With the arrival of spring, March makes a delightful time to plan a visit to the New Forest. With the Easter holidays pushed back into April, March will offer the visitor a quieter time of year, ideal for beautiful forest walks and evenings sitting under the stars.
This March, there’s plenty to see and do across the New Forest. From Mother’s Day treats through to spotting some of the forest’s new arrivals. Take a look at what you could be doing in the New Forest…
Plan a visit to some of the New Forest’s gardens
The emergence of spring flowers is a welcomed relief after the colder winter months. Look out for pastel hues at some of the New Forest’s stunning gardens.
At Exbury Gardens, you can expect swathes of daffodils (plus, be sure to hop aboard the miniature steam railway for a great view of the gardens’ displays), take a stroll around the grounds of Palace House at Beaulieu for wonderful spring vistas and search for hidden fairy doors among the spring flowers at Furzey Gardens.
If you are feeling inspired to create your own spring landscapes, then pop into Fairweather’s Garden Centre in Beaulieu village for a variety of indoor and outdoor plants.
Image - Exbury Gardens
Explore the Beaulieu River
It’s no surprise that Beaulieu – French for beautiful place, is as its name describes, a beautiful location. Soak up the peaceful views on one of the Beaulieu River extended cruises being run out of the maritime village of Buckler’s Hard with Wild New Forest. On 22 March, you could join onto this cruise and be captivated by the wildlife you might spot along the way including regular sightings of grey and common seals.
Whilst out for the day, take a look at the Beaulieu River – in focus exhibition being held at Buckler’s Hard throughout March. This exhibition showcases the wildlife and vistas as captured by visitors during previous photo competitions. What’s more? It’s free to visit.
Look out for new arrivals
Take a wonder through the New Forest (follow our suggested walking routes) and see if you can spot any of the New Forest’s new arrivals – namely New Forest Pony foals. The foals are often born in the spring and summer months and can be seen with their mothers on the open heathland.
Please do follow the New Forest Code though and keep your distance, don’t touch the animals and certainly don’t feed them.
Pick up some amazing New Forest produce
On 8-9 March, the New Forest Marque Spring Roadshow will be held at Everton Nurseries and Garden Centre. Meet a host of New Forest Marque members at the Producers’ Roadshow! Browse and buy from a variety of artisans – a great way to support local businesses here in the New Forest and let’s face it, a great excuse to try some of the New Forest’s amazing food offerings!
Improve your bike mechanics knowledge
The New Forest Off Road Club are bringing a weekend of bike mechanics to Beaulieu on 14th - 16th March. While learning all the essential skills to service your bike - helping you save money and boost your confidence to ride further and longer - you will get the chance to connect with other like-minded people and feel empowered by your new skillset, all while being surrounded by the beautiful New Forest. There are options to book to stay at the Countryside Education Trust for the weekend , or if you're local then there's a non-residential booking option too.
Image - The New Forest Off Road Club
Celebrate Mother’s Day in the New Forest
For 2025, Mother’s Day will fall on Sunday 30 March. Treat your mum, or female role model to a variety of tempting foodie experiences or pamper sessions. Look out for special menus at some of our restaurants and cafes including a fabulous afternoon tea experience at the Balmer Lawn Hotel (available 29 and 30 March) or book into one of the New Forest’s day spas for a spot of indulgence.
Image - New Park Manor Hotel & Spa
Plan your very own spring break
Grab yourself a last-minute break by checking out places to stay across the New Forest. Choose from high-end hotels with all the trimmings through to cosy New Forest cottages perfect for quiet escapes.
Some of our camping and glamping sites will also be open from March onwards, offering stays close to nature.
Take a look at the variety of places to stay in the New Forest and start planning your early spring adventures.