The Best Places To Go For A Winter Walk In The New Forest
There are a few things better than blowing away the cobwebs with a walk through the New Forest. We spend so much of the winter cooped up inside, depriving ourselves of natural daylight that we forget the benefits of the great outdoors. With the winter blues kicking in and the promise of spring still not quite in touching distance you are probably in desperate need of a lift.
Getting outside for a nice walk in the fresh air can do you the world of good for both mind and body, so regardless of what mother nature has on offer why not embrace the season and book your stay at our country house hotel in the New Forest to beat the winter blues.
Our Recommended Spots For Exploring During Your New Forest Break –
Brockenhurst Village Walk
5 miles – Start from Brockenhurst Train Station
One of our favourite walks! This route covers roads, woodland, grassy paths and gravel tracks. It is generally an easy walking route with just a few gentle inclines. However, some of the woodland tracks can get muddy – so those wellies are a must! The views are spectacular on this route, especially is you manage to choose a cloudless day. Ober Water is also a great area for a little rest – the stream flows very gently, providing a peaceful backdrop for a moment of relaxation.
Standing Hat Circular Walk
3 miles – Start from Hollands Wood Campsite
Another favourite of ours starts just down the road at Hollands Wood Campsite or if you rather you could start directly from Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa. The walk takes you through the Forestry Commission managed inclosures and gives you a great opportunity to see wildlife, including the famous New Forest ponies.
A gentle walk which is mostly through the enclosure you may not need wellies, but we would definitely recommend a waterproof walking boot just in case!
Blackwater: Tall Trees Walk
1.4 miles – Start at Blackwater Car Park
A short but sweet walk through the Blackwater Arboretum is a treat for the senses. You will be surrounded by majestic conifers and some of the oldest Douglas fir trees in Britain including two Giant Sequoias that stretch up to around 50m! Along the trail you find sensory information boards giving fascinating facts about the tallest, heaviest and toughest trees in the world.
Want to make this walk more strenuous? Then start off from Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa making the walk 8.22 miles.
Wilverley Inclosure Walk
3.5 miles – Start from Wilverley Inclosure Car Park
A short drive from Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa, across the forest, you will find the beautiful Wilverley Inclosure. The walk takes you through ancient and ornamental woodland which is perfect for spotting another New Forest resident – deer! But, remember to stay quiet as they spook easily ! Although, mostly on gravel tracks, don’t forget your wellies due to some boggy spots. This route is a little hilly at times so we would recommend for someone with a moderate level of fitness.
View our seasonal new forest breaks and start planning your midweek break or weekend away to Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa.
