Pannage Season in the New Forest: What It Is and Where to See It

An Old Forest Tradition, Still Going Strong

Every autumn, the New Forest’s commoners release their pigs to forage freely across the open forest. It is one of the oldest traditions still practised here, and one of the strangest sights for first-time visitors: pigs wandering loose alongside the ponies and cattle, snuffling through leaves for fallen acorns. Here’s what pannage is, why it happens, roughly when to expect it, and where you’re most likely to see it for yourself.

What Is Pannage?

Pannage, sometimes called common of mast, is the ancient right of New Forest commoners to release their pigs into the open forest to forage for fallen acorns, beech mast and chestnuts. The tradition dates back to the time of William the Conqueror, who established the New Forest as a royal hunting ground in the 11th century and, alongside it, the system of commoners’ rights that still governs how the forest is used today.

Why Are Pigs Released Into the Forest?

Acorns are toxic to ponies and cattle in large quantities, but pigs can eat them safely. Releasing pigs during the peak acorn drop clears the ground before the free-roaming ponies and cattle can eat enough to make themselves ill, making pannage a piece of forest wildlife management rather than just tradition for its own sake.

When Does Pannage Season Happen?

Pannage typically begins in mid-September and runs for a minimum of 60 days, though the exact start and end dates are set each year and can extend well into November during a strong “mast year,” when the acorn crop is especially heavy. Because the dates depend on the acorn drop rather than a fixed calendar, they shift slightly from year to year. For the confirmed dates for this year, check the New Forest’s official pannage information before you visit.

Where to See the Pigs

Pannage happens right across the open forest, but a few areas are particularly reliable for sightings.

Burley is one of the best-known spots, with pigs regularly seen foraging along the tracks just outside the village. If you’re staying with us, Holmsley and Setthorns are both a short drive from Burley, making either a convenient base.

Beaulieu is another reliable area, particularly along the quieter lanes away from the village centre. Long Meadow, Roundhill and Hollands Wood, all near Brockenhurst, are the closest of our campsites if this is where you’re headed.

Bolderwood, best known for its deer sanctuary, is also good pannage territory in the surrounding woodland. Matley Wood and Ashurst, near Lyndhurst, are both within easy reach.

Seeing the Pigs Safely

Pannage pigs are working the forest, not performing for visitors, so keep a respectful distance. Never feed or approach them, keep dogs on a lead when pigs are nearby, and let them forage undisturbed. Watching from a short distance for a few minutes is rewarding enough!

Planning a trip to see pannage for yourself? Check our campsites page for current availability before you book.