Early May bank holiday weekend is just around the corner, falling on Monday 6 May 2025. And here in the New Forest, we’ve got plenty lined up to help you make the most of the long weekend.
Whether you're dreaming of blooming gardens, forest trails, scenic boat trips or fascinating local history, there’s something happening for every kind of explorer. Here's your guide to what’s on across Saturday 3, Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May in the New Forest.
Events Across the Whole Weekend
BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair at Beaulieu
Beaulieu is set to bloom this bank holiday weekend (Friday 2 – Sunday 4 May) with the return of the BBC Gardeners’ World Spring Fair. Expect show-stopping displays, gardening inspiration, Beautiful Borders, and The Hillier Experience, offering creative planting ideas and tips from experts. Explore the grounds, shop from specialist nurseries, and enjoy live talks and demos throughout the weekend.
J & A Artisan Craft Fair – Burley Village Hall
Pop into Burley Village Hall and browse a lovely selection of handcrafted goods, art, and local products. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir, treat yourself, or support a talented local maker.
Saturday 3 May
PEDALL Social Ride – Burley
Join PEDALL New Forest Inclusive Cycling for a friendly, welcoming social ride through the woodland near Ashurst. This relaxed, guided cycle is ideal for all abilities, including riders with additional needs or those who require specialist equipment. The ride is free to join but booking is essential as places fill up quickly. It’s a great way to enjoy the Forest on wheels, meet others, and connect with nature in a gentle and inclusive setting.
Image - Pedall -- New Forest Inclusive Cycling
Beaulieu River Boat Trip
Step aboard for a peaceful boat trip on the Beaulieu River, one of the most unspoilt and tranquil waterways in the UK. Run by Wild New Forest Guided Tours, this guided river cruise offers a new perspective of the Forest as you glide past reedbeds and creeks, keeping your eyes peeled for birdlife and soaking up the stillness of the water. Ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a slow, scenic escape.
Sunday 4 May
Spring Autojumble – Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum
Motorbike enthusiasts won’t want to miss the Spring Autojumble at Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum. Expect stalls, rare finds, and motoring treasures galore. Sellers can arrive from 7am, buyers from 8.30am. Entry is £5 for adults and free for children - perfect for a family day out with a vintage twist.
Friends of the New Forest Airfields Heritage Centre – Bransgore
Step into wartime history at the New Forest Airfields Heritage Centre, open 10am–4pm (last admission 3pm). Learn about the 12 airfields and their role in D-Day during this special 80th anniversary year. Round off your visit with tea and cake in Mee Mee’s Kitchen - and find out the story behind its name while you're there.
Image - Friends of the New Forest Airfields
Plan in fun activities
The Early May bank holiday is just the start—May is packed with exciting outdoor activities across the Forest:
- Insight Activities: Test your skills with archery, axe throwing and crossbow shooting in a woodland setting. Sessions for ages 6+ (archery only) and 12+ (for axe and crossbow).
- New Forest Activities: Enjoy guided family paddling on the Beaulieu River or try your hand at archery under expert instruction.
- Jaunt-e Bikes: Crack clues, solve puzzles and explore the Forest on an electric bike with their Pedal and Puzzle outdoor escape adventure.
- Experience Hampshire: From children’s fishing clubs and star gazing, they’re offering a fantastic selection of unique New Forest experiences across both May bank holiday weekends.
Image - New Forest Activities
Plan ahead and stay awhile
Accommodation fills up quickly over bank holiday weekends, so if you’re thinking of visiting, take a look at our wide range of places to stay - from forest-side B&Bs and hotels to campsites, holiday parks and cosy self-catering lodges.
This is just a taste of what’s happening in the New Forest this Early May bank holiday.
Ready to plan your visit? Explore more events, things to do, and activity ideas on our website.
