The New Forest, proclaimed a royal forest by William the Conqueror in about 1079, is one of the largest remaining tracts of pasture land, heathland and forest in southern england. History buffs may also recall that William's son Rufus died in the forest in a hunting accident in 1100. (the Rufus stone is said to mark the spot).
We are staying at Nige's camping, near Fordingbridge, about halfway between Salisbury and Bournemouth. There is swimming in the river, so don't forget your cozzy.