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  • Liam O'Leary

Top 12 Walks to Explore in the New Forest



Guests staying at Unrivalled Holiday Homes are in for a treat with the New Forest National Park right on your doorstep. From enchanting woodlands to peaceful riverside paths, the area offers a wide variety of walking routes, perfect for exploring this beautiful landscape. Here, we’ve curated a list of the top 12 walks that will introduce you to the best of the New Forest’s charm and tranquility.


For more family-friendly walks, check out Our Hampshire’s full guide here.


1. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Trail


This gentle walk takes you through beautiful woodlands with the chance to spot deer along the way. A perfect stroll for nature lovers, with a dedicated viewing platform offering scenic views.


2. Blackwater Tall Trees Trail


Starting at Blackwater car park, this peaceful trail takes you among towering Douglas firs and redwoods. The route is ideal for those seeking a quiet, reflective walk through the forest’s most impressive trees.


3. Knightwood Oak


Home to the New Forest’s oldest and most iconic tree, the Knightwood Oak walk is short but rich in history. It's an excellent choice for those looking for a manageable walk while experiencing a piece of ancient woodland.


4. Lyndhurst to Swan Green


Lyndhurst, often called the capital of the New Forest, is a great starting point for this walk. Follow the path to Swan Green, where you’ll frequently find New Forest ponies grazing. It’s a delightful route for anyone keen on village views with wildlife sightings.


5. Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard


For a historical and scenic experience, take the riverside path from Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard. This route not only offers beautiful views but also takes you through the heart of England’s shipbuilding history.


6. Wilverley Inclosure


A well-loved spot for its open spaces and serene atmosphere, Wilverley Inclosure offers a circular walk that’s perfect for a family picnic or leisurely afternoon stroll. The diverse landscape of heathland and woodland is ideal for exploration.


7. Fritham Walk


This longer circular walk is ideal for those looking to explore more remote areas of the forest. Starting in the village of Fritham, it rewards you with sweeping views and the chance to spot local wildlife, including deer and birds of prey.


8. Ober Water Trail


Following the tranquil Ober Water stream, this flat trail is perfect for walkers of all abilities. The varied landscape of wetlands, woodlands, and heath makes it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.


9. Brockenhurst to Balmer Lawn


Brockenhurst is a charming village that acts as the gateway to several fantastic walks. The Brockenhurst to Balmer Lawn route takes you through open pastures, where you can spot the famous New Forest ponies.


10. Ashurst to Lyndhurst


For those up for a bit more of a challenge, the walk from Ashurst to Lyndhurst takes you through varied landscapes of woodland and open heath. It’s a longer route but well worth it for the diversity of views.


11. Lepe Loop


For a walk with a view of the coast, the Lepe Loop offers something different from the forest’s interior trails. It’s a mix of woodland and coastal scenery, with fantastic views across the Solent.


12. Burley Village Walk

Starting in the quaint village of Burley, this walk is perfect for those intrigued by the local folklore, as Burley is known for its history with witchcraft. The trail offers a magical blend of woodlands and heathland, and you might even catch a glimpse of wild ponies.

Whether you're in search of short woodland walks or longer explorations through open heathland, the New Forest offers an unforgettable walking experience. Staying with us at Unrivalled Holiday Homes places you right in the heart of it all. Be sure to check out Our Hampshire for a complete guide on additional walking routes here.

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