The New Forest is a walkers’ paradise; there are trails and routes which take you through the National Park’s idyllic woodland and across ancient heathland, with the local wildlife up close and personal – the famous New Forest Ponies aren’t just something for the marketing brochures – you’ll spot them on many a walk.
New Forest and Fordingbridge walks are so much more than this; circular walks and river paths, with many a historical landmark or vista along the way.
Whatever your age or ability, there’s just a walk for you – and, best of all, most either start or end with somewhere to take refreshment – whether that’s a cup of tea or an ice cold beer, depending on the season.
Wherever your Fordingbridge New Forest walks take you, the New Forest Collection has plenty of great places to stay – from Grade II Listed manor house hotels to boutique shepherd’s huts – Forest Lodge in Lyndhurst (14 miles), Beaulieu Inn (18 miles), Bartley Lodge (11 miles), Burley Manor 11 miles) and Burley Huts (11 miles).
Here’s a selection of some of our favourite Fordingbridge walks; we’re sure you’ll soon start drawing up a list of your own…
Being near water is always life-affirming, and this four-mile walk is certainly that. It takes you along the Avon Valley path from Fordingbridge to Ibsley, with some beautiful river views and countryside vistas.
Starting on the old stone arched bridge in Fordingbridge, you’ll follow the path south to St Mary’s Church which dates from the 12th century; past Bickton and Harbridge Farm, you then turn east to cross the river and finish in the village of Ibsley. Reward yourself with a pint at The Old Beams…
If you’re looking for something a little longer, this nine-mile walk is perfect – passing through some beautiful areas, including Fordingbridge, Woodgreen, Hale and Godshill. Starting in Fordingbridge, you can explore the town and its pubs, cafes and shops before heading out to Woodgreen, a picturesque small village known for its forest ponies and the nearby remains of Godshill Castle. At Hale, you’ll start the loop back to base. Pause to take a look at the stunning Hale Park House and St Mary’s Church. Last stop on the way is the forest village of Godshill, where a pint at The Fighting Cocks might be in order…
A big step up in distance (14 miles, to be precise), but this walk is full of rewards – historic houses, charming churches and two extraordinary villages. Oh, and some cracking pubs including the Cartwheel and Rose & Thistle. If you have a dog, take them – they’ll love it.
The walk begins at the Godshill Wood car park, near Fordingbridge, Hampshire (postcode SP6 2LP, map reference SU177161), or begin near the Rose and Thistle in Rockbourne, postcode SP6 3NL.
From deer in the meadow to Saxon churches and Elizabethan manor houses, there’s plenty to look out for as you pass through Breamore, Whitsbury and Rockbourne.
One of the best Fordingbridge walks there is.
This is a lovely loop of about 5.5 miles, starting and ending in Frogham. It’s not too taxing but needs a moderate degree of fitness; the reward is some fantastic views, not least of Windmill Hill, Hallickshole Hill and Hasley Hill.
Clocking in at just over three miles, this walk is a great way of exploring the countryside around Godshill (yes, another chance to visit The Fighting Cocks!).
From the Godshill Cricket Pitch car park, walk towards the pub and take the first right. You’ll path through copses, stiles and bridges, woodland and across fields, via the odd kissing gate. Back in Godshill for that refreshing reward…
Another lovely easy walk which starts in Godshill, this four-mile loop takes in some great river views near the Sandy Balls Holiday Village. Easily accessible and suitable for all abilities.
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