Slow down, graze in good company, and savour the sunshine with a picnic in the New Forest.
There’s something timeless about laying down a blanket, opening up a basket of good food, and spending the afternoon surrounded by birdsong, wildflowers and gentle ponies in the distance. Whether it’s a family feast, a date under the trees, or a solo lunch with a book, summer in the New Forest is made for picnicking.
What to pack
A great picnic is about more than just food - it’s about sharing, slowing down, and enjoying whatever you have with you. But if you’re looking for a little inspiration, here are some favourites to tuck into:
- Freshly made sandwiches - simple, satisfying, and easy to share
- Sausage rolls, quiche or scotch eggs - hearty bites that hold up well outdoors
- Crunchy veg & dips - think carrot sticks, cucumber, and hummus
- Crisps or crackers - something salty for grazing
- Seasonal fruits - strawberries, cherries or whatever’s ripe
- A sweet treat - cookies, flapjacks or that lemon drizzle you’ve been saving
- Drinks - a chilled juice, a flask of tea or plenty of water to stay refreshed
The golden rule? Keep it simple, fresh, and waste-free.
Where to shop local
The New Forest is full of brilliant farm shops and local producers offering top-quality picnic supplies. Try:
- Hockeys Farm Shop (South Gorley) – a local favourite with everything from sausage rolls to artisan bread
- Sopley Farm – perfect for pick-your-own strawberries and other seasonal goodies
- Setley Ridge Farm Shop (Brockenhurst) – stock up on local cheeses, chutneys and baked treats
- Minstead Community Shop – for honest, handmade fare and a real community welcome
Shopping local not only fills your basket with delicious food, but also supports the people and producers who help shape the New Forest.
Find your perfect picnic spot
With so many wild and wonderful places to choose from, the only hard part is deciding where to lay your blanket:
- Whitefield Moor – with open spaces, nearby parking and woodland walks
- Bolderwood – mix your picnic with a chance to spot deer at the nearby viewing platform
- Wilverley Plain – a great open area for children to run and play
- Rockford Common – big skies and peaceful heathland, often dotted with ponies
- Milford on Sea or Barton on Sea – for those who love their picnic with a sea view
Just choose your backdrop - forest, heath or coast - and enjoy.
Be forest friendly
Wherever you wander, please picnic responsibly.
- Take all litter home, including leftover food
- Never feed the animals - it’s harmful to their health and encourages unsafe behaviour
- Keep dogs under control, especially near wildlife
- Follow the New Forest Code and help us care for this special place
Picnics in the New Forest aren’t just about food - they’re about making memories, finding stillness, and enjoying the land with care and respect.
So pack up your basket, bring your favourite people, and let the Forest work its magic.
