Keith Walker's Visit To The New Forest In Autumn
27th March 2026
In: News, Members' Articles
Autumn in the New Forest
The New Forest National Park covers an area of 219 square miles, mostly in Hampshire with some encroachment into Wiltshire . 90% is owned by the Crown, and it is managed by Forestry England.
“New” is of course a misnomer, as the New Forest was proclaimed a royal forest in about 1079 by William the Conqueror when it was used for royal hunts. Common rights were confirmed in 1698, and there have been a number of Acts of Parliament since 1877 confirming the status of the Forest. It became a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1971.
The Forest is farmed by ‘Commoners’ through a Court of Verderers, and they operate to a set of rules in relation to animals roaming freely in the Forest that has evolved over centuries.
During WWII the Forest had an interesting history, supporting a number of Airfields, and provided a training base for Special Operations Executive (SOE) agents.
The Forest is an incredibly popular recreational area, but my favourite time there is the Autumn. By early November (Autumn colours arrive quite late) most of the small car parks have been closed and it is a much more tranquil place. I tend to go off on my own and wander into the older parts carrying my M, and just see what images it throws up. The attached are a selection taken in early November with the leaves just turning, with some falling gently to enhance the carpet on the floor.
Keith Walker
The New Forest National Park covers an area of 219 square miles, mostly in Hampshire with some encroachment into Wiltshire . 90% is owned by the Crown, and it is managed by Forestry England.
“New” is of course a misnomer, as the New Forest was proclaimed a royal forest in about 1079 by William the Conqueror when it was used for royal hunts. Common rights were confirmed in 1698, and there have been a number of Acts of Parliament since 1877 confirming the status of the Forest. It became a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1971.
The Forest is farmed by ‘Commoners’ through a Court of Verderers, and they operate to a set of rules in relation to animals roaming freely in the Forest that has evolved over centuries.
During WWII the Forest had an interesting history, supporting a number of Airfields, and provided a training base for Special Operations Executive (SOE) agents.
The Forest is an incredibly popular recreational area, but my favourite time there is the Autumn. By early November (Autumn colours arrive quite late) most of the small car parks have been closed and it is a much more tranquil place. I tend to go off on my own and wander into the older parts carrying my M, and just see what images it throws up. The attached are a selection taken in early November with the leaves just turning, with some falling gently to enhance the carpet on the floor.
Keith Walker