Crisp mornings and cosy evenings, step into a Narnia-like world on a trip to the New Forest this December. With plenty of festive fun to be had, plus some amazing opportunities to try out some of our New Forest fare, check out the top things to do this December here in the New Forest.
Light up your December with some of our light trails
It may be leading up to the shortest day of the year, but don’t let that stop you having fun. Follow some of the beautiful light trails taking place this December in and around the New Forest.
Sandy Balls Holiday Park sees the return of their Forest of Light throughout December. This event is exclusively for guests staying on site and brings with it thousands of twinkling lights and an enchanting musical soundscape.
Make memories at Marwell Zoo, just a short journey from the New Forest, this December with Glow Marwell. Discover the playful moon chairs, the amazing light tunnel and experience the natural wonders of fire, earth, air and water at their one-of-a-kind winter lights experience.
Image - Marwell Zoo
Head out for some winter walks
With plenty of excesses to come during December, why not take in some of the fresh, New Forest air on a winter walk?
Whether you fancy a short stomp in wellies with the kids or more of a challenge with a longer woodland walk, you will find plenty of walks to choose from with our interactive walking routes. Plus, be sure to finish your walk off with a pitstop at one of our New Forest tea rooms for some tempting seasonal treats.
Join in with some outdoor events
Wrap up warm and take to the Beaulieu River for a paddle with a difference, yes, Mr Claus himself will be helping guide you along for a special Christmas canoe paddle with New Forest Activities (takes place on selected dates).
Image - New Forest Activities
Don your own Santa outfits and take part in the annual Oakhaven Santa Dash in Lymington on 8 December. This 3k festive fun run is open to everyone so expect to see young and old, plus several four-legged friends joining in too!
Learn more about the New Forest’s unique flora and fauna on one of the various guided nature walks with Wild New Forest taking place this month. Choose from walks in a variety of locations, including woodland ambles and coastal birding events.
Take part in some family activities
Join in with crafting fun and a family trail at Furzey Gardens during December. The gardens’ ‘How to train a reindeer’ trail will be running right up until Christmas Eve.
Meet real-life elves plus the big man himself at Exbury Gardens’ Christmas Fair. Hop aboard the festive express steam train and do a spot of Christmas shopping. This year’s Christmas Fair takes place 30 November-1 December and 7-8 December.
Image - Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway
Paultons Park will see a magical transformation in their Celebration of Christmas event. See the park beautifully decorated, have fun on the various rides and be sure to watch the special Christmas show featuring Father Christmas.
Check out the live music events
Spend your evenings listening to some of the amazing bands and live acts taking place at some of our arts venues and accommodation over the month.
Disco lovers will enjoy the ‘Forever Disco’ Christmas parties at Le Blaireau at the Careys Manor Hotel (various dates).
Local singer, Peter Burns, will be hitting the floor with some Christmas classics at Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park on 7 December and Tom Jones fans will love the Tom Jones Tribute night at the Balmer Lawn Hotel on 14 December.
Take a look at our events listings for details of other live music events happening this December in the New Forest.
Plan your festive escape
Whether you are looking for an escape over Christmas, a pre- or post-Christmas getaway, browse our places to stay to find your perfect New Forest break. From cosy cottages through to luxury hotels, you will find a great selection of places for your December adventures.