Hale Purlieu figure of eight walk
A figure of eight walk through Hale Purlieu, crossing streams and taking in great views across the common’s valleys and mires. Look out for butterflies and dragonflies as you explore. Stonechats and Dartford warblers can also be seen flying between the gorse bushes.
Choose sensible footwear
The route crosses water at several points, so waterproof boots or wellies are advised, particularly in autumn and winter.
Total steps: 8
Total steps: 8
Start point
National Trust car park at Lady's Mile Road, grid ref: SU188177
Step 1
Head north-east onto the common from the car park, picking up a gravel path through the gorse bushes that heads gently downhill towards the valley bottom, keeping left if the path forks.
Step 2
Reach the valley bottom and cross directly over the stream, which now has a new name – 'Beetles Bottom' – thought up by the Beetles class of Hale Primary School 2017. Continue to pass under the large ornate pine tree and carry on slightly right uphill towards a small patch of woodland.
Step 3
When the ground levels out you will reach a crossroad. Head straight on to follow a path that hugs the edge of the Purlieu, heading north-east, eventually passing under the power lines.
Step 4
You will meet another crossroad with a gravel cairn. Again, carry straight on, ignoring another crossroad soon afterwards. Before you reach the northern edge of the Purlieu, marked by a thick tree line, you will meet a third crossroad. Turn left here to again hug the edge of the Common.
Step 5
The ground will really flatten out and can become wet here. Turn left when you reach the edge of the common. Turn left on the wide grass track. Fork left just past a seat near the edge of the common, heading south and downhill towards a ford.
Step 6
Cross over the ford by any means possible (it can get very wet). Head straight on uphill towards a distant clump of trees as the ground levels out. Head under the power lines once more.
Step 7
About 150 metres past the powerlines, as you reach some birch trees, you come to a crossroad. You have been here before – this marks the centre of the figure of eight. Carry straight on at the crossroad heading south, keeping right as you hug the edge of the common.
Step 8
Cross over the ford at the bottom of the valley and head back uphill. Bear right back up towards the car park across the common to finish the walk. It can get wet towards the top so pick your way carefully.
End point
National Trust car park at Lady's Mile Road, grid ref: SU188177
Trail map
More near here
Walk to the Huff Duff
A circular walk from Ibsley to Rockford Commons, taking in military history with a visit to the Huff Duff (a wartime directional station) and wildlife to spot along the way.
A short stroll around Hightown
A short walk around our smallest heathland site in the New Forest – great if you don't have much 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.
Get in touch
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Exploring the New Forest Northern Commons
Discover the New Forest Northern Commons. With plenty to explore, find out more about what you might see on your next visit.
Visiting the New Forest with your dog
New Forest Northern Commons is a one pawprint rated place. Find out more about where your dog can accompany you on a walk through the New Forest.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Find out more about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor as our exclusive walking partner.