Historical Walks

Discover more about the New Forest’s fascinating past – from a medieval hunting ground for kings and queens, to shipbuilding for the Royal Navy and its invaluable role during World War Two.

Rufus Stone

The dramatic story of a medieval royal death at the start of this walk through the woods near the village of Brook.

 Start: Rufus Stone car park

 Distance: 6 miles

Ibsley Common

Enjoy the wide open heathland and views over the New Forest’s Northern Commons and discover a relic of the area's role in World War Two.

 Start: Rockford Common car park

 Distance: 3.5 miles

Bolton’s Bench

From the iconic Bolton’s Bench, on the edge of Lyndhurst, to the vast open expanse of White Moor.

 Start: Bolton’s Bench car park

 Distance: 5 miles

Longslade Heath and Set Thorns

Take in some of the New Forest’s best views of wide-open valleys and heath land.

 Start: Longslade Heath car park

 Distance: 4 miles

Lyndhurst – Brockenhurst Loop

Starting from either village, you’ll wind your way along forest tracks before discovering the history – and tea shops – in each village

 Start: Brockenhurst station/Lyndhurst village car park

 Distance: 10 miles

Janesmoor Pond

This circular walk takes in the woodland of Kings Garn Gutter Inclosure before climbing the gentle incline of Long Beech Hill.

 Start: Janesmoor Pond car park

 Distance: 3 miles

Balmer Lawn

A circular walk through the mixed woodlands behind Balmer Lawn on the edge of Brockenhurst.

 Start: Tilery Road or Standing Hat car parks

 Distance: 6 miles

Millyford Bridge

This walks takes you through several inclosures in the heart of the New Forest as well as passing a reminder of the role the forest played in World War One.

 Start: Millyford Bridge car park

 Distance: 4 miles