As the days begin to get longer, wrap up warm and head to the New Forest for some amazing days out and short breaks during February.
The forest begins to wake from winter during February so head to some of our beautiful gardens to see the early emergence of spring and perhaps some early blooming daffodils. Furzey Gardens offers a perfect opportunity to get out and about exploring as you follow the pathways through the pretty landscape. Plus, any little ones with you will love seeking out the hidden fairy doors across the gardens. Equally, February is a great time to head to Beaulieu and take a wander through the gardens surrounding Palace House.
We’ve plenty going on during February, so whether you are looking for days out ideas with the kids over half term or romantic things to do for Valentine’s Day, read on to see what else there is waiting for you…
Image - Furzey Gardens
Last chance to catch Doctor Who's futuristic Whomobile, Bessie and original Dalek at Beaulieu
Running until the end of February, this is your last chance to catch the Whomobile, Bessie and the original Dalek at Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum. They are on display as part of the 60th anniversary of Dr Who.
Whilst exploring the Motor Museum, you can also catch Motopia? Past future visions exhibition, which looks at future visions of the motor car from the past, ideas that have become reality, and future visions still to be realised.
Image - National Motor Museum Beaulieu
Check out some of the New Forest’s wildlife
Being a quieter time of year for people, February often makes a great time to do some wildlife spotting. Why not book onto a boat ride along the Beaulieu River which departs from Buckler’s Hard? Cruise gently along the river to the Solent and back and who knows what wildlife you may spot (runs 2 and 14 February).
On 4 February, join Wild New Forest for one of their monthly 2-hour Fungi and Slime Mould walks around Eyeworth Pond or head out with them for a full day’s birding focused around the Lymington and Keyhaven Marshes on 11 February. There are plenty of other walking tours available throughout the month as well so take a look at our events listings for more details.
Take a wintery stroll along Lepe beach and go in search of birdlife and perhaps the odd crab or two before sheltering from the cold February air in the Lookout with a warming drink.
And of course, don’t forget to follow some of our suggested walks for gorgeous walks through the forest with plenty of opportunities to spot New Forest Ponies and the like.
Treat your special someone this Valentine’s Day
Of course, you don’t need to limit your treats to Valentine’s Day but if you are looking to spoil them on the 14th, then be sure to check out our pubs and restaurants as many of which will be running special menus for the day.
Other ways to indulge include spa breaks at some of our luxurious spa hotels, romantic walks together or why not book a cosy cottage for a short break and relax in front of a roaring fireplace after a busy day exploring the New Forest?
Image - Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa
Treat your children this February half term
Running from 12-16 February, there’s plenty to entertain the children over half term. Join in with some of our activities being run at some of our outdoor centres such as New Forest Activities and Insight Activities.
Paultons Park with Peppa Pig World, will be open across the February half term offering plenty of opportunity for family fun. Get your adrenaline pumping on some of the rollercoasters and take your tots on an adventure on the rides in Peppa Pig World.
Hire bikes from one of our cycle centres for some off-road adventures in the forest – a great way to burn off some excess energy or pop along to the New Forest Wildlife Park (open daily) to see which animals you will find.
Image - Paultons Park
Make a break of it
Being a generally quieter month in the New Forest, February can be a great time of year for a week’s stay or a short break.
Look out for special offers being run by our accommodation providers and pick from boutique hotels, self-catering properties and holiday villages.
Plus, don’t forget to keep an eye on our what’s on pages for more information on other events set to take place in February.