New Forest Freebies

We understand the pressures of expensive half terms, but with our handy guide of New Forest freebies, you won’t need to break the bank in order to create lasting memories with your family. Take a look below at our list of must see and dos this winter.

New Forest Heritage Centre

A free-entry museum, gallery and reference library situated in the heart of Lyndhurst, the New Forest Heritage Centre is dedicated to sharing the history and traditions of this diverse and beautiful area. With a gift shop and café on site, it’s a great place to start your New Forest journey.

Stretching your legs

There are ample free walks available throughout the New Forest, for you, your family and furry friends to enjoy. Plus, outdoor brand Millets have recently named the New Forest as the no.1 family-friendly spot in the UK, highlighting that over a quarter of walks are little-one friendly and 27% of hikes are below 10km.

Furzey Gardens

Furzey Gardens is a secret woodland garden nestled deep in the New Forest with ample fairy doors for the little one’s to explore. Entry is by donation and every visit helps them continue supporting people with learning disabilities.

Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle is an artillery fort established by Henry VIII on the Hurst Spit. Stroll down the stoney bank with the shore either side and admire the views of the Isle of Wight in the background.

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

Bolderwood is situated in the heart of the New Forest along the Ornamental Drive and is one of the best places to see the deer in the New Forest. With a purpose built platform which overlooks a large meadow, parking is free, but there is a donation box located next to the main entrance.

Rufus Stone

The Rufus Stone has to be one of the strongest reminders of the origins of the New Forest. The iron-clad stone marks the (alleged) spot where King William II was fatally wounded with an arrow, during a royal hunting outing in the Forest, in the year 1100 AD.