The New Forest has been voted the number one National Park in Europe in the 2022 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for Destinations.

The New Forest also came 10th in the world, ahead of global big hitters including Banff National Park in Canada, Grand Canyon National Park in the United States and Iceland’s Vatnajokull National Park.

Comments Anthony Climpson OBE, Chief Executive of Go New Forest “Given the very real challenges of the last two years, being voted the No.1 National Park in Europe and 10th in the world is an extremely welcome shot in the arm for all local tourism businesses.

“It’s pleasing the world’s travellers are finally catching up with what we’ve known for years, by falling in love with the magical wonder of our fabulous destination. But we’ll not be resting on our laurels.

“Go New Forest is shortly launching the New Forest Green Leaf Tourism Business Scheme (GLTBS) to help businesses turn over a ‘green leaf’ as they reduce carbon and improve their environmental and social outputs. In doing so, we’ll also be helping local tourism support the forest itself and its unique way of life as each member works towards becoming a net zero business operation.”

Originally launched in 2007 – helping the New Forest to win best destination in the World Responsible Tourism Awards that year – the Green Leaf Tourism Business Scheme has now been refreshed and improved.

The New Forest’s GLTBS will provide a credible collective strategy with the aim of making the New Forest the UK’s greenest destination.

The scheme is being aligned with the internationally recognised B-Corp certification process, to help businesses move towards full sustainability.

Go New Forest – a not for profit Community Interest Company, which promotes responsible tourism – also operates www.thenewforest.co.uk, the destination’s official tourism website, which has over 1.5 million users each year.

The website is encyclopaedic with regards everything visitors to the New Forest need to know, from accommodation options – including campsites, luxury hotels, B&Bs and holiday parks – to things to do, attractions, or simply where to go for a good walk to enjoy the diverse scenery and abundance of wildlife. 

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For further press information, images, or to speak to Anthony Climpson OBE, CEO of Go New Forest, contact Mick Thompson at Travel Dog PR on 01256 357 696 (mick@traveldogpr.co.uk).