From our doorstep. . . Brook to Minstead Village There really is no place quite like the New Forest. With its combination Directly from our doorstep, this varied walk takes you through of ancient woodland, open heathland and livestock roaming freely, it’s a ancient woodland, country lanes and open fields, passing the Rufus Stone, unique landscape that has been home to generations of our family for (said to mark the spot where the King was killed by an arrow shot by more than 200 years. Sir Walter Tyrrell in the year 1100), as well as the final resting place of It’s also known for its hundreds of miles of well maintained gravel tracks, the famous Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. cycle networks and footpaths. So, from our secluded northern corner of the New Forest, we’ve chosen a few of our favourite walks and routes either from our doorstep or a short drive away so you can enjoy the New Forest and all it has to offer, as much as we do. Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance SU 273 141 SO43 7HE 3 hours 7.2 miles (approx.) (11.6 km)

Accessibility Easy, gentle walk via country lanes, forest woodland and open fields with a few short uphill and downhill inclines, gates, footbridge and five stiles. Local facilities The Bell Inn, Green Dragon, Trusty Servant and Minstead Village Shop. 1. Grassy bridleway past cottages Facing The Green Dragon public house, follow the road to the left and then turn right and follow the roadside path to Canterton Road. Follow this road past houses to a footbridge over a ford. Continue ahead to a waymarker on your left. Turn right onto a grassy bridleway and past cottages on your left (waypoint 1). Continue straight ahead through Piper’s Copse, past some large boundary oak trees. 2. Sir Walter Tyrrell pub On leaving the wood the bridleway becomes a road. At the road junction, turn left past a red post box and head towards the Sir Walter Tyrell pub (waypoint 2). 3. Rufus Stone Follow the road uphill until you reach the Rufus Stone car park on your left and the monument on your right. 4. Under the A31 Continue ahead uphill, turn right at low wooden barrier/waymarker 90 and follow gravel track to waymarker 91. Useful tip Turn left following track to the A31 underpass. Turn left at metal gate/waymarker 92, past cottages on your right (waypoint 4). All walking routes can be muddy in, or 5. Beech wood After a few hundred yards turn right into Furzey Gardens following, wet weather. car park. Waymarker is just past garden entrance on left. Turn left, follow Suitable waterproofs and track ahead, then turn right where track splits to follow waymarked path footwear are a must! downhill to kissing gate and footbridge (waypoint 4). Cycling & Walking Routes 6. Hop over a stile Turn left at the next kissing gate, continue downhill along the edge of a larger wood, crossing a boardwalk and footbridge. around the Inn Continue to the top of the hill, turn left over a stile. Follow the path alongside buildings to the road and over another stile (waypoint 6). 7. Minstead Church Turn left and follow the road to a footbridge and ford crossing. Turn right at the road junction and continue to Minstead Study Centre and a ford crossing on your right. Cross the road ahead to a small gravel lay-by and waymarker. Turn left through a kissing gate and follow the path uphill to Minstead Church (waypoint 7). 8. Minstead village Follow the road downhill to Minstead’s small Pigs village green. Deadman’s Hill Each year, from mid-September, in a practice known as ‘pannage’, A short but steep walk that wanders through the history and natural wildlife 9. Leaving the village Follow the road signs for Stoney Cross. Use the a few hundred pigs are allowed to live out on the forest to eat items of the New Forest. Giant ant hills spring from the ground, made by wood ants footpath on your right to follow alongside the road and then re-join which are poisonous to the other forest animals. For 60 days, the pigs using the fallen pine needles from the plantation to build these super-nests, the road. Turn left at a waymarker and go over a stile to follow the will work their way throughout the Forest, snaffling anything from which can be up to 1 metre high! field edge on your right (waypoint 8). Continue over another two acorns and nuts to beech mast and crab apples from the forest floor. field stiles to a road. Turn right and follow the road uphill before the road dips downhill. 10. Passing Furzey Gardens At a grassy triangle and road junction turn left and follow signs for Furzey Gardens (waypoint 9). Follow the Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance gravel track past the gardens and retrace your steps to the underpass SU 193 165 SP6 2QY 1 hour 2-3 miles and follow the cycle route back to post 90, turning left to go past (3-4km) the Sir Walter Tyrell pub and along the road to the red post box and retrace your steps across the footbridge and ford crossing to Accessibility The Bell Inn. Moderate, short but steep walk. Take a New Forest Safari Sheep Local facilities No facilities on this route. Here in the New Forest National Park, we have our very own safari that Sheep are not generally seen roaming the open forest as only one has seen animals and people living side-by-side for hundreds of years. Commoner turns them out in the New Forest at present, and that’s in our village of Bramshaw and the surrounding National Trust-owned 1. Car park At the left-hand corner of the car park, a prominent white gravel Our New Forest ‘big five’ can regularly been seen across the heath and commons in our northern corner of the National Park. If you get track leads towards the edge of the ridge and heads towards farmland in lowland and are an almost daily sight nuzzling the hedgerows and caught up behind these noisy bleaters as they move through the the valley below. Follow this path and soon it descends very steeply. regularly holding up the traffic. village, be prepared for a delay to your journey! As the gradient lessens the path becomes narrower and heads down If you’re lucky, your exploration of this wilderness could feature sightings to cross Deadman’s Brook. of any of our big five, roaming freely throughout their home - 2. Cross the brook Cross over the Brook and follow the obvious path ahead. just as they should! 3. After 20 metres, a small path joins to the right. Take this path to reach the tree line above you. Spot the New Forest’s ‘big five’ 4. Large clearing Once the climb becomes more gradual and begins to flatten out, the woodland to the right peters out and a large clearing is Ponies reached. A solitary fence post standing alone marks the start of an The sight of a New Forest pony is one of the most iconic associations indistinct path into the woods. Take this path which doubles back at with the New Forest, with around 3,000 roaming freely. Owned by 7 o’clock from the original path. Commoners – each animal is branded and their tail is trimmed to 5. Giant ant hills On reaching a junction with a track at the bottom of the pattern of the Agister responsible for that pony. the hill, turn right. At this point, keep your eyes peeled for some giant Donkeys Cows ant hills which rise majestically from the forest floor. 6. Cross the ditch The path winds uphill to the left. After 80 metres, The most adorable and docile animal on our safari is the New Forest Also calling the New Forest their home are herds of large, hairy locals. and before it veers around to the right, take a small path leading donkey! Only around a hundred or so live in the New Forest. Although Cows are a prominent feature although the number reduces during downhill to the left. Soon you will cross a ditch and bank. hugely popular with tourists, it’s worth knowing it’s an offence to feed the autumn and winter months as only a few breeds are hardy enough Cross the stream them. Donkeys are treated under the same commoning rules as ponies to brace winter in the New Forest. There’s approximately a dozen 7.  Cross the stream and straight away on reaching and being extremely hardy, can survive in the forest all year round. different breeds ranging from the Highland cattle to Galloway and a t-junction head left following the small track leading gently uphill. Hereford crossbreeds and the Friesian cow. Typically, shy in nature, 8. Through the forest On reaching a further junction, take a sharp left it’s still best to keep a safe distance as they’re notoriously onto the path that leads in at 7 o’clock. Follow this through some protective of their offspring. beautiful deciduous forest to re-cross the stream. 9. Re-cross the stream Across the stream, the path snakes through a clearing and comes to a line of trees. Pass through a gap in the trees before taking the path immediately to your right. This path meanders through the heathland to re-cross the stream. 10. Car park Follow the path straight ahead steeply uphill back to the car park. Cadman’s Pool Bolderwood Arboretum A beautiful walk that leads you deep into a secluded part of the forest and Situated on an old coaching route, Bolderwood has all the ingredients for the stunning scenery of a hidden valley, home to several herds of deer. a great family day out, where you can get very close to the famous herd of fallow deer which live in and around Bolderwood. Take a picnic and spend all day exploring the waymarked trails, cycling or playing games on the open field. Take Roger Penny Way/B3078 to Furzey Lane and turn left and continue to Bolderwood Arboretum to Ornamental Drive (SO43 7GE)

Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance SU 228 123 BH24 3QZ 2 hours 4 miles (6 km) Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance SU 243 086 SO43 7GE As long as Variable you like Accessibility Moderate. Accessibility Local facilities A variety of moderate walks will lead you deep into a secluded part Parking. of the Forest and into stunning scenery of a hidden valley, home to several herds of deer. 1. Car park Leave the farthest corner of the car park by the extended gravel track through a gate marked ‘Richard’s Retreat’. At the far end of this Local facilities extension a Forestry Commission gate marks the start of the track skirting There are facilities at Bolderwood. the wood to the right. 2. Through the woods After approximately 100 metres, the path forks. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary has an incredible viewing platform Take the right-hand fork through the bracken into the wood. This path overlooking a large meadow and is one of the best places to see deer in the descends briefly before entering a small clearing on level ground. New Forest. From April to September, herds of fallow deer regularly gather Take the path straight ahead and downhill between the birch trees. in the field as they wait for a Forestry Commission Ranger to come and Follow this path which curves to the right as it descends. feed them. Feeding takes place any time between 12.30noon – 2.30pm. 3. Cross the ford On emerging from the trees, a grassy crossroads is There are also three circular signposted walks which are also suitable reached. Turn left. As the path brings you in sight of a stream to the for wheelchair and buggy users, each of them consists of a compact right, head straight on at 1 o’clock to reach a ford crossing. The ford gravel track. Each walk begins from the car park and consists of a 1/2 mile, is characterised by low banks either side and crosses the stream 1 mile and 2 miles distance winding through Bolderwood’s ancient and between a large conifer and holly tree. ornamental woodland, home to some of the tallest trees in the New Forest. The waymarked routes include: 4. Up to the ridge After fording the stream, head uphill directly ahead towards The Bolderwood Cycle Trail a row of conifers. Pass under the line of conifers and keep straight ahead with a stand of holly bushes to the right of the path. Follow the path as it Viewing the wildlife, that can often be missed by car. Using a bicycle is the skirts the edge of the holly. Keep the holly to your right at all times and best way to experience the magnificent beauty and fascinating wildlife this DO NOT enter the woods. At the far corner of the wood the path truly ancient forest has to offer. swings to the right and uphill to bring you onto a ridge. The Jubilee Trail 5. Gravel road At the top of the ridge a muddy track is reached. Turn left This meandering route leads you past some majestic trees, the oldest of along it and follow as it skirts the basin to your left. Pass a grassy crossroads which date back to 1860. and continue along the track until you emerge onto a gravel road. Deer Watch Trail 6. Pass the white cottage Turn left onto the gravel road and when it divides, A short stroll which leads you to a deer viewing platform at Bolderwood, take the left-hand track downhill towards a solitary white cottage. overlooking fields where wild herds of fallow deer are regularly seen. The Radnor Trail 7. Into the woods Immediately in front of Holly Hatch Collage a five-bar gate leads into the woods to the left. Take this path and do not deviate A longer route which explores a range of woodland types both ancient from the main path. and modern in the New Forest. 8. Through the enclosure When the path turns sharply at 90 degrees to the right after a further 30 metres, another path heads uphill to the left. Take this path and shortly after the crossroads is reached. Turn left to reach the enclosure gate. 9. Car park After the gate turn left on a grassy path back to the Pool and the car park. Cycling in the New Forest Land Use Approved off road routes, City / Town / Village usually gravel or asphalt Village / Hamlet National Cycle Route New Forest National Park off road Mixed Woodland Approved on road routes Heathland National Cycle Route on road Roads

Other Routes; relatively Cycling in the New Forest is permitted on most public highways. The usual rules of the road apply quiet, unaudited routes but please follow our Cycle Code to make your on country lanes ride safer for yourself and other forest users. These symbols identify the road types. Bridleways + Byways Main roads are not recommended for cyclists.

Warning that route crosses a Motorway main road or other potential Main Road hazard. Take care Minor Road Ford that may be impassable after heavy rain

Steep hill or other more challenging conditions (IMBA classification)

Crown land tracks; no cycling

36 Pedal Power Key Numbered Waymarker Posts There are many cycle routes to enjoy in the New Forest, perfect for a car-free experience. If you fancy exploring on two wheels, Cycling in the New Forest VisitorLand InforUse mation don’t worry about bringing your own! We can arrange for a quality Approved off road routes, Travelling City / Town / Village bike(s), for all ages and abilities, to be delivered directly to the Inn. usually gravel or asphalt The New Forest Tour Village / Hamlet Bike hire: £12 per day (includes: overnight locker storage, National Cycle Route Bus carries bikes free New Forest National Park helmet, puncture repair kit). off road of charge ParkingMixed Woodland Please book in advance when booking or by calling Approved on road routes Reception on 023 8081 2214. PayHeathland and Display Parking National Cycle Route Picnics - made easy on road Roads Station Cycling in the New Forest is permitted on most Other Routes; relatively Local Information public highways. The usual rules of the road apply There’s nothing better than eating alfresco in the countryside, quiet, unaudited routes but Tpleaseoilets follow our Cycle Code to make your and it’s even better when someone’s made it for you! Stay with on country lanes ride safer for yourself and other forest users. us and we can pack a picnic for your day out in the New Forest These Food symbols and identify Drink the road types. Bridleways + Byways or even for your return journey home! Main roads are not recommended for cyclists. Visitor Attraction Picnics include: freshly prepared homemade rolls made with Warning that route crosses a Motorway Picnic Area local produce such as cheese or crab, crisps, fruit and New Forest main road or other potential Main Road spring water. Homemade sausage rolls or Scotch eggs can be hazard. Take care Be Forest Friendly! added for a small charge. Cycling in the New Forest Land Use Minor Road Ford that may be impassable Approved off road routes, Help us to keep the New Forest special for future From £9 per person. after heavy rain City / Town / Village usually gravel or asphalt generations to enjoy! Pre-order 24-hours before day required with Reception. Village / Hamlet Steep hill or other more National Cycle Route • If driving, slow down and drive carefully challenging conditions New Forest National Park off road (IMBA classification) • Never feed the ponies or other forest animals New Forest Bus Tour Mixed Woodland Approved on road routes • Walk your dog responsibly; keep them under control Crown land tracks; no cycling Daily thoughout July - September Heathland and visible to you at all times. If necessary use a lead and 36 National Cycle Route Numbered Waymarker Posts always pick up after your dog, especially where people Explore the New Forest by an open-top safari!The New Forest on road Roads walk, play, park and picnic. Bagged dog waste should be Tours bus has three routes taking in every corner across this Other Routes; relatively Cycling in the New Forest is permitted on most Visitor Information public highways. The usual rules of the road apply taken home or use a litter or dog bin expansive heathland enabling you to hop on and off wherever quiet, unaudited routes Travelling but please follow our Cycle Code to make your • Take your litter home you like from pretty villages and attractions to footpaths and on country lanes ride safer for yourself and other forest users. The New Forest Tour cycle trails. These symbols identify the road types. • Protect trees, plants and wildlife Bridleways + Byways Main roads are not recommended for cyclists. Discover the northern part of the New Forest on the ‘red route’ Bus carries bikes free • Avoid damaging buildings which conveniently has a bus stop situated directly outside Warning ofthat charge route crosses a Motorway Parking • Leave as you find and always consider other people The Bell Inn (opposite the Green Dragon pub). main road or other potential Main Road hazard. Take care • Park in designated car parks and not on verges or Pay and Display Parking Red Route bus tour: Minor Road gateways. Lock your car and take valuables with you Ford that may be impassable Burley Station • Forage only those you can identify and only from – once the haunt of smugglers and witches after heavy rain Useful links plentiful sources for personal consumption only Ringwood – explore this market town, famous for its brewery Local Information Fordingbridge – small country town on the River Avon Steep hill or otherwww.newforestnpa.gov.uk/routes more (approx 1.5kg on one visit) Toilets Sandy Balls – an eco-friendly camping holiday resort challenging conditionswww.thenewforest.co.uk • Close gates and leave property as you find it New Forest Wildlife Park – get up close to amazing animals (IMBAFood classification)and Drink www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ • Follow advice and local signs Lyndhurst new-forest-northern-commons – the capital of the New Forest! CrownVisitor landAttraction tracks; no cycling DISCLAIMER • Guard against all risks of fire 36 Tour duration: 2 hours 15 minutes (approx.) This map hasNumbered been created from W a subsetaymarker of New Forest Posts maps and websites. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this map, Brook Enterprises, Picnic tradingArea as The Bell Inn, cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or damage caused as a result of its use. The cycle • Plan ahead and be prepared routes and trails shown here were correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. Brook Enterprises is in no way associated Visit: www.thenewforesttour.info for more information. with any of the trail providers and cannot be held responsible for the condition or suitability of any routes. Nor do we endorse any of the products and services available from the cycle hire companies listed. Visitor Information Travelling The New Forest Tour

Bus carries bikes free of charge Parking Survey 1:25,000 (Explorer) Sheet 22, or the 1:50,000 Pay and Display Parking (Landranger) Sheet 196.

Station

Local Information Toilets

Food and Drink

Visitor Attraction

Picnic Area

Survey 1:25,000 (Explorer) Sheet 22, or the 1:50,000 (Landranger) Sheet 196.

Survey 1:25,000 (Explorer) Sheet 22, or the 1:50,000 (Landranger) Sheet 196. 1 2 3 4

Brook to Bolderwood Deadman’s Hill Cadman’s Pool Minstead Village Arboretum Local Cycling & Walking Routes

Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance Grid ref Postcode Duration Distance SU 273 141 SO43 7HE 3 hours 7.2 miles SU 193 165 SP6 2QY 1 hour 2-3 miles SU 228 123 BH24 3QZ 2 hours 4 miles SU 243 086 SO43 7GE As long as Variable (approx.) (11.6 km) (3-4 km) (6 km) you like

2

1

3

4

SCALE 1:90,000 (approx)