The New Forest

Explore the magic of the New Forest

Explore the magic of the New Forest

The New Forest is a 220-square-mile paradise between Southampton, Ringwood and Salisbury. This ancient woodland and heathland is home to over 7,000 grazing animals. Wild ponies roam freely, as well as deer, donkeys and cattle. The New Forest is the perfect destination for full or half days out if you enjoy landscapes, nature, walking, cycling, horse riding and history. And it’s only 10 minutes away from Summerbreeze Orchard, which is located on the west side of the New Forest.

quaint towns

Beaulieu in the New Forest

Our favourite town in the New Forest is Beaulieu. It’s a stunning area steeped in history. We recommend enjoying a riverside picnic, followed by a visit to the National Motor Museum and a venture around the stunning Beaulieu grounds and gardens. Read more about Beaulieu Abbey – an 800 year old Abbey, founded by King George in 1204 and took four decades to complete.

historical sites - By the Sea

Hurst Castle

History enthusiast, anyone? Visit Hurst Castle, a seafront artillery fortress built by Henry VIII. Exploring the castle and roaming its impressive grounds feels like stepping back in time. The views are breath taking, as the castle overlooks the Isle of Wight.

new forest village

Burley - New Forest

This is a good introduction and starting point for exploring the New Forest. The quaint village has a mixture of Tea Rooms, Cottages, gift shops, village store and cosy Inns. The village is known for its smuggling, witches & dragons.

There is plenty of parking and some great hiking points into the heathland and surrounding forest. You’ll see the New Forest Ponies and cattle roaming. When hiking, look out for some historical sites like the Iron Age Hill Fort on Castle Hill.

Quaint Towns - Beaulieu
quaint towns

Beaulieu

Our favourite town in the New Forest is Beaulieu. It’s a stunning area steeped in history. We recommend enjoying a riverside picnic, followed by a visit to the National Motor Museum and a venture around the stunning Beaulieu grounds and gardens. 

Historical Sites -Hurst Castle
historical sites

Hurst Castle

History enthusiast, anyone? Come and visit Hurst Castle, a seafront artillery fortress built by Henry VIII. Exploring the castle and roaming its impressive grounds feels like stepping back in time. The views are breathtaking too, as the castle overlooks the Isle of Wight.

Exploring by Sea
explore by sea

The New Forest Paddle Sports Company

Take a dip and enjoy this area of the south coast by paddle board, kayak, or sailing. Explore the gorgeous Keyhaven river and salt marshes, paddle past the impressive Hurst Castle and admire the New Forest’s scenic coastline. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. 

Cow New Forest
New Forest Burley
New Forest
New Forest ponies
Your questions on the new forest

Frequently Asked Questions

It's 15 minutes in the car to The New Forest, but could easily take an hour to drive from one side of the New Forest, to the other side, especially slowing down and taking pictures of the New Forest Ponies on the way. 

Yes. It takes around 20 minutes to cycle to Ringwood and around one hour to cycle from Summerbreeze Orchard to Burley in the New Forest. I think if it was me, I'd put the bikes on the bike rack and start in Burley. The New Forest is stunning and massive, lots to see. 

Looking closer to home, if you want something that's more on the doorstep, I'd recommend Hurn Forest (which can be accessed directly off Wayside Road) or Avon Country Heath or Moors Valley Country Park. 

New Forest & Hampshire County Show

This has to be one of the largest shows on the south coast. Its massive, I would guess 10 acres. Showcasing the finest cattle, sheep, horses, farming techniques and so much more. There is an activity area, flower and garden show, music & live stage, cookery and a multitude of exhibitors & stores. Its minimum half day. It was well worth attending.

For tickets: New Forest & Hampshire County Show

Date: July 29th – 31st 

For more information on the New Forest, 

Check out these sites: 

a) The New Forest

b) New Forest National Park

c) Forestry England