Explore the New Forest in a 'nutshell'
If you are new to the area or want to learn more about this special place come along to one of the New Forest National Park Authority’s ‘New Forest in a nutshell’ events.
These events start at the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst. Visitors will be met by a National Park Authority Ranger who will lead them on a three mile walk to take in the stunning scenery and learn about the New Forest’s unique history and the iconic New Forest pony.
After the walk visitors are given a bumper pack of information including the National Park pocket guide and have free entry to the New Forest Centre. Here they will find a museum packed full of displays and activities such as: the ‘pony challenge’, a game designed to help you learn why ponies are kept on the Forest and why you definitely shouldn’t feed them; a display of the Beaulieu Road pony sales with sound effects; and the new family fun tree - designed to get the whole family involved in learning about the animals and wildlife that live here.
The Centre also has an exhibition area, a large gift shop and a Visitor Information Centre.
Jim Mitchell, Interpretation Officer at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘The New Forest is a fascinating place with lots of unusual aspects to it which many visitors and even residents don’t get to hear about. The aim of these walks and access to the New Forest Centre is to answer any questions people have and for our Rangers to talk about the New Forest, which isn’t new or a forest!’
The walk and talk with a Ranger takes place from 10:15am-12:15pm on the dates below and entry to the New Forest Centre can be taken any time after this.
Dates for your diary:
- Sunday 29 May
- Tuesday 31 May
- Sunday 24 July
- Tuesday 2 August
- Sunday 7 August
- Tuesday 16 August
- Sunday 21 August
- Tuesday 30 August
The event is £8 per adult, £4 per child and free for under 5s. To book your place contact the new Forest Centre on 023 8028 3444 or visit www.newforestcentre.org.uk.
Notes to Editor:
Protect - Enjoy - Prosper
The New Forest National Park Authority’s statutory purposes are to
- Conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park - Protect
- Promote opportunities for understanding and enjoyment of its special qualities – Enjoy
We also have a duty to:
- Seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local communities within the Park – Prosper
The New Forest National Park was designated in March 2005. Its unique landscape has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle and pigs which roam free. Majestic woodlands, rare heathland and a spectacular coastline provide fabulous opportunities for quiet recreation, enjoyment and discovery.
Media Contact:
Karen Evans, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans@newforestnpa.gov.uk
