Wellbeing

The New Forest is one of Britain’s most accessible protected landscapes, surrounded by major cities and towns and with direct motorway and railway links to the rest of the country. The benefits of escaping to the tranquility of this special place are enjoyed by millions every year, and at any time of year it remains easy to escape the crowds for quiet enjoyment of this special place. For all its attractions the New Forest remains free of charge to all, in stark contrast to national parks elsewhere in the World.

The evidence on the mental and physical benefits of such ready access to the open landscape is substantial. This goes far beyond individual health benefits; helping tackle social inequalities and promote social cohesion. Countryside access also holds considerable potential to tackle health inequalities, particularly when it is completely free of charge and so readily accessible, as the New Forest is to such a large population. Research by the CPRE has shown significant social deprivation local to the New Forest, highlighting the advantages of building an appreciation of this free and very special landscape amongst local populations.