As the bluebells carpet the forest floor and the New Forest ponies roam freely across the open heathland, spring is something truly special here. We have put together our favourite walks starting right from the door of The Bell Inn — from easy family strolls to half-day adventures.
There is nowhere quite like the New Forest in spring. From late April through May, the ancient woodland comes alive with a carpet of bluebells stretching as far as the eye can see, while wild garlic perfumes the air and the famous New Forest ponies graze lazily across sun-warmed heathland. It is one of the most beautiful — and quietly underrated — natural spectacles in England.
At The Bell Inn, we are perfectly placed for exploring some of the finest walking routes in the National Park. Pull on your boots, clip on the lead, and let us point you in the right direction.
The Brook to Fritham Loop (6 miles)
Starting right from our doorstep, this circular route is our favourite for first-time visitors. Head north from The Bell Inn through the ancient oak woodland of Eyeworth Wood before crossing open heathland toward the remote hamlet of Fritham. The Royal Oak pub there makes a perfect halfway stop before looping back south through the forest.
- Distance: 6 miles (circular)
- Difficulty: Easy — well-marked paths, mostly flat
- Dogs: Keep on lead near livestock, free to roam through woodland
- Best for: Bluebells (late April–May), deer spotting (early morning)
The forest is at its most magical before 9am — if you can manage an early start, the light through the oak canopy is extraordinary and you are far more likely to spot roe deer in the clearings.
Hatchet Pond and Beaulieu Heath (4 miles)
A short drive from The Bell Inn brings you to Hatchet Pond — the largest natural pond in the New Forest and one of its most peaceful spots. From the car park, a gentle circular route takes you across the open heath with sweeping views south toward the Solent. This is prime habitat for rare ground-nesting birds in spring, so stick to the paths and keep dogs close.
- Distance: 4 miles (circular)
- Difficulty: Easy — open heathland, no significant climbs
- Dogs: Lead required on heath during nesting season (April–July)
- Best for: Big skies, birdwatching, a quiet picnic by the water
On a clear day the views from the higher ground above the pond stretch all the way to the Isle of Wight. Worth timing for late afternoon when the light is golden across the heather.
The Rufus Stone Walk (5 miles)
For those who like a little history with their hiking, this route through the heart of the forest passes the famous Rufus Stone — said to mark the spot where King William II was killed by a stray arrow while hunting in 1100. Fact or legend, the setting is undeniably atmospheric, particularly in spring when the canopy is just beginning to close overhead and shafts of sunlight break through the new leaves.
- Distance: 5 miles (circular from the Rufus Stone car park)
- Difficulty: Moderate — some uneven ground through ancient woodland
- Dogs: Welcome throughout
- Best for: History, ancient woodland, spring light through the trees
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary (3 miles)
If you have younger children or just fancy a shorter, gentler walk, Bolderwood is unmissable. The Forestry England managed deer sanctuary has a dedicated viewing platform where fallow deer are fed daily at around 2pm from April to September. The walk itself loops through tall Douglas fir and Scots pine woodland — very different in feel from the ancient oak forest, and beautiful in its own way.
- Distance: 3 miles (various loops, well signed)
- Difficulty: Very easy — suitable for pushchairs on some paths
- Dogs: On lead near the deer platform
- Best for: Families, deer watching, a gentle afternoon stroll
What to Bring
- Waterproofs — even on a sunny spring day, the forest holds moisture and paths can be muddy
- Sturdy footwear — wellies or walking boots are strongly recommended
- A lead for the dog — livestock and ground-nesting birds are everywhere in spring
- The Ordnance Survey app — OS Explorer Map OL22 covers the whole area
- A packed lunch — or earn your appetite and come back to us
After Your Walk
Every good walk deserves a proper reward. Head back to The Bell Inn for a hearty lunch from our seasonal British menu, a pint of local Hampshire ale by the fire, or — if you have really earned it — afternoon tea in the garden. Dogs are always welcome inside and out, and we will have a water bowl waiting at the door.
If you are making a longer trip of it, our Spring Haven package includes dinner, bed and a full English breakfast from £219 per night — the perfect base for a few days of New Forest exploring. Call us on 023 8081 2214 to check availability or send us a message.