다운튼‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪17‬개의 천연기념물

Bokerley Dyke is a substantial linear earthwork, approximately 5.75 kilometers (3.6 miles) long, located on Cranborne Chase. It runs along part of the border between Dorset and Hampshire, specifically between Woodyates and Martin. It is part of a larger Scheduled Monument that also includes Grim's Ditch and other earthworks. The dyke has a multi-period history. It is believed to have originated in the Bronze Age or Early Iron Age as an important political and cultural boundary. In the 1st century, it was cut through by a Roman road, Ackling Dyke, which ran between Old Sarum and Badbury Rings. In the 4th century, the dyke was remodeled and brought back into use. During this period, the Roman road was blocked. A coin of Valens found during excavations dates this activity to shortly after 364 AD, with some sources suggesting it was built between 367-368 AD. This remodeling may have been a defensive measure against attacks on Britain by Picts, Scots, and Saxons. The Roman road was eventually reopened, but the dyke may have continued to be used as a boundary after the Roman administration ended. Today, it still forms part of the border between the counties of Dorset and Hampshire.

Sorry I really don't like the Rodger Penny Way, as a local I try not to ride it anymore.. I'd go through Woodgreen, Lover, Passed Hampworth Golf Course, No Mans Land... much quieter roads... On the way back most of my routes go into Ringwood... and through the forest from there (I live near Lyndhurst)

The nature reserve was part of a group of Royal Forests until the 16th century when, unlike the New Forest, they declined and reverted to farmland and landscaped parks. The reserve's ancient woodlands have a long history of management and would have provided local people with a valuable source of timber, wood fuel, forage for pigs (known as pannage) and grazing for livestock. Coppicing was particularly important, and as you walk through the reserve look for old banks and ditches that mark the boundary of coppice enclosures. Coppicing is the method of cutting trees such as hazel or oak to ground level on a regular cycle. This produces fast-growing shoots for fodder, firewood and making charcoal.

RSPB Franchises Wood is a 1,000-acre woodland with heath and rare plants. Franchises Wood is a bridge between Langley Wood National Nature Reserve (north) and the New Forest Special Protection Area (south). It's a lovely and peaceful place to walk in, with a sense of being removed from the civilisation.

Abbots Well was formerly known as Alleynewell within the ancient boundaries of the New Forest when defined during the reign of King Edward I (1272-1307). This perpetual spring was, for centuries, the main watering place for travellers on the old road to Southampton. Theoretically the chamber on the left is for forest fauna and under the wooden flap on the right water intended for human consumption. I’m not sure I’d drink from it though - make your own mind up!!!

An ancient well, first recorded in 1215.

The RSPB’s first nature reserve in the New Forest, purchased in 2018.

Bokerley Dyke may have originated in the Bronze Age or Early Iron Age and formed a political and cultural boundary. It was cut through by a Roman Road (Ackling Dyke running between Old Sarum and Badbury Rings) in the 1st century.