The Canadian War Memorial

Out in the New Forest near Lyndhurst stands a memorial that catches most visitors off guard - a Canadian War Memorial marking where Canadian forces trained and fought during the Second World War. It's a quiet, solemn spot that deserves more attention than it gets.

The memorial itself is straightforward: a stone monument set in woodland, away from the bustle. You're looking at a piece of history that many British holidaymakers drive past without realising. During the war, Canadian troops were stationed across this area, and the memorial honours those who died preparing for and fighting in the conflict. The forest setting makes it feel intimate rather than grand - which somehow makes it hit harder.

This is really one for history buffs and anyone with a family connection to the Canadian forces. A casual stroller won't get masses out of it, but those who appreciate wartime heritage will find it moving. Expect to spend twenty minutes here, max. It's free to visit and accessible year-round, though you'll want proper shoes for the forest paths.

If you're camping nearby - and there are several decent sites within a few miles, including Ocknell and Longbeech - it's well worth a detour during your New Forest stay. Pair it with a proper walk through the forest itself, and you've got a morning that feels purposeful rather than just another woodland ramble. The New Forest National Park sprawls nearby, so you can easily combine this memorial with wider exploration of the area.