8k Run New Forest: Scenic Journey Through Ogdens 7

Route Overview & Local Insights

The Ogdens 7 is a quintessential New Forest trail run that packs a diverse range of terrain into a manageable 7.7km loop. Starting from the Abbots Well car park, runners are immediately greeted with wide-open heathland vistas as they climb toward Hampton Ridge. The 69m of ascent is distributed across rolling inclines, making this a "hilly" but rhythmic course that rewards your effort with breathtaking views. Expect entirely unpaved paths—mostly firm gravel and sandy forest tracks—that wind through ancient woodland before the final stretch over Hasley Hill. It is a fantastic route for trail shoes, offering a technical yet accessible experience for those looking to escape the tarmac.

Steeped in history, this area of the New Forest National Park near Frogham was once a critical site during WWII, serving as part of the Ashley Range for aerial bombing practice. Today, the "wild" character of the landscape is maintained by the iconic New Forest ponies and cattle that roam freely across the commons. Local runners often recommend this loop during the golden hour, as the light hitting the gorse and heather-clad hillsides of the Latchmore Brook valley is truly spectacular. Keep an eye out for the ancient "Well" near the start, which has served as a watering hole for travelers for centuries, adding a touch of heritage to your morning miles.