Festive walks in the New Forest

A family walks through a wintry forest

Take in the sights of a unique and beautiful winter landscape with a festive walk in the New Forest.

As leaves fall, new views open out across the New Forest commons. Frost sparkles among the gorse, and evergreens glow in winter sunshine.

Refresh your senses with a festive walk in this special environment. Discover history, heathland and fantastic views.

A view of Ibsley Common in the New Forest, Hampshire during autumn
Walking trail

Walk to the Huff Duff 

Take in breathtaking winter views from Ibsley Common, an area steeped in military history, and visit the Huff Duff (an old directional station) and associated bunker.

Discover a landscape steeped in history
A bench looking out over Hale Common in the New Forest, Hampshire
Walking trail

Hale Purlieu figure of eight walk 

A figure of eight walk through Hale Purlieu, crossing streams and taking in views across the Common’s valleys and mires marked by frost. Look out for ponies huddled for warmth and glistening spider webs among frosty gorse.

Discover one of the New Forest Northern Commons
Heathland with trees on the horizon at Hightown Common in the New Forest, Hampshire
Walking trail

A short stroll around Hightown in the New Forest 

A short walk around our smallest heathland site in the New Forest, great if you are short of time but still want to experience the mosaic of habitats the New Forest has to offer. Walk across grazed lawns, through dark ancient woods and wonder off route to discover some hidden wetlands, all in under 30 minutes.

Take a short stroll through the New Forest