Welcome to Minstead!

Minstead Village is located in the heart of the New Forest National Park just north of Lyndhurst and about 1 mile south of the A31.   It has a small but vibrant community, mainly centred around the Village Green but with a number of dwellings spread out around the Parish which is one of the largest by area in the district.  Much of the Parish lies within the Forest Central South Conservation Area.

Minstead is widely known for its historical Church, All Saints, with its Norman origins, three tier pulpit, saxon font and the grave of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. A Village Shop and Tea Room which is also a NPA Local Information Point, and pub, the Trusty Servant look over the Village Green while nearby there is a large and much used Village Hall.   Nearby is the Chelsea Gold Medal winning Furzey Gardens and the Minstead Training Trust provides care to adults with learning disabilities. Additionally, Minstead Study Centre provides unique residential and day experiences for schools.  To the north of the A31 but still within Minstead Parish is the Rufus Stone which marks the spot where William Rufus was accidentally shot and the nearby Sir Walter Tyrell pub, named after the person who is alleged to have fired the offending arrow.

Additionally the Forestry Commission manages much of the land and many of the amenities in the New Forest including Car Parks, Cycle Tracks, Camp Sites and various events some of which lie within Minstead Parish.  Its website is full of valuable information and some useful maps.

The New Forest Visitor official site contains much useful information for all visitors.

Minstead is a popular centre for a number of attractive forest walks and cycle rides and it can become very busy, especially during the summer months. When special events are taking place all should be aware that car parking can be difficult.

Cycling

Information about cycling and a cycle route map can be found on the National Park Website.