Western Gateway to the New Forest for centuries an important regional town market. Ringwood dates back to Saxon times when it was a royal manor. A market charter was granted in the 13th century and a colourful street markets takes place every Wednesday. The attractive town centre has a wide range of unusual shops, traditional pubs and many excellent restaurants to interest the visitor.

The New Forest is the eighth National Park and possibly the most diverse in terms of wildlife. William the Conqueror was so awestruck by its beauty that in 1079 he set it aside for his own hunting and that of his Royal parties. Today the New Forest is visited by well over 22 million people of all age groups. This in turn has increased the need to protect the species that live here and the way of life that has evolved among the forest folk over centuries.