Whether you are looking to make a festive break or are planning on some days out to beat the winter blues, plan your visit to the New Forest this December for some fantastic festive and non-festive activities and events.
Take a look at what’s happening this December…
Get that all important Vitamin D
The days are shorter so on those crisp, wintery days head out into the great outdoors to top up your Vitamin D levels. Don your walking boots or wellies and head out into the Forest for some winter walking. Take a stroll through historic Lyndhurst, the heart of the New Forest or wind your way along the Tall Trees Trail at Blackwater, just a selection of the amazing walks you can do here. If you fancy blowing your cobwebs away further, try some of our coastal routes – you can also expect some amazing views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.
Image - Walking in the New Forest
Love your water sports? Then check out the SUP Winter Race organised by The New Forest Paddle Sport Company on Saturday 3 December. Run at Keyhaven Quay, this event is suitable for all levels and abilities and is the perfect way to start your SUP racing adventure!
Image - The New Forest Paddle Sport Company
Another great way to enjoy the great outdoors here in the New Forest is to hop aboard the Lazy Daze for a Beaulieu River boat trip with Wild New Forest. Meeting at Bucklers Hard, take this gentle 2.5-hour cruise along the Beaulieu River to the Solent coast and back and spot wildlife along the way. This trip is run on several dates throughout December, pre-booking is essential.
Indoor activities
If the weather isn’t playing ball, or you simply want to spend some time indoors then make the most of some of our indoor attractions. Discover a wealth of cars and motoring memorabilia at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, or the motorcycles at the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum. Find out more about the history and culture of the New Forest at the New Forest Centre, in the heart of Lyndhurst or explore the local history and arts at St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery in Lymington.
Image - Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum
Chalk’s in Lymington will also be staging ‘Modern Rustic’ - an exhibition showcasing a contemporary take on traditional or historic forms of arts and crafts.
Shop to your heart’s content
Whether you are looking for some last-minute Christmas gifts or perhaps a treat for yourself, take a look at some of our independent shops for the perfect New Forest souvenirs.
In the lead up to Christmas, Lyndhurst will be holding late night shopping evenings on Thursdays throughout December.
Image - Lyndhurst High Street Christmas Lights
Coinciding with the Christmas Lights switch on in Fordingbridge – the Green Christmas Makers and Producers Fair is a fantastic opportunity to buy gifts which have been made both locally and ethically. It takes place on Friday 2 December in Fordingbridge Town Hall.
Another date for the diary is the Beaulieu Festive Fayre (9-11 December) with a selection of the UK's finest artisan creators, makers, crafting experts and local producers.
Image - Beaulieu Festive Fayre
Christmas events
Of course, you will find plenty happening in the lead up to Christmas – festive craft workshops, light trails, performances, seasonal menus at our pubs and restaurants and children’s events. Take a look at our festive events listings for more details. You’ll be sure to find lots of festive fun for all to enjoy.