Attractions and Places To See around Hale - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Hale are primarily situated within the New Forest, an area known for its extensive unenclosed pasture land, heathland, and ancient forests. This region, historically designated as a royal forest, features significant natural habitats and historical sites. It offers a diverse landscape for exploration, encompassing both natural features and man-made monuments. The area provides opportunities to experience a blend of historical significance and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Hale
- The most popular attractions is Eyeworth Pond, a man-made lake that was created in the late 19th century to power a gunpowder mill. It is a peaceful spot suitable for picnics and offers parking for those wishing to hike from the area.
- Another must-see spot is Canadian War Memorial, New Forest, a man-made monument marking where Canadian troops were stationed before the D-Day landings. This roadside cross provides expansive views across the forest from an elevation of 100 meters.
- Visitors also love The New Forest, a historical site and natural monument. Proclaimed a royal forest by William the Conqueror, it remains a habitat for many rare birds and mammals, and became a National Park in 2005.
- Hale is known for its historical sites, natural forests, and tranquil ponds. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient woodlands to significant historical markers.
- The attractions around Hale are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 300 upvotes and 32 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Canadian War Memorial, New Forest
Highlight • Monument
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The New Forest
Highlight • Historical Site
Pre-existing rights of common pasture are still recognised today, being enforced by official verderers and agisters. In the 18th century, the New Forest became a source of timber for the Royal Navy. It remains a habitat for many rare birds and mammals.
It is a 28,924.5-hectare (71,474-acre) biological and geological Site of Special Scientific Interest. Several areas are Geological Conservation Review and Nature Conservation Review sites. It is a Special Area of Conservation, a Ramsar site and a Special Protection Area. Copythorne Common is managed by the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Kingston Great Common is a national nature reserve and New Forest Northern Commons is managed by the National Trust."
Cit. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Forest
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Eyeworth Pond
Highlight • Structure
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The Royal Oak and New Forest Wildlife
Highlight (Segment) • Pub
When you visit The New Forest there are a group of about 5,000 locals that you can't but help noticing. They have been hanging around for about 2,000 years and what they don't know about the forest is not worth knowing. We are talking about the wonderful New Forest Ponies of course!
All of the ponies found in the forest are wild in the sense they can roam freely but in fact they are owned by New Forest Commoners.
The commoners have the right to graze their ponies and cattle on the open forest throughout the year. It is the animals’ grazing which helps to keep the New Forest’s landscape and rare species which you can enjoy today. The ancient tradition of commoning dates back from before the days when William the Conqueror made this area his private hunting reserve and imposed strict laws on the locals. In return for this, the locals were given the rights to graze their animals on the ‘common’ (this being the land which is now known as the New Forest). Think of the New Forest as one large farm!.
thenewforest.co.uk/explore/wildlife-and-nature/ponies
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The Moot and Moot House, Downton
Highlight • Historical Site
The earthworks that can be walked around today are from a Norman castle and form part of extensive landscaped gardens. Free to the public, this is a perfect spot for a mosey about and a cracking open of the thermos flask.
Moot House was built in the 1600s and landscaped the castle earthworks. They had an earthen amphitheatre built which saw many plays performed, particularly Shakespeare's.
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Tips from the Community
Nice little Memorial with a few different tracks close by
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Sorry I really don't like the Rodger Penny Way, as a local I try not to ride it anymore.. I'd go through Woodgreen, Lover, Passed Hampworth Golf Course, No Mans Land... much quieter roads... On the way back most of my routes go into Ringwood... and through the forest from there (I live near Lyndhurst)
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A Roadside cross to commemorate the Canadian forces that were stationed in the area for training in preparation to ww2.
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The Moot boasts the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle, the earthworks of which can still be explored today. The impressive Moot House was built in the 17th century and was host to an earthen amphitheatre where many plays, particularly Shakespeare's, were performed. It all makes for an interesting detour when running along the Avon Valley Path.
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Visit Fritham and Eyeworth Pond, take a moment to wander through history Walk around the man-made gunpowder mill pond or take a walk through the woodland. Keep an eye out for the old black post box near the entrance to Fritham car park, there for the workers of the mill. Wander through the woodlands full of Roman remains. Fritham is a small village with the village green at it's heart. Visit the pub, named after the ancient oak opposite (over 1000 years old), or join the cycle trail network and ride over to Ogdens. You are likely to see the New Forest's ponies and cattle. Please treat these animals with care, don’t feed or pet the livestock – keep your distance.
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A peaceful place off the New Forest tourist trail. Eyeworth Pond was created in the late 19th century to provide water power to a nearby gunpowder mill.
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This roadside cross marks the spot where Canadian troops were stationed during the build up to D-Day. It's a scenic place to stop with expansive views across the forest at 328 feet (100 m) high.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Hale?
The area around Hale is rich in natural beauty, primarily within the New Forest. You can visit Eyeworth Pond, a peaceful man-made lake perfect for picnics and wildlife spotting. The broader New Forest itself is a historical site and natural monument, offering extensive unenclosed pasture land, heathland, and ancient forests, home to many rare birds and mammals.
Are there any historical sites or monuments near Hale?
Yes, Hale is surrounded by significant historical sites. The Canadian War Memorial, New Forest, is a roadside cross marking where Canadian troops were stationed before the D-Day landings, offering expansive views. You can also explore The Moot and Moot House, Downton, which features the remains of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle and landscaped gardens, with a Roman Villa nearby.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The New Forest area around Hale is ideal for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various easy hikes, such as the Hale Purlieu trail or the Hatchet Green loop. For cycling enthusiasts, there are MTB trails and gravel biking routes that take you through the forest and past scenic spots.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Hale?
Many attractions around Hale are suitable for families. Eyeworth Pond is a peaceful spot for picnics and gentle walks. The Canadian War Memorial offers a historical point of interest with views, and the general exploration of The New Forest provides opportunities to see wild ponies and cattle, which children often enjoy.
Where can I see wildlife in the Hale area?
The entire New Forest is a prime location for wildlife spotting. You're likely to encounter the famous New Forest ponies and cattle roaming freely. Eyeworth Pond is also a good spot to observe local wildlife in a tranquil setting.
What is the best time of year to visit Hale for walks?
The New Forest area around Hale offers beautiful walks year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is popular for longer excursions, and even winter walks can be magical, especially with the unique atmosphere of the forest. Consider checking local weather forecasts for the best experience.
Are there any pubs or places to eat near the attractions?
Yes, you can find places to refresh yourself. For instance, The Royal Oak and New Forest Wildlife is a pub located within the forest, offering a chance to experience the local atmosphere while potentially seeing wildlife nearby. The village of Fritham, near Eyeworth Pond, also has a pub.
Can I find parking at the attractions around Hale?
Yes, parking is available at several attractions. Eyeworth Pond has a small number of parking places, making it convenient for starting a hike. The Canadian War Memorial is a roadside stop with parking, allowing visitors to enjoy the views.
What makes the New Forest a unique place to visit?
The New Forest is unique due to its long history as a royal forest, proclaimed by William the Conqueror. It remains one of the largest tracts of unenclosed pasture land, heathland, and ancient forest in Southern England. Its ancient commoning rights allow ponies and cattle to roam freely, shaping the landscape and supporting rare species, making it a living historical and natural monument.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Hale?
Visitors particularly enjoy the peaceful and scenic environment, especially at spots like Eyeworth Pond, which is described as a tranquil picnic spot. The expansive views from the Canadian War Memorial are also highly appreciated. The overall experience of being immersed in the natural beauty and history of The New Forest, including encounters with its wild animals, is a major draw.
Are there any ancient ruins or archaeological sites to see?
Yes, the area has a rich past. Near Eyeworth Pond, you can wander through woodlands full of Roman remains. Additionally, The Moot and Moot House, Downton, features the earthworks of an 11th-century motte and bailey castle, and is located next to the remains of a Roman Villa, indicating a long history of human settlement.
Can I bring my dog to the attractions in Hale?
The New Forest is generally dog-friendly, with many trails and open spaces suitable for walks with your canine companion. However, always keep dogs under close control, especially around the free-roaming ponies and cattle, and adhere to any local signage regarding lead requirements or restricted areas to protect wildlife.
What kind of views can I expect from viewpoints around Hale?
From the Canadian War Memorial, situated at an elevation of 100 meters, you can enjoy expansive and dramatic views across the New Forest. This roadside cross provides a scenic stop to take in the vast landscape of the forest.
Most popular attractions around Hale
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