Biofluorescent night walk with a ranger and an expert

See the New Forest in a whole new light – literally! On the New Forest Walking Festival programme for the first time this year.

Join us for a journey through a hidden world of glowing life that surrounds us all, yet very few of us have ever seen.

Welcome to the world of biofluorescence, one of nature’s best-kept secrets.

Biofluorescence is a unique phenomenon where certain organisms emit light in different colours than the ones they absorb, and we will embark on a guided walk to discover this captivating natural phenomenon up close.

With UV torches provided, we will venture into the darkness to witness a stunning display of biofluorescent organisms in their natural habitat.

Biofluorescence turns the world of colour upside down; green leaves suddenly become a vivid red, spiders bright blue, lichen an intense orange and another, glowing side of the natural world is revealed.

This guided walk is suitable for anyone aged 12 years and above, all children must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs allowed.

Book your spot now and get ready for an awe-inspiring adventure!

About your guide

Delve into the enchanting world of biofluorescence and uncover the wonders that await in the darkness.

Join us for an unforgettable experience that will open your eyes to the breathtaking beauty of nature’s hidden secrets.

Our guide, David Atthowe, from Reveal Nature, is passionate about biofluorescence and has explored this hidden world of glow across five different continents.

He is on a mission to share this colourful and extraordinary experience with as many people as possible and he is excited to be doing so in the New Forest National Park.

Duration/distance

• The walk will last around 1.5 hours and cover a maximum of 2 miles.

Difficulty

• This walk is along a level, rolled path gravel surface with occasional tree roots.
• Please come prepared with warm clothing as the pace of the walk is slow.
• We recommend sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven, and wearing trousers to avoid stinging nettles.
• Safety glasses will be provided and must be worn throughout the walk for your protection.

Cost

• £15 per person.

Location

• Puttles Bridge Car Park, Rhinefield Road
• Toilets maybe available at the nearby Whitefield Moor and Blackwater Arboretum car parks, or at Puttles Bridge in our Welfare Van.

Contact and booking information

• Book your place through the event’s Eventbrite link.
• Children aged 12 and over are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs, except assistance dogs, please.
• Please note we will not cancel the event due to rain, only if there are dangerously high winds so please come prepared accordingly. Rainfall and water enhance the experience and make for ideal conditions for a biofluorescent night walk.
• For more information, or any problems on the day, please contact Jim – jim.day@newforestnpa.gov.uk / 07825 184726.

This walk is part of the New Forest Walking Festival 2026. Click here to find a full list of events.

Parking charges apply in Forestry England car parks. Find out more.

Image credit: David Atthowe.