New Forest

Step back in time and discover the charm and natural beauty of this unique destination.

The New Forest became a national park in 2005 and was once a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror.It covers an area of 566 square kilometres and is made up of vast tracts of unspoilt woodland, heathland and river valleys. Today deer, ponies and cattle continue to roam free in its ancient heaths and woodland. Clear rivers and shady groves provide tranquillity and a car-free haven for walking, cycling and horse riding.

There are plenty of opportunities to hire a bike if you're coming from afar. Take a stroll around the quaint traditional villages of Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Burley and Lyndhurst, explore the dusty antique shops or enjoy a pint of locally brewed cider or beer in one of our many friendly pubs.

The New Forest Coastline

The beautiful New Forest coastline is similarly protected and even though the area attracts thousands of visitors each year it rarely becomes crowded.

If you prefer coast to countryside, why not head for the cliff tops at Barton-on-Sea, take a ferry from Hurst Castle at Milford-on-Sea to Keyhaven harbour or watch the boats come into Lymington Quay? Or if you are feeling more energetic, New Forest Activities offers canoeing and kayaking opportunities on the gentle Beaulieu River.
 

Attractions in the New Forest National Park

With the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu, the 18th Century village of Buckler's Hard, Breamore House and Museum near Fordingbridge and Exbury Gardens nearby, there's fun for all ages.

Discover Attractions in the New Forest
 

Walks in the New Forest National Park

The New Forest National Park offers more than 140 miles of tracks and footpaths. You’ll find long distance routes, short walks and easy to follow signed routes adventuring through ancient woodlands, through quaint pretty villages and across open moorland. 

See all walks in the New Forest

Cycling in the New Forest National Park

The New Forest is a popular destination for road bike riders wanting to take advantage of its rolling open roads and easy accessibility. This has made it a favourite destination for sportive events. The New Forest National Park has over 100 miles of waymarked off-road cycling routes which are ideally suited to families and those looking for a more relaxed day-out.

Find out more about cycling in the New Forest

Eating and Drinking in the New Forest National Park

Food is another reason to visit the New Forest, since it is rich in traditional country pubs, cosy tea rooms, fine restaurants and top quality local produce.

Quality is assured by the New Forest Marque, a sign that the highest standards of animal welfare, production and sourcing have been applied to any locally-produced foodstuffs carrying its name. New Forest specialities include venison, cider, sausages, honey, beef, pork, mushrooms, fresh crabs and sole and many of the Forest’s restaurants, hotels and cafés offer menus featuring local food.

A day of walking, cycling or exploring wouldn’t be the same without the New Forest Breakfast. This hearty start to the day, consisting of locally-produced sausages, eggs, bacon, mushrooms and even bread, is served in many hotels and B&Bs and there’s even a veggie version for non meat eaters.

Tea rooms and traditional pubs are a highlight of the New Forest but there is also a wide choice of restaurants in the coastal town of Lymington.

For fine dining and special occasions, the Forest is also home to some prestigious hotels and restaurants, such as Chewton Glen, Carey’s Manor and Lime Wood.

You can follow the New Forest Taste Trails by bike, on foot or on hoof, sampling local ice creams, ploughman’s lunches, cream teas, seafood and the New Forest Breakfast along the way.

Discover places to eat in the New Forest
 

Events in the New Forest National Park

There are regular weekly town markets in Hythe, Lymington, New Milton, Hampshire farmers’ markets in Ringwood, and various New Forest producer markets.

The New Forest Show takes place every year over three days in July and includes a tempting food hall where you can sample cakes, ice-creams, sweets, chutneys, jams, meat and fish dishes, vegetables, fruit and honey.

If you visit the New Forest in September you may come across pigs, this practice is called Pannage.  Pigs are allowed to roam free to eat the acorns and other nuts to help prevent poisoning the horses and cattle.  Find when and where Pannage takes place in the New Forest.

Discover events in the New Forest

Accommodation in the New Forest

The cottages that adorn the charming villages of the New Forest are part of the identity of this special part of England – and you can stay in one of your very own New Forest holiday cottages, giving you an authentic New Forest experience and a cosy home from home for your holiday.

In the warmer months, the New Forest is a perfect camping destination with campsites and glamping in beautiful natural surroundings.

For more creature comforts there are a wide range of welcoming B&Bs to choose from, and fabulous country hotels.