Why choose the New Forest?

Located in the southern part of England, the New Forest is a picturesque and enchanting destination sure to capture the hearts of visitors seeking a break in the UK. This national park covers approximately 140,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including ancient woodlands, open heathlands, and tranquil coastlines. With its rich history, abundant wildlife, and a myriad of outdoor activities to keep every family member excited, the New Forest offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers, adventurers, and those in search of relaxation.

From leisurely walks among centuries-old trees to encounters with roaming ponies and deer, the New Forest’s natural beauty and timeless charm create the perfect setting for a rejuvenating and memorable break in the heart of the UK.

Natural beauty

A location renowned for its natural beauty and abundant natural sights, the New Forest is the perfect place to enjoy a break. The New Forest is known for its vast ancient woodlands filled with majestic oak trees, beech trees, and other native species. 

Another unique characteristic of the New Forest is its open heathland which offers a distinct landscape in the New Forest which is covered with heather, gorse, and ferns, creating a breathtaking mosaic of colours to be admired and adored. 

For wildlife enthusiasts, the New Forest truly is a haven. You can spot an array of animals roaming freely, including the iconic New Forest ponies, deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species. It’s an ideal location to enjoy some birdwatching, with resident and migratory birds gracing the area throughout the year. Additionally, the New Forest is crisscrossed by tranquil waterways, such as the Beaulieu River and the Lymington River. These watercourses meander through picturesque landscapes, offering stunning views and opportunities for peaceful walks, boat trips, or even kayaking, perfect for a leisurely afternoon or an action-packed morning. 

Wildlife

The New Forest is a haven for wildlife, boasting a rich biodiversity that adds to the unique charm of the New Forest. Wandering around you’re certain to stumble across some of the species that call the New Forest home. 

New Forest Ponies: Perhaps the most iconic residents of the area, the New Forest Ponies are semi-wild and have roamed the forest for centuries. You’ll find the ponies grazing throughout the forest, creating a delightful, picturesque view of the forest. 

Red Deer: The New Forest is home to a thriving population of Red Deer. Their impressive antlers and graceful presence can be spotted from far away and catching sight of these majestic creatures is a truly memorable experience, especially during the autumn rutting season when the males compete for dominance.

Roe Deer: Another deer species found in the New Forest is the Roe Deer. They are smaller in size compared to the Red Deer but are equally captivating. To catch a glimpse, they can often be spotted in woodland areas or open spaces.

Wild Boar: The New Forest is known for its reintroduced population of wild boar. The pigs were once extinct in the area but have emerged once again and can be occasionally sighted in the forest. Similarly, during the Autumn months, farmers release their pigs for ‘Pannage’ where the pigs are allowed to graze in the forest and eat fallen acorns, beech mast, chestnuts and other nuts which are poisonous to the wild ponies and cattle that roam around the forests. 

Birds: The New Forest is a paradise for birdwatchers and you’ll be able to spot a variety of species when visiting. From the melodious song of the nightingales in spring to the sight of buzzards and kestrels soaring above, make sure you pack your binoculars.

Outdoor activities

The New Forest offers an abundance of exciting things to do outside, perfect for adventure seekers and New Forest novices to enjoy. You’ll find something to keep you busy whatever the weather and find more and more reasons to keep returning to the New Forest. 

Walking and Hiking: Firstly, for walkers, the New Forest is a paradise with over 140 miles of well-maintained trails to explore. From strolls through ancient woodlands to more challenging hikes across the vast open heathland, there’s a route for everyone to enjoy, no matter your level of fitness. The diverse landscapes and the sights of the native wildlife make walking in the New Forest a truly magical experience. 

Cycling: If cycling is more your thing, the New Forest has an extensive network of cycle paths and quiet country lanes to roam through, providing ample opportunity to explore the forest at your own pace. Take yourself on an adventure and discover the charming villages, scenic landscapes, and hidden gems dotted across the New Forest. Whether you prefer leisurely family rides or more challenging off-road adventures, the New Forest offers options for all types of cyclists.

Horse Riding: The New Forest has a long history associated with equestrian activities and there are numerous bridleways and designated riding that make exploring the forest on horseback a truly exciting experience. The New Forest is home to a variety of riding schools and stables which offer lessons and guided rides for both beginners and experienced riders. 

Watersports: The New Forest’s proximity to the coast and waterways provides opportunities for a range of watersports. You can enjoy everything from kayaking or paddle boarding on the Beaulieu River, taking a boat trip along the coast, or even enjoying a touch of fishing. 

Surrounded by walks

Within the New Forest, you’ll find a delightful range of diverse walks that cater to all levels of fitness and interests. You’ll be able to spot gorgeous sights, breathtaking views of the native wildlife, and history and culture at every corner. 

Woodland Walks: The New Forest is renowned for its ancient woodlands and numerous trails wind through the enchanting areas. Walking around, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering oak trees, beech trees, and other native flora. The Blackwater Tall Trees trail is especially great for this. 

Heathland Walks: Open heathland is another prominent feature of the New Forest. These walks take you through wide expanses of heather, gorse, and ferns, offering breathtaking views and a chance to observe the unique plant and animal life that thrives in this habitat. Beaulieu Heath, Hampton Ridge, and Foxbury are excellent locations to explore the heathland landscapes and get stuck into the beauty of the New Forest. 

Coastal Walks: The New Forest’s beautiful coastline provides an opportunity to enjoy walks along stunning beaches, cliffs, and coastal paths. You can follow the Solent Way, which runs along the coastline, offering panoramic views of the sea and access to charming coastal villages such as Lymington and Milford-on-Sea. The coastal walks allow you to experience the interplay between forest and sea, with fabulous opportunities to spot seabirds and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze and gorgeous sights. 

Nature Reserves and Wetland Walks: The New Forest is home to several nature reserves and wetland areas that are teeming with sights of native wildlife. You’ll be taken through diverse ecosystems, spotting marshes, ponds and reedbeds that call the New Forest home. 

Historical Walks: The New Forest has a rich cultural and historical heritage and allows you to explore its intriguing past, walking through historical towns and exploring heritage sights. Stroll through the picturesque village of Beaulieu along the river, visit the National Motor Museum, or explore the historic ruins of Beaulieu Abbey. Additionally, gorgeous Lyndhurst is the New Forest’s largest village and offers glimpses into its history, including the Verderers’ Hall and the church of St. Michael. 

Great for dogs

With so much open space, stunning forest scapes and expansive greenery, the New Forest is the perfect location to enjoy a dog walk and stretch your legs. You’ll find an abundance of walking trails, whether you want a leisurely woodland hike, a coastal jog, or a stroll around charming towns and villages. 

You’ll also find a wide selection of dog-friendly pubs and restaurants so your pup can join you for a drink or some dinner in a comfortable and quaint location. 

A romantic setting

With so many gorgeous sights and sounds around you, the New Forest is the perfect location to enjoy a romantic escape and spend some quality time with your partner. Whether you’re keen to jump into some adventure and activity, enjoy some quality time surrounded by nature, or embark on a tour of the local pubs and restaurants in the nearby towns and villages, the New Forest provides the perfect romantic haven for a getaway all year round. 

Fun for families

Bringing the whole family together in the New Forest is a great way to enjoy some quality time and explore the abundant beauty and adventure found in the New Forest. You’ll find plenty to keep you busy, including activity centres where you can wear the kids out with archery, climbing and swimming, as well as some delightful wildlife centres. And for the more relaxed days, take a walk in the forests and explore at your own pace. Big and little ones will find the sights of the New Forest and its native species truly spectacular, making the New Forest a new family favourite destination. 

History and Culture

The history and heritage of the New Forest stretch back thousands of years, originally established as a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1079. The area was reserved for the exclusive use of the monarch for hunting deer and other game, and strict forest laws were enforced to protect the wildlife and maintain the King’s privilege.

Additionally, the New Forest’s ancient woodlands date back to the end of the last Ice Age and have a rich history with evidence of Bronze Age barrows, Iron Age hill forts, and Roman settlements found within the forest. Perfect for history and heritage enthusiasts to explore. 

The New Forest also maintains a variety of charming traditions such as Pannage and Commoning. The practice of commoning has been an integral part of the New Forest’s heritage for centuries. Commoning is the process of turning out livestock such as ponies, cattle, and pigs, to graze freely within the forest. Commoning traditions, including marking and rounding up the animals, are still practised today and contribute to the forest’s unique landscape and delightful traditions. 

Lastly, the New Forest still maintains a rich cultural heritage that can be explored through its historic villages, churches, manor houses, and landmarks. Places of interest include the gorgeous Beaulieu Abbey, founded in the 13th century, the Rufus Stone commemorating the death of King William II, and the Verderers’ Hall, which has been the centre of forest administration for centuries.

Sustainability

The New Forest is actively contributing to sustainability through various initiatives aimed at preserving its unique ecosystem, promoting responsible land management, and engaging with the local community. Some of these are listed below: 

Conservation of Biodiversity: The New Forest is home to a wide range of rare and protected species, including the New Forest cicada and certain reptiles. Efforts are in place to protect and conserve these species by managing habitats, controlling invasive species, and promoting sustainable land use practices. The National Park Authority works closely with local organisations, landowners, and volunteers to ensure the long-term preservation of biodiversity.

Sustainable Forestry: Forestry practices follow guidelines to maintain the health of the forest, protect rare habitats, and support the growth of diverse tree species. Sustainable forestry also contributes to carbon sequestration, helping to combat climate change.

Commoning Practices: The traditional commoning practices in the New Forest have a long history of sustainable land use. Commoners’ livestock graze the open forest, playing a vital role in maintaining the mosaic of habitats and contributing to the preservation of the landscape. Commoning helps to promote biodiversity, control vegetation growth, and sustain the traditional cultural heritage of the area.

You can read more about the New Forest’s conservation efforts here. 

Easy to reach

The New Forest is conveniently located and easily accessible from various locations within the UK, making it the perfect destination for day trips, weekend breaks and longer stays! The New Forest is located in the southern part of England, within a reasonable distance from major cities and transportation hubs. 82.3 miles via m3 from London, around 20 miles from Southampton and approx 27 miles from Portsmouth to the New Forest National Park, or 40 miles to Burley Manor as an example. These cities offer excellent transport connections, including airports, train stations, and major road networks, providing convenient access to the New Forest.

Stunning accommodation

When visiting the New Forest, enjoy a charming and delightful stay at New Forest Collection. The collection is comprised of several unique hotels in the towns and villages dotted across the New Forest. Stay in the romantic Burley Manor, an adults-only retreat with its spa facilities. As well as gorgeous Bartley Lodge, Forest Lodge and Beaulieu Inn each with an indoor swimming pool. 

The New Forest Collection offers the perfect location to enjoy the wider New Forest while staying within the gorgeous national park and close to some of the charming villages and towns nearby. 

Local food and drink

For foodies, the New Forest offers an abundance of delicious eateries. As part of New Forest Collection, you’ll have local access to a selection of restaurants. Each hotel has its restaurant, such as the Burley Restaurant with an expansive wine list and Mediterranean-inspired menus. The Drift is our charming country pub serving delicious local produce for a divine breakfast lunch and dinner. 

Enjoy local menus of delicious produce at each of our locations and tuck into a breakfast, lunch or dinner you’ll never forget.