The best walks and hikes around Hale
4.6
(1042)
6,311
hikers
23
hikes
Hikes around Hale explore the landscape of the New Forest National Park. The area is characterized by a mix of open heathland, ancient woodlands, and quiet country lanes. With generally low elevation changes, the trails here are suitable for a wide range of abilities, offering gentle walks through a pastoral setting.
Best hiking trails around Hale
- The most popular hiking route is Hale and Woodgreen — New Forest National Park, a 5.7 mile (9.2 km) trail that takes about…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.2
(5)
46
hikers
9.20km
02:29
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(4)
30
hikers
4.68km
01:14
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
5.0
(3)
14
hikers
6.77km
01:48
80m
70m
Easy 4.2-mile loop through charming villages, woodlands, and fields in New Forest National Park, suitable for most.
4.5
(4)
33
hikers
6.94km
01:49
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
2.65km
00:42
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Wide at this point but can easily be passed a bit further downstream circa 20m
0
0
Hale Purlieu, managed by the National Trust, is a former manorial area, made up of heath, mires and woods such as Millersford Plantation. It's a pleasant area to walk in, which will give you a sense of being cut off from the villages and settlements in this area. It's easy to get lost in your thoughts amongst the heather and the wide-open spaces that this area affords.
0
1
Hatchet Green is surrounded by characterful thatched cottages and is part of Hale, a scattered Forest community. The earliest cottages were built using cob in the late 18th century and are still traditionally thatched in the simple long straw style without the elaborately patterned block ridges common since the 1960s. The green itself is used by the local primary school and is also the local cricket pitch. It's also designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its rare plants and wildlife.
1
0
Hatchet Green in the village of Hale is very pretty, quintessentially English, with a number of benches on the perimeter. A great place to rest, maybe picnic, and watch the world go by!
0
0
This beautiful pathway through Homet Warren wood is lined with stunning rhodendrons - especially beautiful in the spring and summer months.
2
0
Lovely bit of open green filled with New Forest's local residents, wild ponies and cows. Perfect spot for a dog walk or picnic.
1
0
Hale Park has extensive grounds and an eye-catching Grade I listed house with Corinthian columns and a rather grand air to it. Built by Thomas Archer in the early 1700s on the site of a former Elizabethan mansion, the house and grounds remain private today. However, a footpath (the Avon Valley Path trail) cuts through the estate, down the fantastic avenue and around the side of the house. On this path, you’ll also pass by the medieval parish church which lies in the grounds.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is this Hale located? I see several places with the same name.
This guide focuses on the village of Hale located on the northern edge of the New Forest National Park in Hampshire, England. The hikes explore the unique heathland and ancient woodlands of this specific area.
Are the hiking trails around Hale difficult?
No, the trails around Hale are generally not difficult. The landscape features gentle hills and low elevation changes. Most routes are rated as easy, with a few moderate options available for those seeking a slightly longer walk. There are no difficult, high-altitude climbs here.
Are there any good family-friendly hikes in Hale?
Yes, Hale is an excellent destination for family walks. The terrain is mostly gentle and there are many shorter routes. For a quick and easy outing, consider the Ferney Homet Copse – Hatchet Green loop from Hale, which is under 3 miles and perfect for little legs.
Can I find circular walks starting and ending in Hale?
Absolutely. Most of the popular trails in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same spot without retracing your steps. A great example of a pleasant circular route is the Hatchet Green loop from North Charford.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Hale?
The trails around Hale are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the classic New Forest scenery, highlighting the beautiful mix of open heathland and ancient woodlands. The quiet, peaceful atmosphere and the chance to see ponies grazing are also frequently mentioned.
How many hiking trails are there in Hale?
You can explore over 20 different hiking trails around Hale. These range from short, easy strolls to more substantial moderate-length walks, offering plenty of options to discover the New Forest landscape.
Are the trails suitable for hiking with a dog?
Yes, the New Forest is a fantastic place to hike with a dog. The trails are generally wide and the terrain is manageable. However, you must keep your dog under control, especially around the free-roaming ponies and during bird nesting season (March to July) on the open heathland.
What are the trail conditions like?
Most trails are a mix of woodland paths, gravel tracks, and grassy sections across open heath. While generally well-maintained, paths can become muddy and boggy after heavy rain, particularly in wooded areas. Waterproof hiking boots are recommended year-round.
Is there parking available for the hiking trails?
Yes, there are several small, informal parking areas and roadside spots near the trailheads in and around Hale. For example, parking is available near Hatchet Green. These can fill up quickly on sunny weekends, so arriving early is a good idea.
Can I get to the Hale trails using public transport?
Reaching the trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging as Hale is a small village. The nearest major train station is in Salisbury, from which you would likely need to take a bus with limited service or a taxi to reach the start of the walks.
What is the best time of year to hike in Hale?
Hiking in Hale is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers lush green scenery. Autumn is particularly beautiful, with vibrant foliage in the woodlands. Winter walks can be crisp and quiet, but be prepared for muddier trails.
Most popular attractions around Hale
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
