When is Pannage?
Monday 15 September – Friday 28 November 2025
If you're looking to experience something truly unique during your visit to New Forest, then time your trip to coincide with one of the area’s most fascinating and long-standing traditions - Pannage.
What is Pannage?
Each autumn, around 600 pigs are released into the ancient woodlands of New Forest. Their mission? To eat up fallen acorns and other nuts like chestnuts and beech mast - which can be toxic to our free-roaming ponies, donkeys and cattle. This year, a heavy crop of acorns is expected, making the pigs’ job especially important.
The pigs aren’t wild - they all belong to local commoners, who are still granted a number of ancient grazing rights passed down through generations. Each pig wears an ear tag and a nose ring (to prevent too much rooting) and plays an important role in maintaining the delicate balance of New Forest’s ecosystem.
Why is Pannage important?
Acorns are rich in tannins, which are harmful to ponies if eaten in large quantities. Pigs, however, can safely digest them - they even cleverly spit out the bitter skins and eat just the nutritious kernels inside. By clearing the forest floor, they’re helping reduce the risk to other animals and supporting the health of the New Forest.
The practice of Pannage, also known as ‘Common of Mast’, dates back to the 11th century, when it was granted by William the Conqueror. Today, the start and end dates of the season are set each year by the Court of Verderers.
Where to see the pigs
During Pannage season, you might spot pigs snuffling through ancient oak woodlands or wandering near village lanes. Some of the best areas to try your luck include:
- Bolderwood
- Burley and the surrounding inclosures
- Brook and Bramshaw
You might hear them before you see them - listen out for cheerful grunting or the sound of trotting trotters through the undergrowth.
Follow the New Forest Code
While the pigs are an absolute highlight of the New Forest in autumn (and an adorable photo op – from a distance!), they’re still working animals - not pets. Please:
- Don’t touch or feed the pigs
- Keep dogs on a short lead around them
- Drive slowly and with care - pigs often wander into roads and can be tricky to spot
And if you do capture that perfect moment for your Instagram or TikTok, don’t forget to tag us (@thenewforestuk) and use #thenewforest so others can share in the experience too.
Top tip: Pannage season also marks one of the most magical times to explore the New Forest. With golden leaves, purple-tinged heathland, and misty mornings, it’s the ideal time for a walk, bike ride, or even a woodland picnic - just don’t share it with the pigs!
