A walk up to one of the highest points in the New Forest with stunning views over to the Isle of Wight on a clear day. Your descent from Acres Down will take you through woodland inclosures. Because of the nature of the tracks, this route is recommended as a summer walk.

Route

Starting from the Millyford Bridge car park between Bolderwood and Emery Down, join the northbound path into the trees where you’ll soon cross a bridge over the Highland Water.
It is one of many streams meandering through this part of the forest.

With its source in the heathlands to the north, it will eventually join the Lymington River and make it’s way to the sea. The peaty water is a rich, dark gold colour in the sunshine as it runs over its gravel bed.

About 300m along the track from the car park is a clearing with a smaller path leading off on the right. Follow this path for about 1km as it takes you through the conifers, oak and beech trees of the Knowles, gradually climbing until you reach the exposed higher ground of Acres Down.

If you look to the south east on a clear day you can see the ships on Southampton Water and the hills of the Isle of Wight.

Follow the path along the top of the horse-shoe hill, joining up with another track to take you to the Acres Down car park. The Acres Down Farm Shop is also nearby if you need refreshments at this point.

From the car park take the gravel path cycle route heading south west with the heights of the top of Acres Down on your left.

Continue straight for 1km through Wick Wood, over Bagshot Gutter. After walking about 1km from the farm, go through the gate on your left taking you into Holmhill Inclosure.

The path loops around to the right for 700m. Turn left at the junction and after a short stretch you’ll join the main cycle path. Turn right and head 1.3km straight along the path, out of the inclosure and back to the Millyford Bridge car park.

Map

Walk Information