The New Forest's early history In 1079 William the Conqueror took ownership of the area as his own hunting forest. This act meant that the New Forest is one of the oldest conservation areas in the world. The New Forest has some of the oldest trees in the country. With around 1,000 ancient trees recorded here, the area is believed to have the highest concentrations of these in Western Europe. The oldest trees are Yews with some over 1,000 years old. Oaks are the next in line, living for up to an impressive 800 years old. Beech trees can also reach a grand old age of around 300 to 400 years. The area is scattered with other signs of its long and rich history. Across the Forest there are 175 different monuments. These include around 200 Bronze Age burial mounds and barrows, Iron Age Hill Forts, Roman Roads and Medieval Hunting Lodges plus airfields and operational bases used in the Second World War. The New Forest is also home to some other famous animals, such as the iconic New Forest Pony, which has been part of the traditional forest scene for more than a thousand years, as well as donkeys, cows, pigs, and sheep. The animals roam free, going anywhere they like, choosing the tastiest grasses and vegetation to keep themselves healthy. https://www.forestryengland.uk/article/the-new-forest-special-place
For things to do, please check out this website. https://www.forestryengland.uk/things-to-do
In this part of England, the roads can be winding and narrow. Please consider this when you travel as you may wish to book a room at the wedding venue (information under travel on this website) or another local lodging. For alternative lodging, please see https://www.thenewforest.co.uk/explore/towns-and-villages/brockenhurst/accommodation/
If you have received a "save the date" and are planning on staying at the hotel, please make your hotel reservations as soon as possible. To do so, contact Annette Saunders as ansaunders@handpicked.co.uk. You can respond to the RSVP when you know your plans at a later date.
The dress code is smart casual suitable for a summer wedding. It is definitely not black tie. Please consider that it is a long day and we will be outside after the wedding ceremony if it is good weather. In addition, there will be dancing. It is England--plan for all kinds of weather.
Yes, please indicate on the RSVP form on this website.
There is plenty of parking at Rhinefield house.
We are requesting no gifts. Cards are welcome, but please come and have enjoy the day with friends and family. Your presence is your gift.
Yes, you need to take the train from London Waterloo to Brockenhurst. It is 90 minutes with no changes, and it an excellent option. You can then take a taxi or uber to Rhinefield house.