Autumn is one of the most spectacular times of year to visit the New Forest. Watch the leaves change to rich reds, yellows and golds and take on countless outdoor adventures.

If you are looking to burn off some adrenalin or some of the summer excesses then plan your trip today for some action-packed activities. Whether you are planning to visit as a family, with a couple of friends, for a romantic break or you’re going solo, you’ll be sure to find some fantastic autumn activities to suit you.

Cycle through our woodlands

Take on some of the criss-cross trails as they weave their way through our National Park. There are plenty of off-road cycle routes to choose from. If you are unsure where to start, check out our cycling pages. You’ll also find lots of useful tips and local knowledge by visiting one of our cycle hire centres. From these you can also hire a variety of bikes and equipment.


Image - Cycling in the New Forest. Credit - Pete Elliott Photography

Get that adrenalin pumping

If you love nothing more than getting that blood pumping then you are in for a treat. Ever fancied giving axe throwing a go? Or how about shooting some crossbows? The Medieval Trio, operated by Insight Activities in Fordingbridge offers plenty of outdoor fun.

Have a go at abseiling, archery or some of the many other outdoor activities at Foxlease Activity Centre, Lyndhurst or see if you can master wakeboarding or the inflatable obstacle course at the New Forest Water Park. Test out the velodrome or the activity wall at Calshot Activity Centre or have a go at zip wiring across a lake at the Avon Tyrrell Activity Centre at Bransgore.


Image - Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre

Explore the New Forest in a different way

There are many different ways to explore the New Forest but walking through it with donkeys is something a little different, and will create memories for years to come! Brockenhurst Donkey Walks is an excellent opportunity to walk some of the countryside around Brockenhurst with these beautiful animals.


Image - Brockenhurst Donkey Walks

For something else, why not sit back and relax and hop aboard a wagon? Burley Wagon Rides whisks you through the New Forest whilst being pulled by a shire horse. From here, you’ll travel down old smugglers’ tracks whilst learning a bit about the history of witchcraft that Burley is famous for.

Take to the water to experience the New Forest coastline

With miles of coastline, soak up the views by booking a stand-up paddle board adventure with The New Forest Paddle Sport Company. Beginners’ lessons are available or equipment hire is available for seasoned paddle boarders.


Image - The New Forest Paddle Sport Company

Or, for something a tad more sedate, paddle your way along the Beaulieu River with a guided kayak or canoe trip with Beaulieu based New Forest Activities

Walk amongst those autumn leaves

Of course, a visit in autumn should definitely involve walking through our beautiful forest. Plan your own walking adventures using some of our suggested walking routes, book onto a guided walk with Wild New Forest or check out some of the walks being run as part of the annual New Forest Walking & Cycling Festival (this year running from 15 October-6 November).

Whist walking in the forest, be sure to look out for pigs snuffling around the forest floor. They are hunting for fallen acorns as part of the annual pannage – a tradition that dates back hundreds of years.


Image - Pannage Pigs

Looking to save money off activities?

For just £10, a Go New Forest Card can save you money on various activities. Not only this, your card gives discounts for shops, cafes, restaurants and much more. Take a look at the latest offers.


Image - Go New Forest Card

Rest up and make a break of it

With so many fantastic autumn activities to do, you’ll struggle to fit it all in to one day. We’d highly recommend staying for a short break or longer to really make the most of all that the New Forest has to offer. Take a look at our accommodation pages and book your autumn adventure today!