Welcome to the New Forest

The official tourism website for the New Forest

Wild horses won’t be able to drag you away from the New Forest once you’ve experienced its peace and fallen in love with the forest’s idyllic glades, ancient woodland, open moors, heathland and cliff top walks.

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.

The New Forest has been a top destination for breaks and getaways here in the UK throughout the ages, with so much to see and do, and places to stay, it’s the perfect place to visit and create unforgettable memories!

Fall in love with the New Forest’s breathtaking wildlife and nature. Each season provides a change of scene from the wonderful bright colours of spring and summer to the kaleidoscope of warm hues in autumn and sheets of white frost in the winter. Explore our incredible National Park to discover the true beauty for yourself, don your walking boots and take a stroll through our magical woodlands and heathlands. Hire a bike and enjoy one of the many off-road cycling routes or simply relax and rejuvenate on a picnic or at one of our award-winning spas

Discover the cobbled streets of our wonderful towns & villages or take a stroll along the gorgeous coastline of the New Forest!

The New Forest is home to a wide selection of accommodation to suit all styles and budgets. From luxury and country house hotels, self-catering holiday cottages and bed & breakfasts to glamping, camping and caravan sites and holiday parks, all set against the majestic backdrop of the New Forest. As you admire the timeless scenery it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular holiday beauty spot. 

There is a wealth of things to do and places to explore in the New Forest from award-winning gardens, theme parks, farms and museums, to exciting outdoor activities and watersports. Plus, we host a huge range of events every year. 

Sample delicious food & drink, visit our country pubs and luxury restaurants or our cosy tea rooms, with their tempting menus and great culinary experiences. Taste our local produce at farm shops, farmers’ markets and food & drink events.  

If you would like to take a look at our brochures and guides before you come, read the New Forest Code, or find out where our Local Information Points are for when you are here, then take a browse through our visitor information. The New Forest also offers superb conference and wedding facilities. 

Whatever you need from a short break with the family to an all-out active holiday, the New Forest‘s enchanting surroundings provide an ideal destination. Come and discover this wonderful area for yourself, you won’t be disappointed.

Check out our blog...

Top Christmas events in the New Forest 2024

  • 3 minute read

With so much happening in the lead up to Christmas, it can be difficult to know where to start in your Christmas events planning. Whether you are looking for family events in which you can all get involved with, or perhaps a little treat for yourself, here are some of our suggestions for the top…

Read More

Follow festive trails in the New Forest

  • 2 minute read

The New Forest comes alive during the festive season with twinkling lights, enchanting trails, and festive fun for the whole family. Whether you’re looking for dazzling light displays, magical woodland walks, or the charm of Christmas lights lining historic high streets, the New Forest has it all.

Read More

Tips for winter cycling in the New Forest

  • 3 minute read

Winter is a magical time to explore the New Forest by bike. With the crisp air, quieter trails, and beautiful frost-covered landscapes, it will be sure to make an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or new to winter riding, the New Forest offers beautiful routes and welcoming…

Read More

Top indoor activities in the New Forest

  • 3 minute read

If the weather isn’t playing ball but you still want to take part in some activities, be sure to explore some of the amazing indoor activities on offer in the New Forest. Here are some of our suggestions for the top indoor activities in the New Forest… Calshot Activities Centre Calshot Activities…

Read More

Top things to do this December in the New Forest

  • 4 minute read

Crisp mornings and cosy evenings, step into a Narnia-like world on a trip to the New Forest this December. With plenty of festive fun to be had, plus some amazing opportunities to try out some of our New Forest fare, check out the top things to do this December here in the New Forest. Light up your…

Read More

New Forest Eats 'n' Treats 2024

  • 3 minute read

New Forest Eats ‘n’ Treats Christmas shopping and entertainment event at Brockenhurst College in association with Go New Forest and New Forest Marque – Sunday 17 Nov, 11:00am – 4:00pm Winners of hit Channel 4 show Aldi’s Next Big Thing – The Fabulous Catch Company – will be among the entrepreneurs…

Read More

Things to do highlights

What's on highlights

Dogstival May 31

Dogstival

Does your pooch deserve some love this summer? Dogstival returns to Burley Park in the heart of the…

Follow Visit the New Forest on Instagram