If you're looking for a serene and picturesque environment for an afternoon stroll, the New Forest offers plenty of green spaces for a refreshing break.
If you’re looking for a serene and picturesque environment for an afternoon stroll, the New Forest offers plenty of green spaces for a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This protected woodland area in southern England is home to ancient woodlands, heathlands, and wetlands, as well as a variety of flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the best green spaces in the New Forest for an afternoon walk, highlighting their unique features and attractions, and providing practical tips for a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Located in the northern part of the New Forest, Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is a peaceful and scenic park that offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and meadows. The park is home to a herd of fallow deer that roam freely in the area, making it an ideal spot for wildlife lovers. The park also has a picnic area, a café, and a souvenir shop, as well as several walking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels.
Nestled in the heart of the New Forest, Blackwater Arboretum is a hidden gem that boasts a diverse range of trees and shrubs from around the world. The park is particularly popular in the autumn months when the leaves turn golden and red, creating a stunning visual spectacle. The park has a picnic area, a small pond, and several walking trails that wind through the woodland, including the Tall Trees Trail, which features some of the tallest trees in the forest.
If you’re looking for a tranquil and secluded spot for a leisurely walk, Hatchet Pond is the place to be. This natural lake in the southern part of the forest is a haven for birdwatchers, with several species of waterfowl and waders making their home here. The pond is also a popular spot for fishing, with carp, pike, and roach among the fish that can be caught here. There are several walking trails that loop around the pond, as well as a picnic area and a small café.
One of the most scenic drives in the New Forest, Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is a must-visit for anyone who loves beautiful landscapes and stunning vistas. The drive is lined with majestic redwoods, Douglas firs, and beech trees, some of which are over 150 years old. There are several walking trails that lead off from the drive, including the Blackwater Trail, which takes you through some of the forest’s most ancient and picturesque woodlands.
Wilverley Plain is a vast open space in the central part of the forest that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The plain is a popular spot for picnicking, kite-flying, and wildlife watching, with several species of birds and mammals making their home here. There are several walking trails that cross the plain, as well as a car park and a small café.
FAQS
Q.What is a greenspace?
A.A greenspace is any area of land that is predominantly covered by vegetation, such as parks, gardens, forests, wetlands, and meadows. Greenspaces are typically designed to provide recreational and aesthetic benefits to the community, as well as ecological benefits such as wildlife habitat and air purification.
Q.What are the benefits of greenspaces?
A.Greenspaces provide a range of benefits to individuals and communities, including improved mental and physical health, reduced stress and anxiety, increased social interaction and community cohesion, and improved air and water quality. Greenspaces also provide important habitat for wildlife and can help mitigate the impacts of climate change.