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Our Story
Wild New Forest Guided Tours is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company managed and run by Emily-Louise and Marcus Ward. We are passionate about conserving and sharing wildlife in the New Forest and supporting the next generation of naturalists. Wild New Forest was established in 2016, starting out as a regular meeting of like minded naturalists to share data and best practise. Our passion is to support conservation of threatened and poorly understood species in the New Forest by conducting surveys and research sharing the data generateed with key stake holders in the new Forest.
Exploring, Researching, Protecting the New Forest.
Our Purpose
Our Mission
Our Values
To deepen understanding of the
New Forest’s wildlife and habitats
through hands-on exploration
and independent ecological
research — and to use that knowledge
to actively protect what makes this landscape so special.
We exist to study the forest, to share what we learn, and to safeguard its future.
We deliver small-group wildlife experiences rooted in real fieldwork and active research.
Alongside our guided walks and wildlife sessions, we carry out independent ecological surveys, species monitoring and habitat recording across the New Forest. Our work focuses particularly on under-recorded, overlooked and vulnerable species.
As a Community Interest Company, we reinvest our income directly into ongoing research and practical conservation action.
Wild First – The wellbeing of wildlife and habitats guides every decision we make.
Field Led Knowledge- Our work is grounded in direct experience, careful observation and scientific understanding.
Shared Learning- Knowledge builds care. We openly share what we discover to inspire responsible stewardship.
Long-Term Conservation Commitment-
We think beyond the present — working to ensure the New Forest thrives for generations to come.
Testimonials
Trips with Wild New Forest are always superb. I have been on butterfly walks and the Beaulieu River cruise frequently over the last couple of years. Marcus Ward and Emily have a great knowledge of the wild life of the New Forest and are great and expert hosts. Always professional, friendly and detailed. Thoroughly recommend to anyone who wants to learn and experience the flora and fauna of the New Forest.
Trip Advisor, Aug 2025
A wonderful morning on the river, seeing the surrounding nature reserves from the only view point possible, as these areas are not accessible to humans! Many interesting birds, some migratory, and a Peregrine too. Seals. We are local and I can’t believe we have never done this! So much still to ask Marcus and will be bringing my small nephew next time as he’s a budding naturalist and would love this experience.
Trip Advisor, Aug 2025
Me and my partner had an excellent tour. We went on the nightjar tour and the guides were incredibly knowledgeable. They recognised the call of a lesser spotted woodpecker which allowed us to see it; they talked about the forest; they pointed out usual fungi, plants and moths and their knowledge of the best time and area to see nightjars meant we were lucky enough to see a spectacular display from of nightjars.
Trip Advisor, Jul 2025
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BBC Countryfile
Beaulieu River Boat Trip
Wild New Forest Spring 2024 Wildlife Camp
“No one will protect what they don't care about; and no one will care about what they have never experiened”
Sir David Attenborough
