Creech Wood

Visitor information

A historic day out

A mosaic of woodland with historic interest walks, come and explore Creech Wood

Located west of Waterlooville within the stunning South Downs landscape, Creech Wood is home to  conifers as well as a small number of ancient broad-leaved trees. The mixture of trees provides a variety of habitats for wildlife, including patches of heather favoured by butterflies and bees, so bring your binoculars!

Discover Creech Wood's historic past as one of the few remaining areas of the medieval Forest of Bere. It was also made into a Royal Forest by the Normans, where the king could hunt within the grounds. 

Forests are great spaces for your dog to enjoy, just make sure you follow the Forest Dog Code and keep the woodland clean by bagging and binning your dog's waste.

At a glance

  • Walking 

  • Horse riding 

Things to do

Horse riding at Creech Wood

Horse riding is by TROT permit only and there's seasonal routes available, from November to March it leads from Furzeley Road to Apless Lane, and a shorter route in the summer, from April to October. It's recommended that riders use the map supplied with the permit to make sure they know which route in the forest riders are allowed to use. Please be aware that surfaces can be muddy in the winter. 

Horse riding requires a permit which can be purchased through TROT. 

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Walking at Creech Wood

There's a short waymarked route on a good gravel track, some of these are shared paths. Wide grassy rides provide a network of walks throughout this woodland, some routes can get muddy. Deer can occasionally be spotted at early morning or dusk so dog-walkers please be aware.

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Nearby forests

woodland trail in picturesque setting

West Walk

With walking trails, cycling, outdoor play and picnic spots, West Walk is the ideal family day out. At 350 hectares, it is the largest remaining fragment of the ancient Forest of Bere. 

Set amongst the tall pine trees, our play area is great for keeping your children entertained. Including a balance beam and all-ability swing, swinging hoops, rotating climbing chimney and for the little ones, a giant sand pit and wooden playhouses.

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Mossy woodland path

Woodend

Popular with locals and visitors alike, Woodend is one of the few remaining fragments that make up the ancient Forest of Bere.

The shaded paths provide an excellent spot for walking and exploring or you can relax within the trees and listen to the sounds of nature. From ponds and streams with great crested newts and butterflies, there are a variety of habitats to enjoy.

Recoup at the nearby West Walk for a light refreshment and a host of facilities.

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Spring in the forest

Upperford Copse

Enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Upperford Copse, part of one of the remaining fragments which make up the ancient Forest of Bere. 

Popular with locals and visitors alike, the walking trails, cycling opportunities and picnic spots make this woodland ideal for an outdoor adventure. With several small streams and ponds, the woodland is home to reptiles, butterflies and insects.

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Woman and dog looking out over field

Havant Thicket

Located north of Havant, near the stunning South Downs landscape, Havant Thicket is home to some impressive trees. The mixture of old and young trees provides a variety of habitats for wildlife, including many ponds and woodland plants liked by butterflies and bees.

 

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