School and Group Visits

Here in the New Forest, we have a huge list of options for school and group days out and visits. Whether you are a teacher or school assistant who is looking for exciting educational days out, or group or coach party organiser, take a look and some brilliant places to go and things to do in the New Forest below…

Starting with educational experiences and days out, we are home to make heritage centres, museums and galleries. New Forest Heritage Centre is a great place to visit, learn about the way of life, nature and history of the New Forest. They have educational school workshops from EYFS to KS3 with valuable links to the National Curriculum. Another local heritage centre is Friends of The New Forest Airfields Heritage Centre, where you can find a display and reference library dedicated to the history and heritage of the 12 airfields that were operational in the New Forest. They have an outreach programme that can provide speakers for schools, clubs and societies, which can be arranged by prior appointment. Visit St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery, where their learning programme for KS1 and KS2 has been developed for schools to learn about and understand their local heritage and environment from the prehistoric to the present day.  

Hurst Castle host fantastic educational visits and learning sessions, with relevant links to Curriculums for KS1 and KS2, bringing history to life through engaging experiences in this wonderful heritage site. They offer both self-led and guide-led visits. Other great history and heritage sites that are great to visit with school-aged kids looking to learn are Eling Tide Mill ExperienceBreamore House and Museum and Buckler’s Hard.

Get active and encourage team building with lots of fun-filled activities at local outdoor and indoor activity centres! Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Centre have over 40 available and tailored programmes for schools and groups to enjoy. From taking on the climbing tower and braving the zip-wire to kayaking and archery. New Forest ActivitiesCalshot Activities Centre and Insight Activities also all welcome schools and groups here in the New Forest.

For fun days out, our attractions in the New Forest are a top choice! From thrill-seeking experiences at Paultons Park, to learning about the history of motor vehicles (plus additional fun activities and experiences at National Motor Museum and Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum, or excursions with animals at Longdown Activity FarmNew Forest Wildlife ParkDorset Heavy Horse Farm Park or Marwell Zoo.

Run wild in the New Forest and discover the beautiful wildlife and nature. Head out on a group cycle ride (we have many cycle hire shops to provide great bikes for the group), or even a guided bike tour with New Forest Cycling Tours or a super educational guided walk with Wild New Forest! Learn about all the animals, flora and fauna in the New Forest and find out about the history and heritage of this ancient forest and have fun!

See more details about businesses who offer great school and group visits below…

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