Lyndhurst history - an introduction
The history of Lyndhurst, Bank and Emery Down is long and fascinating.
Some aspects reflect the New Forest's original role as a Norman hunting ground, whilst other aspects of Lyndhurst's history are connected to the village's historical position as Capital of the New Forest.
Much of the evidence of Lyndhurst's history can still be seen today, and provides many opportunities for exploration, whilst Bank, Emery Down (and Swan Green) offer just as much of interest.
Explore, for example, Lyndhurst's Alice In Wonderland connection, and learn about the 'old' Parish Church and Parkhill. Find out about Queen's House and the ancient Verderers' Hall. Walk along the New Forest Salt Way and Beechen Lane, visit the site of Lyndhurst Race Ground, and discover why George III and William Cobbett had an interest in Cuffnells, a mansion once located on the outskirts of Lyndhurst.
Consider, too, the military history of Lyndhurst's White Moor, and whilst wandering over this now peaceful heathland, pause for a moment to contemplate the likely thoughts of men long ago, training here whilst awaiting postings to the horrors of First World War trenches.
Find out more about Lyndhurst, Bank and Emery Down's fascinating history
Find out more about Lyndhurst, Bank and Emery Down's history as revealed on these old maps
and in these old pictures
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Sadly, 58 animals were killed - 35 ponies, 13 cows, 8 donkeys and 2 sheep, whilst a further 32 were injured - 3 pigs, 9 donkeys, 11 cows and 9 ponies.
(Forty-three accidents occurred in daylight, 15 at twilight and 101 in the dark. Twenty-seven accidents were not reported by the driver involved).
Here's just one horrific example - Three donkeys killed in collision with van at notorious New Forest blackspot (Advertiser and Times)
Honeysuckle, an early harbinger of spring, shows signs of new growth.
Bird sounds, great tit calls and mistle thrush song, for example, are increasingly heard as the days lengthen and spring rapidly approaches.
Foxes breed during the early months of the year. Their presence is betrayed by barks after darkness falls.
February
Great grey shrikes hunt over heathland from tree-top vantage points and other perches.
Grey squirrels are often best seen in winter when deciduous trees are devoid of leaves.
Red Admirals and other butterflies that over-winter as adults may be on the wing on warm, bright days.
Roe deer antlers continue to develop - they are cast and re-grown annually.
