New Forest Essential Guide to the National Park 2018

FREE The New Forest Essential Guide to the National Park 2018

Maps Events guide Places to explore Walking & cycling

The New Forest Essential Guide is brought to you by: WIN a£300 Forest Holidays gift voucher Architects

of the Feeding ponies human food, or even things like carrots, causes serious issues in the New Forest. Some ponies and donkeys develop an forest unhealthy craving for human food and become aggressive with people Commoning is a form of farming The ponies are sometimes described who, quite rightly, try to keep their which allows ponies, cattle, pigs, as ‘the architects of the forest’ because picnics to themselves. donkeys and, in certain areas, sheep their grazing creates much of what to graze and forage on unfenced people know and love as the New There is plenty of lush grass for ponies common land. Forest – the close-cropped ‘lawns’ to eat in the spring and summer and between the wooded areas and the in the winter months they are well- Each pony in the National Park is distinctive ‘browse line’ on the trees adapted to eating prickly fare such as owned by a ‘commoner’ – someone marking the highest point ponies gorse, brambles and holly. Human whose property has common rights can reach. food also gives the ponies colic (bad allowing them to turn out ponies to stomach ache) which is very painful. graze on the forest. Over 10,000 ponies and cattle roam free in the National Visitors are asked Don’t feed the ponies, it attracts them to Park and it is rarely possible to travel not to feed or car parks and roads, where they are at more than a few miles without coming ! touch the ponies serious risk of accidents. Sadly dozens across these famous forest residents. as they may look of ponies are killed or injured on the friendly, but they are roads of the New Forest each year. IT’S THE LAW: New Forest Animal Report all accidents involving a pony, cow, Emergency Hotlines donkey, dog, pig or unpredictable and sheep to the Police as soon as possible, and within 24 hours. Please help reduce animal accidents can bite and kick, Animal emergency hotline especially mares in the New Forest by driving extra cards are available carefully in the dark and from garages and Local with foals. Information Points across #add3minutes to your journey. the New Forest. newforestnpa.gov.uk/add3minutes

Our Past, from improving wildlife corridors and restoring Our Future woodlands, to getting local communities involved in art Our Past, Our Future is and creating a database of a Heritage Lottery Fund historical documents about 242 people were trained in 24 rural skills scheme led by the New the New Forest. courses such as cob building. Forest National Park Authority in partnership For more information, visit: Welcome with 10 other organisations. newforestnpa.gov.uk/ 335 volunteers Welcome to our new look 2018 edition of ‘The New Forest Essential Guide’. landscapepartnership helped pull We hope you’ll enjoy the more compact size, still bursting with information The five-year scheme is in 10,000 trees (of the planned 20,000) have up non-native its third year and has seen been planted in the first 2 years of the invasive plants about this very special place. scheme at the National Trust’s Foxbury site which choke some excellent outcomes, thanks to help from volunteers. waterways.

The New Forest is a world capital for wildlife with Love the Forest, buy local New Forest Marque a huge diversity of rare plants and animals – one produce and of course by giving way to our of the reasons why it was made a National Park in treasured grazing animals by driving more slowly, 2005. A place of outstanding natural beauty, the every little bit helps. unique landscape is shaped by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs that roam freely. Find out about more sustainable ways to get around the forest using one of the New Forest Tour One of the last places in southern England to routes, or simply join an organised event to learn offer a sense of wildness and tranquillity, it’s a more about the wildlife, history and culture of the wonderful area to explore. Indeed William the National Park. Conqueror, who set aside the ‘New Forest’ for hunting more than 900 years ago, would probably recognise much of it today. Find out more at: forestry.gov.uk/newforest Whether you fancy an active day out or just want to while away a few peaceful hours enjoying its newforestnpa.gov.uk/aboutus beauty, a visit is one forever remembered. And @newforestnpa you can give back to the forest too during your newforestnpa visit. Whether you choose to donate to

2 3 New Forest Walking Festival 2018

13 to 28 October

Follow our waymarked Miles of waymarked This autumn join local experts for walks and trails. trails to explore! 80 fascinating New Forest walks at the annual walking festival, now in The following trails are marked on the its sixth year! ground by wooden marker posts with coloured bands. An overview map of Walkers of all ages and interests each route is displayed at the start can go behind the scenes and point in the car park. All routes are discover more about the New Forest circular and will bring you back to your on wildlife walks, history hikes and starting point. The numbers refer to family strolls. map locations on centre pages. Booking is essential. Browse the walks and book from August onwards at: 2 From Bolderwood car park: 6 From Blackwater or 3 Reptile Centre car park: newforestnpa.gov.uk/ Brockhill car parks: walkingfestival Deer Watch Trail Reptile Trail 0.75km/0.5 miles Tall Trees Trail 2km/1.5 miles A short stroll leading you to a deer 2.5km/1.5 miles Enjoy a circular walk through the viewing platform overlooking fields Follow the marker posts and you will woods. The trail mainly follows a fairly where wild herds of fallow deer be guided along a shady path beneath smooth, gravelled surface. are frequently seen. The path is a mighty Douglas firs and redwoods that moderately smooth, gravelled surface were planted during the reign of Queen 8 Wilverley car parks: with gentle slopes and benches along Victoria. The path has a fairly smooth, the way. The trail is accessed by a gate gravelled surface. The trail is flat with Wilverley Wander which has a low catch. frequent resting places and no gates. 4.2km/2.5 miles A longer and more informal trail which Jubilee Grove Trail Blackwater Arboretum Trail winds through this diverse and working 1.5km/1 mile 0.75km/0.5 miles woodland. The paths are moderately Including the deer fields, this A circular route which leads you smooth, gravelled surfaces with some Learn more about the special meandering route leads you past past tree species from around the short, steep slopes. Please note that qualities of the New Forest One-stop-shop for some majestic trees, the oldest of world. By following the unique panels part of this trail is on a cycle route. while enjoying a healthy stroll. which date back to 1860. Benches you can use your senses to discover the New Forest walks from which to admire their beauty secrets that these trees hold. Benches 5 Knightwood car park: can be found along the way. The path are located along the walk. The path and bike rides is a moderately smooth, gravelled has a fairly smooth, gravelled surface Knightwood Oak surface with two short ‘but fairly steep’ with one very gentle slope. Less than 0.25 miles Explore the woods, heathland and slopes and frequent resting places. A short stroll to one of the most coast of the New Forest National Park The trail is accessed via a gate which 7 From Whitefield Moor or famous trees in the New Forest. on 50 easy to follow routes. has a low catch. Puttles Bridge car parks: Believed to have been planted before 1600, this tree is still going strong and The online New Forest routes finder Radnor Trail Ober Water Trails is a spectacular example of the ancient allows you to search by distance, 3km/2 miles 1.5km/1 mile (red trail) practice of pollarding. Benches are location or even whether there is a pub A longer route which takes you into 2.5km/1.5miles (yellow trail) located throughout. The path has a near the route! Once you find the route the heart of the forest and across the Two circular routes follow the Ober fairly smooth, gravelled surface. for you just print off the directions or Bratley Water stream. Benches and Water midway between its source download the trails to your smartphone picnic benches are located along the and the sea. Close to this meandering for free. New for this year: trail. The path is a moderately smooth, stream is the open grassy expanse Hundreds of miles gravelled surface with two short ‘but of Whitefield Moor. The paths are The trails have step-by-step instructions of New Forest fairly steep’ slopes and frequent resting moderately smooth, gravelled surfaces as well as videos and images of some tracks have been places. The trail is accessed via a gate and compacted grassy ground with of the walk’s highlights. photographed which has a low catch. some gentle slopes and a few resting and can be places. This trail can be muddy after Browse and download routes now at: explored at maps. wet weather. newforestnpa.gov.uk/routes google.co.uk

4 5 We’ve got the trails, are you ready to ride?

Explore the National Park on two Brockenhurst and Sway and links the Adventure cycling wheels, with more than 100 miles main New Forest villages. There are For more adventurous cyclists, of waymarked family-friendly cycle plenty of places to hire bikes before there are purpose-built mountain routes, much of it off the public and during your stay. bike skills circuits at Moors Valley highway and traffic-free. Country Park, Ringwood. Here you For all the best trails visit: will find a network of forest road The network is easily accessible newforestnpa.gov.uk/routes graded trails, as well as blue graded from railway stations at Ashurst, single track. A cycle map is available from the visitor centre onsite. Follow the New Forest Cycle Code

The New Forest is a working forest, with Please follow both the Highway Code Off-road cycling in the forestry, farming and equestrian activity and the New Forest Cycling Code New Forest is permitted on its narrow roads and tracks. Ponies, which is supported by cycling groups ! only on certain routes. cattle and other animals are free to and local organisations. Please take a look at our roam the forest and most of its roads. newforestnpa.gov.uk/cycling cycling routes for more information. Be aware that animals are easily If you are cycling in an organised event, startled and may suddenly move follow the additional instructions to into your path. minimise your impact.

Horse riding in the 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 magnificent oak woods, past tall conifers, or strike across the heathland enjoying the views and the wild open country. Horse riders have always enjoyed open access in the forest, which is well furnished with suitable Pick tracks. me up Cycle code & map When leaving Forestry for £1 Commission land, remember Grab a cycle trail map before heading to use the bridleways. On out on your adventure. It shows private land, riders must both off-road and road-based cycle keep to Public Rights of networks across the New Forest, plus Way. These are shown on details of bike hire outlets. Ordnance Survey maps, and are usually indicated Available at outlets across the by fingerposts and/or blue New Forest National Park, including arrows or dots. local information points.

6 7 Food that hits See more of the Marque

If you’re looking for New product means the forest Forest food, drink and crafts you know you are then keep an eye out for the getting truly local New Forest New Forest Marque as you fare and supporting the local Sit back, relax and experience more of the New Forest shop and eat in the New economy. National Park. Soak up the sun this summer on the Forest. open-top New Forest Tour, or find out the best places to Look out for the blue symbol The New Forest Marque when visiting and you’ll visit from the friendly Travel Concierge. represents more than 140 know you’re eating local local businesses who are food or buying gifts made passionate about their local locally using local produce. products. Buying a Marque

newforestmarque.co.uk @NewForestMarque new-forest-marque

For more information on where to stay and what’s happening in the New Forest visit: thenewforest.co.uk @MyNewForest MyNewForest

New Forest Tour Tips from the A Date The New Forest Tour is the perfect excuse to leave your car at home, jump on board and explore more of the Travel Concierge with Nature New Forest National Park.

The tour offers unrivalled treetop views of free-roaming If you are looking for ideas on how to make the most 1 April to 3 September ponies, ancient forests and picturesque villages. of your visit to the New Forest National Park then look There are three beautiful routes to choose from – red, no further. The New Forest is home to all six cold-blooded UK native green and blue – and you can hop on and off where reptile species including the rare natterjack toad and all you like and switch routes – all on the same ticket. The friendly Travel Concierge team, mainly based are available to see at the New Forest Reptile Centre, You can even bring your bikes (carried free) and listen at Brockenhurst railway station and The New Forest near Lyndhurst. to audio commentary that brings the history and Centre, Lyndhurst, will welcome you to their pedal- characters of the New Forest to life. powered mobile unit full of information about car-free While walking around the special reptile ‘pods’ you can experiences and the best places to visit. search for these elusive lizards, snakes, frogs and toads and The perks don’t stop there, as you can enjoy a free also watch the live camera footage of birds busy feeding. ferry ride from Southampton to Hythe, as well as Stop by and say hello from 7 July to 9 September. great discounts at attractions including Exbury The Date with Nature project, run by the Forestry Gardens, New Forest Wildlife Park and Beaulieu For more information visit: Commission, New Forest National Park Authority, RSPB and National Motor Museum. newforestnpa.gov.uk/travel_concierge Carnyx Wild gives you the opportunity to watch live footage @NewForestTravel from the nest of a bird of prey. Follow the lives of these birds The tour runs hourly, seven days a week from 7 July to 9 from egg hatching to sibling rivalry to their first flight. Meet NewForestTravel September (see map on centre pages for routes). and chat to our friendly volunteers who are there to answer your wildlife questions. For more information and online discount visit: thenewforesttour.info @NewForestTour NewForestTour

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u R i R B3055 v iv Bolderwood Information R Sway e East End er i r v B3058 Finding out more... e Unit in the New Forest r Sway A Norleywood Avon Water v is staffed by Forestry o St. Barbe New Forest Centre, Commission Rangers n Museum Lyndhurst. Here in the heart and volunteers frequently & Gallery of the New Forest, you’ll throughout the spring and Lymington Pier find a fascinating museum, summer seasons with maps, New Milton & Ferry Teminal gift shop and gallery. information, activities. Hinton newforestcentre.org.uk Admiral A337 KeyThe to Solent map The National Park Explorer Highcliffe Barton-on-Sea Lymington Information Play area National Park mobile information unit pops Christchurch Wightlink Local information Walking trails area up everywhere, especially Milford-on-Sea in the summer months. A Christchurch Bay Campsite Barbeque Car parking National Park Ranger can Wildlife area Barbeque New Forest Tour* (see page 8) answer your questions. Castle (Booking required: 0300 067 4601) New Forest Tour* newforestnpa.gov.uk/visiting Hurst Castle Toilets Cycle network New Forest Tour* Accessible toilets Fishing New Forest Reptile Centre, For a map of all * The tour runs hourly, Cafe (by permit) near Lyndhurst. Forestry Commission seven days a week, from Isle of Wight Picnic area Fishing 7 July - 9 September. See page 9 for details. car parks visit: forestry.gov.uk/ 10 Not to scale: This map is a representation of the New Forest National Park area and is not intended to be 11 newforest used as a sole means of navigation. Please consult relevant Ordnance Survey maps or visitor guides. Both the Forestry Commission and National Park Authority Caring for the forest Meet your employ rangers, who you’ll often meet out and about in the New Forest. Here, you’ll meet some of the team as they How to enjoy and care for the New Forest National Park answer some of the most commonly asked questions by New Forest visitors to the New Forest. Ponies, donkeys, cattle, Fungi If you have a question or would like to speak to one of the pigs & sheep Please leave fungi for other team, they can be contacted via the details at the bottom For their safety and your own please people to enjoy. Fungi are essential of the page. leave the animals alone - although to the New Forest’s internationally Rangers owned and cared for by local protected ecosystem. Foray leaders people called commoners, they are must apply for permission for unpredictable and best treated as wild. educational excursions from the Please don’t feed or pet them; there Forestry Commission in advance. is plenty of natural food and it’s best If you suspect or see commercial that they don’t come to rely on people’s picking please call the Forestry attention. They may look friendly but Commission on 0300 067 4600. they can bite and kick, especially ponies with foals. Camping There are 10 campsites in the Dogs New Forest, run by Camping in the The New Forest is great for dogs Forest, as well as a number of private but to minimise disturbance to wildlife, sites. Please note that camping in livestock and other people, please keep the wild and overnight parking is not your dogs close by you and visible at all allowed in the New Forest. times - if necessary use a lead. Pick up after your dog, especially around car Horse riding parks, on paths and where people Horse riders have open access play or picnic. to the New Forest, but to reduce damage to the ground please use Birds tracks when it’s wet. New Forest National Park Authority To help ground-nesting birds rear ranger team their young safely, keep yourself, dogs Ticks and horses on the main tracks from the Check your children, dog and Forestry Commission ranger team beginning of March to the end of July. yourself for ticks when you get back – they can lead to Lyme disease. What are the most popular things to do Litter for free in the New Forest? Your food and litter could harm Driving The forest is full of walking and cycling trails of all the ponies and donkeys. Please take The speed limits on unfenced distances, some of which can be started from Forestry your litter home if bins are full. roads greatly reduce the number of Commission car parks. There is also over 26 miles of accidents involving animals. Slow down coastline to be explored. If you want to head to the beach Barbeques & fires and give walkers, cyclists, horse-riders while visiting the New Forest, Lepe Country Park is perfect To reduce the risk of damaging and animals a wide berth. Be especially for walks, lunch and learning about coastal wildlife and history. wildfires, campfires are not allowed careful at night. without the landowner’s permission. Chris Marshall, New Forest National Park Authority Coastal Ranger Disposable BBQs are welcome at Parking How can I get involved Bolderwood, Blackwater and Wilverley Please park only in designated in conservation work in the New Forest? Forestry Commission where stands and water are available. car parks, not on a verge or in The New Forest Keepers Raised non-disposable BBQs are gateways. Lock your car, taking any There are many isn’t all tree- allowed on the hard-standing areas valuables with you and leave Forestry conservation groups covered, why The Forestry of car parks, providing water is Commission car parks by dusk. which work in and around are some areas Commission employs available. You can hire fixed stand the New Forest. If you visit very open? a team of Keepers party-sized BBQs from the Forestry Unidentified objects newforestnpa.gov.uk/ (Wildlife Rangers). The Much of the earliest mention of Commission (call 0300 067 4601) and Areas of the New Forest were volunteering you can see New Forest is from Hampshire County Council at Lepe used to test bombs in World War I and all the volunteer groups Keepers in the New internationally important mire (bog) Forest, dates right back to the Doomsday Country Park (hants.gov.uk/lepe or call II. Please keep away from objects that and find one that interests and heathland habitat. The Forestry 023 8089 9108 in advance). might be dangerous and notify the you on the days you are Book (1086). Today, deer management Commission actively manages these remains a key part of the Keeper’s role, police immediately on 999. free to join in. areas to remove scrub and maintain Cycling along with many other activities central Craig Daters, a mosaic of different ages of heather. to protecting the forest and keeping it in Cycling is allowed only on Working forest New Forest National Park Some rare species live in these habitats. the waymarked tracks and other Stay safe by obeying warning good order. Authority North Ranger Amy Howells, South Walk Ranger, designated routes. When approaching signs and keeping away from work Ranger Richard Daponte and Keeper Forestry Commission people and animals, please call out a sites and vehicles. Lee Knight, Forestry Commission warning and pass slowly and wide. Try to leave gaps for overtaking vehicles and never ride more than two abreast. Forestry Commission rangers New Forest National Park Authority rangers Keep to a safe speed, wear bright 0300 067 4601 01590 646 600 colours to be visible and always use [email protected] [email protected] lights in the dark. Forestry Commission, The Queen’s House, New Forest National Park Authority, Lyndhurst, Hampshire, SO43 7NH Lymington Town Hall, Avenue Road, Lymington SO41 9ZG 12 13 FEBRUARY APRIL Christopher Tower Wild Wednesdays Library Open Day Wed 4 Apr, 10.30am - 4pm, Spend the night Sat 24 Feb, 10am - 4.30pm, Reptile Centre, SU271071 New Forest Centre, Lyndhurst, Enjoy a date with nature at the SO43 7NY Reptile Centre, with fun activities What’s Run in conjunction with our for the whole family. Quiz trail and exhibition, this open day will making activities for children. Come showcase highlights from our and see the “live” video of birds on wonderful collection of maps as their nests as well as the reptiles in a forest well as supporting material. and amphibians. Free. Suitable for all. Dogs 2018 welcome on leads. No booking on? MARCH required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Easter Eggstavaganza An Evening with New Forest Forestry New Forest Tue 10 Apr, 11am - 3pm, Centre led Commission National Park Birdman Martin Ballam Bolderwood, SU242086 Fri 9 Mar, 7.30pm (doors open events events Authority events Meet our rangers, help spot the 7pm), New Forest Centre, early signs of spring and celebrate Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY our feathered friends. Take part in Join Martin Ballam from Xtreme our Easter Trail at Bolderwood and Falconry and hear about his work if you manage to solve all the clues with birds of prey. Martin will also you can claim a prize! be bringing along some of his £3 per person. Suitable for all ages. feathered friends for you to meet. Dogs welcome on leads. No booking Exhibitions in the £6 per person (£4 for members). required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 New Forest Gallery The Forester’s Guide to Wild Play Day at the Beach Wed 11 Apr, drop in between Gallery open daily 10am to Trees and Timber Sun 11 Mar, 10am - 12pm, 10am - 3pm, Hurst Spit, Milford 4.30pm from 1 April to 29 Standing Hat car park, SU314036 on Sea, SO41 0PY October (10am-3.30pm at A chance to learn about the working Discover fun ways to explore, play all other times). forest, guided by our local Forester. and get creative in the outdoors. Enjoy the peace and Come and try crabbing, beach art, £10 per person. 12 year +. 3 miles. quiet of the woods for Maps: The New Barry Peckham - No dogs. Booking essential. Book: seashore scavenging and much calmer state of mind and a true sense Park locations, including 10 within Forest Unfolded Retrospective forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents more. Wear some old, warm clothes longer with Camping of peace. At Camping in the Forest, the the New Forest. So why not try one 21 Jan - 15 Apr, open daily 15 Sep - 28 Oct, open daily Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 and don’t forget your wellies! connection with nature is vital to the out this year? Discover the biography of the New A collection of oil paintings Suggested donation £1/child. in the Forest. Discovery trail Parking charges apply. Suitable for all experience. We are conscious of the Forest and its people through maps by renowned local artist (children must be accompanied by an Camping in the Forest offers a place wildlife that calls this area home, aware Find the right campsite for you online chosen from the Christopher Tower Barry Peckham. at Bolderwood adult). No booking required. Reference Library. Fri 30 Mar - Sun 15 Apr, 10.30am - Enquiries: 01590 646600 where you can disconnect from of the measures in place to protect at campingintheforest.co.uk - you Commoning Voices 3.30pm, Bolderwood, SU242086 everyday life and the stresses of them and their surroundings, and we can book your holiday here too or by Ancient and Exhibition Experience the seasons of the Wild Wednesdays modern day living. The forest allows act on that where necessary. calling 024 7642 3008. Remarkable Trees 3 Nov - 6 Jan, open daily forest, on our discovery trail. Self- Wed 11 Apr, 10.30am - 4pm, you to break free and reconnect with 21 Apr - 8 Jul, open daily A thought-provoking exhibition guided trail through the woods with Reptile Centre, SU271071 each other, with nature, but most All of our 15 campsites within the UK A selection of images of trees in which reveals, through audio, activities for all the family. See Wed 4 Apr for details. importantly with yourself and with are set amongst idyllic woodlands on the New Forest by photographer video, artefacts and beautiful Free trail. Small charge may apply David Russell. photographs from the past and for activity pack. Suitable for all ages. Wild about ponies a simpler way of life - leading to a Forestry Commission land in National present, the intimate relationships Dogs welcome on leads. No booking th Thu 12 Apr, 1pm - 2pm, The 6 Annual New Forest between commoners, their required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Bolton’s Bench, SU303081 Open Art Exhibition animals and the forest. 14 Jul - 8 Sep, open daily Easter Craft Meet a New Forest ranger and learn about New Forest ponies An exhibition showcasing the best New Forest Centre, Children’s Workshops Forest beeches and enjoy the unique and other livestock which live in the A Forest Holidays cabin For your chance of the creative New Forest. Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY Sat 31 Mar, 10am - 2pm, Forest Holidays blend of nature’s New Forest Centre, Lyndhurst, forest. Come along to a fun, free break is whatever you wonder and life’s little luxuries. The to win a £300 WIN SO43 7NY information session and learn all the Forest Holidays a answers to your questions about the Forest Holidays experience is rooted in £300 Forest Have an ‘egg-citing’ time with our four-legged icons of the New Forest. want it to be. children’s Easter crafts and make the natural world of the forest and you gift voucher Free. Suitable for all. 1 mile. Dogs Holidays lots of fun things to take home. Our Blackwood Forest location in will instantly feel the embrace of this towards your next gift voucher welcome on leads. No booking Six activities for £5 if booked in required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Hampshire offers the chance to holiday abiding yet ever-changing backdrop. forest break just tell us: advance by 26 March or £1.50 per in one of 60 luxury woodland cabins, Whether you’re a family, a couple or How many Forest Holidays activity on the day. hidden deep in a 270 hectare beech a group of friends, enjoy the freedom. sites are there currently are forest. Leave the world behind as you Relax and reconnect or fill your days across England? pass beneath the towering Blackwood with exhilarating outdoor activities. Email your answer and contact email address to: [email protected] Family Discovery Days Closing date 31 October 2018. Must be booked Learn about the New Forest and have fun with our Save 10% at and taken by 31 January 2019 (excluding bank family-friendly activities. No need to book, just drop in holidays and school holidays), and is subject to between 10am and 3pm - different activities each day. Forest Holidays availability. Your personal information will only (Museum entry is free, donation per craft activity.) Our friends at Forest Holidays be held to enable us to notify the winner and will be deleted after the closing date. The Forestry have given us a 10% saving at 13 Feb 29 May 16 Aug 30 Aug Commission is a data controller under the Data 15 Feb 31 May 21 Aug 23 Oct Forest Holidays in Blackwood Protection Act 1998. Our privacy policy is on our Forest. Enter NEWFOREST to website www.forestry.gov.uk 3 Apr 31 Jul 23 Aug 25 Oct save 10% at forestholidays. 5 Apr 2 Aug 28 Aug 10 Apr 7 Aug co.uk when you book a New Forest Centre, 12 Apr 14 Aug holiday by 31 December 2018. Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY (Terms and conditions apply*)

14 15 Fun in the Forest Discover the New Forest Thu 2 Aug, 10am - 3pm, Tue 14 Aug, 2pm - 3.30pm, Wilverley inclosure car park, Bolderwood, SU242086 Brockenhurst, BH25 5TZ See Tue 31 Jul for details. Catch up with the New Forest Rangers for a host of activities such Wild Wednesdays as bug hunts, scavenger hunts, Wed 15 Aug, 10.30am - 4pm, colouring and crafts. Wear old Reptile Centre, SU271071 clothes and be ready for forest fun! See Wed 4 Apr for details. No booking required. Suggested donation £1/child. Suitable for all ages (children must be accompanied by an Beaulieu Road Special adult). Enquiries: 01590 646600 Thu 16 Aug 1pm - 2pm, Beaulieu Road sales yard, SU350063 Heathlands of A unique opportunity to explore the New Forest Beaulieu Road sales yard with Mon 6 Aug, 10am - 12pm, a New Forest Ranger. Learn SEPTEMBER Shatterford car park, SU348063 about New Forest ponies and other livestock which live on the Explorer Walk Join our Open Forester and discover forest. Come along to a fun, free Lymington-Keyhaven Tue 16 Oct, 10am - 1pm, Autumn in the Forest how both modern and traditional Autumn through a lens information session and learn all Nature Reserve Open Day Beaulieu Road, SU350063 Sun 21 Oct, 9.30am - 2pm, Ramble with a Ranger - Festival of Lepe management techniques have Thu 25 Oct, 10am - 3pm, the answers to your questions Sun 16 Sep, 10.30am - 4pm Enjoy a three-hour guided walk with Eyeworth Pond, SU228146 You’ll never walk alone Sat 9 & Sun 10 Jun, 10am - 4pm, helped shape the heathlands. Anderwood car park, SU249056 about the four-legged icons. Lymington-Keyhaven Nature an introduction to commoning. Join Forestry Commission Volunteer Sat 21 Apr, 10am - 12pm, Lepe Country Park, SO45 1AD £10 per person. 12 years +. Dogs A gentle 4-mile walk with lots Free. Suitable for all. 1 mile. Dogs Reserve, SO41 8AE £6 per person. 15 years +. Dogs Rangers on this autumnal walk Appleslade car park, SU184093 Join staff & volunteers for a festival not suitable on this event. Booking welcome on leads. No booking welcome on leads. Booking essential. to savour the colours, sights and of opportunities to capture the to mark the end of improvement essential. Please book online at: Come to Hampshire’s premiere Join our Volunteer Rangers to required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Please book online at: sounds of the forest at this special beautiful autumn scenery. forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents coastal reserve and enjoy the discover more about the New works that have taken place over forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents £6 per person. 12 years +. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 spectacle of birds as they stop time of the year. Forest. Get your walking boots on the last 18 months as we celebrate Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Dogs not suitable for this event. Fun in the Forest off on their annual migrations. £6 per person. 16 years +. 6 miles. and get healthy in the company of with fun activities for all, food, drink, Booking essential. Please book online Thu 16 Aug, 10am - 3pm, Stalls, crafts, guided walks, family Dogs not suitable for this event. like-minded people. Join us for an music and more! Discover the New Forest A Walk on the Wild Side Booking essential. Please book online at: forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents Puttles Bridge car park, activities, wildlife viewing and more. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 optional pub lunch after the walk. hants.gov.uk/lepe Tue 7 Aug, 2pm - 3.30pm, Wed 17 Oct, 10am - 2pm, at: forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents Brockenhurst, SO42 7QB This is a joint event between £6 per person. 18 years +. Blackwater, SU268047 Wilverley Plain car park, SU253010 Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 See Thu 2 August for details. Hampshire County Council, Hampshire Family Fungi Fun 4 miles. Dogs welcome on leads. Wild about ponies - See Tue 31 Jul for details. and the Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and Join a Forestry Commission Please book online at: “My Haunt” the New Forest National Park Authority. Volunteer Ranger on a 7-mile walk Autumn Wild Play Day Mon 22 - Fri 26 Oct, forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents Marine Wonders Discover the New Forest Wed 24 Oct, drop in between 10.30am - 4pm, Enquiries:0300 067 4601 Sat 23 Jun, 1pm - 2pm, and learn more about the roles of Tilery Road, SU308032 Thu 7 & Wed 8 Aug, 10am - 4pm, Tue 21 Aug, 2pm - 3.30pm, the Verderers, Agisters and Keepers 10am - 3pm, Holmsley Campsite, Bolderwood, SU242086 Blackwater, SU268047 See Thu 12 Apr for details. Lepe Country Park, SO45 1AD OCTOBER and the management of our four Forest Road, Burley, BH23 8EB A week of fungi fun. Find out all Come to Lepe for two days of See Tue 31 Jul for details. legged architects – the NF ponies. See Tue 14 Aug for details. about these little rotter’s fungi world. Activities for all the family. Find us at MAY marine-themed fun: the ever New Forest Walking Festival £6 per person. 12 years +. Suggested donation £1/child. Wild Wednesdays 7 miles. Dogs welcome on leads. Parking charges apply. Suitable for all the Bolderwood unit. popular seashore safaris, arts and Sat 13 - Sun 28 Oct, locations Discovery trail JULY crafts, storytelling and much more. Wed 22 Aug, 10.30am - 4pm, Booking essential. Please book online ages (children must be accompanied Free. Suitable for all ages. Dogs across the New Forest at: forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents by an adult). No booking required. welcome on leads. No booking at Bolderwood Free event, donations for craft Reptile Centre, SU271071 Sunset Safari See page 5 for details. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Enquiries: 01590 646600 required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 Sat 26 May - Sun 3 Jun, activities welcome. No booking See Wed 4 Apr for details. 10.30am - 3.30pm, Wed 11 Jul, 8.30pm - 10pm, required. Parking charges apply (free Bolderwood, SU242086 Blackwater, SU268047 for blue badge holders). Suitable for all Wild about ponies ages. Enquiries: 02380 899108 See Fri 30 Mar for details. See Sat 9 Jun for details. Thu 23 Aug, 1pm - 2pm, Hatchet Pond, SU369017 Escape to the Isle of Wild Wednesdays Discovery trail Wild Wednesdays See Thu 12 Apr for details. Wight with Red Funnel Wed 8 Aug, 10.30am - 4pm, Wed 30 May, 10.30am - 4pm, at Bolderwood Reptile Centre, SU271071 and discover your Reptile Centre, SU271071 Sat 21 Jul - Sun 2 Sep, Fun in the Forest See Wed 4 Apr for details. See Wed 4 Apr for details. 10.30am - 3.30pm, Thu 23 Aug, 10am - 3pm, Pure Island Happiness. Bolderwood, SU242086 Anderwood car park, Lyndhurst Watching the sunset Wild about ponies See Fri 30 Mar for details. Wild about ponies Road, Burley, BH24 4HS Enjoy everything from Thu 9 Aug, 1pm - 2pm, Thu 31 May, 1pm - 2pm, See Thu 2 Aug for details. Whitefield Moor, SU274026 stunning scenery to rich Hatchet Pond, SU369017 Wild Wednesdays See Thu 12 Apr for details. heritage, relaxation and See Thu 12 Apr for details. Wed 25 Jul, 10.30am - 4pm, Discover the New Forest over the Needles Reptile Centre, SU271071 Tue 28 Aug, 2pm - 3.30pm, delicious local produce. See Wed 4 Apr for details. Summer Wild Play Day Bolderwood, SU242086 Pure Island Happiness. Endless ways to find it. Tue 14 Aug, drop in between See Tue 31 Jul for details. Perfect for a day trip JUNE Discover the New Forest 10am - 3pm, Whitefield Moor, One way to get there. Tue 31 Jul, 2pm - 3.30pm, Brockenhurst SO42 7QB Wild Wednesdays from the New Forest, National Volunteers’ Week Discover fun ways to explore, play New Forest litter pick Bolderwood, SU242086 Wed 29 Aug, 10.30am - 4pm, or for a longer visit. Join a Ranger on a short guided and get creative in the outdoors, Reptile Centre, SU271071 Sat 2 Jun, 10am - 12pm, walk and discover more about the from your back garden to the New Bolton’s Queens, SU305082 See Wed 4 Apr for details. So leave the mainland New Forest and why it’s so special. Forest woods, streams and heaths. ads As part of National Volunteers’ Create some forest art, sail leaf Free. Suitable for all. 3.5 miles. behind and head to Week, please come and join us to Dogs welcome on leads. No booking boats, explore with scavenger hunts help clean up our beautiful forest. required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 and much more. Wear old clothes happiness with All equipment will be provided. and don’t forget your wellies! Red Funnel Ferries. Free. Suitable for all ages. Dogs Suggested donation £1/child. not suitable on this event. No booking Parking charges apply. Suitable for all required. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 AUGUST ages (children must be accompanied by an adult). No booking required. Sunset Safari Wild Wednesdays Enquiries: 01590 646600 redfunnel.co.uk Sat 9 Jun, 8.30pm - 10pm, Wed 1 Aug, 10.30am - 4pm, 0844 844 9988* Blackwater, SU268047 Reptile Centre, SU271071 A dusk walk to experience New See Wed 4 Apr for details. Forest wildlife as the sun sets. Listen for nightjars, keep your eyes peeled Wild about ponies for bats and watch out for deer. Thu 2 Aug, 1pm - 2pm, £10 per person. 10 years +. 2 Bolton’s Bench, SU303081 miles. Dogs not suitable on this event. See Thu 12 Apr for details. Booking essential. Please book online at: forestry.gov.uk/newforestevents *Calls to this number cost 7 pence per minute plus your service provider’s access charge. Enquiries: 0300 067 4601 A £5 handling charge applies to telephone bookings.

16 17 There’s nothing like...

National Motor Museum Palace House & Gardens World of Top Gear Beaulieu Abbey beaulieu.co.uk Beaulieu | New Forest | Hampshire | SO42 7ZN 01590 612345 Open 10am daily Free Parking

Two adventure playgrounds! NEW FOREST CLYNEDNHUTRSTR E Visit the New Forest Centre and discover the history, traditions and wildlife of this amazing area.

Includes the New Forest Museum, Exhibition Gallery, Reference Library, Gift Shop & Café.

Holiday Activities Learn about the New Forest and have fun at our Family Discovery Days. Pick up our leaflet or visit our website to find out what’s on.

Open Daily 10am 5pm 30 Mar to 28 Oct (10am 4pm at other times). Lots of Last Museum entry 30 mins before friendly OPEN Tropical Butterfly closing. See our website for Library animals House open opening times. to meeT DAILY Easter to September 10 Feb to 28 Oct One acre of adventure playground fun! 023 8028 3444 www.newforestcentre.org.uk • 4 species of Otter 10am to 5pm Open all • 12 species of Owls Lyndhurst, Hampshire SO43 7NY year round • Deer • Lynx Reg Charity No: 279373 (Closed at 4.30pm in October) Café and • European Wolves • Bison • Wild Boar Get hands-on with our full schedule of fun Gift Shop • Wallaby activities, which run throughout the day. Nature Trail • Foxes • Polecats Meet friendly farm animals. • Scottish wildcat Plenty of indoor & outdoor play areas. Farm produce shop and gift shop. Deerleap Lane, Near Ashurst, Visit our 023 8029 2408 Southampton, SO40 4UH Tel. 023 8029 2837 website www.newforestwildlifepark.co.uk For event details & much more click onto: www.longdownfarm.co.uk IT’S A REAL HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE! NFEG

18 19 To advertise in the 2019 edition of the New Forest Essential Guide, please call Media 3 on 023 9235 1920 or email [email protected] To advertise in the 2019 edition of the New Forest Essential Guide, please call Media 3 on 023 9235 1920 or email [email protected] Spring brings the In the summer arrival of foals. you might spot a One of the great harvester... attractions of the New Forest is undoubtedly mowing bracken on the ponies. Although the areas of heathland, by new-born donkeys and removing this potentially ponies look cute, avoid invasive species other coming in between a plants are able mother and its foal, as to thrive. they are very protective of their young.

Woodland ‘rides’ (open pathways) allow access for machinery but are also important for recreation and conservation. An active programme of ride restoration has seen the re- establishment of forest plants Rare birds ! and an increase in insects, beneath your feet! small mammals and birds of The heathlands are prey over recent years. 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 A in the too – if necessary use year a lead. 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, the Forestry Commission and the National Park Authority look after this special place…

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, Autumn colours cattle and deer. October is the time of year when red, fallow and sika deer start rutting and the Winter burning golden autumn colours of Today, work by the Forestry Commission the forest look their best. includes controlled burning, gorse cutting and bracken harvesting as well as restoration of valley mires and removing invasive species, such as rhododendron.

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.