Hatchet Pond

Visitor information

Hatchet Pond is one of the UK’s most important Ponds for nature and wildlife

Hatchet Pond is the New Forest’s largest body of fresh water and home to some of the rarest wetland plants and freshwater animals long since lost from many other parts of the UK. As one of the most wildlife rich water bodies remaining in lowland England, it has the highest possible conservation status as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area for Conservation.

Over the last four years a major restoration plan has been put in place and changes made at this location to try and protect it for future generations.

Please note: to reduce the risk of pollution into the pond there are no longer toilet facilities here. Alternative facilities can be found in the nearby villages of Beaulieu and Brockenhurst, or in Lymington.

Visitors also have a critical role to play in helping to ensure this special place can survive by not entering the water for swimming, or any other reason, and not allowing dogs into the water. Find out more about why this area is so special:

Wildlife of Hatchet Pond

At a glance

No swimming (including dogs) or watersports
Please take your litter home
No toilet facilities

Things to do

Coarse fishing at Hatchet Pond

A variety of fish can be caught at Hatchet Pond and Little Hatchet including; roach, bream, tench, pike, perch, eels and rudd.

In order to fish at Hatchet Pond or Little Hatchet you...

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Nearby forests

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...

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Keep Your Distance from livestock sign at Bolton's Bench

Bolton's Bench

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...

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Three New Forest ponies standing on open grassland.

Whitefield Moor

Enjoy the stunning views of the heathland and trees beyond. This is an ideal spot for all the family with good waymarked walking trail that pass by the nearby Ober Water stream.

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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...

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