Godshill - Frankenbury - Castle Hill

Roy Davenport

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This walk was originated by Colin Campbell. Walkingworld would like to say a big thank you to Colin for all his superb contributions to the website over the years.

This is New Forest walking at its best. You start off in open heathland then turn into Brunes Purlieu, one of the ancient divisions into which the Forest was once divided. After walking a delightful farm track, skirting an unobtrusive camping area, you arrive at Frankenbury, the remains of an Iron Age fort. Unfortunately, you cannot visit this but the surrounding area is of outstanding beauty and a nature reserve. Next comes more woodland paths and farmland before you deviate to take in Castle Hill, another ancient fort., Then begin to make your way back towards your starting point across the moorland. Like all heath, moorlands and woodlands it can be muddy after heavy rain periods.

England - South England - Hampshire - New Forest

Features

Birds, Butterflies, Flowers, Good for Kids, Great Views, Hills or Fells, Moor, Mostly Flat, Pub, Public Transport, Wildlife, Woodland

9/13/2021 - Mike Wilson

Completed this walk yesterday on a nice dry september sunday. All was good with no concerns. After completing the walk we went back and did Waypoints 1-3 again so that we could enjoy a cold drink in The Fighting Cocks Pub, it was just a short walk along the green back to the carpark. This was a lovely walk with many contrasts in terrain.

1/21/2019 - Walkingworld Admin

Following a thorough check we think the map and GPS positions do correlate but sometimes in woodland physical appearances can change and be confusing and a GPS can be a little less accurate due to the trees. We’re always grateful for any further feedback.

3/21/2014 - Valerie Monaghan

In early March 2014, there was a fallen tree across the path, about halfway between Points 7 and 8. It was passable, with care. The downed tree has been reported to Hampshire C.C.

3/21/2014 - Valerie Monaghan

We did this walk in early March 2014 and didn't find the mud too bad (much better ground than in South Wales!), except in fields where there were cattle, near Sandy Balls campsite. It took us a while to realise that the author's use of the term 'sealed road' meant a tarmac road, not an enclosed one! Several stiles on this walk have now been replaced by gates. A couple of navigational issues: Point 2: Turn left through the first gate with a footpath sign - the instructions could be taken to mean the gate that you reach following the initial direction of travel. Point 9: the name of the wood is not displayed; turn left through a gate into the wood just after Godshill Wood Cottage.

12/28/2012 - Chris Guy

We did this walk yesterday (late Dec 2012) and it is very nice indeed. However, the previous comments about it being boggy are true, in spades! Not surprising after the wet year we have had, I suppose. If you are not wearing wellies (or proper hiking boots at least) then there are many bits which would be completely impassable. The nearby pub, the Fighting Cocks, does good beer and average, not too expensive, food.

5/14/2010 - Adrian Perkins

Many thanks to Roy Davenport for his full update of this walk - May 2010. Adrian (Admin)

5/14/2010 - Helena Pugsley

A really nice walk with some pretty views. We found the way very muddy and boggy in places at this time of the year though. We'd certainly recommend and do the walk again in a dryer season.

12/5/2009 - Kaye Faiers

23.10.2009 A bit boggy, especially the 'lanes ' at the start. We navigated the walk easily. The stream towards the end ensured the mud was washed off the dogs ready for the journey home! A very interesting walk.