3 Forests to Explore in Hampshire

Alice Holt Forest lies at the northwestern corner of the Weald where the bounding rim of Chalk swings round from a south-north trending outcrop to the west-east alignment of the Hog’s Back anticline. It is now planted mainly with conifers. The forest is now part of the South Downs National Park, which was established on 31 March 2010, and it forms the most northerly gateway to the park.

The New Forest Wildlife Park, a collection of indigenous species in their natural surroundings and a great day out for all the family. Stroll round the wooded grounds to discover 4 species of otters including the Giant Otters for the Amazon, owls, wolves, lynx, Eurasian bison, mouflon, pine marten, deer and so much more.

The New Forest became a national park in 2005 and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror.It covers an area of 566 square kilometres and is made up of vast tracts of unspoilt woodland, heathland and river valleys. Today deer, ponies and cattle continue to roam free in its ancient heaths and woodland. Clear rivers and shady groves provide tranquillity and a car-free haven for walking, cycling and horse riding.