If you’re looking to enjoy some fresh air and a bit of adventure on your staycation, why not take part in a treasure trail in the New Forest.

There are almost 20 trails between Southampton and Bournemouth and many are centred around picture postcard New Forest villages such as Beaulieu, Brockenhurst and Burley.

The Top 5 New Forest trails:

Burley village forest and footpaths – treasure hunt, 2 hours, 2 miles

This circular Trail starts at the car park opposite Burley Cricket Club and takes you into the forest and along the footpaths of Burley and into the village itself. Discover some of the history of witchcraft and a little about Brusher Mills, the forest snake catcher.

Minstead and Sherlock Holmes – murder mystery, 2 hours, 1.5 miles walking, 5 miles driving

This short driving Trail has a few clues at Cadnam Cricket Ground before taking you to Minstead Village, the burial place of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, of Sherlock Holmes fame.

Brockenhurst – spy mission, 3 hours, 2.5 miles

This circular Trail starts at Brockenhurst Railway Station. Visit the Anzac War Memorial and the last resting place of Brusher Mills.

Keyhaven and Milton on Sea – treasure hunt, 2-4 hours, 6 miles walking, 6 miles cycling

This circular Trail starts at Keyhaven, exploring Milford on Sea to Shorefield Park. It then routes along the stunning coastline, overlooking the Isle of Wight, Keyhaven Nature Reserve and Hurst Castle.

Lyndhurst Forest and Footpaths – spy mission, 2 hours, 2.5 miles

This circular Trail starts at the car park close to the Forest Lodge Hotel. Lyndhurst was the home of Alice Liddle, the inspiration of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. She is buried in the churchyard there.

Trails, which cost £9.99 and come with a guided booklet are often close to cafés, shops and restaurants, so adventurers can take their time solving the clues whilst helping to support the local economy. For full details visit treasuretrails.co.uk.