As well as its own charms, the village of Ringwood has plenty to offer visitors – and we don’t just mean the brewery (although it has very good beer!).
Here are just a few of our suggestions for where to go, what to do and things to do in Ringwood if you’re visiting this lovely corner of the New Forest.
It’s a good job that the gates open here at 8am every day – there’s so much to pack into a visit.
Don’t worry if you don’t have your bikes with you, as there’s a hire shop on-site which opens at 9.30am – perfect for all the fantastic cycling trails in the forest. There are also Segways to hire – always worth a try if you’ve never had a go.
If you want to head out on foot, walkers are well catered for too, not to mention a handy ‘dog wash’ to make sure your furry friends aren’t too mucky when they get back in the car after a day ‘exploring’.
Sports lovers will certainly want to check out Moors Valley Golf Course which is open for both Season Ticket Holders and Pay and Play customers – but make sure you book in advance.
For something a little more sedentary, Moors Lake is open to fishing from June to March, with plenty of Roach, Rudd, Tench, Perch and Dace to try and catch.
For the young(er) at heart, there are also play parks, Go Ape and something called ‘Battlefield Live’, which sounds fun whatever your age! It’s just 15 minutes’ drive from Ringwood, so it’s really handy, whether it’s a full or half day you have planned.
If you’ve never seen a bird of prey display, then plot a route here for a fab day out. As well as the birds of prey on display, there’s a reptile house of snakes, lizards and more – and twice daily flying displays at 12pm and 2pm.
There are dog kennels, a cafe and gift shop, children’s sand pit – and parking is free, which is always good news!
It’s open daily from March to October; between November to February it’s open at weekends and throughout February half-term.
The New Forest is just one huge outdoor playground, and this is another big space with lots going on… from a wildlife area to a myriad of trails, some paid-for, but many free to enjoy. Avon Heath Country Park boasts a trio of circular, waymarked trails to help you explore and enjoy the heathland, which start from behind the Visitor Centre.
Whether you walk, (horse) ride or cycle, this former railway line is a great way to explore the area. Under a quarter of an hour’s drive from Ringwood, this 16.5 mile route follows much of the old Southampton to Dorchester railway line, passing through some stunning countryside: across rivers, through heathlands and, of course, forest.
Take plenty of snacks, a packed lunch and drinks and make a day of it.
More wonderful New Forest nature to explore; over 150 hectares of reserve, there are over 8km of accessible trails and fab bird hides from where to watch the wildlife. Don’t forget your binoculars!
Guide dogs are allowed, but there are restrictions on other furry friends, so best to call or check the website.
Best known as home to Peppa Pig World, this family theme park is just over 20 minutes from Ringwood, is packed with rides and attractions across four themed worlds, as well as Peppa’s mini kingdom for small people.
Enjoy some fantastic local produce at the Cider Pantry or take some home from the shop and veg shed.
Drive a quarter of an hour to Burley and look for the cider barrel by the post office; follow the directions and you will find some fantastic local cider.
Looking for something to do on a rainy afternoon? It’s always worth checking out the website of Ringwood’s official history centre (the building dates back to the 18th century), where a multitude of events and exhibitions take place throughout the year.
The New Forest is synonymous with horses and ponies, so it makes perfect sense to spend a day riding. This family-run centre offers lessons, hacks and events, catering for riders of all ages and abilities.
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