Escape the hustle and bustle of modern-day life and make your way to the New Forest. Being amongst our beautiful surroundings is a great way of destressing and restoring your zen.

We have a wealth of ways for you to while away your time. Take a look at some of our most relaxing days out that you can enjoy here…

Plan a nature walk

It’s well-known that being around nature is good for our mental wellbeing. With an abundance of forest, heathland and a stunning coastline, there are plenty of fantastic walking routes to choose from. Take a look at our walking pages for suggested routes based on your ability, or the type of walk you are looking for. Whether it’s a short stroll with your family, or you feel on taking on more of a challenging walk, you will be sure to find a walk to suit you. Do keep an eye on the changing seasons, in spring, you can take on walks passing bluebell woods (and don’t forget to spot the newly born animals too), summer is a great time to make the most of the extended daylight hours, autumn is awash with rich colours and winter is great for a good old pub walk.

Discover the New Forest’s gardens

Continuing with the nature theme, why not plan to visit some of our gardens? Exbury Gardens is well-known for its masses of colour as the rhododendrons and azaleas which are usually at their height of colour in May. Whilst here, hop aboard the miniature steam railway as it whisks you slowly around parts of the grounds.

Furzey Gardens, is a small garden in Minstead complete with tea rooms. Soak up the laid-back atmosphere as you take a wander. Any younger visitors with you will love to spot the hidden fairy doors too!

The gardens and grounds surrounding Palace House at Beaulieu provide a tranquil resting spot from the fast-paced motor museum. Look out for special sculpture exhibitions and stroll along the Mill Pond Walk to see views across the Beaulieu River and home to a variety of birdlife.

Pamper yourself

Fancy spoiling yourself? What better way is there to relax than by booking yourself a spa day? Many of our New Forest spa hotels offer day spa packages with a variety of treatment options. Opt for the Spa Hotel of the Year (Careys Manor Hotel and SenSpa) or the laid-back luxury of Lime Wood’s spa, just a couple of the spa packages that you could choose from.

Book a meal out

If you’ve had a busy day, take away the hassle of cooking by booking for a meal at one of our country pubs or restaurants. Sample some traditional fare or opt for some local, New Forest produce (look out for the New Forest Marque when ordering). You may also want to try some of our local drinks. Lookout for Ringwood Brewery’s range of beers and ales and delicious ciders from New Forest Cider. 

Or for another great way to relax, book to have a picnic delivered to your favourite New Forest spot by The Forest Foodie.

Take to the waters

Take to the sea for a sunset sail with Escape Yachting for a fantastic way to see the New Forest coastline or why not try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding with The New Forest Paddle Sport Company? Or hire a canoe from New Forest Activities and navigate your way along the Beaulieu River, perfect for spotting a kingfisher or too.

How do you like to relax?

We’d love to see your ways of relaxing here in the New Forest. Share your pictures by tagging us on social media for the chance for your photos to be featured. Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.