Welcome to the New Forest

Welcome to the New Forest, where age-old tradition meets modern day innovation. Where folklore breathes life into ancient woodland and the earth beneath your feet reminds you that you're part of something much bigger. Here, stories aren't just told, they're lived, shaped by generations who've walked these paths before us and continue to care for the land today.

A place that is old yet ever new

Welcome to the New Forest, where age-old tradition meets modern day innovation. Where folklore breathes life into ancient woodland and the earth beneath your feet reminds you that you're part of something much bigger. Here, stories aren't just told, they're lived, shaped by generations who've walked these paths before us and continue to care for the land today.

Escape to a world a million miles from your everyday life where ponies, cattle, donkeys and deer roam free... and all just 90 minutes by train from London. Experience the peace and fall in love with the forest's idyllic glades, ancient woodland, open moors, heathland and cliff top walks.

The New Forest National Park has been a cherished destination for generations - a place where time slows, nature thrives, and every visit brings something new to discover. With its ancient woodland, open heathland, and free-roaming ponies, this is a landscape shaped by people and place, past and present. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to a favourite spot, the New Forest is ready to welcome you.

Let us inspire you...

Discover the beauty of every season

Each season brings a fresh perspective - vibrant flowers in spring, sun-dappled glades in summer, golden canopies in autumn, and frost-kissed trails in winter. Step into the great outdoors, breathe in the crisp forest air, and explore at your own pace. Wander along woodland paths, cycle scenic trails, or visit local attractions and try forest activities.

Explore towns, villages and coastline

Venture beyond the trees to uncover charming towns and villages, where cobbled streets lead to independent shops, cosy cafés, and traditional pubs. Follow the coastline for fresh sea air and panoramic views, or visit heritage sites that tell the story of this remarkable landscape.

Stay your way

With a range of places to stay - from luxury country house hotels to cosy B&Bs, woodland camping and glamping, rural holiday parks and charming self-catering cottages - you’ll find the perfect base to rest and recharge. Wake up to birdsong, sip your morning coffee with a view, and embrace the slower rhythm of forest life.

Savour local flavours

From farm shops brimming with local produce to award-winning restaurants, country pubs and popular cafes, the New Forest is a haven for food lovers. Taste the region’s flavours, whether it’s a hearty breakfast before a day’s exploring, a picnic with forest views, or a fireside dinner to round off your adventure.

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Get inspiration

Planning your visit? Browse our brochures and guides, discover helpful visitor information, and learn about the New Forest Code - our simple guide to exploring responsibly and helping protect this special place for generations to come.

Make the New Forest yours

Whether you’re here for a weekend escape, an active adventure, or a moment of calm, the New Forest is yours to explore. Step into a story centuries in the making - and make your own memories along the way.

Top 10 Pub Walks in the New Forest

5 minute read

There’s something timeless about the pairing of a scenic New Forest walk and a visit to a country pub. With over 140 miles of footpaths, wide open heathland, ancient woodland, and countless friendly places to stop and refuel, it’s no wonder pub walks are one of the best ways to enjoy the New Forest…

Walking in the early autumn in the New Forest

Late summer adventures in the New Forest

3 minute read

There’s something quietly magical about the tail end of summer in the New Forest. The pace has slowed, and the landscape is shifting – from the vibrant purples of high summer to the soft, golden tones of early autumn. The light is lower, the days are gentler, and there's a calm that wraps around…

New Forest Spa at Balmer Lawn entrance - portrait

Relax at the New Forest’s New Spa Retreat

1 minute read

The New Forest Spa & Wellness Centre opened in May 2025 This calm, adult-only retreat offers a thoughtfully designed mix of heat and cold therapies inspired by the surrounding landscape. Highlights include: A Finnish-style sauna with a Himalayan Salt Brick Wall A peaceful steam room enhanced with…

Camping New Forest - View from Glamping tent in the Summer

Glamping in the New Forest – Bell Tent Stays from £150

3 minute read

Late August and September are a gentle reminder that summer doesn’t last forever. The orange tinge creeping over the leaves, and the first few spinning to the floor, signal the change to come. Make the most of this final part of the season by escaping to one of our Camping New Forest glamping…

Summer sunrises and sunsets

2 minute read

There’s something truly special about watching the sky shift with the rising or setting sun - and here in the New Forest, you’ll find some of the most incredible places to experience it. With wide-open skies, peaceful heathlands and quiet coastlines, summer is the perfect time to slow down and enjoy…

Top things to do this September in the New Forest

3 minute read

As the colours begin to change, September brings us into the early autumn, arguably the most beautiful time of year in the New Forest. Take advantage of the cooler days and step into our stunning landscape as the rich oranges, reds and gold hues slowly begin to transform our canopy. Take advantage…