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.

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.

Plan your visit

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.

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Check out our blog...

Top unique experiences in the New Forest

  • 4 minute read

Go beyond the guidebook and discover a different side of the New Forest. The New Forest is a place of ancient traditions and natural beauty - but it’s also full of unexpected adventures and quietly extraordinary experiences. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature or try something completely…

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Get ready for Hampshire’s biggest day out!

  • 3 minute read

The countdown is on for Hampshire’s biggest day out at The New Forest Show 2025. From 29–31 July, New Park in Brockenhurst transforms into a bustling, colourful celebration of family fun, countryside traditions, great food, rural life, agriculture and equine action! Over three days, you can…

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Top beach days in the New Forest

  • 4 minute read

Discover hidden shores, peaceful paddles and seaside stories along the New Forest’s secret coast The New Forest is best known for its free-roaming ponies, ancient woodland and heather-covered heath, but did you know it also boasts more than 40 miles of tranquil, lesser-known coastline? Here, wild…

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The Big 5 - Animals of the New Forest

  • 4 minute read

Meet the five free-roaming animals that shape the New Forest - and what makes each one so special. The New Forest is a place where animals roam free - not just for show, but as part of a centuries-old tradition that keeps this landscape alive. Wander along a woodland path or across an open heath…

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The New Forest’s top ten breathtaking viewpoints

  • 3 minute read

The New Forest is full of places that stop you in your tracks. From wide, open heathlands to ancient hilltops and far-reaching coastal edges, these views offer more than just scenery - they’re a window into the wild heart of this living landscape. Here are ten of our favourite spots to pause, take…

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Things to do highlights

What's on highlights

Dogstival May 30

Dogstival

Dogstival unleashes a weekend packed full of uniquely bonkers canine approved entertainment in the…

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