With such stunning scenery and nature on our doorstop, it’s no wonder why The New Forest has become one of the UK’s top romantic breaks destinations.
Spend time together exploring our footpaths, sampling some of our local produce, take a romantic sunset cruise across the Solent or indulge yourselves at one of our spa hotels.
Romantic breaks throughout the year
Whatever the season, a trip to The New Forest can help to re-ignite that passion you have for each other. Whether you prefer to wander through the Forest together during the spring, to get your pulses racing with one of our high-adrenalin summer activities, soak up the magic of the autumn colours later in the year or simply cosy up in front of a fireplace in winter, there are lots of choices for your special romantic getaway. Many of our attractions are open year-round so you can enjoy a wealth of things to do whatever the weather or season.
Romantic places to stay
Where do we begin? Perhaps you fancy some luxury, and a spot of indulgence with one of our spa hotels? Look out for hotels in the New Forest offering romantic couple’s treatment such as the Rhassoul experience at Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa or the soulful treatments for two at the Herb House Spa at Lime Wood or play a game of tennis together, or at Chewton Glen go for a swim in one of our hotel’s indoor or outdoor pools.
If you are keen foodies then how about sampling some award-winning dining and fresh local produce at The Pig or one of our other hotels or inns? Look out for hotels with AA Rosettes or restaurants donning the New Forest Marque honouring their commitment to local produce and sustainability.
Self-catering cottages in the New Forest can provide a romantic retreat for the two of you with many set in secluded woodlands where peace and tranquillity are the key. Take walks together right from your doorstep or shut off the outside world in a cosy cottage. Keep an eye out for properties that offer open fireplaces, hot tubs and private gardens where you can relax together or direct forest access, perfect for walking or cycling opportunities. How do you fancy sleeping outdoors underneath the stars and trees at one of our campsites in the New Forest?
Discover romantic places to stay that are within a short reach of our stunning coastline. You will even find some places to stay that have sea views, or direct access onto our beaches including holiday cottages on offer via New Forest Cottages and Sea Road.
Romantic things to do in the New Forest
Of course walking and cycling opportunities are often high on the romance agenda. Take yourselves off the beaten track and spend time exploring our open heathland, our gladed woodland or simply walking along one of the coastal routes.
Bring your own bikes to make the most of our 100 mile off-road cycling network or hire bikes from one of our larger towns and villages - if you feel like being super-romantic then why not hire out a tandem bike from New Forest Cycling in Burley and cycle along the disused railway line to one of our quintessentially English tea rooms?
Try out our water sports such as a canoeing along the privately owned Beaulieu River with New Forest Activities or paddle boarding along the coastline with the New Forest Paddle Sports Company.
Take a wander around the tranquil, relaxing and colourful Exbury Gardens, particularly spectacular in the spring months with the flowering rhododendrons and azaleas.
Come and discover our history, from the days of monks and Victorians at Beaulieu to the spectacular views on offer from Hurst Castle. The maritime village of Buckler’s Hard should also feature on your agenda and keep an eye out for boat cruises along the Beaulieu River at certain times of the year, a fantastic way to soak up some of the amazing riverside scenery.
If you enjoy nature and maybe even some bird watching then Keyhaven is a truly magical place to go. The estuary here brings with it a wealth of sea birds. Pick up the Hurst Castle Ferry from Keyhaven harbour and sail through the salt marsh area passing some amazing wildlife before disembarking at the castle. Equally, walk along the Solent Way at Lymington and enjoy the fantastic views across the salt marshes and the Solent towards the Isle of Wight.
Head to one of our cosy tearooms for a spot of afternoon tea - you could even upgrade it to include a glass of champagne or prosecco, or take a sunset cruise with Escape Yachting from the Haven Marina in Lymington for a really romantic waterborne evening.
Special offers on romantic breaks
Our accommodation providers will often offer special discounts on romantic breaks. Whether it’s discounted treatments, added extras or an offer for short breaks – keep an eye on our special offers pages for details. Weekend breaks and short breaks around Valentine’s Day are also very popular so do check back for special offers which you can enjoy together.
Booking your romantic break to the New Forest
Take a look at our listings below which feature romantic accommodation including hotels, B&Bs and self-catering cottages and click through to discover more about them. Alternatively, use the search bar on this page to check for particular dates, facilities or locations within the New Forest, a real romance in the mists of time!
