Stuck for ideas on what to do with the kids over the summer holidays and beyond? The New Forest offers some amazing opportunities to get active, enjoy the outside amongst beautiful surroundings and to create lots of fantastic memories together.

Let’s take a look at some of the activities and attractions in the New Forest that we recommend for kids aged 5-12…

Outdoor fun for children in the New Forest

Great for mental well-being and most of all, lots of fun! You won’t be short of outdoor adventures to do here in the New Forest with your children. From high adrenaline through to laid-back countryside outings, take your pick of outdoor activities.

At New Forest Activities, take a paddle along the beautiful Beaulieu River in a canoe (suitable for children aged 18 months+, when accompanied by an adult) or take on the BattleZone laser tag challenge (suitable for ages 8+).

Kids at New Forest Activities playing Battlezone
Image - New Forest Activities

Just outside Fordingbridge, Insight Activities offers the chance to channel your inner Robin Hood on their archery range (suitable for ages 6+) or to learn the art of bushcraft in their woodland setting (suitable for ages 10+).

Nearby, you will also find the New Forest Water Park which has kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for hire (ages 11+) and their inflatable obstacle course which is great fun to navigate.

Kids playing at New Forest Water Park
Image - New Forest Water Park

Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre runs a number of outdoor activities and often has ‘give it a try’ sessions on over the school holidays whereby your children can test out a number of activities.

There are plenty of opportunities to cycle in and around the New Forest, with some family-friendly rides available. Download some of the interactive cycling maps or hire bikes from one of our cycle hire shops dotted around the forest.

Family cycling in the New Forest

Fantastic family days out

One of the biggest highlights for many children’s visits to the New Forest has to be a trip to Paultons Park! With its fast-paced roller coasters and water rides for the older children and more relaxed but equally fun rides and experiences for the younger ones, all ages will love exploring this park on a day out.

People on Storm Chaser at Paultons Park
Image - Paultons Park

Any car enthusiasts should make a beeline for Beaulieu with its National Motor Museum, including the World of Top Gear. See cars from across the decades and learn about the fascinating history of the automotive industry. Look out for the themed car meets which take place throughout the year too, with the Beaulieu Supercar Weekend being one of the big highlights.

If your child loves animals then be sure to pop along to the New Forest Wildlife Park, Longdown Activity Farm or Dorset Heavy Horse Farm Park for a day out. Each attraction offers its own charm and the opportunity to meet a variety of animal both native to the UK and further afield.

Showing at New Forest Wildlife Park
Image - New Forest Wildlife Park

Grab your buckets and spades or your swimming costumes and head to Lepe Country Park. With its stretch of sandy beach ideal for a paddle on a fine day, it’s play areas and its wildlife areas, it makes for a glorious day out, particularly when the sun’s out.

Indoor fun in the New Forest

If the weather isn’t playing ball, there’s still plenty that you can do with your kids here in the New Forest.

Why not head to Calshot Activities Centre and try out some of their indoor sessions? Book onto indoor climbing wall sessions, outdoor ropes course thrills or for lots of laughs, try out their ringos to slide your way down the slopes.

Family at Calshot Activities Centre
Image - Calshot Activities Centre

Step inside the artillery fortress of Hurst Castle, originally built by King Henry VIII in Tudor times. Absorb the castle’s rich history and take in the stunning views across to the Isle of Wight.

Keep an eye out on family events taking place at some of our arts venues such as Hanger Farm Arts Centre. From theatrical performances to arts and crafts sessions, it’s well worth checking our events pages for details of what’s coming up.

Activities for children of all ages

If you have toddlers or teenagers in tow, then take a look at our separate blogs giving more information on what you can do with your teens or toddlers on a visit to the New Forest.

Book a family break

Whether you love a spot of camping or you like all the entertainment on hand at one of our holiday parks, you will find plenty of choice when it comes to the type of accommodation on offer and budget. Explore our accommodation pages today and plan your next family getaway.