Broomy and Linwood Circular Walk

5.3 miles (8.6 km)

Starting at the Broomy Walk car park, this walk immediately immerses you in the quintessential New Forest landscape, blending ancient woodland with wide-open, undulating heathland. As you enter the Broomy Inclosure, the atmosphere shifts into one of deep tranquility, defined by magnificent, "magical" oak and beech trees that have stood for centuries.... The trails here are largely well-surfaced gravel tracks, making it a reliable route throughout the year, though you may encounter the occasional "watersplash" or muddy patch after heavy rainfall.
Moving through the forest towards the village of Linwood, the scenery opens up to reveal expansive views across heather-clad plains and traditional farmland. This area is a haven for the forest's iconic free-roaming wildlife; you are very likely to encounter New Forest ponies and donkeys grazing along the roadside or deep within the inclosure. The diverse habitats also support various species of wild deer, including red and fallow deer, which can often be spotted moving quietly through the dappled light of the ancient woods.
The circular route around Linwood provides a charming mix of rural life and natural beauty, passing the popular High Corner Inn or the Red Shoot Inn for those seeking a refreshment stop. Birdwatchers should keep an ear out for woodpeckers and owls within the denser sections of the inclosure, while the open heath offers a chance to see stonechats and birds of prey soaring above the gorse. The final stretch brings you back through a mosaic of scenery that highlights why this part of the National Park is favored for its peaceful, less-crowded atmosphere.
To continue your walking through this area head north east to visit the delightful Cadman's Pool.