New Forest Discovery Tour: Small-Group Wildlife and History Exploration from Lyndhurst
5.0
25 Ratings
Hampshire

Venturing beyond the usual paths, this tour delves into a variety of ecosystems, seeking not only wildlife but also unveiling the profound history of the New Forest.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Bolton’s Bench - Meeting at the iconic Bolton’s Bench the walk will follow ‘The Ridge’ with panoramic views across classic New Forest heath and mire to distant woodland. The route then enters the ancient woodland of Denny Inclosure before passing through a mix of woodland habitats, then returning via the working coppice woodland of Pondhead Inclosure. Focusing on the broad range of wildlife we might encounter, from the iconic Dartford Warbler to the enigmatic Fallow Deer or ancient Beech and Oak. We will also be treated to an array of wildflowers, fungi, butterflies and invertebrates. We will explore how the ancient tradition of commoning has and continues to form the landscape as we see it, taking the time to look at the important role that ponies and cattle have played in managing the landscape that we see around us. In addition, we will look at the mixed history of the Forest from the remains of the historic Parc Pale right up to the WW2 bombing range, demonstrating what an important role the Forest has played in Britain’s history. The walk will cover about 8 km and will take a relaxed pace, giving plenty of time to drink in the surroundings and explore whatever wildlife should present itself.
What's Included
  • Guides with over 20 years of wildlife surveying experience
Location
Bolton's Bench
Beaulieu Road
Meet by the cenotaph at Bolton's Bench Car Park, Lyndhurst - full details will be send by e-mail once booking is confirmed.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(25 Ratings)
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Strawberryhotel
Mar 13, 2024
A walk on the wild side - This was actually the Lymington walk along the river and the bird sanctuary. This is a very regular walk for me and my dogs along the sea wall overlooking the reserve. I was astonished at just how much more I discovered in the company of Marcus. We spotted almost 30 different species and observed many behaviours (courtship, territorial tussles). I highly recommend it as a way to get an in depth experience of the wildlife in the area.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
S165lsjenniferp
Mar 1, 2024
Thoroughly Recommend - We have visited the area many times and have wanted to explore more and learn more about the forest and its wildlife. The walking tour with Emily and Marcus was just what we were looking for. A couple of hours with great knowledgeable company and we would thoroughly recommend it.
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32philippac
Mar 1, 2024
Superb walk. Great guides. Definitely recommended - We really really enjoyed this walk. Thank you Marcus and Emily for such great information. It was a perfect length. We saw a great many different things and learned loads. You guys were easy to chat to, and it was lovely to see your passion for what you do. I'd definitely recommend this walk to others looking for an informed insight into the Forest and its inhabitants (from birds to bugs, flora to fungi).
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Ashpart
Dec 6, 2023
A very enjoyable and inspirational introduction to birdlife in the New Forest - Wildfowl ID Masterclass. I felt privileged to spend half a day with Marcus, who was so passionate and knowledgeable about not only wildfowl, but all aspects of bird and mammal life in the New Forest. The day started with a fabulous cooked breakfast, then a short presentation, followed by a couple of hours walking around Lymington Marshes, spotting and identifying the birds that we had been talking about earlier. A thoroughly enjoyable day, in which I learned a lot and felt inspired to learn a whole lot more! Very highly recommended.
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Janed701
Nov 8, 2023
Great experience - Lovely walk Marcus made it so interesting I live in Lyndhurst friends booked it so joined them. It was great to learn the Forest history and about the wild life will look at doing another walk. Thank you
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Happiness29040200759
Nov 3, 2023
New Forest - Marcus's knowledge of the area and the wildlife especially birds was outstanding and impressive. In addition his friendly and inclusive style was very appreciated.
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Amybrighton
Oct 29, 2023
Lovely way to spend a morning - We were camping just outside the forest and wanted to get to know some of the flora and fauna. Marcus and Emily-Louise were really understanding when we got stuck in traffic, welcoming us warmly and calmly catching us up with what we'd missed. Emily-Louise even waited for us in the car park so that we didn't get lost. We loved the walk, learned lots and felt much more connected to the forest as a result. Thank you.
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Ianrl14lu
Aug 21, 2023
A real highlight of our stay - The evening walk with Marcus and Emily was fantastic and was definitely one of the highlights for us during our short break in the New Forest. The route was interesting and the views amazing, not just of the birds but the also views over to the Isle of Wight and the Solent, and the sunset. Marcus pointed out and explained so much about the birds in their habitat, plus other interesting background points about the landscape and the New Forest in general. The walk was very well paced and leisurely, with lots of opportunity to stop and talk about what we were seeing and hearing. Plenty of time to take photos and just admire the views and birds. Marcus and Emily were both extremely friendly and helpful. Their knowledge is first class and they were so keen and passionate about the New Forest and their walks - ensuring that everyone enjoyed it . We would highly recommend their walks. We also went on the Boat Trip from Bucklers Hard down the Beaulieu River and the Wildlife Wander Walk from the Bell Inn, which Marcus and Emily run.
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W8879eljerry
Aug 16, 2023
A real highlight of our holiday. - Perfect way to explore the amazing diversity of the New Forest. Leisurely walk with Marcus who was excellent company and had superb knowledge of all aspects of the National Park.
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940megm
Aug 14, 2023
Wonderful discovery walk - inspiring and so informative - We had a wonderful walk with Marcus and Emily. We talked about all sorts of things - I learnt so much about the New Forest and how the land is managed and generally interesting things about wildlife! It was pitched perfectly and very responsive to the questions asked by the group. It was so interesting to hear about the research Wild New Forest are doing as well. Definitely go, whether you're a local or visiting! I can't wait to do another activity with Wild New Forest.
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up to 12 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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