4.6
(1042)
6,311
hikers
23
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Hale offer access to the varied landscapes of the New Forest National Park. The region features a mix of open purlieus, dense woodlands, and gentle river valleys. Elevation gains are typically modest, making the terrain suitable for accessible walks.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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.
5.0
(3)
14
hikers
6.77km
01:48
80m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
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.
5
hikers
6.64km
01:49
110m
110m
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
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
There are over 19 easy hiking trails around Hale, offering a variety of experiences through the New Forest National Park's landscapes. In total, the area features 23 hiking routes, with the vast majority being suitable for easy walks.
Easy hikes around Hale feature a diverse mix of open purlieus, dense ancient woodlands, and gentle river valleys. You'll find modest elevation gains, making the terrain suitable for accessible and enjoyable walks through the New Forest National Park.
Yes, many of the easy trails around Hale are circular. For example, the Hatchet Green, Hale Park & Homet Warren loop is an easy 4.2-mile path that offers a scenic journey through Hale Park. Another option is the Hatchet Green – River crossing loop from Redlynch, a 4.3-mile trail through river valleys.
The trails around Hale are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 690 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the varied scenery of woodlands and open heathland, and the well-maintained paths suitable for easy walks.
Yes, the area around Hale offers several interesting landmarks. You can explore sites like the Canadian War Memorial in the New Forest, or discover historical significance at The New Forest itself. The St. Mary's Church, Hale Park – Hatchet Green loop from Hale route passes by St. Mary's Church, offering a glimpse into local heritage.
Yes, the easy hiking trails around Hale are generally very suitable for families. The modest elevation gains and varied landscapes, including woodlands and open purlieus, provide engaging yet manageable walks for all ages. Routes like Hale Purlieu — New Forest National Park are relatively short and explore open heathland, which can be fun for children.
Many trails in the New Forest National Park, including those around Hale, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near livestock or during ground-nesting bird seasons, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
The easy trails around Hale can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings wildflowers and new growth, summer offers pleasant weather for exploring open purlieus, autumn showcases vibrant foliage in the woodlands, and winter provides crisp, quiet walks. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Yes, the region features gentle river valleys and water bodies. For instance, the Hatchet Green – River crossing loop from Redlynch specifically leads through river valleys. You can also find highlights like Eyeworth Pond nearby, which offers a serene natural setting.
While popular routes like Hale Purlieu — New Forest National Park are well-loved, exploring some of the slightly shorter or less-known loops, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays, can offer a more secluded experience. The area has 19 easy trails, providing plenty of options to find quieter paths.
Parking is generally available at various access points to the New Forest National Park trails around Hale. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on the komoot tour pages, such as for the Ferney Homet Copse – Hatchet Green loop from Hale, which starts directly from Hale.
Yes, the region offers options for refreshments. The Royal Oak and New Forest Wildlife is a pub highlight in the area, providing a place to relax and refuel after your walk. Many villages within and around the New Forest also have local cafes and pubs.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.