With the winter slowly drawing in, November is the last chance to catch the autumn colours on an outdoor adventure in the New Forest. Spend time in the great outdoors on a New Forest walk and make the most of one of the most spectacular times of year in the forest for colour.

Although it’ll soon be winter, there’s still plenty to see and do in the New Forest during November. Kick start the month off with some family fun as the start of November sees the last few days remaining of the Hampshire half term. There’s a lot for children of all ages taking place this half term, take a read of our dedicated half term blog which tells you more.

Autumn Colour Walks in the New Forest

Enjoy magical night times

Those darker nights needn’t be depressing, lighten them up by paying a visit to one of the area’s light displays.

Sandy Balls Holiday Village will be illuminated throughout the month right through until 2 January with their Forest of Light display. Wander through thousands of twinkling lights in the heart of Sandy Balls accompanied by an enchanting musical soundscape. Encounter charming statues and even some little flurries of snowfall. This event is exclusively for guests staying at Sandy Balls Holiday Village.

Marwell Zoo will see the return of their ever-popular Glow Marwell event from 29 November. Favourites including the enchanted tree, the light tunnel and the interactive light-up stepping stones are set to return along with some new additions including UV face painting.

Added to this, look out for festive lights beginning to adorn the facades of our towns and villages, with popular light switch on events.

Outdoor attraction lights at Marwell Zoo at Christmas in the New ForestImage - Marwell Zoo

Step back into the time of Henry VIII

Pay a visit to Hurst Castle in the first few days of November before it closes for the winter season. The castle holds a fascinating history from King Henry VIII’s time including being a prison for King Charles I as well as a defence fort during WW2. Catch the ferry from Keyhaven or alternatively, take a walk along the shingle spit.

Hurst CastleImage - Hurst Castle

Catch some live music

Brighten up your November evenings with some live music.

Back of Beyond Touring, Camping & Glamping Park will be holding two live music events at their on-site bar during November. On Saturday 2 November, local singer Peter Burns will be hitting the floor with some big bangers and the following Saturday, New Forest band, The Blue Tides will be performing. These events are free for guests staying at the park.

If you love a bit of Elton John, then be sure to add 22 November to your diary. A Young Elton Tribute Show will be heading to the Balmer Lawn Hotel. Enjoy a delicious two-course meal followed by the show.

Sample some New Forest delights

On Sunday 17 November, the New Forest Eats ‘n’ Treats returns bringing with it the opportunity to sample some amazing local fare from New Forest artisans. Added to this, there’ll be plenty of chances to stock up on some early Christmas shopping. Live music, how-to demonstrations and activities will all be part of the mix on offer. Plus, entry is just £2 for adults with children free.

Experience a smart day out

If you love a car meet, then head to Beaulieu on 10 November for their last ‘simply’ event of the season; Simply Smart. Whether you have your own Smart car or you are just an admirer of anything automotive, you’ll be in for a treat. Make sure to spend some time exploring the wider National Motor Museum and all that Beaulieu has to offer too!

Simply SmartImage - National Motor Museum Beaulieu

Learn more about the New Forest’s flora and fauna

Whether you are passionate about wildlife, or you’d like to learn more, there are some amazing events running this November which’ll help you find out more about nature in the New Forest.

On 3 November, there’ll be a Wildfowl ID masterclass being run in Lymington by Wild New Forest. Discover more about the plumage, behaviour and calls of wetland species that can be found around the Lymington marshes.

Wild New Forest are also running a number of other wildlife related events throughout November including a 2-hour Fungi & Slime Mould Walk in Lyndhurst on 23 November.

Impress your friends and family with your new-found wildlife knowledge on one of their tours.Fungi Blog

Plan your last-minute November getaway

Being a quieter time of year to visit the forest, take your pick from luxury hotels, cosy cottages and holiday parks. Browse our places to stay today and plan your November getaway.

As ever, this blog gives a taster of what’s on in the New Forest this month. For full details of events taking place, please check out our events listings or sign up to our regular what’s on newsletters.