Verwood, Stephens castle to Alderholt.

Verwood, Stephens castle to Alderholt this evening. A lovely walk if started from the village centre is about 6 miles and takes about 1.30H to 2H depending. All on bridleways so a good cycle route too. There is a pub in Alderholt and this can be a good place for a drink or lunch if with children as it has a small garden at the back. Take the bridleway up from the Memorial ground that takes you past Stephens castle, turn right and continue up hill to the forest. Don't take turn right at the first blue arrow, this one goes to Cripplestyle. Continue on to reach the second one that take you to the communications tower at Mount Ararat. Cross straight over the main path to reach a small path leading through the forest. You will reach two small metal gates. Go through both and you will be in a lovely area of heathland with very fine views towards the New Forest. Continue down this path to reach a gate at the bottom onto a wide farm track. Continue on this to reach the houses in Alderholt. When you reach the main road in Alderholt the Churchill arms is to your left if you wish to visit it. You can go the same way back or make a circuit on the Cripplestyle route if you have a map.