New Forest Airfields - Second World War

	One of the old runways on Beaulieu Heath

The New Forest made a major contribution to the Second World War effort, and was home to three major airfields. Another eight smaller airfields were located in, and around the edge of the area.

Now, more than 60 years after the end of hostilities, evidence of these airfields can still be seen.

For example, at Beaulieu Heath, the Ordnance Survey map shows the outline pattern of runways as a large, 6-sided circuit. Now, even though most of the concrete has been removed, the runway sites are still very visible on the ground as long strips of short vegetation that contrast markedly with the gorse and heather on either side. Indeed, one length is now used as a cycle-way, whilst, quite appropriately, part is used as a model aircraft flying area. Then at Stoney Cross, some of the runway lengths are used as roads.

Two airfield water towers remain; one on the edge of Beaulieu Heath and the other at Stoney Cross, whilst also at Stoney Cross, evidence of the airfield can be seen on what is now the Ocknell Camp Site..

A number of buildings associated with Beaulieu Airfield can be seen around nearby Dilton. Amongst trees on private land, but close to a public footpath, south-east of Furze Hill, are four ivy-clad, moss encrusted, dilapidated, 7-sided, probably asbestos, buildings. Known as Handcraft Type Huts, the name comes from the Handcraft Works in Watford, home of manufacturers Universal Asbestos Company Ltd.

The following recently taken images from Beaulieu Airfield were sent in by Mr. Brian Eaton - thank you Brian.

References:
The New Forest at War: John Leete
Twelve Airfields: Alan Brown
New Forest Airfields: Ken Davies