One of the most scenic parkruns we’ve done is Brockenhurst parkrun. During the winter months, the event takes place at 9 am on Saturdays at Wilverley Inclosure in the New Forest National Park.

Getting There

The start/finish are just inside the entrance (Kissing Gate) to the Inclosure adjacent to Wilverley Plain car park, just off the A35 between Burley and Brockenhurst. This is realistically an event you need to drive to as it’s rather remote and 3 miles from the nearest station.

Parking

There is a free car park adjacent to the Inclosure. You’ll probably meet a New Forest pony or two in and around the car park.

Toilets

There is a toilet block in the car park, a few minutes walk from the start.

Course

The course is pretty much one lap of Wilverley Inclosure, so a nice simple route. All the more opportunity to enjoy the beautiful forest scenery.

Terrain

The event takes place on a well maintained gravel trail through the forest.

Shoes

You’d get away with trainers on a good day, but I’d opt for trails shoes. As the run only takes place in the Inclosure in the winter, a good day is less likely…

Difficulty

Run Britain Rankings for UK parkruns place Brockenhurst as the 446th fastest out of a total of 706. There are two slight hills, bringing the total elevation to 52 metres.

Fun Factor

I love this run. From the spectacular dawn drive across the New Forest as the mist hovers above the ground. To the ponies breakfasting on the plain as you arrive at the start. To the run itself in the forested inclosure. It’s definitely one to factor in some extra time taking in the beauty of the forest before finally heading off in search of breakfast…

As mentioned above, The Forestry Commission permit does not cover the whole year. In the summer, Brockenhurst parkrun moves to become multiple laps of the somewhat less scenic playing fields at Brockenhurst College. It returns to the forest at the beginning of September.

Nearby Attractions

The New Forest has plenty to see and do from walking/cycling trails to museums and gardens to cider and fudge making.