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

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.

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.

Searching for something?

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.

Girls running across the bridge at Furzey Gardens in the New Forest

The ultimate guide to family adventures in the New Forest

8 minute read

The New Forest is one of the UK's best destinations for family adventures. With miles of traffic-free cycling routes, family-friendly walking trails, exciting outdoor activities and plenty of opportunities to get close to nature, it's a place where children can run, explore and discover something…

The Woods Bikepacking Bike and Bikepacking Bag Blog Post Lyndhurst New Forest

Getting Started with Bikepacking: Bike & Bike Bag Hire in the New Forest

4 minute read

Bikepacking in the New Forest - Premium Bike & Bike Bag Hire fromThe Woods Cyclery Getting out into the forest by any means is a joy in itself, with near endless miles of trails and paths to explore, you’re spoilt for choice here in the forest. What’s the best way to get around though? I may be a…

Goodalls Farm - Pick Your Own - Punnets on a bench

Flavours of the New Forest

5 minute read

There's something special about eating in the New Forest. Perhaps it's enjoying strawberries picked just a few hours before. Maybe it's a slice of homemade cake after a woodland walk, a picnic surrounded by free-roaming ponies, or sitting in a sunny pub garden enjoying dishes made with ingredients…

View of the beach from the sea at Lepe Beach on the New Forest Coastline

Top beach days in the New Forest

4 minute read

When the sun is shining, there's nowhere quite like the New Forest coast. While many people know the New Forest for its ancient woodland, free-roaming ponies and open heathland, fewer realise that it also boasts more than 40 miles of beautiful coastline. From peaceful shingle beaches and nature-rich…

View at Blissford Hill in the New Forest

The New Forest’s top ten breathtaking viewpoints

4 minute read

From sweeping heathland and ancient woodland to coastal panoramas and hidden hilltops, the New Forest is home to some truly spectacular views. Whether you're searching for the perfect sunrise spot, a peaceful place to watch wildlife from a distance or simply somewhere to pause and appreciate the…

How best to spend summer in the New Forest

5 minute read

Long, sun-filled days. Heathland glowing purple with heather. Picnics beneath ancient trees and evenings spent watching the sunset over the coast. Summer is one of the most memorable times to visit the New Forest. Whether you're planning a day trip, weekend escape or longer holiday, here are ten of…