Learn about the landscape

The landscape of the New Forest is unique in lowland Britain.  The ancient woodlands and open heathland give a sense of wilderness more commonly associated with the uplands.

Identified as an area of tranquillity amongst the increasing population of the south-east the landscape is truly unique.

Ranging from the undulating hills of the Wiltshire chalk downs to the north, through the raised gravel terraces that cut across the central section, to the low lying coastal plains, the area is one of contrast.  

There are many factors responsible for shaping this landscape including climate, vegetation, geology, drainage, soils and coastal influences. It is the complex interrelationship of these factors over many thousands of years that have resulted in the landscape we see today. The ecology of the New Forest ranges from farmland to the coast but the most ecological interest is on the large expanses of semi-natural habitats encompassing woodlands and lowland heathland.

Factsheets

Factsheet 1 - Shaping the land (900 KB)

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