With autumn in full swing, make the most of the beautiful outdoors by taking in all that the New Forest has to offer in October. Here we explore some of the top things to do in the New Forest this October…

Walk to your heart’s content
October is a fantastic time to brush off those walking boots and to head out into our forest and woodland areas to soak up all the colours of autumn. The pannage pigs should still be roaming the forest floor in search of acorns and you may also be lucky to spot a deer or two on your travels.

Although we have plenty of walking routes to choose from, we’d highly recommend some of our woodland walks during October such as the Bolderwood Radnor Trail, the Landford and Hamptworth Trail and Blackwater’s Heartwood Trail.

Take in the exquisite colours of Jewel Lilies at Exbury Gardens
From 1-30 October, Exbury Gardens will be hosting an exhibition on Nerine sarniensis plants (otherwise known as Jewel Lilies) within the Five Arrows Gallery.

The flowers scintillate in the sunshine with gold or silver crystalline flecks that make their colourful petals sparkle and bring a touch of colour to your day. Nerines will also be available for purchase.

Plus after your visit to the exhibition, you can enjoy all that the gardens have to offer.  

Sample some of the New Forest’s culinary delights
Whether you opt for some scrumptious homemade cake or fine, a la carte dining, there is plenty to choose from here in the New Forest. Look out for seasonal dishes featuring locally-sourced produce and be sure to check out our Eat Out 4 Less promotion. Get brilliant discounts at many places to eat and drink in the New Forest, take a look at the offers now and keep checking back as the list is growing daily!

Stay amongst the autumn colours
Make the most of your autumnal getaway by booking a couple of nights in the heart of the forest. Rest up at Burley Manor for spectacular surroundings where some of the suites also boast a private terrace with views of the adjoining red deer sanctuary.

Book into Undercastle Cottage, near Fordingbridge for direct access to the forest and beautiful views across the Hampshire Avon.

Or for the ultimate treetop adventure, then check out the luxury Treehouse suites at Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa. Huge windows give a panoramic view through the canopy to the valley beyond and you can enjoy the five-star facilities the hotel offers such as the spa and dining room.

Take a look at all of our accommodation to see where else you could stay.

Begin your Christmas shopping early
Beat the crowds and shop for some unique mementos of the New Forest for all the family. Our farm shops are great places to stock up early for Christmas goodies and our independent boutiques in towns such as Lymington and Ringwood offer ranges that you don’t tend to find in the usual high street stores.

Shop 4 Less this autumn! Support our local businesses and shop on our high streets and independent shops dotted around the forest, plus don’t forget our New Forest retail businesses operate online too - and save money doing so with a Go New Forest Card! In October and November Go New Forest are offering the card at half price to encourage local residents and visitors to shop locally in the New Forest. Keep an eye out for more details coming soon on their website!

Discover lots of fun things to do with the kids over half term
Towards the end of October, Hampshire’s half term begins. We’ll be writing a separate blog post about the exciting family-oriented activities that you can do slightly nearer to the time so please do check back soon. It will also feature lots of ghoulishly-fun Halloween events such as the Happy Halloween event at Paultons Park, Home of Peppa Pig World (which, incidentally begins from 15 October).

We look forward to welcoming you on an October adventure to the New Forest very soon!

Please note: information in this blog was correct at time of writing however events, attractions and activities may be subject to change. We strongly recommend checking with the business before arriving to avoid any disappointment.