Best mountain peaks around Ringwood are found within the New Forest National Park, offering a landscape of rolling hills, heathland, and ancient woodlands. This region provides numerous viewpoints and elevated areas for exploration. The terrain is characterized by diverse natural features, including Scots pine trees, sandy knolls, and oak woodlands. Visitors can experience a variety of natural settings, from open heathland to dense forest, with many spots providing expansive views of the surrounding countryside.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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The New Forest is called "new" because it was established in 1079 by William the Conqueror as the "New Royal Hunting Forest." At that time, farmers were granted the right to freely graze their horses, cattle, and even pigs. This right still applies today... they also roam freely in the villages, which is why all houses have either a gate or a cattle grid. The landscape is magnificent, and the hiking is wonderful.
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The giant oaks are widely spaced, allowing them to form large crowns. Were they planted as "pasture oaks"? To provide acorns for the cattle that were driven into the forest for grazing?
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A place where the infmaous ragged boys gang would play before it was used for bombing raid practice.
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Summerlug Hill at the northeastern corner of Holt Heath offers a small amount of elevation (33 m) and views across the heath. There is also a tumulus.
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Holm Hill is an area of open heathland situated in the stunning New Forest National Park. The area is characterised by towering wind-blown Scots pine trees, sandy knolls, and various bogs.
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Burbush Hill is a risen mound located in the beautiful New Forest National Park near Burley. The area is characterised by its rolling landscapes that feature heather, gorse, and ancient oak trees, and excellent views of the surrounding forest and countryside.
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Ragged Boys Hill is a peak in New Forest National Park. You'll be strolling through a beautiful oak woodland situated on a south-facing slope, affording sensational views across the park.
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The Ringwood area, situated within the New Forest National Park, offers several popular elevated spots. Among them, View of the Avon Valley and River Avon is highly regarded for its fabulous views of the meandering river. Other favorites include Holm Hill, known for its open heathland and Scots pine trees, and Burbush Hill, which provides excellent views of the surrounding forest and countryside.
The peaks around Ringwood are characterized by the diverse landscapes of the New Forest National Park. You'll encounter rolling hills, open heathland with heather and gorse, ancient oak woodlands, and areas with towering Scots pine trees. Features like sandy knolls, bogs, and river valleys, such as the Avon Valley, are common, offering a rich variety of natural settings.
Yes, many of the elevated areas and walks around Ringwood are suitable for families. Highlights like View of the Avon Valley and River Avon and Holm Hill are noted as family-friendly. The general terrain of the New Forest, with its risen mounds and gentle elevations, makes for enjoyable and accessible walks for all ages.
For expansive views, View of the Avon Valley and River Avon is a top choice, offering stunning vistas of the river and valley. Burbush Hill also provides excellent panoramic views of the New Forest. Additionally, Ragged Boys Hill, with its oak woodland on a south-facing slope, affords sensational views across the park.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful haven and natural beauty of the area. Many enjoy the excellent views of the surrounding forest and countryside, the diverse landscapes featuring heather, gorse, ancient oak trees, and Scots pines. The opportunity for quiet walks and picnic stops, especially at spots like the View of the Avon Valley and River Avon, is also highly valued.
The elevated areas around Ringwood are generally more akin to hills or risen mounds within the New Forest National Park, rather than steep mountain ascents. They offer gentle elevations, making them accessible for a wide range of fitness levels. While some routes might have boggy sections, alternative paths are often available. Peaks like Summerlug Hill offer a small amount of elevation, providing views without significant challenge.
Yes, the Ringwood area is rich with hiking opportunities. You can find a variety of trails, from easy walks like the Hightown Common routes to more moderate options such as the Ziegler Passage & Smuggler's Road loop. For a comprehensive list of hiking trails, you can explore the Hiking around Ringwood guide or the Easy hikes around Ringwood guide.
Absolutely! The area around Ringwood offers excellent gravel biking routes. You can find moderate trails like the Bratley Water Crossing – Castleman Trailway loop or the Highwood Ford – Bluebell Path. For more options, check out the Gravel biking around Ringwood guide.
The New Forest National Park, where Ringwood's peaks are located, is generally very dog-friendly. Many trails and open spaces welcome dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially around livestock and wildlife. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in certain areas or during particular seasons.
The New Forest offers beauty year-round. Spring brings new growth and blooming gorse, while summer provides warm weather for extended walks. Autumn showcases stunning foliage, and winter offers crisp air and unique landscapes. The best time depends on your preference for weather and scenery, but the area is accessible and enjoyable in all seasons.
While the Ringwood area features several elevated spots, the New Forest National Park itself has various high points. The peaks mentioned in the guide, such as Burbush Hill and Holm Hill, offer significant elevation within their immediate surroundings, providing excellent views across the diverse landscape of the park.


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