Winter walks New Forest National Park

Wrap yourselves up warm with layers and put on your boots or wellies, it’s time to explore the New Forest this winter. Embrace the crisp frosty mornings as you enjoy some beautiful winter walks. There’s stunning scenery to warm your soul, as you wander amongst free roaming ponies and deer grazing on the New Forest. Plan your walks to enjoy not only forest nature, but also the welcoming cafes, pubs and shops of the quaint New Forest towns. Perfect for a pit stop of great coffee, food or local beer, and even an opportunity to buy a lovely memento of your stay.

Winter walks new Forest

Find your New Forest Walk

Our favourite walk from Cottage Lodge is to WHITEFIELD MOOR, DURATION: 2 HOURS

During the winter months, Whitefield Moor in Brockenhurst transforms into a magical winter wonderland. There are two routes to choose from here; the ‘yellow route’ follows gravel tracks through a variety of habitats around Ober Water including heathland with gorse and bog, grassland, natural and formerly enclosed woodland, and the Ober Water stream itself. For more of a challenge, the ‘red route’ takes you further along Ober Water allowing more time to soak up the awe-inspiring scenery. You cannot miss the sheer beauty of these walks as the winter light penetrates through the trees to glisten with sparkling reflections off the frozen water in the stream. Whichever idyllic track you choose for your winter walk, you will also be rewarded with incredible views overlooking the New Forest, which are particularly overwhelming during sunrise or sunset when the skies are lit up in an array of vivid colours.

  • Distance: 1.6 miles
  • Difficulty: 🐕🐕🐕
  • Pub stops: This walk is just 1 mile out of Brockenhurst so enjoy the trail then head back into the village for one of the pubs, restaurants and eateries to be enjoyed in the centre.
Winter walks New Forest

OUR TOP TIPS FOR WINTER WALKS IN THE NEW FOREST:

  • Layer your clothing – during the winter it is advisable to wear at least three or more layers, so you can regulate your body temperature and remain comfortable. Although you may feel chilly in the first 15 minutes of your walk, you should warm up quickly as you get moving so try not to wear too many heavy jumpers.
  • Appropriate footwear – your feet are the most important thing when walking, so a good pair of walking boots, shoes or wellies is vital. You are likely to experience wet and boggy terrain during a winter walk in the New Forest, so you may prefer to choose a waterproof option, and don’t forget to wear in a new pair of boots before your journey to avoid any painful rubbing or blisters.
  • Pack supplies – add some comfort to your trip by taking tea, coffee, or hot chocolate with you in a thermos to warm you up. You might also find some snacks, a first aid kit, torch and a map useful if you’re walking in less inhabited areas.
  • Start early – the sun sets earlier in the winter months, so plan to start early to ensure you’re off the trail before it gets too dark as you could get lost.
  • Check the weather – it is essential to check the weather conditions before you set off. An unexpected shower or heavy snow could leave you feeling wet and cold.
Winter walks New Forest

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