Gateway to the north of the New Forest, Fordingbridge is a small town on the river Avon, famed for its 7-arched late mediaeval bridge. Known as Forde in the Domesday book, it developed as a
Gateway to the north of the New Forest, Fordingbridge is a small town on the river Avon, famed for its 7-arched late mediaeval bridge. Known as Forde in the Domesday book, it developed as a commercial and industrial hub and was renowned for smuggling. The infamous Captain Diamond lived in Fordingbridge. Probably its most well-known resident now is the illustrator, Paul Kidley, who gained fame from his work with Terry Pratchett and the Discworld novels.
A lovely spot to wander around and with a riverside park with a great children’s play area, sports fields, and memorial gardens. Daily fishing licences can be purchased.
To complete a day visit a quick drive east for 1.25 miles will bring you to Godshill – one of the forest’s great beauty spots. There are two car parks, but both can get busy on a warm summer day.
SP6 2LL SK 175 149 buses (including the New Forest tourist red route) stop at the Fighting Cocks pub.
Fields, open heath, and woodland walks all provide stunning views and there are Iron Age remains to explore at Frankenbury Hill Fort, Castle Hill, Ringwork and Bailey Castle. The circular walk taking in Castle Hill can be started and ends by the Fighting Cocks – dogs are best on a lead as some parts cross private land and the signs are not welcoming! Good boots or sturdy shoes are advisable as some parts can get boggy.
Waking in the woods of mixed broad-leaved and conifers is also recommended – these woods are great for butterflies, especially the Speckled Wood and you may spot fallow and roe deer on quiet days. Bird spotters will hope to see the numerous woodpeckers, nuthatches, and tree creepers.