Yuletide in the New Forest must be top of everyone’s Christmas list. The astonishing beauty of this incredible part of the world is showcased in all its frosted and glistening glory at this time of the year, with crisp leaves crunching underfoot, red berries, snow, and starry skies. It’s a time for sharing with family and friends, and it just wouldn’t be the same without your most adoring and furriest of companions there to enjoy the festivities with you.
People (and their pooches) come from all over the world to enjoy the glorious New Forest at Christmas, with its miles of bracing walks, dramatic coastlines, and stunning woodland. There are over 350 square miles to walk, run or cycle in here, and if that doesn’t make you want to snuffle amongst the frosty undergrowth in excitement, we don’t know what will.
You’ll want the perfect place to stay too, of course, so here we’ll outline the very best places for a pet-friendly Christmas break at New Forest Collection, where guests of the canine kind are always warmly welcomed.
Already considering what to do for the festive season? The New Forest is filled with things to do, places to visit and a magical winter atmosphere found in our gorgeous woodland and local towns. Join us in one of our seven gorgeous locations for a Christmas or New Year break in 2023 and take advantage of 10% off your booking if booked before the 31st August.
Imagine approaching Bartley Lodge, the Grade II listed country house hotel near Lyndhurst, along its winter woodland drive. Grand amidst its glorious natural surroundings, and with eight acres of landscaped grounds for your furry friend to explore, they’ll be in New Forest heaven here too.
Another dog-friendly venue set off perfectly by the natural beauty of its surroundings at Christmas time is Beaulieu Inn. A short walk from the ancient village of Beaulieu itself, this former coaching inn is a real festive home from home.
The magnificent 800-year-old Burley Manor is also a very special Christmas venue set within breathtaking surroundings that will delight both you and your happy doggy, and the more intimate Forest Lodge, near Lyndhurst, is the quintessential village retreat in which to cosy up at Christmas. Located right on the edge of the New Forest, it’s also perfectly pet-friendly, so yips of delight all round…
With their kitchens a-buzz with festive preparations, and fireplaces a-glow, you and your canine companion will be ushered in with a warm welcome at any of these superb pet-friendly venues on Christmas Eve – surely the most exciting day of the year?
Cellars at Forest Lodge, and each of New Forest Collection dog-friendly hotels, are always well-stocked with the very best from local brewers and distillers, and never more so than at Christmas time; you’ll know your holiday celebrations have really begun when you have a Christmas cocktail in your hand and are nibbling on delicate canapés, only whetting your appetite for the evening’s mouthwatering meal, prepared with locally sourced and seasonal produce.
Christmas Day is a real celebration at all of New Forest Collection pet-friendly hotels, and festivities begin with a glass of fizz at breakfast. Let your four-legged friend take you for a walk in the glorious countryside before the main event, where you are served with a traditional feast in the twinkling candlelit dining room.
Cosying up afterwards in a leather armchair by the fire, you might watch a classic Christmas movie, and later on, enjoy some board games.
Boxing Day begins with hearty winter’s breakfast before getting your wellies on and taking your waggy-tailed ones out for more adventures in the woods.
Enjoy the next day (or maybe two, because extending your stay is always an option) by relaxing in the lounge, tucking into another mince pie and making the most of all the festive goodies on offer.
So after exploring what’s on, you might want to gift yourself one of the most perfect three- or four-day dog friendly New Year hotel breaks The New Forest has to offer.
So whichever one of these spectacular hotels you choose to be your Christmas home from home, think candlelight and carols, tables laden with delectable New Forest-inspired dishes, and comfortable cosy spaces to relax in, all set within the Winter wonderland that is the New Forest.
Here’s wishing you and your very best friend a magical New Forest Christmas you will never forget.
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