to roam the bike skills circuits at Moors Valley
forest and most of its roads. Country Park, Ringwood. Here
the public highway and you will find a network of forest
Be aware that animals are easily
traffic-free. startled and may suddenly move
road graded trails, as well as blue
graded single track. A cycle map is
The network is easily accessible into your path. available from the visitor
from railway stations at Ashurst,
!
Please follow both the Highway centre on-site.
Brockenhurst and Sway and links Code and the New Forest
the main New Forest villages. Cycling Code which is supported
There are plenty of places to hire ff-road cycling in the
O
by cycling groups and local
bikes before and during your stay. New Forest is permitted
organisations.
only on waymarked routes.
For all the best trails visit: newforestnpa.gov.uk/cycling
Please take a look at our cycle trail
newforestnpa.gov.uk/routes If you are cycling in an organised map for more information.
event, follow the additional
instructions to minimise your impact.
Cycling in the Horse riding
in the New Forest
New Forest The New Forest is a wonderful place to go horse
riding. There are mature woods, shady streams,
dappled glades and beautiful open heathland –
what better way to see the landscape than from
the back of a horse? You can walk quietly through
Cycle code magnificent oak woods, past tall conifers, or strike
across the heathland enjoying the views and the
and map wild open country.
Horse riders have always
Grab a cycle trail map before enjoyed open access in
heading out on your adventure. the forest, which has lots
It shows both off-road and of suitable tracks.
road-based cycle networks
across the New Forest, plus When leaving Forestry
details of bike hire outlets. England land, remember to
£1
use the bridleways. On private
Available at outlets across land, riders must keep to
the New Forest National Public Rights of Way. These
Park, including local are shown on Ordnance
information points.
only Survey maps, and are usually
indicated by fingerposts and/
or blue arrows or dots.
6 7
Where to stay?
For more information on The sign of
See the best true local
where to stay, what to see
and do in the New Forest
visit: thenewforest.co.uk
produce
of the Forest Immerse yourself in the New Forest
when you visit by sampling its food,
View the New Forest National Park from
drink and crafts.
a different perspective this summer.
Experience the best views of the forest on To ensure you are getting genuine local produce look
out for the New Forest Marque as you shop and eat in
the open-top New Forest Tour or find out the National Park.
the best places to visit from the friendly The Marque is the region’s leading authority on
Travel Concierge. quality craftsmanship, food and drink. It is the sign of
true, local produce that is guaranteed to have been
produced in the New Forest.
There are around 150 Marque businesses who are
passionate about their local products.
Look out for the blue symbol when visiting and you’ll
know you’re eating local food or buying gifts made
locally using local produce.
Love the Forest?
Then help secure the future of its wildlife, young
Tips from the people and commoners by donating to the New
Forest Trust at newforesttrust.org.uk/donate
New Forest Tour
newforestmarque.co.uk
Travel Concierge @NewForestMarque
new-forest-marque
If you’re looking for ideas on how to make the most The New Forest Tour gives you the best
of your visit to the New Forest National Park then views of the New Forest National Park
look no further. and is the perfect excuse to leave your
car at home.
The friendly Travel Concierge team, based at
Brockenhurst railway station, will welcome you to The Tour offers unrivalled treetop views of
New Forest
their pedal-powered mobile unit full of information free-roaming ponies, ancient forests and
on car-free experiences and the best places to visit. picturesque villages. There are three beautiful
routes to choose from: red, green and blue –
Reptile Centre
Stop by and say hello from Sat 6 July to and you can hop on and off where you like
Sun 8 September. Find out more at and switch routes – all on the same ticket.
newforestnpa.gov.uk/travel_concierge
You can even bring your bikes (carried free)
@NewForestTravel
NewForestTravel
and listen to audio commentary that brings the
history and characters of the New Forest to life.
The perks don’t stop there, as you can enjoy a
‘A date with nature’
Did you know that amongst There is also a self-guided
‘A Date With Nature’
free ferry ride from Southampton to Hythe, as
well as great discounts at attractions including trees and heathland here in the discovery trail, which starts at the
New Forest Wildlife Park, Ringwood Brewery New Forest there are some very Reptile Centre. This route is easy is a joint venture
between the RSPB,
and Beaulieu National Motor Museum. special residents? The New Forest to walk and takes you in a loop
is home to many reptiles and back to the centre. Download the
The Tour runs hourly seven days a week amphibians and if you want to see trail map that shows you the best Forestry England,
New Forest National
from Sat 6 July to Sun 8 September them up-close you should visit the places to stop along the way and
(see map on centre pages for routes). Reptile Centre, near Lyndhurst. look at wildlife as you walk. For
As you look around the habitats,
dates and opening times visits: Park Authority and
Tour information or ‘pods’ as we call them, see if you
forestryengland.uk/new-forest- Carnyx Wild.
reptile-centre
thenewforesttour.info can spot the elusive smooth snake,
adder, or the bright colours of the
@NewForestTour male sand lizard.
NewForestTour
8 9
Whiteparish
Discover the
The New Forest’s free tap Local
Downton water refill service, across Information
the forest. Download the Refill Points
app, bring your own water Romsey
New Forest
Redlynch bottle, look out for the window Bashley
stickers and get a free tap water Eastleigh Hoburne Bashley
refill. refill.org.uk/newforest
Ri Holiday Park
ve
rB
Beaulieu New
R iver Te
Landford West Wellow
la
ck
B3080
Nomansland Forest Activities
While you’re visiting the New Forest,
A36
wa
M3
en
Woodgreen r Booking Centre
te
ch
st
why not check out nearby Moors
It
4
B3079 Brockenhurst
er
A338
5
Valley Country Park? B3078
Riv
Furzley 2 3 Cyclexperience
Bramshaw
Explore waymarked children, plus the option Fordingbridge B3078 M27 Burley
footpaths and cycle to hire a Forest Segway, Newbridge M271 Shappen Stores
routes, hire a bike or there really is something Fritham Hythe
bring your own. For a for everyone. And, when Godshill Totton Herald Publishing
B la c k Wate r
Longbeech Rufus
more leisurely journey you’re feeling hungry you Stone 1
Landford
Frogham
take a trip on the narrow- can enjoy delicious food Cadnam Southampton Landford Village
gauge steam train. in Seasons restaurant. Bartley
Stores
Eling
Children will love the A337 Woodlands
Moors Valley is open all Ocknell Milford-on-Sea
adventure play areas
year round, with a full North Gorley A35 The Village News
and the ‘Play Trail’ with Minstead
programme of events
its huge wooden play New Forest Sway
for adults and children. 2 Bolderwood
Wildlife Park
structures. Deli and Coffee Shop
Disabled access and Ashurst
Hythe
If you’d rather live life facilities are provided Linwood New Forest A326 Ferry Woodgreen
3 Reptile Heritage Centre
more adventurously including wheelchair and Centre Community Shop
why not try Go Ape, mobility scooter hire. A31 Matley and Post Office
Wood
the UK’s number one moors-valley.co.uk Hythe
forest adventure? With Ringwood 5 Knightwood B3056 So
officialmoorsvalley Oak ut
challenges for adults and Lyndhurst Denny Wood
ha
Moors Valley m
New for 2019 Country Park
6 Blackwater Arboretum Beaulieu Road pt
on
A337
Anderwood
New activity trail at Moors
Valley, near Ringwood, based Crow A35 W
at
B3054
Aldridge Hill
on Zog the lovable dragon
St Leonards
Ringwood
Ober Water 7 Whitefield Moor
Hollands Wood
Beaulieu er
from Julia Donaldson and Brewery Motor Holbury
Axel Scheffler’s magical Museum
picture book. Children can
A31
Brockenhurst Hatchet Pond Calshot
follow the trail through Zog’s Burley Blackfield
forest classroom to learn 8 Wilverley B3055 Beaulieu
more about the animals B337
and habitats around them. Roundhill
Zog © 2010 & TM Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler.
Licensed by Magic Light Pictures Ltd. A338 Lepe Country Park
Bransgore Holmsley Exbury Gardens
Lyming ton R ive
Finding out more...
Buckler’s & Steam Railway
B3054
B e au l i e
Setthorns Hard
Sway B3055 R iv
u
Lepe Country Park Ringwood Gateway East End er
B3058
R i ve r
Sway
hants.gov.uk/lepe Ringwood.gov.uk/ Hoburne Norleywood
St. Barbe
r
Bashley
Av
gateway
Avo
Museum
on
New Forest Heritage Holiday Park
& Gallery
W
New Forest
at
Centre, Lyndhurst Fordingbridge
n
er
Adventure Golf
newforestcentre.org.uk Information Centre
Lymington Pier
fordingbridge.gov.uk/ New Milton & Ferry Teminal
The National Park
Mobile Information
fordingbridge Hinton
lent
N
Unit, various locations
information-office Admiral
A337 KeyThto map
e So
newforestnpa. Lepe Highcliffe Barton-on-Sea Lymington Visitor Play area New Forest
gov.uk/visiting Christchurch Wightlink information Walking trails Tour* (see page 8)
Local information Barbecue
New Forest Reptile Milford-on-Sea New Forest
Campsite
Centre, Lyndhurst Christchurch Bay Wildlife area
Barbecue
(Booking required:
Tour*
0300 067 4601) New Forest
Bolderwood Castle Tour*
y
Forestr
Cycle network
Information Unit
a p o f a ll Hurst Castle Toilets
* The tour runs
: Fishing (by permit
For a m car parks visit
Accessible toilets hourly, seven days
Fishing
St Barbe Museum and d Cafe a week, from
Art Gallery, Lymington Englan ngland.uk/ Isle of Wight Picnic area
National Park 6 July – 8 September.
e
foresty st
Car parking
stbarbe-museum.org.uk
r e
newfo Not to scale: This map is a representation of the New Forest National Park area and is not intended to
10 be used as a sole means of navigation. Please consult relevant Ordnance Survey maps or visitor guides. 11
Meet your New
Caring for the Forest Forest rangers n
questio o
How to enjoy and care for the New Forest
Both Forestry England and the National Park Authority a v e a t
employ rangers, who you’ll often meet out and about If you h ike to speak be
ld l an
in the New Forest. Here, you’ll meet some of the team or wou team, they c
t h e tails at
Ponies, donkeys, cattle, Horse riding
as they answer some of the most commonly asked
one of ed via the de ge.
where stands and water are available. t a
contac ttom of the p
questions by visitors to the New Forest.
pigs & sheep Raised non-disposable BBQs are
allowed on the hard-standing areas of
Horse riders have open access
the b o
For their safety and your own please to the New Forest, but to reduce
car parks, providing water is available.
leave the animals alone - although damage to the ground please use
You can hire fixed stand party-sized
owned and cared for by local tracks when it’s wet.
BBQs from the Forestry England (call
people called commoners, they are
0300 067 4601) and from Hampshire
unpredictable and best treated as wild. Ticks
County Council at Lepe Country Park
Please don’t feed or pet them; there
hants.gov.uk/lepe or call Check your children, dog and
is plenty of natural food and it’s best
023 8089 9108 in advance). yourself for ticks when you get back –
that they don’t come to rely on people’s
attention. They may look friendly but they can lead to Lyme disease.
they can bite and kick, especially ponies Cycling
with foals. Cycling is allowed only on Driving
the waymarked tracks and other The speed limits on unfenced
Dogs designated routes. When approaching roads greatly reduce the number of
people and animals, please call out a accidents involving animals. Slow down
The New Forest is great for dogs
warning and pass slowly and wide. Try and give walkers, cyclists, horse-riders
but to minimise disturbance to wildlife,
to leave gaps for overtaking vehicles and animals a wide berth. Be especially
livestock and other people, please keep
and never ride more than two abreast. careful at night.
your dogs close by you and visible at all
Keep to a safe speed, wear bright
times - if necessary use a lead. Pick up
colours to be visible and always use New Forestark Authority
after your dog, especially around car Parking glan d
National P m
lights in the dark. ry En
parks, on paths and where people Please park only in designated r e
Fo erss t ranger tea What are the most
play or picnic. car parks, not on a verge or in rang popular things to do for
Fungi gateways. Lock your car, taking any free in the New Forest?
Birds Please leave fungi for other valuables with you and leave Forestry The Forest is full of
people to enjoy. Fungi are essential England car parks by dusk. walking and cycling trails
To help ground-nesting birds
to the New Forest’s internationally of all distances, some
rear their young safely, keep yourself,
protected ecosystem. Foray leaders Unidentified objects of which can be started
dogs and horses on the main tracks from Forestry England car
must apply for permission for
from the beginning of March to the end Areas of the New Forest were parks. There is also over
educational excursions from the
of July. used to test bombs in World War I and 26 miles of coastline to
Forestry England in advance.
II. Please keep away from objects that be explored. If you want
If you suspect or see commercial
Litter might be dangerous and notify the to head to the beach
picking please call the Forestry England while visiting the New
Your food and litter could harm on 0300 067 4600. police immediately on 999.
e feed New Forest, Lepe Country
the ponies and donkeys. Please take Why can’t w ? Park is perfect for walks,
How can I help rare ni es
Working forest t involved in Fore st po
your litter home if bins are full. Camping How can I ge work in the ground-nesting birds?
s the ponies,
lunch and learning about
Stay safe by obeying warning conservati on Everyone lovener myself coastal wildlife and history
There are 10 campsites in the
Barbecues & fires signs and keeping away from work sites New Forest? During spring and summer as a horse ow t we all (parking charges apply).
New Forest, run by Camping in the
and vehicles. y
we urge you to keep I love them, busponsibly
To reduce the risk of damaging Forest, as well as a number of private There are man oups which yourself and your dogs need to act re fe distance
Chris Marshall, New
er va tio n gr Forest National Park
wildfires, campfires are not allowed sites. Please note that camping in co ns
around the
to the main gravel tracks and keep a sa otection, as
without the landowner’s permission. the wild and overnight parking is not work in and you visit while you’re out walking, pr
for our own nies. Many
Authority Coastal Ranger
re st . If
allowed in the New Forest. New Fo a.gov.uk/
cycling or horse riding, so well as the po derstand
Disposable BBQs are only allowed at
newforestnp you can see the birds and young chicks people don’t
un
Bolderwood, Blackwater and Wilverley volunteering r groups i-wild and
ee
are not disturbed. they are sem ral food
all the volunt at interests tu
find all the na rvive from
th
and find one ys you are Martin Rea and Wendy
they ne ed to su
you on the da Woodhouse, Forestry
the Forest.
.
free to join in England Seasonal rangers
,
New Forest Amy Howells nger,
Craig Daters, Authority South W al k Ra
rk
National Pa Forestry Engl
and
North Ranger
New Forest National Park Authority rangers
Forestry England rangers 01590 646 600
0300 067 4601 rangers@newforestnpa.gov.uk
enquiries.southern@forestryengland.uk New Forest National Park Authority,
Forestry England, The Queen’s House, Lymington Town Hall, Avenue Road,
newforestnpa.gov.uk/caringfor Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7NH Lymington SO41 9ZG
12 13
What’s
March Easter Eggstravaganza
Fri 12 Apr 11am-3pm
Bolderwood Information Unit,
Talk: Hampshire – SU242086
Nature in Trust Meet our rangers, help spot
Fri 29 Mar 7.30pm (doors the early signs of spring and
open 7pm), New Forest celebrate our feathered friends.
on? 2019
Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst, Take part in our Easter Trail at
SO43 7NY Bolderwood and learn about
Illustrated talk by photographer what special ground nesting
Mike Read based on his visits birds we have here in the New
to 12 of the Hampshire Wildlife Forest. If you manage to solve all
Trust reserves. the clues you can claim a prize!
£6 per person, £4 for friends. £2.00 per entrant. Suitable for
Booking advised. Enquiries all ages, dogs welcome if kept on
02380 283444 a lead.
New Forest Heritage Centre Wild Play Day at
Forestry England April the Beach
At home in
Tue 16 April drop in between
Discovery Days at
New Forest National Park Authority Bolderwood
10am – 3pm Hurst Spit,
Milford on Sea, SO41 0PY
Year of Green Action events Sat 6 Apr- Sun 21 Apr
10.30am-3.30pm
Discover fun ways to explore,
play and get creative in the
to celebrate 70 years of outdoors. Come and try beach/
the forest
Bolderwood SU242086
forest art, seashore/forest
National Parks Come along and take part
in seasonal activities at our scavenging and much more.
Bolderwood Information Unit. Wear some old clothes weather
appropriate and don’t forget
Free. Suitable for all. Dogs your wellies if you like a splash!
welcome on leads. No booking
Enjoy the peace and quiet required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Suggested donation £1/child.
Parking charges apply. Suitable
for all ages (children must be
of the woods for longer with Wild Wednesdays accompanied by an adult).
Wed 10 April drop in between No booking required.
Camping in the Forest. 10.30am – 3.30pm New Forest Enquiries 01590 646600.
Reptile Centre, SU271071
Wild Wednesdays
Camping in the Forest offers a the experience. We are conscious Book today: Enjoy a date with nature at
the Reptile Centre, with fun
place where you can disconnect of the wildlife that calls this area Wed 17 April drop in between
from everyday life and the stresses home, aware of the measures in campingintheforest.co.uk activities for the whole family. 10.30am – 3.30pm New Forest
Quiz trail and making activities
of modern day living. The forest place to protect them and their 024 7767 0208. Exhibitions in the New Forest Gallery for children. Come and see our
Reptile Centre, SU271071
See Wed 10 April for details.
allows you to break free and surroundings, and we act on that Gallery open daily 10am to 4.30pm from 1 April to 27 nestcam video from a bird of
prey’s nest as well as the reptiles
reconnect with each other, with where necessary. October (10am-3.30pm at all other times). and amphibians. Wild About Ponies
nature, but most importantly with Thur 18 Apr 1pm-2pm
All of our 15 campsites within Forestry Commission The Seventh Annual Car parking donations
yourself and a simpler way of Hatchet Pond SU369017
the UK are set amongst idyllic Centenary Year New Forest Open welcome. Suitable for all. Dogs
See Thur 11 Apr for details
life – leading to a calmer state of welcome on leads. No booking
woodlands on Forestry England 16 Mar – 7 Jul, open daily Art Exhibition required. Enquiries 0300 067 4601
mind and a true sense of peace. Celebrating the Forestry
land in National Park locations, 13 Jul – 7 Sept, open daily Easter Crafts day
Commission’s achievements
At Camping in the Forest, the including 10 within the New over the past century, this
An exhibition showcasing the Wild about ponies Sat 20 Apr 10am – 2pm
best of the creative New Forest.
connection with nature is vital to Forest alone. exhibition also looks at the Thur 11 Apr 1pm-2pm New Forest Heritage Centre,
importance of forests as New Forest Heritage Bolton’s Bench, SU303081 SO43 7NY
biodiverse habitats. Centre, Lyndhurst, Come and meet a New Forest Have an ‘egg-citing’ time with
ranger and learn about ponies our children’s Easter crafts
SO43 7NY and make lots of fun things
and other livestock which live on
the forest. Come along to a fun, to take home.
free information session and
Be extra
Cost £1 per craft. Suitable
The New Forest has many picnic and barbecue learn all the answers to your
questions about the four-legged
for all ages (children must be
accompanied by an adult).
sites that you can use; we ask that you bear in icons of the New Forest. No booking required.
careful ...
Enquiries 02380 283444.
mind some important guidance when you’re Free. Suitable for all. 1 mile.
Dogs welcome on leads.
visiting this special landscape. No booking required.
Enquiries: 0300 067 4601
The forest is particularly vulnerable forest lawns it damages the grass Family Discovery Days
to the risk of wildfires; most and leaves behind unsightly scorch Learn about the New Forest and have fun with
are started by arson, discarded marks. The grass will take many our family-friendly activities. No need to book, just
cigarettes, barbecues and weeks to recover and causes a loss drop in between 10am and 3pm to try different
campfires. Summer fires can of grazing for ponies. activities each day. (Museum entry is free,
cause serious harm to wildlife and donation per craft activity.)
If you’re planning a barbecue in
destroy rare plants.
the forest please take a look at the 19 Feb 18 Apr 6 Aug 22 Aug
When the weather is glorious many following guidance and enjoy your 21 Feb 28 Apr 8 Aug 27 Aug
people like to enjoy barbecuing sausages and burgers safely: 9 Apr 30 Apr 13 Aug 29 Aug
in the beautiful surroundings of 11 Apr 30 Jul 15 Aug
forestryengland.uk/
the forest. Unfortunately, if you 16 Apr 1 Aug 20 Aug
barbecues-the-new-forest
use disposable barbecues on our New Forest Heritage Centre, Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY
14 15
Verderers Hall The Castleman Roydon Wood Fair Discovery days at Discover the New Forest Wild Wednesdays
Open Day Corkscrew: A History of Sun 9 June drop in between Bolderwood Thur 15 Aug 11am-12pm Wed 28 Aug drop in between
Fri 26 Apr 11am-3pm the New Forest Railway 11am – 4.30pm Roydon Woods Sat 27 Jul- Sun 1 Sep Bolderwood Information Unit, 10.30 – 3.30pm Reptile Centre,
Come and visit the Verderers Nature Reserve, Lymington, Bolderwood, SU242086 SU242086 SU271071
Wed 29 May 10am-1pm.
Hall, for an exclusive SO41 8PN See Sat 6 Apr for details. See Thur 8 Aug for details. See Wed 10 April for details.
Burbush Car Park, SU202018
opportunity to visit this historic Hampshire & Isle of Wight
Follow the trackbed of
building and learn more about the Castleman Railway to
Wildlife Trust is hosting the 10th
New Forest Show Wild about ponies Discover the New Forest
the important role it plays in wood fair supported by the New
Holmsley via open forest with Tue 30 July – Thu 1 August, Thur 15 Aug 1pm-2pm Thur 29 Aug 11am-12pm
the New Forest. Parking in main Forest National Park Authority.
panoramic views across the New Park, Brockenhurst Whitefield Moor, SU274026 Bolderwood Information Unit,
Lyndhurst Town car park only. Woodland products ranging
landscape, stopping for optional The New Forest Show offers See Thur 11 Apr for details. SU242086
from charcoal to hurdles will be
refreshments at a local tea visitors 30 acres of showground See Thur 8 Aug for details.
Free. Suitable for all. Dogs not on display on the day and there
suitable on this event. No booking room. Learn about some of the for the whole family to explore Fun in the Forest
will be plenty of opportunity to
required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 history of this line and the forest and is now rated among the Wild about ponies
have a go at woodland crafts. Thur 15 Aug drop in
in general. top 10 agricultural shows in
Lots of locally produced food between 10am – 3pm, Thur 29 Aug 1pm-2pm
May £6 per person. 10 years+.
4.5 miles. Dogs welcome
and products will be available
and a wide variety of children’s
the country.
Go to: newforestshow.co.uk
Wilverley Inclosure car park,
Brockenhurst BH25 5TZ
Hatchet Pond, SU369017
See Thur 11 Apr for details.
on a lead. Please book activities will be laid on. Catch up with the New Forest
Woodland Wander online: forestryengland.uk/
Free entry. Dogs welcome. Wild Wednesdays rangers for a host of activities Fun in the Forest
October Autumn in the Forest
newforestevents.
Thur 9 May 10am-3pm Enquires: 0300 068 0400 Please bring suitable clothing for such as scavenger hunts,
Acres Down, SU266097 Wed 31 July drop in between Thur 29 Aug drop in between
the weather. Children must be colouring and crafts. Wear
10am – 3pm, Anderwood car Sun 20 Oct 9.30am-2pm
A lovely walk through woodland accompanied by an adult. 10.30 – 3.30pm Reptile Centre, old clothes and be ready for Eyeworth Pond, SU228146
Wild Wednesdays Plenty of parking at Roydon SU271071 park, Lyndhurst Road, Burley New Forest
and heath with insights into forest fun! Spend the morning with two of
BH24 4HS
commoning and local history, Wed 29 May drop in between Woods Nature Reserve, off Sandy Walking Festival the Forestry England’s Volunteer
August Catch up with the New Forest
10.30am – 3.30pm New Forest Down, Setley, near Brockenhurst Suggested donation £1/child.
followed by an optional stop, Suitable for all (children must Sat 12 – Sun 27 Oct, locations Rangers on an autumnal walk
Reptile Centre, SU271071 (Map ref. SZ 313 995). rangers for a host of activities
in the heart of the forest. be accompanied by an adult). across the Forest as part of this year’s Walking
See Wed 10 April for details. such as bug and scavenger
Family Fun Day No booking required. Join local experts for fascinating Festival. Savour the colour,
£6 per person. 11 years+. Child of the Wild Enquiries: 01590 646600
hunts, colouring and crafts.
sights and sounds of the forest
6 miles. Dogs welcome Wear old clothes and be ready New Forest walks at the seventh
on a lead. Please book Wild About Ponies – Sat 22 Jun drop in between Tues 6 Aug 10.30am-12pm annual walking festival. Includes at this special time of year.
10am – 2pm, New Forest Blackwater Arboretum, for some forest fun!
online: forestryengland.uk/ My Haunt wildlife walks, history hikes and
newforestevents. Heritage Centre, SO43 7NY SU268047 Summer Wild Suggested donation £1/child. family strolls and activity trails.
£6 per person. 16 years+.
Thur 30 May 1pm-2pm Dogs not suitable on this
Enquires: 0300 068 0400
Tilery Road, SU308032
Fun and entertaining activities See Tues 28 May for details. Play Day Suitable for all ages (children must
event. Please book online:
for all the family, all in aid of our be accompanied by an adult). Booking is essential. Browse
Tue 20 Aug drop in between forestryengland.uk/
Talk: ‘A Forester’s See Thur 11 Apr for details museum and library. No booking required. the walks and book from August
Marine Wonders 10am – 3pm Whitefield Moor, Enquiries 01590 646600. onwards at newforestnpa.gov.uk/
newforestevents.
Career’ by Harry Oram Donations for activities. Wed 7 and Thu 8 Aug drop in Brockenhurst, SO42 7QB walkingfestival
Enquires: 0300 068 0400
Wed 22 May 7pm New Forest
Heritage Centre, SO43 7NY
June Suitable for all ages (children
must be accompanied by an
between 10am – 4pm, Lepe
Country Park, SO45 1AD
See Wed 10/17 April for details.
A Walk through Time
adult). No booking required. Suggested donation £1/child. Autumn Through a Lens
Harry Oram, former Chief Hedgerow Medicines Enquiries 02380 283444.
Come to Lepe for two days of Donation for parking. Suitable Tues 15 Oct 10am-1pm
Forester / Operations Manager marine-themed fun: seashore Sun 27 Oct 10am-3pm
Workshop for all ages (children must be Setley Pond, SZ302993
at the Forestry Commission, safaris, arts and crafts, accompanied by an adult). Anderwood car park, SU249056
Sat 8 June 10.30am – 3pm Sunset Safari storytelling and much more. No booking required.
A walk of contrasts, learning
Bring your camera for a
managed the timber enclosures about the Bronze Age people,
and the Open Forest. With help New Forest Heritage Centre, Sat 22 Jun 8.30pm-10pm Enquiries 01590 646600. gentle 4 mile walk with lots of
Blackwater, SU268047 Free event, donations for craft their burial customs and their
from the collections here in SO43 7NY opportunities to photograph the
activities welcome. No booking lasting impact on the New
our museum, he will recall Kate Scott is educated in See Fri 7 Jun for details. required. Parking charges apply
autumn scenery.
how some of the forestry sustainable agriculture. She has (free for blue badge holders).
Wild Wednesdays Forest landscape.
£6 per person. 12 years+.
tools were used. worked alongside her husband Wild Wednesdays £ 6 per person. 10 years+.
July
Suitable for all (children must Dogs not suitable on this
for 25 years in both forestry be accompanied by an adult). Wed 21 Aug drop in between 3.5 miles. Dogs welcome event. Please book online:
£6 per person, £4 for friends. and agriculture and will share Enquiries 023 8089 9108 10.30 – 3.30pm Reptile Centre, on a lead. Please book forestryengland.uk/
Booking advised. Enquiries SU271071 online: forestryengland.uk/
her knowledge on how to use Sunset Safari newforestevents.
newforestevents.
02380 283444
hedgerow plants to create Wild Wednesdays See Wed 10 April for details. Enquires: 0300 068 0400
Enquires: 0300 068 0400
simple remedies. Thur 4 Jul 8.30pm-10pm
Discovery Days at
Bolderwood Cost £45pp, provide own lunch.
Blackwater, SU268047
See Fri 7 Jun for details.
Wed 7 Aug drop in between
10.30 – 3.30pm Reptile Centre, Discover the New Forest September A Walk on the Wild Side Things you Might
Booking essential. Enquiries SU271071
Thur 22 Aug 11am-12pm
Not Know about the
Sat 25 May- Sun 2 June Verderers Hall Wed 16 Oct 10am-2pm
02380 283444
Sunset Safari See Wed 10 April for details. Bolderwood Information Unit, Wilverley Plain, SU253010 New Forest
Bolderwood, SU242086 Open Day
Wed 10 Jul 8.30pm-10pm SU242086 Join a Forestry England Mon 28 Oct 10am-12pm
See Sat 6 Apr for details. Verderers Hall Discover the New Forest See Thur 8 Aug for details. Fri 13 Sept Date 11am- 3pm Volunteer Ranger on this Verderers Hall, Lyndhurst,
Blackwater, SU268047
Open Day Thur 8 Aug 11am-12pm See Fri 26 Apr for details. beautiful walk to learn more SO43 7NH
Child of the Wild See Fri 7 Jun for details.
Fri 7 Jun 11am-3pm Bolderwood Information Unit, Wild about ponies- about the roles of the Verderers, Join one of our Volunteer
Tues 28 May 10.30am-12pm SU242086 Lymington - Keyhaven Agisters and Keepers, and the Rangers in the historic setting
Blackwater Arboretum,
See Fri 26 Apr for details. Wild Wednesdays Beaulieu Road Special management of our four legged of the Verderers Hall for an
Join a Ranger on a short Nature Reserve
SU268047 Wed 24 July drop in between guided walk and discover Thur 22 Aug 1pm-2pm architects- the NF ponies. illustrated talk for a general
Get back to nature and explore
Sunset Safari 10.30am – 3.30pm, New Forest Beaulieu Road Sales Yard, Open Day introduction to the New Forest
what makes the New Forest £6 per person. 12 years+.
your senses with this fun and Fri 7 Jun 8.30pm-10pm Reptile Centre, SU271071 so special. Learn about the SU350063 Sun 15 Sept drop in between
Blackwater car park, SU268047 7 miles. Dogs welcome £6 per person. 10 years+.
interactive event. The morning See Wed 4 Apr for details. history and heritage of the A unique opportunity to 10.30am - 4pm Lymington - on leads. Please book Dogs not suitable on this
will be full of hands-on activities Experience New Forest wildlife Forest and its extraordinary explore Beaulieu Road sales Keyhaven Nature Reserve, online: forestryengland.uk/ event. Please book online:
and a chance to explore with as the sun sets. Listen for Fun in the Forest diversity of wildlife. yard with a New Forest ranger. Normandy Lane, SO41 8AE, newforestevents. forestryengland.uk/
your senses. Nightjars; keep your eyes peeled Come along to a fun, free SZ330 943 Enquires: 0300 068 0400 newforestevents.
for bats and watch out for deer. Thur 25 Jul drop in between Free. Suitable for all. Dogs information session and Enquires: 0300 068 0400
£5 per child. 3 years+. 10am – 3pm Puttles Bridge car welcome on leads. Spaces limited. Come to Hampshire’s premiere
1 mile. Dogs not suitable £10 per person. 10 years+. park, Brockenhurst, SO42 7QB Please book on day at Bolderwood
learn all the answers to your coastal reserve and enjoy the Walk with a Commoner
Information Unit.
questions about the four-legged spectacle of birds as they stop Autumn Wild
on this event. Please book 2 miles. Dogs not suitable Catch up with the New Forest Thur 17 Oct 10am-1pm
icons- New Forest ponies and off on their annual migrations.
online: forestryengland.uk/ on this event. Please book
rangers for a host of activities other livestock which live on
Beaulieu Road, SU350063 Play Day
newforestevents. online: forestryengland.uk/ Wild About Ponies Stalls, crafts, guided walks, Enjoy a guided walk with a
Enquires: 0300 068 0400 newforestevents. such as scavenger hunts, the forest. family activities, wildlife viewing Wed 30 October drop in
Enquires: 0300 068 0400 colouring and crafts. Wear old Thur 8 Aug 1pm-2pm Forestry England volunteer between 10am – 3pm
Free. Suitable for all. and more. ranger who has ponies on
clothes and wellies and be ready Bolton’s Bench, SU303081 Holmsley Campsite, Forest
for forest fun! 1 mile. Dogs welcome on leads. This is a joint free event the forest. Road, Burley BH23 8EB
See Thur 11 Apr for details . No booking required. between Hampshire County See 16 April for details.
Suggested donation £1/child. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Council, Hampshire & Isle of £6 per person. 15 years+.
Suitable for all (children must be Wild Wednesdays Wight Wildlife Trust and the New 5 miles. Dogs welcome
Suggested donation £1/child.
accompanied by an adult). Forest National Park Authority. on a lead. Please book
Wed 14 Aug drop in between Suitable for all ages (children must
No booking required. Suitable for all (children must be online: forestryengland.uk/
10.30 – 3.30pm Reptile Centre, be accompanied by an adult).
Enquiries: 01590 6466000. accompanied by an adult). newforestevents.
No booking required.
SU271071 No booking required. Enquiries: Enquires: 0300 068 0400
Enquiries 01590 646600.
See Wed 10 April for details. 01590 674 656
16 17
18 To advertise in the 2020 edition of the New Forest Essential Guide, please call Media 3 on 023 9235 1920 or email brian.seeney@media3.co.uk To advertise in the 2020 edition of the New Forest Essential Guide, please call Media 3 on 023 9235 1920 or email brian.seeney@media3.co.uk
19A year in the New Forest
The New Forest may seem like a wild place, but its diverse habitats
have been created by a long history of grazing and management.
Today, Forestry England, the National Park Authority and many other
organisations look after this special place…
Spring Spring brings the arrival of foals.
One of the great attractions of the New Forest is
undoubtedly the ponies. Although the new-born
donkeys and ponies look cute, avoid coming in
between a mother and its foal, as they are very
protective of their young.
Rare birds beneath your feet! The
heathlands are home to birds with superb
camouflage that take their chances nesting
on the ground. You can help these birds
thrive by keeping to the main tracks until
July. If you have a dog, keep it on the tracks
too – if necessary use a lead.
Summer In the summer you might spot a harvester
mowing bracken on areas of heathland, by
removing this potentially invasive species other
plants are able to thrive.
Woodland ‘rides’ (open pathways) allow
access for machinery but are also important
for recreation and conservation. An active
programme of ride restoration has seen
forest plants re-establishing and an
increase in insects, small mammals and
birds of prey over recent years.
Autumn Autumn colours...October is the time
of year when the golden autumn colours
of the Forest look their best.
A working forest...The forest industry
in the New Forest dates back to the first
inclosure in 1483, timber being produced
was of national value for the ship building
industry. Today, timber production is
centred on 9,000 hectares which are
inclosed from grazing animals, producing
50,000m3 of timber each year.
Winter Winter burning...Today, work by Forestry England
includes controlled burning, gorse cutting and
bracken harvesting as well as restoring of valley
mires and removing invasive species, such
as rhododendron.
Open heaths need to be managed to
control the vegetation and provide good
habitats for birds and other wildlife, as well
as grazing for ponies, cattle and deer.You can also read
