Firstly the good. The site is ideally located within the New Forest and is a short walk from Brockenhurst village. This then is it’s major attraction.

The pitches (mostly hardstanding, after the recent refurbishment) are of a good size and standard.

The old facilities, reminiscent of 1960s council swimming pool changing rooms, are now gone, and have been replaced with a much more modern looking amenities block.

So far, so good.

And yet, something is missing here.

Yes , the oft commented approach road is indeed truly appalling, but that is due to be resurfaced on the night of 9th / 10th May, and that isn’t (or won’t be) the issue.

Despite suggestions that the site is “dog friendly”, there are undertones that it is not. Notices exhorting that ‘Dogs should not be exercised anywhere on site, but taken out of the gate to walk (sic) in the Forest.” and “we have noticed an increase in complaints about dogs of late..” The clubs national guidance contained in “You and your dog” has this to say; “of course your dog can accompany you when walking around clubs sites.” This forms part of the social nature of the club and enables members meet and interact with each other in a relaxed, friendly environment. With their pets. Walking around the site.

The local rules suggest however that this is not allowed at Black Knowl. Indeed all walks must be in the Forest. Social walks around the site are not to be tolerated.

Where is the evidence for the “increase in complaints about dogs?” As far as I recall this was exactly the same wording being used before the site was refurbished. What is the “increase,” and increase over what, exactly?

The underlying intolerance of our four legged friends extends to the information hut. This is merely a wooden summer house with the usual useful local leaflets, guides and maps contained within. Very good. And yet... “No dogs except assistance dogs!” Why ever not? This is not a food preparation area, or even a shop. Most pubs in the area allow dogs in, but dogs are not permitted in the information hut at Black Knowl. No, absolutely not. They must be tied up, outside.

As stated, the Black Knowl site is in the heart of the New Forest with easy access to the countryside. It is only to be expected that it will attract a large number of pet owners, probably more than other sites. I wonder if the alleged “increase in complaints” actually originated from visitors who weren’t expecting to see to so many dogs? (which is an unreasonable expectation). Or does it perhaps come from the local management who do not really enjoy or cope with having large numbers of animals on “their” prime site?

Black Knowl is a good site, and it’s location is ideal for exploring and enjoying the delights of the New Forest. However, there are bad points about this site and it’s difficult to overlook them, particularly when a premium is demanded for bookings here.