The Forest of Bere is the nearest and most accessible countryside for many of the residents of south-east Hampshire.
It is a mixture of woodland, open space, heathland, farmland and downland and is important to many different people for a variety of reasons. Together with the remaining 19th century oak and modern 20th century conifer plantations, there are areas of retained scrub and coppice, streams, ponds and an extensive network of rides and paths.
The many habitats provide an excellent area for nature lovers, whatever the season.
There are walking and cycling opportunities within the forest, ideal for all abilities.
Parking charges
Please note that from the end of April our car parking prices will be changing to up to 2 hours £1.50, 2 to 4 hours £2.50 and over 4 hours £4.00.
If you are a regular visitor to the forest you could soon make a saving with our Discovery Pass. Support your local forest, get car parking for a year, local and national discount offers and a seasonal e-newsletter.
Adventure play
The natural forest playground is now open in West Walk and is suitable for children and young people of all ages, it has a huge oak tree house, wooden playhouses, wigwams, sand pit, climbing wall, bridge and shingle stream.
Catering
The Great Big Food Company is now operating in West Walk car park. Open 7 days a week offering hot and cold drinks, ice creams, snacks, sandwiches and childrens lunch boxes. Click here for more details and opening times.
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- Barbeque
The two West Walk BBQs are available for hire with prior booking only. Please contact us on 01420 520212 to check availability and to make a booking.
- Cycling
Cycling in the forest is informal (no marked route). Cyclists may use any track they deem suitable for their bikes ability and themselves. Surfaces can be very muddy in the winter.
- Horse riding
Horse riding is by permit only and is informal (no marked route). Riders may use any track that they feel is suitable for the ability of their horse and themselves. It is recommended that riders new to the forest take the map supplied with the permit when entering the forest. Surfaces can be muddy in the winter. Carriage driving is possible with permission. To apply for a riding permit please contact TROT on 01622 735599.
- Parking (chargeable)
Parking charges are up to 2 hours £1.20, 2 to 4 hours £2.30 and all day £3.50.
From the end of April parking charges will be up to 2 hours £1.50, 2 to 4 hours £2.50 and over 4 hours £4.00.
- Play area
The natural forest playground in West Walk is suitable for children and young people of all ages, it has a huge oak tree house, wooden playhouses, wigwams, sand pit, climbing wall, bridge and shingle stream. Please supervise children at all times and remember that dogs are not permitted in the play areas.
- Walking
The Old Oak Trail is not surfaced and is not suitable for pushchairs or wheelchairs. In wet weather the trail will become muddy and suitable footwear should be worn. Guide maps are available in the car parks.
Location
OS Grid ref: SU597122
Postcode: PO17 6JD
Contact
Opening & Parking
Opening Times:
Car parks open at 8am and close at dusk.
Parking
Parking charges are up to 2 hours £1.20, 2 to 4 hours £2.30 and all day £3.50.
From the end of April parking charges will be up to 2 hours £1.50, 2 to 4 hours £2.50 and over 4 hours £4.00.
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