There’s no better way to cool off on a hot summer’s day than with a refreshing dip. Fortunately, the magical New Forest offers over 40 miles of serene shoreline and beaches, as well as several hotels boasting sparkling outdoor pools. Here’s our guide to finding the perfect swimming spot for you!
Image - Visit Milford on Sea
Best for…boat-watching while you bob about
Calshot Beach, located at the easternmost tip of the New Forest, is a hidden gem. This shingle beach, surrounded by trees and colourful beach huts, offers a unique view of giant liners passing by as they enter or leave Southampton. Parking is available nearby but be sure to check for dog restrictions.
Best for…non-stop thrills with friends and family
For a swim with a challenge, head to New Forest Water Park in Fordingbridge. This spot offers two giant aqua obstacle courses, providing plenty of excitement and guaranteed to tire out even the most energetic participants!
Image - New Forest Water Park
Best for…sandy shores and bright beach huts
Hordle Cliff at Milford on Sea is perfect for those who love sandy beaches at low tide, inviting waters, and picturesque beach huts. This beach offers ample space for everyone to enjoy the sea, and it’s also a fantastic spot for beach sports and BBQs.
Best for…indoor and outdoor pools
Book a stay at Balmer Lawn Hotel in Brockenhurst to enjoy both indoor and outdoor swimming options. This popular hotel features a gleaming outdoor pool and a heated indoor pool near its Saltus Spa facilities, allowing for a swim regardless of the weather. Macdonald Elmers Court in Lymington also offers excellent indoor and outdoor pools, plus proximity to the coast!
Image - Balmer Lawn Hotel
Best for…old-fashioned family fun
Barton on Sea, located at the eastern end of Christchurch Bay, offers beautiful swimming opportunities with views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. The waters are shallow, and if you’re lucky, you might even find a fossil in this charming area. Good parking is available.
Image - Barton on Sea
Best for…parents with little ones
New Park Manor near Brockenhurst excels at providing an upscale holiday experience for families with young children. As well as their indoor pool which looks out onto fields where deer regularly visit, they also offer a beautiful outdoor pool where you can splash around and enjoy the fresh air.
Best for…proximity to delicious food!
Hurst Road Beach in Milford on Sea is not only a great spot for a swim but also a short walk from the lovely village itself. Here, you can indulge in fish and chips, coffee, and cakes after your swim. You can also stroll along Hurst Spit and enter the water there.
Best for…exclusivity
For a more private swim, New Forest Cottages offers several properties with pools. Thatchby Oak in Brockenhurst features a stunning pool with plenty of lounging space. Whiteshoot Farm and Old Farm Cottage also offer beautiful properties with private pools.
Image - New Forest Cottages - Old Farm Cottage
Best for…5-star luxury
To enjoy the 10-metre outdoor pool at Chewton Glen Hotel, you’ll need to be a guest. However, if you prefer indoor swimming, you can sign up for a summer spa day and treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering.
Best for…holiday park fun
Booking a luxury lodge at Sandy Balls Holiday Village near Fordingbridge grants you access to both indoor and outdoor pools, as well as a hot tub, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
Image - Sandy Balls Holiday Village
Shorefield Country Park also offers excellent accommodation and fantastic indoor and outdoor pools for a fun splash around.
*All swimming is at your own risk. Please note that many beaches do not have lifeguards.*