Discover Burley | A Visitor's Introduction to Burley

Why is Burley Worth a Visit?

Burley’s charm lies in its rich history, mystical associations, and stunning surroundings. The village is famous for its witchcraft heritage, once home to a resident white witch, and many of its shops reflect this mystical past, selling unusual gifts, charms, and memorabilia. Surrounded by ancient woodlands, heathlands, and wild ponies, Burley offers a typical New Forest experience, where visitors can enjoy scenic walks, cycling routes, and the serenity of the countryside.

Its peaceful location, combined with its quirky history and welcoming pubs and tea rooms, makes Burley a great base for exploring the New Forest. It’s a place where history and legend blend seamlessly with the beauty of nature, offering something truly unique for visitors.

Burley Highlights: Things to See and Do in Burley

1. Witchcraft and Folklore: Burley’s most famous historical connection is its association with witchcraft. During the mid-20th century, the village was home to a well-known white witch, Sybil Leek, who gained notoriety in the area. Sybil eventually moved to America, but her legacy lives on in the village’s quirky witch-themed shops. A Coven of Witches is a popular spot for those interested in purchasing mystical trinkets, crystals, and books on the village's intriguing past.

Another local legend that surrounds Burley is that of smuggling, with the New Forest being a notorious hideout for smugglers in the 18th and 19th centuries. Burley Manor, now a luxury hotel, was once rumoured to be involved in smuggling activities.

2. Burley Village Centre: Burley’s village centre offers a traditional English countryside experience, with its traditional shops, tearooms, and pubs. The high street is lined with independent boutiques, antique stores, and tea rooms like The Old Farmhouse, where you can enjoy a traditional cream tea. For something heartier, the Queen’s Head pub offers delicious meals and a cosy atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.

3. Burley Manor: Once a grand manor house with a rich history, Burley Manor is now a luxurious hotel and restaurant offering spectacular views of the surrounding New Forest landscape. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth visiting for a meal in their Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, which sources fresh ingredients from local suppliers. The setting is beautifully peaceful, with deer often seen grazing on the lawns, providing a tranquil spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner.

4. Cycling and Walking in the New Forest: Burley is an ideal starting point for those looking to explore the New Forest on foot or by bike. There are several popular walking and cycling trails that begin in or around the village, including the scenic Burley to Brockenhurst route, which takes you through ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and offers plenty of opportunities to spot the New Forest’s famous wild ponies and deer.

For cycling, Forest Leisure Cycling in Burley offers bike hire and a range of suggested routes, from leisurely family rides to more challenging trails for experienced cyclists. One popular ride is the Old Railway Loop, which follows part of the old railway line and provides a peaceful, mostly traffic-free route through some of the New Forest’s most beautiful areas.

5. The Burley Wagon Rides: For a unique way to experience the New Forest, hop aboard one of the Burley Wagon Rides. These traditional horse-drawn wagons take visitors on a leisurely tour through the nearby woodlands and countryside, providing a relaxing way to take in the scenery and learn about the history and wildlife of the area. The rides are suitable for all ages and are a fun way to explore the village’s surroundings.

6. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary: Not far from Burley is the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, where you can observe wild deer in their natural habitat. This peaceful spot has a viewing platform, where deer are often seen grazing or resting in the meadows. There are also several walking trails that wind through the surrounding woodlands, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife.

7. New Forest Cider: Burley is home to the New Forest Cider Farm, a family-run business that has been producing traditional cider for generations. A visit to the farm shop allows you to sample and purchase a range of ciders, from still to sparkling varieties, all made using traditional methods. The farm also hosts seasonal events, such as the Apple Harvest Weekend, where visitors can watch cider being pressed and enjoy live music, local food stalls, and, of course, plenty of cider tasting.

8. Burley Golf Club: For those who enjoy a round of golf, Burley Golf Club offers a beautiful 9-hole course set in the heart of the New Forest. The course provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and it’s not uncommon to see New Forest ponies wandering across the fairways. The relaxed atmosphere and natural setting make it a wonderful place for a leisurely game of golf, whether you’re an experienced player or a beginner.

Practical Advice for Visitors to Burley

1. Getting There: Burley is easily accessible by car and is located about 20 minutes from Lyndhurst, the New Forest’s main town. If you’re travelling by train, the nearest stations are Brockenhurst or New Milton, both of which are around a 15-minute drive from the village. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus service to reach Burley.

2. Getting Around: Burley is a small, walkable village, and most attractions within the village centre are easily accessible on foot. However, if you want to explore the surrounding New Forest or visit nearby attractions, having a car or hiring a bike will give you more flexibility. The local roads are quite narrow, so take extra care when driving, especially as ponies, donkeys, and other animals roam freely throughout the area.

3. When to Visit: The best time to visit Burley is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild, and the New Forest is at its most colourful. During these months, the village is alive with wildflowers, and the surrounding woodlands are lush and green. Autumn is also a beautiful time to visit, with the changing colours of the leaves creating a magical atmosphere. Winter visits offer a quieter, more peaceful experience, with cosy pubs providing the perfect refuge after a chilly woodland walk.

4. Wildlife Etiquette: The New Forest is known for its free-roaming wildlife, including ponies, cattle, and deer. While these animals are friendly, it’s important not to feed them or get too close. Always drive carefully, especially on the narrow roads around Burley, as animals often wander onto the roads.

5. Accommodation: There are several accommodation options in and around Burley, ranging from cosy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Burley Manor is a popular choice for those looking for a bit of luxury, while there are also plenty of self-catering cottages, campsites, and smaller inns that provide a more rustic experience. For a unique stay, consider glamping in the New Forest, where you can enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside while staying in a comfortable and stylish tent or cabin.

6. Local Delicacies: Burley is a great place to sample local New Forest produce. Be sure to try the cider from New Forest Cider and enjoy a traditional cream tea at one of the village’s tea rooms. Many of the local pubs and restaurants serve seasonal, locally-sourced dishes, including game from the New Forest and fresh seafood from the nearby coast.