Spring is finally heading this way; it’s time to say goodbye to the colder weather and embrace new beginnings. See the New Forest come alive with vivid hues from the spring flowers, look out for new life beginning to emerge including some of the early arrivals of New Forest Pony foals and the return of some of our migrating birds including the chiffchaff and lapwing.
Discover some of the top things you can do in the New Forest this March…
Take a spring nature walk
Embrace the brightness and soak up the colours on a spring flower walk. Head to one of our stunning gardens for a day out in the sunshine.
Take in the swathes of yellow from the beautiful daffodil displays at Exbury Gardens and head into the Lachenalia & Orchid Exhibition held in the gardens’ Five Arrows Gallery (runs 14-29 March).
Make a day out at Furzey Gardens and follow the route around the gardens for a rich variety of spring flowers. Plus, any little ones with you will love seeking out the hidden fairy doors and houses dotted around. The café is also a perfect spot for a bit of post-exploration tea and cake.
Follow some of our suggested walking routes and choose your own springtime adventure. From dog walks to those suitable for young families, you’ll find plenty of walking routes to choose from. Alternatively, if you fancy being guided on a walk, join Wild New Forest for their Family Adventure discover walk of Whitefield Moor on 22 March.
Image - Exbury Gardens
Enjoy a variety of exciting events
There’s plenty to entertain you in the New Forest this March. Whether you are looking for celebratory events for Mother’s Day weekend, live music or evening talks.
Head to The Retreat on 7 March for a vibrant Artisan & Farmers’ Market bringing together local makers, growers, and producers for a day of community, creativity, and great food. Plus, there’s free entry!
Foodies will love James Martin’s kitchen takeover at Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa on 12 March – a fantastic opportunity to taste food prepared by the famous chef and his team at this beautiful venue.
Image - Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa
If you have a passion for nature, learn more about the fascinating wildlife that can be found in the New Forest and head to a talk all about Pine Martins on 7 March.
And if you love live music, there’s World Gone Wrong playing a mixture of Americana, ragtime and blues at the Commoners Bar & Kitchen on 8 March, and an Elvis Night at Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park on 28 March.
Keep an eye on our events listings, or sign up to our weekly what’s on newsletter for details of other events.
Make the most of the great outdoors
Take time out in the great outdoors. A perfect way to restore your inner zen, let our beautiful landscapes rejuvenate you.
Whether you fancy a slow and steady bike ride along our gravel tracks (bike hire is available from several locations in the forest), or you are looking for something a little more adrenaline filled such as ziplining or water sports, you will find plenty of activities on offer that will help you spend time outside.
Image - Cyclexperience
Indulge in a New Forest afternoon tea
Whether you are looking for a treat for Mother’s Day or are simply looking for a way to spend a lazy afternoon, there are several great spots in the New Forest for an afternoon tea.
Whether you prefer your cream or jam on first, sit back and relax whilst you sip tea and take in the sights of our beautiful National Park.
Perfect for a spot of post-walk indulgence!
Image - Balmer Lawn Hotel
Recently engaged? Pop the New Forest Wedding Open Weekend in your diary
If you are recently engaged and are looking for the perfect venue for your special weekend, be sure to head along to our New Forest Wedding Open Weekend (28 February-1 March). Tour different ceremony and reception spaces, meet the friendly wedding teams and picture how your perfect day in the New Forest could be.
Image - Burley Manor
Start planning your Easter holiday activities
With the school Easter holidays arriving towards the end of March, now’s the time to start planning your adventures and activities.
From days out meeting Peppa Pig and family at Paultons Park to exploring the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu. Look out for Easter-themed events such as Easter Egg Trails, Easter crafts and much more.
Plus, why not make a break of it and book yourselves a family getaway? Choose from a variety of places to stay such as family-friendly cottages to holiday parks with pools and all the perks.
