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.
Let us inspire you...
Searching for something?
Plan your visit...
Check out our blog...
How best to spend autumn in the New Forest
- 4 minute read
It’s officially autumn! Which means it’s time for the New Forest to showcase its mesmerising golden hues and offer the magic of crisp air. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in the magic of autumn. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or quiet moments of reflection, here’s how to…
Read MoreTop things to do this October in the New Forest
- 3 minute read
One of the biggest draws to the New Forest in October has to be the beautiful display of autumn colours. Rich reds, golds and oranges adorn the trees, making it a perfect time for an autumnal stroll and a cosy break. During October, you can expect to see, not only the stunning shades of mother…
Read MoreIt’s Pannage time!
- 2 minute read
When is Pannage? Looking for something truly unique? This year Pannage takes place in the New Forest from Monday 16 September to Friday 22 November 2024, giving you the chance to experience one of the forest’s most charming local traditions. What is Pannage? Pannage is when 600 pigs are released…
Read MoreGuest blog: New Forest Walks
- 3 minute read
Deborah Stafford, founder of NewForestWalks.co.uk on how New Forest Walks Membership can help you discover the best walking routes the forest has to offer. With so many wonderful walking trails in the New Forest - miles and miles of paths taking in ancient woodlands, historic villages and vast…
Read MoreIdeas for child-free breaks and days out in the New Forest
- 4 minute read
Looking to escape without the kids? Whether you are looking for a short break for two outside of the school holidays, an experience or a day out without the chaos and noise that youngsters can bring, we have some great suggestions for child-free breaks and days out in the New Forest. If it’s…
Read MoreHow to start A digital detox in the New Forest
- 3 minute read
In a fast-paced world dominated by screens and technology, there comes a time when the soul yearns for a break, a chance to unplug and reconnect with simplicity. If you find yourself in need of a digital detox, then the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings of the New Forest await you. Reasons to…
Read MoreThings to do highlights
Find your way around...
Travelling around the New Forest is easy!
Navigate through our winding country roads to get to your New Forest destination.
You can travel to and around the New Forest by road, bike, walking, rail, boat, bus or even on horseback.
What's on highlights
Dogstival
Does your pooch deserve some love this summer? Dogstival returns to Burley Park in the heart of the…
Lymington Seafood Festival
Every summer the Lymington comes alive when it hosts their award-winning seafood festival, taking…
New Forest and Hampshire County Show
The New Forest Show is one of the largest and most prestigious agricultural events in the UK. Join…