The best walks and hikes around New Forest

Ancient trees and hidden treasures

Undoubtedly some of the best hiking trails in the New Forest are those dominated by the mighty oaks, beeches and yews. The national park has over 1,000 ancient trees, believed to be the highest concentration in Western Europe. Get up close to some of the toughest, heaviest and tallest trees in the World in one of the park’s arboretums.

Follow the trickle of glistening streams or find peace in one of the many tranquil glades. Wherever your boots take you, unique wildlife can be found around every corner, such as the many protected and eye-catching species of fungi the forest has to offer. Study closely, but make sure you do not pick them.

It is worth noting that between March and the end of July it is important to stick to the main trails, as ground-nesting birds, such as the snipe, curlew and redshank need to rear their young safely during this time. Trails that are out of bounds should be signposted. 

An ocean of open heathland

Don’t let its name mislead you, there’s more to hikes in the New Forest than mesmerising woodland. It also contains the most extensive area of open heathland remaining in Europe. This makes it a unique and important habitat for many rare species. Unusual insect species are found here and only here, such as the southern damselfly and the large marsh grasshopper.

Amongst the gorse, bracken, heather and purple moor grass slither all three native species of snake to the UK, and in good numbers. Only the adder is poisonous, but it is generally not dangerous to humans. As you stride under the open sky, you will share the trails with ponies, cattle, donkeys and deer – all free to roam the national park.

A secret coastline

There are also superb coastal walks in the New Forest. The shingle beaches, salt marshes and mudflats are a bird-watcher’s heaven. Migrators use the mudflats by the tens-of-thousands to refuel, whilst predators like the peregrine falcon lie in wait. The coastal trails also provide sumptuous views across to the Isle of Wight and the Needles. The village of Keyhaven makes for an ideal stop, with its pretty harbour sporting fishing boats and sailing yachts.