FREE HIKE 🌲 Forest, Heath & Adventure: An Autumn Hike in the New Forest

Step away from the everyday and spend a day exploring the beautiful New Forest in autumn. Join us for a scenic approx. 14-mile hike through the New Forest National Park and surrounding villages, taking in ancient woodland, open heathland, picturesque trails and the unique landscapes that make this one of southern England’s most beautiful walking destinations. Expect a good day of walking, fresh air, great scenery and plenty of conversation along the way — with a well-earned pub visit in Brockenhurst at the end. 🌲 The Hike 📍 Meet: Outside Brockenhurst Train Station 🕥 Meet at: 10:30 am 🥾 Start: 10:45 am sharp 📏 Distance: Approx. 14 miles ⏰ Expected finish for the Hike: 6:00 pm 🍺 Finish: Pub near Brockenhurst Station We’ll head out from Brockenhurst and explore a mixture of forest paths, heathland and trails through the surrounding countryside. The New Forest is particularly beautiful in autumn, with changing woodland colours, open heathland and the chance to spot some of the famous New Forest ponies along the way. The route will also take us through and around some of the picturesque villages and historic landscapes associated with the Forest. 🍂 Trail Highlights New Forest National Park One of the UK’s most distinctive natural landscapes, combining ancient woodland, open heathland and historic common land. Autumn Woodland & Heathland Enjoy the changing colours of the season, crisp autumn air and peaceful forest trails away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. New Forest Ponies 🐴 Keep an eye out for the famous ponies and other wildlife that roam freely across the Forest. Historic Trails & Villages The New Forest has a fascinating history, including its origins as a royal hunting forest. We’ll experience some of its historic landscape as we walk. Pub Finale 🍺 After approximately 14 miles on the trail, we’ll finish back around Brockenhurst and head to a local pub for a well-earned drink and some time to relax and chat. 🚗 Getting There By Car: Carpools and fuel-sharing are encouraged! Station parking is available at postcode SO42 7PY. Driving time is around 2+ hours, depending on traffic, so please allow plenty of extra time for possible delays. I may be driving down from Three Bridges Station and would be happy to pick up some participants from there or Leatherhead Station, subject to arrangements. If you need a lift, please send me a WhatsApp message in advance so that pickup arrangements can be coordinated. By Train: 🚆 Travel to Southampton Central and connect to Brockenhurst. The journey can take around 2 hours or more depending on your starting point and any service disruptions, so please check your train times and allow plenty of time to arrive before the 10:45 am meeting time. This is a reasonably long walk, so please make sure you are comfortable walking approximately 14 miles at a medium pace. 🎒 What to Bring Sturdy hiking boots/shoes Waterproof/rainproof clothing At least 1 litre of water Packed lunch and snacks A torch/headtorch Extra layer for cooler autumn weather Fully charged mobile phone Autumn weather can change quickly, so please come prepared for rain, wind and cooler temperatures. ⚠️ Important Notes This is a voluntary outdoor activity. Participants are responsible for their own safety and should assess whether the distance, pace and conditions are suitable for them. Please: Stay with or behind the hike leader so that the group remains together. Follow the instructions of the hike leader. Be courteous and respectful towards fellow walkers. Respect the New Forest, wildlife and other people using the trails. Ensure you have suitable footwear, clothing, food and water. Please read the About Us section of the group before attending any events. https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities 🍺 After-Walk Pub Visit We’ll finish the day with a relaxed gathering at a pub near Brockenhurst Station. Nothing better after a good autumn walk than a warm pub, a well-earned drink and some good company! 📱 Questions or problems? WhatsApp: 07830374629 🍂 Come Along! Bring your boots, wrap up for the autumn weather and come and enjoy a full day in the New Forest. Fresh air. Forest trails. Autumn colours. Good company. And a well-earned pub at the end. See you on the trail! 🥾🍂🌲