Open Space

The one thing we are not short of in this part of Hampshire is open space, vast expanses of heathland which provide unrivalled opportunities for walking.
It’s through a remarkable blend of open heathland like this, with dense woodlands that comprise the New Forest National Park. You might expect a forest area to be primarily filled with trees, but the open space is an equally crucial part of the 150 or so, square miles which goes to make up the National Park.
It is this element which makes it home for the countless ponies, cattle, and pigs which roam the forest. Deer tend to stray not far from the areas of forest.
History tells us that in medieval times this land was a royal hunting ground, so it’s scarcely surprising the deer stick largely to the sheltered parts of the forest where they can be relatively protected from predators.
For my part there are many footpaths across the open spaces like these at Canada and Wellow Commons which are ideal for my principal exercise of walking this time of year and which I am advised is vital for my health.