The New Forest
The New Forest was created in 1079 by William I (known as William the Conqueror) as a hunting area, principally of deer. It is a unique area of historical, ecological and agricultural significance, and retains many of the rural practices conceded by the Crown in medieval times to local people. Principal of these is the pasturing of ponies, cattle, pigs and donkeys in the open Forest by local inhabitants known as Commoners. The New Forest has also been an important source of timber for the Crown. It is an outstanding recreational area for walking and riding
There are many fantastic locations in the forest, and at certain times of the year visitors can join in different activities... how about a guided mushroom hunt in Autumn, to learn about gathering and eating the fantastic fungi that grow in the forest. Pony treking is another fun way of getting to see the area, not to mention the picnic and BBQ facilities.
There are long car free cycle tracks, adventure parks, canoeing and kayaking, watersports at the New forest water park set on two lakes, museums, castles, galleries, tea rooms... plus special events are always being organised...