Brockenhurst

With nearly 3,500 residents, Brockenhurst is a lively but traditional Forest village that has retained its character and charm. Its main attractions are the ponies, donkeys and cattle which wander at will and the ford known as the Watersplash at the end of the main shopping street.

History

Some people believe that badgers - or brocks as they are often called - lent their name to the village. But others say it gets its name from Broceste (pronounced Brockerste) which was one of four Saxon manors in the area recorded in the Domesday Book.

Brockenhurst began to grow in the 1700s when nearby Lymington prospered from the manufacture of salt from sea water. In 1765 the Lymington road became a turnpike and was a regular route for the mail coaches from Lyndhurst and the north. The population of Brockenhurst grew steadily during this time as dwellings and inns were built along the main road, and the arrival of the railway station in 1847 led to further expansion and prosperity.

Things to see and do

Brockenhurst is a popular base for visitors, offering a range of bed and breakfast and hotel accommodation and with several camping and caravanning facilities nearby. It is at the centre of a good network of Forest cycle routes and walks and there are several riding stables in the area if you are keen on horse-riding.

Wander into the village and you will see ponies, cattle and donkeys mingling with people in the main shopping street. You can choose from a wide variety of traditional shops, convenience stores, tea rooms and restaurants and there are plenty of popular pubs.

Every summer the three-day New Forest Show is held at New Park on the outskirts of the village - this is the biggest event held in the National Park.

You might also like to visit the Church of St Nicholas in Brockenhurst, the only New Forest church recorded in the Domesday Book. A magnificent yew tree that is said to be over 1,000 years old stands beside the porch, and a memorial in the churchyard commemorates the New Zealand soldiers who died in the First World War. Brusher Mills, the renowned New Forest snake-catcher and character, is also buried in St. Nicholas’ churchyard.