Originally the deer hunting area of William the first 1079, the somewhat misnamed 'New Forest' is anything but new. A very protected national park, the New Forest is a spectacular and vast area for walking, cycling and horse riding.
The open pastures that have been preserved since the area was created provide not only a real sense of freedom but also some of the most contented animals - both wild and somewhat domestic. Read more
A modern stylish Four Star Gold self-contained annex in the Hampshire village of Godshill within the New Forest National Park. Close to Fordingbridge, Wayside is an ideal place for enjoying all the forest has to offer including fabulous walking, cycling and horse riding. Family swimming passes for the pools at the nearby Sandy Balls leisure centre are provided. Tourist board rating: 4 Star Gold
A picturesque thatched holiday retreat on the edge of the New Forest National Park providing a superb self-catering base for exploring the forest, and also the many attractions of the area including Winchester, the South Coast and Stonehenge. The county town of Fordingbridge with a good choice of shops and eateries is just half a mile away. It is just 25 mins from Peppa Pig World and 25 mins from beaches. Dogs are welcome (up to 2 in Wishing Well). Late offers sometimes available - see owners website for details - www.burgatefarmhouse.co.uk ...
A pretty thatched self catering holiday cottage on the edge of the New Forest, providing very comfortable holiday accommodation and an ideal base for touring the area being just a few miles from world famous Stonehenge, Bournemouth and beaches. Just half a mile from Fordingbridge with a good choice of amenities close by. Just 25 mins to Peppa Pig World and 25 mins from beaches. Dogs welcome (up to 3 in Little Thatch) - secure back garden/yard area leading off from the kitchen door. Late offers sometimes available - see owners website for details. www.burgatefarmhouse.co.uk ..
There's nothing rustic about this well-appointed Shepherd Hut. Set in a field with gorgeous views, the holiday cottage is two modern timber and corrugated metal huts sleeping four people in two bedrooms with electricity, running water and a proper bathroom. Shepherd Hut is on the family-run Michelmersh Farm, where the owners raise dairy cows, sheep and keep horses and chickens. It's an idyllic location only a few miles from Romsey and within easy reach of the New Forest and South Downs National Parks, the Hampshire coast, Stonehenge, Winchester and Salisbury. Shepherd Hut is romantic for couples and fun for families.
Enjoy a farm holiday in this lovely holiday cottage on Michlemersh Manor Farm near Romsey. Foxglove Cottage sleeps four people in two double bedrooms and is welcoming and comfortable for couples or families. The farm has roots going back to 1205. The current owners raise dairy cows and sheep, and it's a great way to introduce children to the delights of country life. There are excellent footpaths and cycling routes nearby. Days out can include exploring the New Forest National Park, shopping and sightseeing in Salisbury and Winchester, visiting Stonehenge, or sunning yourself on Hampshire beaches like Milford-on-Sea.
Enjoy a self-catering farm holiday within reach of the New Forest National Park, Southampton, Winchester and Salisbury at Bluebells on family-run Michelmersh Manor Farm. There are some beautiful footpaths and cycle routes nearby, as well as golf, fishing and horse riding.
This elegant wing of a listed property dates back to medieval times, although the standard of self catering accommodation is firmly in the 21st-Century! It is part of a working farm and enjoys rural views of fields and farmland from the house and a private garden. Located close to Romsey in Hampshire, the Manor is ideal for families who can easily explore Salisbury, Winchester and the New Forest National Park as well as the south coast and sites such as Stonehenge.
With its quiet location within walking distance of the centre of Brockenhurst, Hazel House is perfect for large or extended families or groups of friends who want a comfortable holiday house from which to explore the beautiful New Forest National Park. There is little passing traffic (safe for free-roaming ponies, donkeys and deer) and the house has space for up to eight guests (plus an infant) in four bedrooms. Favourite New Forest attractions like Beaulieu National Motor Museum are nearby, whilst the beach and Solent are only a few miles away.
Perfectly located, this stylish barn is a popular 'bolt-hole' for couples and enjoys a peaceful position just a short stroll from the very heart of Burley and its shops and pubs. Being based right in the heart of the New Forest National Park allows you to explore the many attractions of the area, get active in the great outdoors or simply relax and unwind. This delightful holiday cottage is perfect for a weekend away or longer holiday.
No. 51 sleeps 2 and is a great space for couples, friends or single travellers. The property is only a 10-15 minute walk away from Lymington High Street. For convenience there are shops and great selection of take away's literally on the doorstep. Having recently undergone a little refurb the place is fresh and clean and is an ideal base to explore the local area.
Blackbirds is a detached family holiday home on the edge of the New Forest National Park. Located on a peaceful residential cul-de-sac in Bransgore, it sleeps six people in three bedrooms with a securely enclosed garden and off-street parking. The self-catering amenities are excellent, but there are three pubs and a cafe within a short walk if you'd prefer not to cook. The village also has a small supermarket with more amenities in nearby Burley and Ringwood. Blackbirds has wonderfully leafy views and is within an easy drive of the coast for days at the beach.
A warm welcome awaits at Mary's Barn. Set in the grounds of the owner's thatched property, this delightful holiday home is ideally placed in the very heart of the New Forest National Park with forest walks and bike rides straight from the front door. Perfect for relaxing or exploring the areas many attractions.
You and your family will have all the space you need at Lions Lodge. The three-bedroom holiday home sleeps seven people, but the vast backyard makes this place stand out. There is a large lawn, seating and a patio with a hot tub so you can soak your tired legs and sunburned shoulders after a day cycling through the New Forest, climbing at Go Ape, or swimming and surfing at Bournemouth. There are two pubs within walking distance of this welcoming self-catering rental in this quiet village near Ringwood and Poole.
Located in the New Forest National Park midway between Lymington and Brockenhurst, this spacious holiday home provides a good self-catering base for families and couples to explore the areas many attractions. Spout House Studio is a great choice for walkers and cyclists.
The New Forest National Park is such a popular holiday destination because it offers something for everyone. Mallard Cottage is one of seven excellent holiday homes to rent on Burgate Manor Farm, a mile from Fordingbridge and close to fantastic attractions including the New Forest Waterpark, Paultons Park, and the Moors Valley Country Park. It is also an easy drive from places like Lymington, Salisbury and Portsmouth, and footpaths, bridleways and cycling trails are abundant nearby. Whether you are getting the kids out into the fresh air for a family holiday or arranging a special celebration with your friends, the amenities and welcome at Burgate Manor Farm are perfect.
"New for 2024 - Electric Vehicle Charger" A spacious and stylish self-catering holiday home located in New Milton in Hampshire on the edge of the New Forest. With a ground floor bedroom, this dog friendly rental is ideal for families and friends who like plenty of space and comfort and offers the chance to enjoy the best of both worlds with the forest and coast close by. The nearest beach is just over a mile from the cottage, and there are miles of forest tracks and trails just waiting to be explored.
Chocolate box pretty, this delightful thatched holiday cottage sits in the Hampshire village of Winsor in the New Forest National Park. Oozing character features beautifully blended with modern conveniences, Thimble Cottage is just a mile from the open forest with fantastic walks and miles of cycling to enjoy.
Superb position: Lymington Harbour by the marinas, sailing clubs, river mouth and lifeboat station and sea. Very attractive Georgian town with bustling Saturday street market. 'Upside down' terraced cottage. Vibrant views from balcony of nautical life, the sea and Isle of Wight. Parking off-street for 1 car. 2 patio gardens with seating. Explore the New Forest and southbcoast from here. Plenty of amenities and places for a meal out on the doorstep and an abundance of attractions nearby. The Isle of Wight just a ferry trip away.
The New Forest is always an excellent choice for a holiday. Easy to reach from both the south-east and the west of England, with ancient forests, beautiful beaches and fantastic attractions, it's perfect for people who enjoy walking, cycling, horse riding and eating well. Bracken Cottage is a spacious holiday cottage in the quiet village of Sway, within walking distance of four pubs and the village shop and butcher. Guests have direct access to wonderful New Forest footpaths and cycling routes. Spend happy days exploring far and wide or sit in the garden and admire the scenery and the odd pony or donkey that meanders past the gate. There is space for eight people to sleep in four bedrooms and a layout ideal for families.
Offering single level self-catering, Teal Cottage at Burgate Manor Farm is perfect for families and friends and offers an ideal base for exploring the New Forest and enjoying all it has to offer. Spend your days visiting the many attractions and cycling, walking or pony trekking the miles of forest tracks and trails before you retire back to relax in this comfy welcoming holiday cottage. Just a mile from Fordingbridge on the edge of the forest, Paultons Park, the Moors Valley Country Park, Lymington, Salisbury and Portsmouth are all within easy reach.
Popular towns in and around The New Forest:
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There are several excellent places to stay in the New Forest, all of which have something different to offer. With towns like Burley, Fordingbridge and Lymington all popular tourist spots, it is worth checking these out when looking for New Forest accommodation or somewhere to stay.
The town of Burley is favoured by those seeking wildlife in the New Forest. With wild ponies roaming freely and stunning surrounding countryside, you will find plenty to see and do here. Visit one of the 16th-century pubs for a cosy atmosphere and hearty meal after exploring the area.
You will also find lots to do in Fordingbridge, especially for those seeking to spend some time outdoors. Hiking and cycling are popular in this part of the New Forest, providing the perfect place for those looking to enjoy adventures with the whole family.
With several excellent restaurants, pubs and bars, Lymington is a lovely place to visit if you’re looking for a bustling market town in the New Forest. This is a great spot to wander through the different stalls selling fresh produce on a Saturday morning. Alongside its great atmosphere, Lymington also displays Victorian and Georgian architecture scattered around the town, providing a lovely area to explore.Before booking your holiday cottage in The New Forest, you can find all the information you need for your trip here. For more tips, check out our complete New Forest Guide.
The New Forest offers a huge landscape, meaning there is something for everyone here. Its stunning countryside and natural scenery, alongside the many quaint towns and villages, make it the ideal spot for all.
Being in the southern part of the UK means that the New Forest typically enjoys less rain and warmer temperatures. With longer daylight hours and more sunshine, summers are the perfect time to visit as this is when you can make the most of the great outdoors. Temperatures average around highs of 21 °C and lows of 13°C during summer in the New Forest. This provides a pleasant climate with a mix of sunny days and extended evenings.
Spring in the New Forest is a beautiful time to visit for those looking to make the most of the region's stunning scenery. With flowers blooming throughout the county, you will get the most out of the lush greenery during this time. There is a slight drop in temperature in spring, with average highs of 15°C and lows of 7°C. It's always best to pack layers when visiting as the weather can be a little unpredictable!
Winter is a magical time to visit the New Forest. With the rolling hills and encompassing countryside covered in a light frosting, the setting here is utterly breathtaking during this time. The temperatures are rarely extreme in the New Forest and it would be unusual for it to drop below -5°C during winter. Although, it's always best to get wrapped up warm, as you head out to explore the stunning New Forest, whether that be the national park, or the many idyllic towns and villages.
When you're all walked out, there are plenty of other attractions to entertain, such as the beautiful Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway, which offers over 200 acres of expertly manicured grounds. You can admire the sights on foot or from the comfort of a quaint steam railway. Beaulieu also combines pretty gardens and man-made machines with the National Motor Museum – a must-see for motoring enthusiasts with an interest in some very old classics!
For the kids, there are plenty of family days out including wildlife and nature attractions. Lovers of all things nautical should not miss a trip to Buckler's Hard or the pretty coastal town of Lymington. From here you can jump on a ferry and take a day trip to the lovely Isle of Wight.
If you are travelling from one of the major cities in the UK, below shows an average distance to the New Forest, so you know what to expect when choosing to visit by car.
London: 82 miles
Birmingham: 146 miles
Glasgow: 432 miles
Liverpool: 242 miles
Bristol: 60 miles
Manchester: 228 miles
Leeds: 248 miles
Edinburgh: 435 miles
Newcastle: 335 miles
There are multiple ways to travel to the New Forest. Its excellent public transport links in many of its towns and villages mean you can journey by train or bus from numerous major UK cities. If you travel by car, there are some great service stations to stop off and rest up whilst on your trip, as well as alternative routes depending on what roads you prefer to drive on.
Being a national park, the New Forest is a highly protected area, with proud locals who will happily tell you about the rich and fascinating history the county boasts. There are plenty of historical sites for those interested in tracing the steps of significant figures from the past, such as the Rufus Stone Memorial, which marks the spot where William's son is said to have died.
Though the locals will tell you all about the place, the best way to experience the New Forest is by getting out and seeing it. You can do this on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. Take a guided tour of the area or grab a map and go it alone.
Some locals that you are guaranteed to encounter are the county’s oldest residents – the New Forest Ponies. The wild and pretty herds roam freely throughout the forest and uphold the tradition of open pasture that has been kept alive since the time of William the first.
The New Forest is a beautiful part of the UK, surrounded by diverse landscapes and gorgeous scenery. Whether you’re looking to explore dense woodland or stroll through quaint towns, you will find it all here.
When it comes to discovering the nicest part of the New Forest, it is difficult to narrow it down to one place. Although if you’re looking for somewhere brimming with nature you will want to head to Burley. Here you will find quaint cottages, an idyllic setting and the renowned New Forest ponies as they wander through the village.
Boasting an extensive national park, historic castles, lovely towns, excellent hiking routes and much more, there are plenty of things to do in the New Forest. Whether you want to spend your time relaxing in the pretty villages or would prefer to get active, there is something here for everyone.
With lots of outdoor space, the New Forest is a great place to go for a range of activities. From biking to horseback riding, you can fill your visit with lots of adventures!
There are several great New Forest accommodation options in and around the National Park, meaning you can visit here and get an authentic experience. With numerous towns and villages around the park, you can find your perfect rental cottage to fully immerse yourself in all that the New Forest has to offer.
It's important to remember to be respectful when visiting the New Forest. Always tidy up after yourself to ensure that the nature remains untouched and pristine for all to enjoy.
