There’s something undeniably special about Christmas in the New Forest. Think twinkling lights, locally made gifts, mulled wine, and the unmistakable scent of pine and mince pies in the air. Whether you’re seeking festive days out, handcrafted presents, or seasonal food and drink, our Christmas markets are the perfect places to soak up the atmosphere and support local makers.
Here’s our pick of the best Christmas markets happening across the New Forest this year:
New Forest Eats 'n' Treats – Brockenhurst College
Sunday 16 November | 11am-3pm
A firm favourite in the festive calendar, this bustling Christmas shopping and entertainment event is packed with local food, drink, arts, crafts and family fun. Hosted at Brockenhurst College in partnership with Go New Forest and New Forest Marque, it features over 70 stallholders, a live culinary theatre, festive performances, children’s crafts, and delicious hot food stalls. A must-visit!
Top tip: Entry is just £2 per adult, with free parking and under-16s go free.
New Forest Christmas Fair – Exbury Gardens
29-30 November & 6-7 December
Taking place in the beautiful grounds of Exbury Gardens, this traditional Christmas fair offers a picture-perfect backdrop for your festive shopping. Expect local makers, delicious seasonal produce, decorations, and entertainment for the whole family. With the gardens as your setting, it’s a wonderfully unique Christmas experience.
Top tip: Book your tickets early - this event sells out fast!
Christmas Ringwood Artisan Market at The Furlong
Saturday 13 December
Ringwood's popular artisan market goes festive in December, bringing a magical Christmas vibe to The Furlong. Discover handmade gifts, seasonal treats and live music while browsing stalls from local creators. It's the perfect evening market to pick up something truly unique.
Top tip: The Furlong is a member of Go New Forest, helping support the local economy - shop with pride!
Lyndhurst Christmas Market – Village Fun Day
Saturday 6 December
Lyndhurst lights up for its much-loved Christmas Fun Day! With a Christmas market hosted at the Community Centre, a visit from Santa, and games & entertainment for all, this is the perfect opportunity to feel the magic of a New Forest village Christmas.
Top tip: Browse Pages of Lyndhurst, The award winning Woods Cyclery and Sofikas while you’re in the village town for the perfect gifts that support a local high street hero.
Year-round markets for Christmas finds
You’ll also find regular weekly markets brimming with festive goodies in New Forest towns like:
- Lymington - a vibrant Saturday street market known for its artisan gifts and festive atmosphere
- Hythe - weekly Tuesday market in this waterfront town, ideal for seasonal treats and crafts
- New Milton - Wednesday markets with a growing list of local traders
- Ringwood - regular market days in this historic town make it easy to shop local this Christmas
Shop local on New Forest high streets and surrounding areas
From handcrafted decorations to locally made fudge and preserves, our New Forest shops are bursting with Christmas cheer. Stop by independent stores and boutiques in Lymington, Lyndhurst and Hythe for stocking fillers, thoughtful gifts and festive inspiration. Many of our community shops, like Minstead and East Boldre, also offer beautiful local produce and handmade items.
Don’t miss: The New Forest Hamper Company for ready-to-gift festive hampers and Hockey’s Farm for tasty local treats and gifts.
Wherever you shop this Christmas, make it meaningful by supporting local makers, producers and traders. Not only are you gifting something unique - you’re helping our New Forest communities thrive.
