Rustic Cleft Chestnut Post and Rail Fencing
Equestrian Enclosure – Ringwood

Combining traditional aesthetics with exceptional durability for a seamless blend with the New Forest landscape.

Situated on the edge of the historic New Forest in Ringwood, this recently completed project showcases the timeless appeal and practical resilience of traditional Cleft Chestnut Post and Rail fencing. Commissioned to enclose a new equestrian riding arena, the brief required a solution that would be safe for livestock while harmonising with the surrounding ancient woodland character.

We selected Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa) for its superior natural properties. Unlike standard softwood, chestnut is rich in tannins, acting as a powerful natural preservative that renders the timber highly resistant to rot and fungal decay without the need for toxic chemical treatments. This makes it an exceptionally safe choice for horses and an environmentally sustainable option for the rural landscape.

The installation features a classic 3-rail “Sussex” style configuration. The rails were hand-cleaved (split) along the grain, preserving the wood’s structural integrity and creating that distinctively rustic, textured finish that mechanically sawn timber simply cannot replicate. To complete the enclosure, we installed a heavy-duty, galvanized steel 7-bar field gate, ensuring robust security and easy access for machinery and riders alike.