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Classifications and Gradings
A wide range of independently inspected accommodation is shown on our website and you can find out the individual rating for each establishment by clicking on the awards icons on each page. An overview of the classifications and awards given here.
Nationally inspected accommodation
Some establishments are inspected annually to national standards operated jointly by the AA, Automobile Association and VisitBritain.
All the national assessing bodies now assess to the same criteria and award one to five stars. Star ratings, from one to five, are used to assess the standard of the quality you can expect so reflects the overall quality of the experience.
Gold and silver awards are given to hotels and guest accommodation that provide exceptional quality in all areas but in particular in service and hospitality.
Holiday Parks and campsites star gradings are awarded by VisitBritain in partnership with the British Holiday Parks Association, National Caravan Council and Northern Ireland, Scottish and Wales tourist organisations. The AA offers a similar Pennant grading scheme.
Additional information on the classification scheme is available from
New Forest Tourism Association Local Assessment
New Forest Tourism Association members are committed to providing the highest quality facilities and ensuring the best possible stay in the district. This local assessment scheme is based on the basic principles of the minimum criteria for the National Grading by VisitBritain and the AA. Businesses that have been assessed will have achieved the required standard in all sections. Cleanliness and hospitality are a high priority for these businesses.
Green Leaf Tourism Scheme
Members of this scheme are taking important steps to a more sustainable future. By choosing a Green Leaf Tourism Scheme business, you are playing your part in reducing your Carbon Footprint, supporting New Forest wildlife, and distinctive New Forest culture and communities.
Additional information on this classification scheme is available from Green Leaf Tourism Scheme.
New Forest Tourism Association
Many advertisers shown on our website are members of this trade association. The NFTA, New Forest Tourism Association, was formed in 1989 to work in partnership with New Forest District Council to promote the New Forest as a quality year-round holiday and business destination. Today, the NFTA works closely with both the New Forest District Council, the National Park Authority and the Forestry Commission to both promote and market the New Forest as one of the premier tourism destinations within the UK.
Additional information on this classification scheme is available from New Forest Tourism Association.
New Forest Marque
The development of the New Forest Marque® means that people can choose food and goods which have been grown, reared, caught, brewed or produced in the New Forest area. It allows local producers to market their produce under a collective and easily identifiable New Forest symbol, whilst at the same time reassuring consumers about the traceability of the food they buy.
Additional information on this classification scheme is available from the New Forest Produce website.
New Forest Breakfast
The New Forest Breakfast is made up of at least three items from local produce, free range and in many cases organic. It was developed by top New Forest chefs and is now being served throughout the New Forest.