Walking Holidays

The popularity of walking holidays in the UK has increased in recent years and the New Forest is no exception to this.

If walking is high on your priority list then we are an ideal destination for you! Not only are there ample footpaths and trails for you to explore, we are also just 89 minutes from London Waterloo so we are easy to get to if you don’t want to bring your car.

Perfect for any season

With an extensive choice of routes across the New Forest, walking holidays are available all year round and are the perfect way to take in the different seasons.

The spring is ideal for spotting young animals and seeing the emergence of bluebells and other wildflowers in our woodlands and heathland. See how many foals, calves and fawns you can spot whilst you are walking through the National Park.

Summer, is an ideal time for our long distance walks, for walks along the Solent Way coast path or simply for a short pub walk on a balmy evening.

Autumn brings with it the rich colours, making it not only a walker’s but also a photographer’s dream. Look out for the pigs on the annual autumn pannage duty - eating fallen acorns, which are poisonous to ponies.

During the winter months, think brisk walks followed by some hearty locally sourced food in one of our pubs or restaurants. Or walks with stops along the way where you can warm up in front of a toasty open fireplace.

Getting between our towns and villages is easy. There is a local bus service connecting the New Forest from Southampton, Salisbury and Bournemouth as well as excellent routes between the local New Forest train stations at Brockenhurst, Sway, Lymington and New Milton.

Walker-friendly places to stay

Some of our local accommodation providers offer tailored walking breaks. Others have signed up to our New Forest Walker Approved accommodation scheme. Walkers staying or using New Forest Walker Approved accommodation can expect it to provide facilities for cleaning and drying of outdoor clothing and footwear and either clothes washing and drying facilities, laundry service, or details of the nearest laundrette facilities. They will also help with pre-ordered packed lunches, information about local cafes and pubs, and maps and books for reference on both walking in the area and walking routes.

You can book quality New Forest accommodation direct with confidence, as these properties will meet your particular needs, allowing you to enjoy a stress and hassle free trip. Take a look at the listings below for details of places to stay in the New Forest that are walker friendly.

Special offers on walking holidays

Keep an eye on our special offers for last-minute deals, seasonal breaks and money savings off places to stay in the New Forest.

Some of our guided walking companies can combine their walks with short breaks at a number of the New Forest hotels.

Finally, don’t forget to purchase a copy of the Go New Forest Card and save money off accommodation, things to do, eating out and shopping here in the New Forest.

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