Portuguese Fireplace, War memorial in New Forest, Hampshire, England
Portuguese Fireplace is a war memorial in New Forest, Hampshire. The stone structure stands near Millyford Bridge and commemorates the Portuguese soldiers who were stationed in this area during World War I.
During World War I, the Portuguese forces sent loggers to the New Forest to provide timber for the war effort. The men built this fireplace at their camp, and it remained after they returned home as testimony to their presence.
The memorial incorporates Portuguese architectural details and craftsmanship, representing the lasting connection between British and Portuguese military forces.
The walk from the car park at Millyford Bridge to the memorial is about 200 meters and follows marked paths through the forest. The area is quiet and works well for a short visit outside the busy summer months.
The fireplace still stands exactly where the Portuguese soldiers built it more than a century ago. The construction served as a source of warmth in the camp at the time and was later preserved in memory of their joint work.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.