Tallboy Bomb Crater

A World War II bomb crater that's now a proper little lake - that's Tallboy Bomb Crater near Fritham. The Germans dropped a massive Tallboy bomb here during the war, and instead of filling it in afterwards, they just let water seep in over the decades. Now it's a small but genuine body of water surrounded by New Forest woodland, which is rather brilliant if you think about it.

You'll find it's a good walk from the nearby villages, nothing too strenuous but you need to know where you're going since it's not signposted like other attractions. The lake itself is modest in size - don't expect something photogenic or dramatic. What you get is a quiet, slightly eerie spot where history is literally written into the landscape. It appeals to history buffs and walkers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path discoveries rather than manicured tourist destinations.

Allow a couple of hours if you're walking from Fritham, including a wander round the crater itself. It's free to visit, as far as anyone knows, though there's no visitor centre or facilities. Best in drier months when the woodland paths aren't boggy.

If you're camping nearby - Ocknell or Longbeech are close by - it makes an interesting day wander rather than a main event. Pair it with exploring more of the New Forest itself, which is the real draw in this part of Dorset. The crater works as a talking point, a bit of tangible wartime heritage tucked away where most tourists never venture.