Bolderwood, New Forest

Bolderwood is home to some of the oldest Douglas fir trees in the New Forest, with some dating as far back as 1860. The Forestry Commission trails here are the perfect place for a peaceful walk in nature, where you’ll cross streams, wind through the tall trees, and spot wild New Forest ponies, as well as the forest’s resident deer at the Deer Sanctuary.

Bolderwood is easily reachable by car as there is a large Forestry Commission car park, where parking charges are coming into effect from late April 2026. Tickets are transferrable between all Forestry England car parks in the New Forest, so you can easily visit several locations throughout the day with just one payment. At the car park you’ll find toilets, bins for rubbish and dog waste, picnic benches in a clearing just off the car park, and the Trailside Cafe coffee van selling hot drinks, ice cream and baked goods.

There are 3 way marked trails at Bolderwood – our route follows the red Radnor Trail, which is the longest of the 3. There are clear, coloured markers along the route pointing you in the right direction, so you can relax and enjoy a stroll through the forest. Dogs must be kept on lead due to the presence of wild ponies, and there are no waste bins en route so be sure to pick up and take any bags with you.

The paths follow a well-maintained woodland track, and there are a couple of gentle ascents along the way. There are ample benches along the side of the path should you need to stop and rest, or simply sit and listen to the sounds of wildlife all around.

Towards the end of the route, head over to the viewing platform to spot deer at the Deer Sanctuary before finishing your walk back at the car park. As the start and end of the route is at the car park, there is one road crossing over the Bolderwood Arboretum Ornamental Drive – take care and be aware of any traffic as you follow the path.