27 Fun Things to Do in the New Forest

The New Forest is one of England’s most beautiful and diverse landscapes. Dotted with quaint villages and ancient forests, it offers a wealth of activities for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-track getaway.

From exploring the rugged coastline to sampling local cider in traditional breweries, there are plenty of things to do in the New Forest that will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you’re after some leisurely walking trails or heart-pumping adventures, this stunning area has something for everyone! Read on to discover our top picks of the best things to do in the New Forest.

Best Things to Do in the New Forest

The New Forest is spread over 218 square miles in Southern England. This is one of the largest areas of forests and heathland in South England.

The area includes the New Forest National Park, one of the most scenic places in the UK. Here are the best places to go in the New Forest.

1. Afternoon Tea at Rhinefield House Hotel

Hidden away in lush woodland, Rhinefield House is a truly stunning New Forest country hotel. The building blends elements of Gothic and Tudor architecture.

Set in 40 acres of grounds, Rhinefield House Hotel boasts the 2 AA Rosette awarded Armada Restaurant. There’s also the informal Conservatory, with views over ornamental ponds.

Enjoy afternoon tea on the spacious terrace in Summertime or in the cosy Lounge Bar. Take a stroll along Rhinefield Ornamental Drive after tea.

Address: Rhinefield Road, Brockenhurst SO42 7QB, United Kingdom

2. Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre

This outdoor learning venue is dedicated to the development of young people. There are several activities available for families there too, including bike trails and kayaking.

Try your hand at abseiling, bushcraft or some of the other Go Adventure activities on offer. There’s an on site cafe and picturesque lakes set in 65 acres of grounds.

Avon Tyrrell House is built in a very unusual style. This Grade I listed manor is the last known calendar house in the UK.

Calendar houses contain symbolical numbers of architectural elements. Avon Tyrrell has 365 windows, representing the days of the year and 7 external doors, representing the days of the week.

There are also 52 rooms, symbolizing weeks, 12 chimneys representing months and 4 wings symbolizing the seasons.

Address: Bransgore, Christchurch BH23 8EE

3. Beaulieu Palace House

One of the most picturesque villages in Hampshire, Beaulieu is home to the National Motor Museum, a Cistercian abbey and Palace House. Beaulieu means beautiful place and this medieval village certainly lives up to its name.

Beaulieu Palace House has been the home of the Montagu family since 1538. Formerly the gatehouse of Beaulieu Abbey, this Victorian country house is one of ten Treasure Houses of England.

You can visit the Victorian kitchens and see Lord Montagu’s library, with its false bookshelf door. Find out more about the Secret Army, a training establishment for 3,000 Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II.

Address: John Montagu Building, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN, United Kingdom

4. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

Located close to the town of Lyndhurst, Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary has a viewing platform where you can observe herds of fallow deer. To maximize your chances of seeing the deer, come between 12.30-2.30 pm from April to September.

At some point between those times, a Forestry Commission Ranger feeds the deer. There’s also a spacious picnic area and three circular walking routes.

Address: Bolderwood Arboretum Ornamental Drive, Lyndhurst SO43 7GQ, United Kingdom

5. Brockenhurst Village

This charming New Forest village is the largest by population in the New Forest. It’s a popular UK holiday destination, thanks to its central location and train station.

You can often see donkeys and wild ponies wandering around the streets of Brockenhurst. There are many good places to eat or have a drink.

Some of our faves include:

• Albero – for Italian dishes
• Escape Gin Bar – at the Thatched Cottage Hotel – open to non-residents
• Rosie Lea’s – a tea room with great cakes
• The Huntsman – a stylish New Forest pub with a large garden

6. Buckler’s Hard

This picturesque hamlet overlooks Beaulieu River, and is a pleasant 2.5 mile walk from Beaulieu village. Buckler’s Hard was once an important shipbuilding center.

The 18th century Georgian cottages were home to the shipwrights who built vessels for Nelson’s Navy. Find out more about the history of the village at the Maritime Museum, and look inside a shipwright’s cottage. Refreshments are available at the Captain’s Cabin Tea Rooms.

7. Castleman Trailway

Also known as Castleman’s Corkscrew, this gentle trail is popular with cyclists and walkers. Stretching for 16.5 miles, The Castleman Trailway follows the former Southampton to Dorchester train line.

Passing through forests and heathland, this East Dorset trail connects with the Moors Valley Country Park, Upton Country Park and Avon Heath Country Park. It takes its name from Charles Castleman, the solicitor who organised construction of the original railway line. The Castleman Corkscrew train line closed in 1964.

8. Cycling in the New Forest

There are many great cycling trails in the New Forest, including over 100 miles of off road tracks. You can choose from family-friendly bike rides or more challenging cycle routes such as the Grand Slam.

This 42 mile New Forest trail is named after the RAF bomb that was dropped here in 1945. It starts and finishes at Brockenhurst train station.

There are several places to rent bicycles in the New Forest, including Cyclexperience Bike Hire in Brockenhurst, Forest Leisure Cycling in Burley, New Forest Activities in Beaulieu and Hockeys Farm in Fordingbridge. The village of Lyndhurst has two bike rental shops – AA Bike Hire and The Woods Cyclery.

9. Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway

Situated close to Beaulieu and Buckler’s Hard, Exbury Gardens are known for their stunning azaleas and rhododendrons. The miniature steam train is very popular with families.

Created by Lionel de Rothschild, the Exbury estate is spread over 200 acres. Spot giant koi carp in the Top Pond, take the Camellia Walk and stroll around the Sundial Garden.

Grab a bite to eat at Mr Eddy’s, located in the former estate smithy, or at The Old Tennis Courts outdoor cafe.

Address: Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AZ, United Kingdom

10. Hurst Castle

With an enviable location overlooking the Solent and the Isle of Wight, Hurst Castle was built between 1541 and 1544. It was commissioned by Henry VIII to defend against invasion from France and the Holy Roman Empire.

Hurst Castle is now run by English Heritage and the Friends of Hurst Castle. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the Needles and the Isle of Wight from the roof of the Tudor keep.

A surprising feature of Hurst Castle is the Garrison Theatre, which was used to entertain the troops during the Second World War. On site, there’s also a cafe open from April to November and a gift shop in the Guard Room.

Address: Milford on Sea, Lymington SO41 0TP, United Kingdom

11. Knightwood Oak

Thought to be the oldest oak tree in the New Forest, Knightwood Oak is over 500 years old. Nicknamed the Queen of the Forest, Knightwood Oak is 7.38 metres wide.

This mighty oak is a good example of pollarding, a traditional method of harvesting wood without killing the tree. This involved pruning the upper branches to promote the growth of thick new branches.

There are some very scenic walking trails in the ancient woodland around the old oak tree. It is located just off Rhinefield Ornamental Drive.

Address: Minstead, Ringwood SO43 7GR, United Kingdom

12. Lepe Country Park

This coastal area close to Southampton played a key role in the D Day landings. On 6 June 1944, Allied troops left Lepe Beach for the beaches of Normandy.

Lepe was a secret construction site for concrete caissons. Undersea oil pipelines, code-named Operation PLUTO, were built to carry fuel to the Isle of Wight and the troops in Normandy, France.

You can still see the remains of the wartime efforts, including the Lepe dolphins. These are wooden remnants of pier heads that were used for loading war ships.

Also in Lepe Country Park, there’s The Lookout cafe, together with flower meadows and a kid’s playground.

Address: Country Park Lepe, Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AD, United Kingdom

13. Lunch at Limewood

One of the most luxurious New Forest hotels, Limewood is located close to the village of Lyndhurst. It’s part of the Home Grown Hotels group, which also owns the various The Pig restaurant and rooms.

Chefs Angela Hartnett and Luke Holder do the cooking at Hartnett Holder & Co. This informal Italian restaurant has stylish interiors and a large outdoor terrace overlooking the gardens.

After lunch, wander around Limewood hotel grounds, book into Herb House Spa or stay overnight in one of the spacious rooms.

Address: Beaulieu Rd, Lyndhurst SO43 7FZ, United Kingdom

14. Lymington

The picturesque South Coast town of Lymington in Hampshire has some quaint cobbled streets. Lymington Harbour is a popular yachting centre, with three marinas.

The Haven Bar and Restaurant has a first floor terrace with great views over The Solent. You can also grab a bite at Coffee & Drift, located on Lymington Quay.

St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery on New Street gives you insights into local art and history.

Lymington High Street has some fine Georgian and Victorian buildings and many stylish boutiques. Lymington Charter Market takes place every Saturday and is the largest street market in the New Forest.

15. Moors Valley Country Park and Forest

Spread over 800 acres, Moors Valley Country Park is one of the best things to do in the New Forest. There are several walking and cycling trails including the Through the Forest singletrack route.

Children will love the Play Trail, Gruffalo Sculptures, Treetop Trail and adventure playground. Go Ape run a variety of activities inside the park, including two Treetop adventure courses and New Forest segways.

The Moors Valley Railway is a miniature steam railway with a one mile circuit. There’s a model railway shop and snacks are available at Kingsmere Railway Station.

You can also eat at Seasons Restaurant, which makes seasonal food using local Dorset and New Forest produce. Picnic tables can be found by Moors Lake and also in the forest.

Address: Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET, United Kingdom

16. National Motor Museum Beaulieu

Known for its collection of over 280 classic cars and bikes, the National Motor Museum is a great place to visit on a rainy day in the New Forest. Located in picturesque Beaulieu, the museum features F1 and sports cars as well as other famous vehicles.

Spot Mr Bean’s green Mini, Dr Who’s Bessie and Del Boy’s Reliant Regal from Only Fools and Horses. World of Top Gear showcases cars that are left in the condition they were in after filming.

Jack Tucker’s garage is a faithful reproduction of a 1930s garage, while The Luxury of Motoring features stunning glass Lalique mascots.

Address: John Montagu Building, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN, United Kingdom

17. New Forest Lavender Farm

In Summertime, the New Forest Lavender Farm has a lovely display of lavender in their annual gardens. You can also find a great selection of plants in the nursery – not just lavender varieties but also herbs, perennials and roses.

Enjoy tasty homemade quiches and scones at The Lavender Tearooms.

Address: Giles Lane, Landford, Salisbury SP5 2BG, United Kingdom

18. New Forest Ponies

The star attraction of the New Forest are its free roaming ponies and horses. Often described as wild, they’re actually owned by local people, or Commoners.

There are around 5,000 New Forest ponies which graze on the land. During the New Forest Drifts, the Commoners round up their ponies to check on their health.

If you want to spot New Forest ponies, it is a question of pot luck as they move around freely. There are often New Forest donkeys and horses in Beaulieu, Burley and Brockenhurst. You should not feed or touch the ponies.

19. New Forest Heritage Centre Museum

Find out more about the New Forest horses and the history of the area at the New Forest Heritage Centre Museum in Lyndhurst. There’s an informative museum and exhibition gallery.

The gift shop has a nice selection of forest-themed toys, handmade soaps and local craft works. Tip, Leaf & Bean Cafe is dog friendly and has gluten free and vegan options.

The Christopher Tower Reference Library is home to one of the largest collections of New Forest memorabilia.

Address: Main Car Park, Lyndhurst SO43 7NY, United Kingdom

20. Paultons Park – Peppa Pig World

One of the most popular UK theme parks, Peppa Pig World is based on the children’s TV series character. Set within 140 acres of parkland near the village of Ower, this is a fun family day out.

There are over 70 rides and attractions, including Mr Potato’s Playground, the Discovery Trail and Water Kingdom. Beastie Burrow is a bug emporium with distinctive fish, lizards and insects.

Enjoy many theme park rides such as Raging River Log Flume, the Viking Boats and Velociraptor. There are lots of dining options such as Base Camp and The Railroad Diner.

Address: Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL, United Kingdom

21. Pub Lunch in Rockford

The Alice Lisle in Rockford is a charming New Forest pub. You can often see New Forest donkeys and horses in the car park. Turnstile access prevents them from accessing the property itself ;-).

Named after Lady Alice Lisle, a Hampshire nobelwoman who was executed for harbouring a Nonconformist minister in 1685. This quaint red brick pub was formerly Rockwood Primary School. In Summertime, you can dine in the large pub garden.

Address: Rockford Green, Rockford, Ringwood BH24 3NA, United Kingdom

22. Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

Located between Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst, Rhinefield Ornamental Drive was planted in the late 1850s. It features two of the tallest New Forest trees, which are giant redwoods.

From late May to early June, you can also admire beautiful azaleas and rhododendrons in bloom. There are several walking trails around Rhinefield Woodland and Blackwater Arboretum.

The Tall Trees Trail is a 1.5 mile circular route taking you from Blackwater car park on a gravel path through the forest. Rhinefield Road and the surrounding trails are also a popular New Forest cycle ride.

Address: Brockenhurst SO42 7QB, UK

23. Ringwood Brewery Tour

Founded by Peter Austin, the first chairman of the Society of Independent Brewers (SIBA), Ringwood Brewery are known for their craft beers. The brewery emblem is a wild boar and their motto is “Visit the Winding Downs”.

Beer has been brewed since medieval times in Ringwood. The Ringwood Brewery Tour is rated the top attraction in Ringwood by TripAdvisor.

You can purchase beers in the shop, as well as beer flavoured chocolate and chutney. There’s also a range of shirts and sports clothing.

Address: 138 Christchurch Rd, Ringwood BH24 3AP, United Kingdom

24. Setley Ridge Vineyard

A family owned business, Setley Ridge boasts a popular farm shop as well as a garden centre and nursery. This New Forest vineyard culitvate the grapes, make and bottle their wine on site.

A member of New Forest Marque, promoting food and drink produce from the local area, they offer wine tastings and vineyard tours.

Setley Ridge produce oaked red, dry and medium dry white and rose wines. The Kitchen at Setley Ridge is a tea room serving homemade cakes on vintage crockery.

Address: Lymington Road, Brockenhurst SO42 7UF, United Kingdom

25. The Cider Pantry

Located in the heart of Burley, New Forest Cider makes some delicious products. They use cider fruit from Herefordshire and Somerset.

Try unpasteurised cider right from the barrels, as well as champagne method cider. Tuck into homemade cakes, cream tea, cider and coffees in The Cider Pantry.

Address: Pound Ln, Burley, Ringwood BH24 4ED, United Kingdom

26. New Forest Reptile Centre

A conservation centre featuring British snakes, lizards and amphibians, the New Forest Reptile Centre is located close to the town of Lyndhurst. There is a goshawk cam, where you can observe New Forest goshawks hatching at certain times of the year.

They also have a discovery trail and picnic area. As the reptile centre is open seasonally, it’s best to check that it’s open before you go.

Address: A35 (Bournemouth Road), Lyndhurst SO43 7GR, United Kingdom

27. New Forest Wildlife Park

Close to Ashurst and Lyndhurst, this is one of the best places to go with kids in the New Forest. The park is spread over 25 acres and focuses on wildlife conservation.

See the New Forest otter, European bison, Eurasian eagle owls and red deer, the largest land mammal in the UK. There are also Northern lynx, grey wolves, mouflon and European tree frogs to spot.

Many of the animals are on the IUCN endangered species Red List. As well as the animals, there are two adventure playgrounds: Go Wild and Mini Go Wild, together with a tropical butterfly house, onsite cafe and gift shop.

Address: Deerleap Lane, Southampton SO40 4UH, United Kingdom

Where to Stay in the New Forest

When visiting the beautiful New Forest, there are many excellent places to stay. Popular options include luxury New Forest hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, hidden cottages deep in the woods and even camping sites which provide easy access to stunning trails and forests.

• Burley Manor – stylish New Forest boutique hotel.
• Chewton Glen – known for its treehouse suites and fine dining restaurant.
• Limewood – cool decor and a fantastic restaurant and spa.
• Rhinefield House Hotel – an elegant Gothic mansion in beautiful parkland.
• The Pig – informal luxury near Brockenhurst.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in the New Forest

So, there you have it – a whistle stop tour of the New Forest and some of its best things to do! We hope this has given you a better understanding of what the area has to offer and that you now feel inspired to visit. If you’re planning a trip to the UK soon, be sure to check out our other articles for more ideas on great places to visit.

You might also enjoy:

• A Luxury Weekend Break in Bath
• Best New Forest Luxury Hotels
• Best Bournemouth Attractions
• Family Holidays of a Lifetime
• Fun Things to Do in Somerset
• Interesting Things to Do on the Isle of Wight

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