New Forest Northern Commons - Hightown

A pony grazes on Hightown Common in the New Forest, Hampshire

A small pocket of lowland heathland on the edge of the New Forest boasting stunning views to the south.

New Forest ponies drink at Dockens Water in the New Forest, Hampshire

Coronavirus update 

Please note that all of our New Forest car parks are now closed to help prevent the further spread of coronavirus. We urge people not to travel here, but local people are still welcome to enjoy our online walking trails as part of their daily exercise, while observing social distancing.

Small but perfectly formed, Hightown is the New Forest in miniature comprising of all the lowland heathland habitats you would expect to find on some of our larger commons.

Dark Green Fritillary butterfly in the New Forest
Dark Green Fritillary butterfly
Dark Green Fritillary butterfly in the New Forest

This parcel of land, consisting of 16 hectares, was acquired by the Open Spaces Society in 1929, in memory of George Shaw-Lefevre who founded the society. It was passed to the National Trust the same year, together with a memorial seat, designed by architect Elisabeth Scott.

Walking at Hightown Common

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 wander off route to discover some hidden wetlands, all in under 30 minutes.

Take a short stroll through the New Forest