The New Forest National Park could be an ideal destination for both keen ramblers who are intent on treading some of the country’s scenic routes as well as families seeking an idyllic and peaceful getaway at any time of the year.

As a walking location, the New Forest is up there with the likes of the Peak District, the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales in terms of popularity as it offers a wide range of trails and paths of varying levels of difficulty and length to suit ramblers of all ages and abilities.

However, the Hampshire region could also be considered as a primary location for any family or party of friends wanting to get away from it all at any stage of the year thanks to its vast array of activities and amenities.

According to the Hampshire County Council’s website, the area offers visitors the opportunity to explore “heathland, ancient woodland, wetlands and grassy plains”, meaning that it caters for all types of walkers. It also features both “deciduous and coniferous” woodland, the website adds.

New-forest-national-park.com states that there are “potentially countless” walks for people to take on and enjoy throughout the year in the New Forest because it is one of the few national parks where there are very few restrictions in place on rambling in the region. 

The advisory website goes on to state that walking in the New Forest is an “excellent way to enjoy the scenery and atmosphere” of the tranquil area, as it combines long, winding Forestry Commission gravel tracks with grassy and sandy alternatives, meaning that most parts of the woodland are comfortably accessible.

In terms of the best walking routes to sample over the course of a stay in the New Forest, the page goes on to suggest numerous trails that could be suitable for both enthusiasts and families alike.

For example, the Acres Down walk, which is situated near the heart of the forest, could be ideal for visitors with children as it is just 2.5 miles in length so should take around one hour to complete. The route passes through a traditional hamlet named Minstead, which could be a great place to stop for a drink and a bite to eat as it features a rural pub.

Another popular path to take within the woodland is the Matley Walk, the portal notes. Situated to the east of Lyndhurst, the unofficial capital of the New Forest, the trail is a little more challenging than Acres Down as it is some 4.5 miles in length.

However, the effort of completing this walk is well worth it as it offers a true glimpse of the forest because it almost acts as a tour of the region.

Despite being one of the country’s best spots for walking, the New Forest also has much more to offer.

For instance, the woodland has many pubs dotted throughout its vast area, ranging from small, independent houses to large family-oriented chains the portal notes.

Also, animal fans are unlikely to be disappointed by the New Forest as it is almost certain that visitors will see New Forest ponies – all of which are owned and kept by locals – roaming free in the area.

National conservation group the Open Spaces Society has published a ten-point plan to protect routes for those who enjoy walking in the New Forest and other parts of the country.

The list has been compiled for candidates at the general election, with politicians asked to sign up to it.

It includes a right of appeal and a requirement to provide suitable alternative land before public open space is taken for another purpose.

Another request is for public paths, such as New Forest walks and Lake District walks, to be recorded, open and easy to use, with a definitive list of all public highways, from roads to footpaths available to walking fans.

In addition, the charity wants swift implementation of the English coastal route and the access land associated with it.

The latter could soon become a reality as the government recently gave the green light to the Coastal Access Scheme.

There is only one way to discover the hidden treasures of the New Forest and that is to lace up one’s walking boots and head out on foot.

While meandering down the many walking routes and paths, visitors get a more intimate feel for the luscious green landscape than they would admiring it through the window of their car.

With an abundance of natural beauty and wildlife, the area offers something for everyone, from artists looking to capture a beautiful landscape on canvas to photographers hoping to capture that perfect shot.

Historic sites

A visit to the New Forest must include a trip to Breamore House, an Elizabethan manor located in the picturesque village of Breamore, which offers quite outstanding views of the Avon Valley.

Housed within this majestic building are fine works of art, period furniture, tapestries and more.

Rockbourne Roman Villa is another must-see, as is Hurst Castle and Ferry, the fortress prison that housed Charles I and is now home to exhibits from various conflicts, including artefacts from World War II.

Glorious parks and gardens

The piece de resistance of the New Forest is its National Park.

It is a living and working remnant of medieval England offering wonderful walking routes, with its fresh air, clean water and luscious landscape making it a perfect example of England’s green and pleasant lands.

A combination of ancient woodland, heather-covered fields and quaint villages make this the jewel in the New Forest’s crown.

However, it is just one example which is popular with tourists, with walking groups also fond of the New Forest Water Gardens.

Set in three acres of glorious gardens, the ponds and waterfalls which are home to a variety of fish and marine life are a joy to behold and a wonderful discovery while walking and rambling in the area.

Furzey Gardens is another place waiting to be discovered.

Noted for its year-round beauty, it offers a wonderful spot in which to relax and take off one’s hiking boots for a short while.

Wonderful wildlife

Grazing on the long green grass of Burley Park are some of the most majestic and beautiful Red Deer likely to be seen anywhere.

With tractor rides and other tours taking place, the chance to get close to these wonderful animals should not be missed.

A trip to Lower Test Nature Reserve is also a must, although this vast area of coastal and wetland habitats requires visitors to wear sturdy walking or hiking boots and come equipped with suitable walking clothing.

This unique environment is home to some wonderful animals and plants, making it a fantastic spot for photography, art and walking.

The art of falconry has been practised in the New Forest for centuries and nestled within the area is Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile centre.

Here walkers will find a large collection of birds of prey – including eagles, vultures and owls – along with various reptiles ranging from snakes to tortoises.

Walking fans will also spot the famous New Forest pony, an animal that roams free over the open forest, with various other farm animals enjoying the space afforded them.

Quaint villages

The New Forest does not just offer grass and woodlands.

A visit to Barton-on-Sea provides stunning coastal walks and views which have to be seen to be believed.

Many people enjoy a swim in the area, meaning visitors can kick off their walking boots and take a dip in the sea should they wish.

Standing at the very eastern edge of the New Forest is the parish of Fawley which, with its many Roman remnants, is a popular spot for history fans.

To the western edge walkers will find Ringwood, the traditional market town of the New Forest and home to beautiful cottages.

Those who visit on a Wednesday can get a taste of the market atmosphere, with a trip to Jubilee Garden also recommended.

Rest and relaxation

The New Forest is home to numerous hotels, guest houses and camp sites.

As the best way to explore the terrain is on foot many visitors pitch up tents at the camp sites and spend the night with nature.

Those who do this must ensure they have brought all the correct gear with them so they can enjoy a good night’s sleep before lacing up their walking boots and heading out into the wilderness once again.