About East Boldre

The Parish of East Boldre consists of the villages of East Boldre and a substantial part of the village of East End (previously known as East End and Sheepwash!). It is located in the South West of the New Forest and falls entirely in the New Forest National Park.

It is a rural village but is clearly a “working” forest community. It became a parish in its’ own right in 1839 having been previously part of the adjacent parish of Boldre. It is unique in that as a result of being squeezed between the powerful estates of Beaulieu and Sowley to the east side and the crown lands of the New Forest to the west, it developed as a 2.5 mile ribbon along a single road, normally no more than one house deep although one or two areas have since developed in recent years to up to 0.25 miles deep in places.

The parish is approximately 5.6 Km (3.5 miles) north to south and 4.4 Km (2.7 miles) east to west. Of this area, more than 95% is open heathland, a part of the New Forest crown lands. This land is used for grazing of the ponies and cattle of the commoners and for recreation. To the north of the village there is dense forest for many miles. It is ideal for the many local dog walkers!

The community of 750 is mainly a working one but also includes a number of people who have retired to the area to enjoy it’s unique and friendly atmosphere. It enjoys two churches, two excellent pubs, two village halls, children’s play areas, tennis courts, a garage and a post-office as well as many active village groups and societies. It is ideally located not only for the forest but to access the sea shore, about one mile to the south, the local market town of Lymington and easy access into Southampton. As well as being accessible from the M27 and M3, 10 miles to the north, there is an excellent train service stopping at Brockenhurst, 4 miles to the west where taxis can be utilised to bring the visitor to East Boldre.

Signs of the activity during both world wars are still very apparent. A flying school was developed just prior to the first world-war, opposite the post office. This was utilised by the Royal Flying Corps for training during the war. A new airfield was built on the north side of the heath during the second world-war and continued in service until the early 60’s. Although no longer in use, traces of this hectic period remain. A visit to the local church cemetery reminds us of the price paid by some of the airman during this period.

A warm, friendly welcome awaits all visitors to East Boldre. Enjoy the forest and surrounding rural atmosphere. See the famous ponies, cattle and donkeys grazing throughout the area. In the wooded areas you will often see the deer. The birdlife is outstanding. Stroll round Hatchett Pond, the largest lake in the New Forest and see the ducks, geese and swans, watch the the fishermen and take a few moments to admire the setting sun which is reflected on its’ waters before visiting one of our pubs for an excellent, relaxing evening meal.

Above all, come visit us and enjoy yourself.