Bolderwood Deer Circuit — New Forest National Park

Embark on the Bolderwood Deer Circuit, an easy 1.9-mile (3.1 km) hike through the New Forest National Park. This picturesque route, with a gentle 167 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 50 minutes to complete. You will wander through ancient and ornamental woodlands, admiring majestic Scots Pines, Douglas firs, and Redwoods, some dating back to 1860. The trail features a moderately smooth, gravelled surface, making it accessible for many, though you might encounter some short, fairly steep sections. A highlight is the purpose-built deer viewing platform, offering views over a large meadow where wild fallow deer are often seen. You can also spot pollarded beech trees along the boundary of Mark Ash Wood and enjoy the serene Bratley Water.

The Bolderwood Deer Circuit is well-equipped for visitors, featuring a convenient car park, toilets, and picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for a day out. For the best chance to see the wild fallow deer, plan your visit between April and September, particularly between 12:30 PM and 2:30 PM, when National Park Rangers often feed them from the viewing platform. The trails are clearly waymarked, ensuring an easy navigation experience. Benches are available along the way for resting.

This circuit is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for wild fallow deer. Beyond the deer, you will discover some of the New Forest's oldest and tallest trees, with some planted as early as the 1700s. The area combines dense forest, open heathland with gorse and heather, and lush fern gardens, offering a diverse natural experience. It is a popular destination for families, providing ample space for outdoor activities near the car park.