#3 - Acres Down and Canadian War Memorial
New Forest National ParkLength: 5.8 mi • Est. 2 h 46 m
A circular walk in the New Forest in Hampshire passing through heathland on the outskirts of the forest to the Canadian War Memorial and back again. Walking in the New Forest comes with both rewards and some hazards. The challenges can include bogs, fords, unmarked paths, remoteness (with patchy phone service) and some congested roads, but for the keen walker the attractions of the forest include the freedom to wander for miles in unspoiled countryside, the richness and diversity of the wildlife, and the sense of timelessness and peace. All this more than outweighs its wild side. However, if you are not familiar with the mainly unmarked routes, it is easy to get lost, so make sure you go out with a fully charged phone with GPS and a stout pair of walking boots.
Acres Down Forest, with its easy-to-follow routes and wide gravel paths, represents the forest at its most civilized. Even on the surrounding heathland, the paths are generally clear enough to follow and there is a refreshing lack of New Forest bogs. There are no stiles or other obstacles to negotiate but you will go through a couple of gates and over two bridges. Allow 2.5 hours.
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