Natural England - New Forest

New Forest

In 2005 the New Forest became England’s eighth National Park and was the first to be designated in the 21st Century.

The New Forest is a rich landscape which maintains a strong sense of history and culture within its community. It is the most intact surviving example in England of a medieval hunting forest and pastoral system. It owes its origin to William the Conquerer who, in 1079, decreed that the area should be set aside as a royal hunting ground.

The diversity of its landscape is unique, and includes woodland, open heathland, riverine and coastal land. Much of its landscape is also of importance to nature conservation and provides extensive recreational opportunities for walkers, riders, The landscape is sustained by the ancient practice of commoning under which horses, cattle and pigs graze the open land. Without this basic form of land management the diverse pattern of woods, heaths and open grassy “lawns” would change dramatically as scrub gradually covered the area. The eventual result would be a dense broadleaved forest with much reduced wildlife interest and few far reaching views for visitors to enjoy.

The New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) works across the whole of the forest area, encouraging and co-ordinating joint action from local and national groups with an interest in protecting its unique qualities. The NPA took up its full range of statutory powers and functions on the 1 April 2006.