Castle Bottom is a scenic valley in the New Forest National Park, Hampshire, England. The valley is surrounded by ancient woodland and heathland, and features a network of walking trails and bridleways. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike, taking in the picturesque scenery and spotting local wildlife such as ponies, cattle, and deer. The valley is also home to a number of historic monuments, including the remains of a medieval hunting lodge and a 19th-century sawmill. With its tranquil atmosphere and rich history, Castle Bottom is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
We are so lucky to have this beautiful oasis of tranquility and nature on our doorstep. Just 10 minutes from our front door, we love walking there with our canine companion. There are 6 Exmoor ponies wild grazing, plenty of birds, deer and other wildlife as well as a babbling brook running through the valley. It is beautifully maintained by the North Hants Wildlife Team and is a haven for a number of rare species, including Nightjars and Dartford Warblers.
Not an actual car park, and no many parking spaces around, but we did manage to get a space on the side edge. Lovely & quiet walk Kids love seeing the wild ponies... Good for a picnic, beautiful views. Would definitely go again.
A very peaceful and pleasant walk. There are many route options too so you can make it as long or short as you want.
A lovely place to walk around, also some of the surrounding areas. Undulating topography delivers a modest cardio workout amidst varied scenery. Play suitable music as you go and you're in another world. I've noticed mushroom pickers there and was told there are 30-40 varieties but around a quarter may be toxic so you need to know what you're doing. The few downsides I noticed are noise from the adjacent Go Kart circuit on a Saturday afternoon killing the peaceful vibe, almost impassable muddy puddles on a few surrounding paths after rain, and a guy with his two boys chasing the ponies around and spooking them. Idiots...
Good walk around the forest with nice views. Great experience!
Castle Bottom Nature Reserve is a picturesque expanse of woodland, heathland, and wetland habitats, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world. The reserve is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, with a wide range of plant species, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife calling it home. Visitors to Castle Bottom can enjoy leisurely walks along well-marked trails that wind through the reserve, allowing them to explore its various habitats and discover its hidden gems. The reserve's tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect place for nature lovers to relax, unwind, and reconnect with the great outdoors. One of the highlights of Castle Bottom is its rich history, with archaeological remains dating back to the Iron Age and evidence of medieval farming practices still visible today. The reserve's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for visitors of all ages.
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Hiking
Good for kids
Kid-friendly hikes
Dogs allowed
Hello! I'm your AI guide for Castle Bottom. I can help you with information about this attraction, including its history, best times to visit, and tips for your visit. What would you like to know?
Discover hotels in Eversley, Hook GU46 6FA
Searching for hotels...
We are so lucky to have this beautiful oasis of tranquility and nature on our doorstep. Just 10 minutes from our front door, we love walking there with our canine companion. There are 6 Exmoor ponies wild grazing, plenty of birds, deer and other wildlife as well as a babbling brook running through the valley. It is beautifully maintained by the North Hants Wildlife Team and is a haven for a number of rare species, including Nightjars and Dartford Warblers.
Not an actual car park, and no many parking spaces around, but we did manage to get a space on the side edge. Lovely & quiet walk Kids love seeing the wild ponies... Good for a picnic, beautiful views. Would definitely go again.
A very peaceful and pleasant walk. There are many route options too so you can make it as long or short as you want.
A lovely place to walk around, also some of the surrounding areas. Undulating topography delivers a modest cardio workout amidst varied scenery. Play suitable music as you go and you're in another world. I've noticed mushroom pickers there and was told there are 30-40 varieties but around a quarter may be toxic so you need to know what you're doing. The few downsides I noticed are noise from the adjacent Go Kart circuit on a Saturday afternoon killing the peaceful vibe, almost impassable muddy puddles on a few surrounding paths after rain, and a guy with his two boys chasing the ponies around and spooking them. Idiots...
Good walk around the forest with nice views. Great experience!
Castle Bottom Nature Reserve is a picturesque expanse of woodland, heathland, and wetland habitats, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural world. The reserve is renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, with a wide range of plant species, birds, butterflies, and other wildlife calling it home. Visitors to Castle Bottom can enjoy leisurely walks along well-marked trails that wind through the reserve, allowing them to explore its various habitats and discover its hidden gems. The reserve's tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect place for nature lovers to relax, unwind, and reconnect with the great outdoors. One of the highlights of Castle Bottom is its rich history, with archaeological remains dating back to the Iron Age and evidence of medieval farming practices still visible today. The reserve's unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a fascinating destination for visitors of all ages.
