Ashurst New Forest Circuit
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This walk and its write-up have been devised by the lovely Patrick Revell to be his assessment walk as he ventures to become a Lowland and Hill Walk Leader for OutdoorLads. Your support for Patrick is sought.
This circular walk from Ashurst Railway Station explores the timeless landscapes of ancient native woodland and open heathland in the New Forest. The route visits the small villages of Emery Down and Bank on the outskirts of Lyndhurst, both of which have traditional pubs.
The first part of the walk follows the sinuous course of Bartley Water. Here there are fine examples of oxbow lakes that have formed (or are in the process of forming) where the river cuts off its own bends as its course evolves over time. There are numerous impressive Douglas fir trees growing along the riverbanks here, planted in 1864, among the tallest trees in the New Forest.
After crossing the A337 the route passes through chestnut woodland, then follows a bridleway into Emery Down. The village has a church consecrated in 1864 and The New Forest Inn, dating from the 17th Century. From here it’s less than a mile though oak, beech and birch woodland, crossing the A35 to the even smaller village of Bank, which also has a pub, The Oak Inn, built in the 1850s.
From Bank we start to head back towards Ashurst, with a long section through more native woodland, crossing under the A337 via an underpass. Beyond Denny Lodge, the route emerges onto open heathland and makes a beeline for Beaulieu Road Station, nestling amongst Scots pines. The next couple of miles continue across open heathland, with a final section of oak woodland as we return to Ashurst Station. We can stop at the The New Forest pub by the station for a drink at the end of the walk.
Some parts of this route are on roads and gravel tracks, however there are long sections of unsurfaced path. If there has been heavy rain recently, it will be wet underfoot, so waterproof footwear such as walking boots are recommended.
The route takes 6 hours, more if a pub stop at Emery Down or Bank is included.
IMPORTANT! Participation Statement:
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, is asked not to attend.
(All photos were taken by the prospective leader.)
What to bring
For your comfort and safety please be prepared for the anticipated weather and the terrain of the walk. Keep in mind the following:
Boots: Hiking boots that are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support, are important as soon as you encounter any mud. Cross trainers may suffice in good weather and flat routes.
Socks: Proper walking socks keep your feet dry, and help prevent blisters.
Walking trousers: (ideally water resistant) will be more comfortable than Jeans which are heavy and cold when wet. From April to October shorts are usually a better bet.
Waterproof over-trousers: essential in any significant rainfall. Breathable ones are best.
Layered clothing: allows you to quickly adapt to changes in the weather as well as body temperature. E.g. a base layer or a cotton T-Shirt; a mid layer like a micro fleece, or a rugby type thick shirt, and in cooler weather an outer layer consisting of a windproof jacket or a thick fleece.
Waterproof Jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather. You get what you pay for with these. Breathable fabrics are advisable.
Hat: essential in summer to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
Small Rucksack: one that is comfortable to wear is essential so that you can use your arms freely. Place valuables in water proof bags inside.
Sunglassses: April- Sept: comfortable sunglasses enhance your pleasure and keep insects out of the eye.
Water: even in winter one can loose a litre or more of fluid by perspiration. If you fail to make this up you'll get dehydrated which can lead to headaches and other problems. A hydration bladder is easier to use than bottled water, but higher maintenance.
Food: a packed lunch will be required unless otherwise stated. In addition carry energy bars or similar to counter 'sugar lows'.
Medicines: if you have allergies, are diabetic, or have minor ailments: don't forget these!
Food & drink
Please bring a packed lunch and plenty to drink. There should be a pub stop on the walk, either at Emery Down or Bank.