We are the Eastleigh Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Jessica P.
Brusher Mills was the celebrated Snake Catcher in the New Forest in the 19th Century. He lived in a charcoal burners hut in Pignall Wood and caught snakes to sell to the London Zoo for their birds of prey. He occasionally used to visit local hotels and pull out live snakes from his pocket terrifying the Victorian ladies! Brusher (Harry) Mills got his name by assisting the cricketers by brushing the Balmer Lawn pitch before a match.
Our walk is very varied and takes us from the pond at Setley, where we may see some boating enthusiasts, across the Setley plain, down quiet country lanes with some impressive country mansions, past farm land and through the lovely Roydon Woods with their spectacular beech trees.
Our coffee stop is at St Nicholas Church where you can see Brusher Mill's grave. There is also some interesting information about the WW1 hospital which was located here and a very big Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery.
Bring refreshments for our coffee stop.
There are 4 stiles.
Park at Setley Pond Car Park. Drive through Brockenhurst on the A337. Cross over the Railway Line at the level crossing and keep going towards Lymington for about 3 miles. Pass The Filly Inn on your left and later, a car wash place, then shortly after, turn right along Jealous Lane. After about 100 yards, turn left along a bumpy gravel track signposted to the Setley Car Park. Turn left to park in the upper car park just before reaching the pond.
