Hale Purlieu

Hale Purlieu is an open common on the far north-western edge of the New Forest, part of the National Trust's Northern Commons. The landscape is dry and wet heath, mires, bogs, scrub and woodland, crossed by small streams and valleys. Families can follow a figure-of-eight walk of about three miles across the heather and over the streams, with wide views from the higher ground. The site is known for wildlife, including silver-studded blue butterflies, Dartford warblers, stonechats and nightjars in summer, so it suits a slow walk where children can look out for insects, birds and adders. It is a natural outing rather than an attraction with rides or play equipment, so it suits families who enjoy walking, wildlife spotting and open space in the forest.