Bolton's Bench

Visitor information

Visit Bolton’s Bench, a timeless gateway to the New Forest

Walk up to the top of the hill at Bolton’s Bench and take a moment to let your mind wander amongst the magestic ancient yew trees. You'll also be treated to picturesque views of the heathland, ancient woodlands and grassy lawns that make the New Forest so special. 

The centre of Lyndhurst, a village at the heart of the New Forest, is just a five minute walk away and has a variety of tearooms, pubs and restaurants as well as the New Forest Heritage Centre and Museum. The Lyndhurst War Memorial Cross is located next to Bolton's Bench Car Park. 

You are likely to see the New Forest's ponies and cattle. Please treat these animals with care, don’t feed or pet the livestock – keep your distance.

 

At a glance

Access to Lyndhurst
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Stunning views
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Things to do

Walking at Bolton's Bench

Walking is the perfect way to get some fresh air and explore some of the area's most beautiful landscapes. 

Bolton's Bench is the gateway to the New Forest, which has hundreds of miles of gravel paths to explore with varied natural terrain.

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Nearby forests

Close up of oak leaf

Knightwood Oak

Knightwood Oak is a great place to stop and enjoy a picnic, 'away from it all' and try to imagine what it would have been like over 500 years ago when the famous Knightwood Oak tree began to grow.

The Knightwood Oak is the largest oak in the New Forest, at 7.4m girth, and surely one of the oldest. 

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White pony within rust orange shrubs

Tilery Road

Tilery Road is named after a historic Victorian brick and tile works. From the car park there's easy access following the cycle route into Pignall Hill, this is one of the largest collections of inclosure woodlands in the New Forest. 

The extensive grassy lawn offers valuable grazing for ponies. Ponies are often referred to as the ‘architects’ of the New Forest. Please don't feed them and keep your distance.

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Boy counting tree rings on a very old tree that's been felled.

Blackwater

Blackwater arboretum is an idyllic setting with a stunning variety of beautiful trees from around the world. Inspired by the tree collection at this special place, a sensory sculpture trail complements the setting.

Explore Blackwater on two wheels by following the New Forest’s great network of cycle trails.

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A herd of deer in a glade in the forest

Bolderwood

We are delighted that Bolderwood features as part of the Ancient Canopy dedicated to Her Majesty in celebration of the Platinum Jubilee in 2022.  Ancient Woodlands are cherished reminders of our living heritage, often referred to as “nature’s Crown Jewels”. We are proud to be part of this unique project, which aims to raise awareness of these treasured habitats and the importance of conserving them for future generations. 

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