Lyndhurst's Park Pale
Recommended by
Our view
"Discover Lyndhurst's extraordinary medieval earthworks and their royal pedigree."
Walk directions
Start at the war memorial and follow the tarmac road towards the thatched cricket pavilion, when it bears left to the cemetery keep straight ahead on a gravel track. Continue ahead, as it slowly rises for just over half a mile (800m).
As the main track starts to bear left take an unmarked but well-defined winding path on the right and descend across the low earthworks of Park Pale towards a red postbox. Cross the road beside a small seasonal pond and take the left-hand fork towards Pondhead Farm.
View all directions
Additional information
Terrain
- Heath and forest tracks, muddy woodland bridleway and roadside pavements
Landscape
- New Forest heath and deciduous woodland
Dog friendliness
- On lead along roads and near grazing animals
Parking
- Bolton's Bench car park
Toilets en route
- In the main car park, Lyndhurst
About the walk
Legend has it that Lyndhurst’s Park Pale was originally built to round up the deer to make them easier targets for William II, whose aim is reputed to have been less than perfect. The story has rather shaky foundations, since the Park Pale was first recorded in 1291 and, although this vast...
Read more
Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
Hampshire’s varied landscape of hills and heaths, downlands and forests, valleys and coast are without rival in southern England. Hike across the chalk downland of the north Hampshire ‘highlands’, meander along peaceful paths through unspoilt river valleys of the Test, Itchen, Avon and Meon, or explore the lonely salt marshes and the beautiful medieval forest and heathland of the New Forest.
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
Rosedale Bed & Breakfast
Rosedale Bed and Breakfast is situated in the middle of Lyndhurst, close to many of the top New Forest attractions including Beaulieu Motor Museum, Paultons Park, Exbury Gardens and Mar...
The Crown Manor House Hotel
The Crown Manor House Hotel occupies a prime location in Lyndhurst, in the New Forest National Park. Bedrooms vary in size, all are very comfortable and equipped to a high standard. Pub...
Rhubarb Cottage
On a quiet residential road, Apple Cottage and Rhubarb Cottage are two three-bedroomed holiday cottages a stone’s throw from the open New Forest paths and a short stroll from the Lyndhu...
Cosy Cottage
Cosy Cottage has been refurbished to a very high standard. It's very dog friendly and is perfectly situated for the heart of the New Forest. It enjoys a peaceful location in a quiet bac...
Cosy Cottage
Cosy Cottage has been refurbished to a very high standard. It's very dog friendly and is perfectly situated for the heart of the New Forest. It enjoys a peaceful location in a quiet bac...
Lime Wood
Lime Wood is a meticulously restored country house situated deep in the New Forest, which provides a wealth of facilities and much opulence. The hotel prides itself on its relaxed, frie...
New Park Farm Cottages
Ideally located in the heart of the New Forest National Park with direct access to miles of safe, off-road walking and cycling paths, New Park Farm Cottage is the perfect place for a re...
New Park Farm Cottages
Ideally located in the heart of the New Forest National Park with direct access to miles of safe, off-road walking and cycling paths, New Park Farm Cottage is the perfect place for a re...
Places to eat nearby View all
