The school summer holidays are fast approaching! It’s time to get planning your days out, short breaks and holidays here in the beautiful New Forest.
With six (or more) weeks off, you’ll find plenty to keep the whole family entertained here and with some fantastic ideas to suit all ages and budgets.
Here are just some of the reasons why the summer holidays are the best in the New Forest…
The New Forest is home to Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World
For a fun day out for all the family, Paultons Park is a must do. You can also visit the amazing new land, Tornado Springs. Tornado Springs is a storm-ravaged, Midwest desert resort town, from the American heyday of the 1950s and features over eight different fun rides and attractions including the amazing Storm Chaser spinning rollercoaster. What’s more, on selected days during the summer holidays there will be a new live entertainment show ‘A Magical Pirate Adventure’ - a mystical journey of fantasy not to be missed, full of magic moments, catchy songs and amazing effects and pyrotechnics that will amaze and delight. For younger visitors, a trip to Peppa Pig World is always a hit!
Book your tickets for Paultons Park now.
We have amazing nature ready to be discovered
With forest, coastline and heathland, the New Forest is paradise for any nature lovers. Not sure where to visit first? Then a guided tour can help you discover some of our hidden gems. Look out for guided walking tours by Wild New Forest. Their tours aim to educate visitors about what makes the New Forest so special with the aim of seeing some wildlife and learning some of the Forest’s history along the way. Alternatively, look at a private trip with New Forest Platinum Tours, a small family run company that offers trips for up to six passengers.
Take a look at some of our self-guided walks for inspiration for all fitness and ability levels just don’t forget your camera!
You’ll find a whole host of events throughout the holidays
Your diary can be as packed as you like, with some top events to enjoy over the holidays.
On Sunday 22 August, British Bike Day is being held at the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum. Ride in and park in the museum’s courtyard. This event is free to enter (admission charge applies to visit the Museum). The Tearooms will also be open on the day for those that fancy a bite to eat.
The National Motor Museum Beaulieu is hosting a variety of car meets over the summer holidays and will see the return of the International Autojumble on 4-5 September.
Guests staying at Sandy Balls Holiday Village can enjoy a variety of events across the summer holidays including a Colour Festival (14 August), a Cream Pie Fight (29 August) – your chance to get hugely messy with all our guests and staff and giggle your way through the afternoon and their Summer Festival (3 September). Keep a look out for late availability on their website.
Don’t forget to also keep a look on our events listings as events are regularly added.
You can try loads of new things
Ever wanted to give some new sports or activities a try? Why not book some of the activities that we have on offer here?
Anyone who’s ever fancied giving paddle boarding a try can book onto some beginner’s sessions with The New Forest Paddle Sport Company (pre-booking is essential). Or perhaps you fancy trying wakeboarding or taking on the inflatable obstacle course at the New Forest Water Park?
Why not explore the wonderful Beaulieu River by canoe or kayak with New Forest Activities? Explore hidden creeks and cause a splash with the gang on one of their fun-filled guided paddling tours. Or for families with older children, why not hire some kayaks and head out to explore on your own? Sessions fill up fast though so book in advance so you don't miss out!
There’s also archery, raft building, geocaching, horse riding, high ropes and so much more. Take a look at all the activities that are on offer here and start planning your next adventure.
The seaside!
You may not automatically think of the New Forest as having a seaside, but we’ve got over 40 miles of coastline here!
You can find some great sandy beaches ready for sandcastle building or a dip in the water. The beach at Lepe Country Park is a family favourite and the shallow waters around the fossil beds at Barton on Sea allow for safe bathing. You’ll also find plenty of places to pick up a tasty ice cream, a summer holiday must!
Find the perfect place to stay
There are hundreds of options of fantastic places to stay in the New Forest. From hotels and bed & breakfasts, to camping, glamping, holiday parks and self-catering cottages.
Camping in the Forest have some brilliant offers for pitching up and staying amongst our stunning nature and wildlife. If you stay before 31st August, get 15% off grass pitches on selected sites in the New Forest or, enjoy 10% off mid-week camping on selected sites in the New Forest when you stay before 26th September.
So, what’s stopping you? Plan your summer holiday adventure to the New Forest now!