New Forest History - A History of the New Forest

New Forest Guide

View Larger Map

New Forest History - A History of the New Forest. The New Forest isn't new at all. In 1079 King William the Conqueror decided he needed a hunting area, and the New Forest was born. King William used it mainly for hunting deer. This area was then "Crown" land, with very strict laws applied, which in effect took away the rights and livelihood of the local population. The locals had been forced to remove all fences from their land to enable free passage of wild boar and deer, but eventually in return they were given commoners rights to freely graze their animals in the forest area. It's the laws which were enacted then which makes this area so unique today.

There's plenty of history to see in and around the New Forest. Popular historical places to visit include :-