Ideas & Inspiration

With unparalleled nature and outstanding views, let us inspire you with suggestions for exploring The New Forest further.

Whether you are here for just a day visit, 24 hours or longer, our itinerary ideas can help you to plan those must-see destinations or some of the key highlights you won’t want to miss on your trip here.

New Forest whatever the season
Rain, sun or snow, whatever the weather we have loads of great ideas for how you can spend your time in the New Forest!

In the spring, the New Forest comes to life with the fresh greens of the leaves and the rich blues and purples of our bluebell woods. The perfect time to spot the newly born foals, calves and fawns and hear the birdsong from the trees.

Summer brings with it blossoming flowers, countryside walks and balmy evenings sat outside with a pint of local ale.

During autumn, the colours of the New Forest are probably at their most vibrant with the rich tones of gold and orange dominating the woodlands. You’ll often see the pigs out on the commons at this time as part of the annual pannage.

Winter should not be forgotten, think fresh walks along the coast path, cosy fireplaces and the chance to enjoy some festive fun at some of our attractions.

The romantic forest
Once visited, the New Forest holds a special place in everyone's heart, with its ancient landscape and romantic history. Perfect for weddings or honeymoons, the New Forest has several wedding venues from luxury, country hotels catering for up to 400 guests through to intimate weddings in unique settings.

Famous connections and starring roles of The New Forest
One of the earliest mainstream productions to be filmed in The New Forest was Enid Blyton’s ‘The Famous Five’ between 1978 and 1979. Whilst parts of the television series were shot in Dorset and Devon, the vast majority of outdoor scenes were filmed in The New Forest. Other notable features include Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation. Discover more about what has been filmed for the big screen and TV here in The New Forest.

As well as Film & TV there is loads of famous literature that is based in the New Forest or was written by the Author in the New Forest, including the fabulous Alice in Wonderland.

There’s a variety of famous people who were born, buried and worked in the New Forest, including the creator of crime fiction character, Sherlock Homes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is buried in Minstead churchyard, near Lyndhurst and Florence Nightingale lived in Embley Park, Wellow and is buried in St Margaret’s churchyard, East Wellow.

Thinking about bringing the Dog on holiday to the New Forest with you? We think that’s a great idea! The New Forest is the perfect place for a trip away without having to leave your four-legged friend at home, with Dog Friendly accommodation, places to eat and drink, attractions and 193,000 acres of woodland and 40 miles of coastline to enjoy, they will absolutely love their time spent here!

Meet the locals whilst you’re here! From the Commoners who look occupy and look after most of the New Forest land, to the wonderful producers of our local producers, these are just some of the people you might bump into during your time in the forest.

Did you know that the New Forest is also a great place to hold conferences, from 10 to 50+ people there are plenty of venues who are happy to host.

Watch out for our regular competitions that you can enter to win loads of prizes including free tickets to our attractions, overnight stays at our wonderful Hotels and vouchers for wining and dining. You can also have a read of our Blog for some interesting information about the New Forest and loads of ‘Top 10s’ to browse through!

Take a look through these pages to help inspire you for your next New Forest visit.