The Chestnut Trail
About this walking route
A short, straightforward walk near Totton through typical New Forest terrain. The Chestnut Trail is an ideal choice for a quick outing, families or anyone seeking a gentle stroll without committing to a longer route. Waymarking keeps you on track, and the 1.2 km distance makes it manageable in 15 minutes at an easy pace.
Highlights
- Quick accessible walk from Totton
- Waymarked throughout
- Typical New Forest heathland and woodland
- Open access route, free to use
- Dogs welcome on lead near livestock
What to expect
Mostly flat or gently rolling terrain underfoot, combining gravel forest tracks and natural paths through heathland and open woodland. The route is straightforward with clear waymarking. You may encounter free-roaming ponies, cattle or donkeys grazing — keep dogs on a lead near livestock. After rain, boggy patches are likely on open ground.
Good to know
- Dogs welcome (keep under control near livestock & wildlife)
- Waymarked route
This is free, open-access land. Wear sturdy walking boots or trainers; muddy conditions are common after wet weather. Dogs must be under close control, especially near grazing animals and during March to July when ground-nesting birds are present. The short distance suits a lunchtime walk or family outing.