The Ridge

Rising above the New Forest heathland just outside Lyndhurst, The Ridge offers one of the finest elevated walks in Hampshire. This gently undulating stretch of high ground gives you proper views across the forest canopy without the knee-jarring climb you'd expect from a proper peak.

Families with older children will find it well worth the effort - younger ones might find the walk a bit much, though the ponies grazing along the way usually keep them interested. The views stretch for miles on a clear day, taking in the patchwork of ancient woodland, open heath and distant downland that makes the New Forest so special.

Walkers and photographers get the most from The Ridge, particularly in early morning or late afternoon when the light picks out the texture of the landscape below. It's completely free to explore, being part of the forest's common land, and you can easily spend a couple of hours up here if you take your time.

Staying at one of the nearby campsites like Hollands Wood or Roundhill puts The Ridge within easy reach for an evening stroll or dawn expedition. The proximity to Lyndhurst also means you can combine a ridge walk with a proper pub lunch - always a good combination when you're exploring the New Forest on foot.