Highlight • Forest
Hiking
5.0
(15)
Churchplace Inclosure is a picturesque and historically rich woodland area nestled within the New Forest National Park in Hampshire, England. Located approximately 3.5 kilometres south-east of Ashurst, this tranquil forest, with an elevation of around 25 metres, is renowned for its mature broad-leaved trees, including ancient oak and beech, and its vibrant wildlife. It offers a gentle escape into nature, perfect for those seeking peaceful surroundings and easy access to the natural beauty of the New Forest.
Visitors consistently praise…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
March 5, 2024
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Churchplace Inclosure
4.4
(14)
85
hikers
4.53km
01:09
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(12)
71
hikers
7.16km
01:51
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
172
hikers
6.32km
01:37
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
Weather
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Sunday 29 March
13°C
4°C
14 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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Yes, Churchplace Inclosure is a great place to walk your dog. The wide, flat paths are ideal for a leisurely stroll with your canine companion. However, as it's within the New Forest, please keep dogs under close control, especially around free-roaming ponies, deer, and other wildlife. Always clean up after your dog to help keep the inclosure beautiful for everyone.
While the intro mentions various trails, a popular option for families is to explore the wide, largely flat gravel paths that form a network throughout the inclosure. These paths allow for flexible circular walks of varying lengths, easily adaptable for young children or those with strollers. You can create your own loop by following the main tracks and grassy rides.
Churchplace Inclosure is a haven for wildlife. Families can often spot New Forest ponies grazing freely, as well as fallow and roe deer. The woodland is also home to badgers, squirrels, and all three native species of woodpeckers. From spring to early autumn, the wide rides attract a diverse range of butterflies, adding to the natural spectacle.
Churchplace Inclosure is known for its gentle terrain. The paths are largely gravelled and flat, with an overall elevation of around 25 metres. There are no steep inclines or challenging sections, making it ideal for leisurely walks, cycling, and those seeking gentle exercise rather than strenuous hikes.
The most common starting point with convenient parking is the Deerleap car park on Deerleap Lane. Parking here is generally free, but spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons or on sunny weekends. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot.
Churchplace Inclosure itself does not have on-site amenities. However, being close to Ashurst, you'll find various options. Ashurst village offers pubs and cafes for refreshments. For accommodation, there are several campsites, B&Bs, and hotels in Ashurst and the surrounding New Forest area, including Ashurst campsite which has a dedicated cycle track leading to the inclosure.
Yes, Churchplace Inclosure is highly accessible. The paths within the inclosure are largely gravelled and flat, making them very suitable for wheelchairs, prams, and strollers. This makes it an excellent choice for families with young children or individuals with mobility considerations.
The 'Church Place' knoll is named after a medieval keeper's lodge from around the 14th century. Historically, there was a mistaken belief that it was the site of a church destroyed by William the Conqueror. While no church was present, the knoll features intriguing embankments and ditches, suggesting it could have been the site of an ancient earthwork or even a destroyed village, adding a layer of historical mystery to your visit.
Churchplace Inclosure is a popular spot, particularly during spring, summer, and early autumn, and on sunny weekends or public holidays. While the wide paths can accommodate many visitors, the car park can fill up quickly. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during weekdays or earlier in the morning.
Absolutely! The well-made, largely level tracks within Churchplace Inclosure are ideal for cycling, making it a fantastic place for children to ride their bikes safely. There's even a dedicated cycle track connecting Ashurst campsite directly to the inclosure, offering easy access for families staying there.