If you thought the New Forest was simply about countryside walks, cycling and ponies, we have news for you. It’s all that and so much more.
That’s every bit as true when it comes to things to do in Fordingbridge too; from water parks to axe throwing, Roman villas to trout fishing, there’s a myriad of ways to fill your time.
Whatever and wherever that takes you, don’t forget we have hotels dotted across the New Forest, where you can relax and refresh after a busy day out and about – from boutique shepherds’ huts to Grade II Listed manor house hotels – take your pick from Forest Lodge in Lyndhurst (14 miles), Beaulieu Inn (18 miles), Bartley Lodge (11 miles), Burley Manor (11 miles) and Burley Huts (11 miles).
While you have a think about where to stay, here’s our magnificent seven favourite places to visit and things to do near Fordingbridge:
If your idea of the perfect day out is on the water, then New Forest Water Park will be your Nirvana; from cable wakeboarding to the inflatable aqua park, kayaking and camping, there’s something for every kind of water baby, young and old.
Like all the best archaeological finds, Rockbourne Roman Villa was unearthed by a local farmer’s dog in 1942.
The largest known villa complex in the area, its history spans from the Iron Age to the 5th century AD. The site includes the remains of bath houses, living quarters, farm buildings and workshops. Take your own dog and a picnic for a great day out.
Archery, axe throwing, crossbows and castle sieges? Sounds good, eh? It’s all on offer at Insight Activities near Fordingbridge. Prices start at £25, and you can combine activities (axes and crossbows, for example) – and they offer birthday, stag and hen party options too.
They also offer ‘Siege The Castle’ for groups – the aim is to build your own giant ‘catapult’ with the purpose of shooting projectiles at a ‘Castle’ themed target.
An Elizabethan manor house which leads several modern day lives, Breamore House and Museum. There’s a countryside museum, farm shop and you can also book tours of the house itself. The museum, farm shop and house are open to the public from Easter.
They also run events throughout the season – check the website for the latest.
If you’re someone who loves to venture everywhere on foot and soak up the atmosphere of where you’re visiting, there is a huge selection of Fordingbridge walks available taking you through gorgeous locations. If you prefer the comfort of two wheels, you’ll also find plenty of Fordingbridge cycling routes navigating through the lush woodlands, gorgeous green spaces and charming towns.
If you’d prefer a more relaxed day, wandering at your own pace and finishing with something delicious to eat, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to indulge in the Fordingbridge restaurants and pubs. Enjoy a little bit of shopping around Fordingbridge, dipping in and out of the local shops, before heading to a local pub for some hearty dinner and a cold drink.
For things to do near Fordingbridge, hundreds of acres of stunning New Forest countryside are yours to enjoy, when you head out from Fir Tree Farm Equestrian Centre. This livery yard is a little different from the mainstream, however, as it also offers Reiki sessions for humans. In our book, that’s a win-win.
A hugely popular New Forest pastime is angling, and Rockbourne Trout Fishery boasts six lakes over 55 acres, each with their own unique character, as well as the option of chalk stream fishing. The lower reaches of the river are classed as an area of outstanding natural beauty; Rockbourne can truly claim to be one of the most peaceful, secluded and beautiful spots to fly fish in the country.
There aren’t many attractions that are free these days, but Fordingbridge Museum is one of them; see local history brought to life, with features including the chance to experience a Second World War bomb shelter; find out about local businesses and trades; learn about controversial local artist Augustus John; browse albums of local photographs – and, of course, visit the gift shop.
When visiting Fordingbridge, you’ll absolutely find no shortage of exciting activities to get stuck into, especially with little ones. If you’re looking for something cost effective, simply exploring the abundant beauty of the New Forest is the perfect way to see more of the area. The New Forest is a vast national park with over 200,000 acres of woodland, heathland, and rivers, so if you pick a sunny day, get stuck into nature’s playground.
If you’d prefer something a little more adventurous, head over to Go Ape Moors Valley. Go Ape is an outdoor adventure park with treetop walkways, zip lines, and Tarzan swings! It’s a great place for kids to challenge themselves and have some fun and a great way for parents to get stuck in too.
If your little ones are animal-mad, one of the best things to do in Fordingbridge with kids is to visit the animals at Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre. Liberty’s is home to a variety of owls, raptors, and reptiles that you can learn more about and get a much closer look at.
If you’d prefer to put yourself to the test, the whole family can jump into the New Forest Water Park and conduct a family total wipeout! The New Forest Water Park offers an inflatable obstacle course on a lake and is the perfect solution to tire everyone out.
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