Ashurst Wood, New Forest

We discovered Ashurst Wood while staying at Ashurst campsite, just across the train tracks from an entrance to the woodland trails. The network of criss-crossing paths here are perfect for exploring, especially in the Summer as the tall trees all around provide ample shade in hot weather. Feel free to adapt this route as you walk, taking whichever turn looks most enticing to you! Four-legged friends can roam off lead here, though be aware of any wildlife – the New Forest is famous for its wild ponies!

We’ve marked the beginning of this route as Ashurst New Forest train station, as it’s the most accessible point for a variety of transport. Trains run from Winchester and Bournemouth to the station, and for those arriving by car there is a small car park. There are also local buses (6 or C5) that serve two bus stops outside the station. It’s worth noting that is the only point along the route where there are poo bins for those bringing dogs on the walk, so take your poo bags with you.

Once you’ve left the station and are heading towards the woodland, the terrain is a dirt path that’s easy underfoot. Being mostly in woodland, there are no facilities along this route, though there are a handful of pubs and cafes in Ashurst that make a great place to refuel after your walk.