New Forest Short Walks - Walks from Lyndhurst

This walk passes through Pondhead Inclosure, and returns to Lyndhurst along the heathland ridge close to Bolton's Bench.

Previously known as Mine House Grounds, Pondhead Inclosure was first planted in 1810, and many of the original trees remain. Notice here the stock-proof and deer-proof fencing that for more than 20 years has helped reduce grazing and browsing pressure, allowing the development of a rich under-storey that includes abundant wild flowers, and in spring and summer, attendant butterflies and other insects. Rotational hazel coppicing is also undertaken here, further encouraging the growth of wild flowers.

Buzzards frequently soar above the trees, mewing loudly, Hawfinches can occasionally be seen, and so too can all three woodpecker species and a wide range of other, more common woodland birds.

The Ridge on White Moor provides distant views across rolling New Forest heath and wetlands towards Longwater Lawn. The heathland here is home to a range of birds that in much of Britain are scarce or absent. Look out for Dartford warblers, woodlarks and stonechats, and from May to early August, at dusk, listen for the churring calls of nightjars. Another national rarity, the silver-studded blue butterfly, is also abundant here during July and early August, which is the main flight period.

The narrow neck of the Park Pale can also be seen on The Ridge where it now survives as a somewhat wasted earthen bank and ditch. Dating back to at least the 13th century, the Park Pale once surrounded a medieval deer park known latterly as Lyndhurst Old Park.