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The 49 best nature near New Forest National Park Hampshire
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedOct 8, 2025
Updated • updatedOct 8, 2025
Many of us love traveling on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to find the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. With favorites like New Forest National Park, Brockenhurst, and Lyndhurst and more, get ready to experience the best places in New Forest National Park Hampshire.
Visiting New Forest National Park Hampshire? See our New Forest National Park Hampshire Trip Planner.Why trust us
We scoured through the internet and read through 26 reputable sites and blogs like the Guardian and VickyFlipFlopTravels. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place like these: 
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Other best of categories in New Forest National Park Hampshire
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Cheap eats
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National park
Nature & Parks
Forests
New Forest National Park, located in Hampshire and Wiltshire in southwest England, became a national park in 2005. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, ancient trees, ponies, small towns and villages. The area offers tranquility amidst the urban sprawl of southern England. The park includes the former South Hampshire Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within its borders.
I spent a truly lovely week here. There are so many amazing walks to do, wildlife to see & ponies, donkeys & cows roaming freely. It is a truly beautiful area of the country & I highly recommend a visit.
Sally M — Google review
This is truly a place you should visit at least once when in the UK. We had a short 3-day cycling trip here. Everything was wonderful — from the scenery to the people. Just a note: you should prepare an offline map before coming, as in some areas the signal is very weak and you can hardly use online maps.
The rebirth of Foxlease Park, nice to see it back up and running, volunteered here back in February? And it was just nice to see it with life and music...
Nice little room in the coach house, could do with an extra pillow, but nice time.
Absolutely beautiful forest, we saw so many horses and lots of cows! We didn’t manage to see any deers. The views are breathtaking and there are many different routes you can take. There is some free parking near Rockford sandpit. You aren’t allowed to feed or pet the animals
The New Forest is a brilliant place for families, especially with kids. The free-roaming ponies, donkeys, and other animals make it feel magical, and places like the Wildlife Park add more chances to see deer, otters, and birds. There are plenty of easy walking trails too, such as at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, and lots of open spaces that are perfect for picnics.
Camping is well set up with designated sites, ranging from rustic fields to family-friendly spots with toilets and showers. Wild camping isn’t allowed, but the official sites give you space for kids to play and a good base to explore. Shops are small village stores or farm shops rather than big supermarkets, and toilets are generally available at visitor centres, though sometimes basic.
The park doesn’t really have a big lake for swimming or boating, and indoor play options are limited, so it’s very much an outdoor destination. If you’re prepared for nature, fresh air, and a slightly rustic feel, the New Forest is a wonderful family escape where children can explore freely and see animals up close.
Beautiful place to go loads of open spaces for people to walk and cycle. Large areas for children play.
Beautiful river at brockenhurst where you can often see horses and foals, cattle and sometimes donkeys and pigs.
Miles of tall trees creating dense forest. The forest offers great walking and cycling paths which link together towns and areas of interest.
Gorgeous place, well worth a visit if you appreciate nature. The ponies are such a treat to see. It’s also great for beginner cyclists as it has the Old Railway route created by Cycling UK. I felt like I was in a renaissance oil painting at times because the sights were so beautiful. Make sure to get out early to admire the sights as it gets very busy in August.
Mentioned on
Brockenhurst, located in the New Forest in Hampshire, England, is known for its stunning natural beauty and charming village setting. It has been recognized as one of the most beautiful places to live in Britain. The village is frequented by wild ponies, donkeys, and other animals from the New Forest National Park. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque Rhinefield Ornamental Drive that starts in Brockenhurst.
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Lyndhurst, located in Hampshire, England, is a significant village and civil parish within the New Forest National Park. It's often referred to as the 'Capital of the New Forest' and is home to the New Forest District Council and Court of Verderers. With a rich history dating back to William the Conqueror's royal hunting forest designation in 1079, Lyndhurst attracts numerous tourists who come to explore its shops, cafes, and museums.
Wildlife refuge
Sights & Landmarks
Hiking area
Historic Walking Areas
Embark on the Solent Way, a circular 5-mile walk starting from Bournemouth station that leads you into the lush New Forest National Park. This route offers diverse landscapes, from heathlands to thick forests, and takes you through Denny Wood for an extended exploration of England's beautiful woodlands.
Friday 16th February 2024 and a really good day. I could hear my own footsteps as well as the sound of the geese and the Oyster Catcher's. I walked from Lymington and walked as far as Keyhaven and this was when it got interesting. There is a sign in Keyhaven that says " Cycle Path to Lymington". I ignored it , walked around the harbour, followed the map or so I thought, walked past the Gun Inn pub and discovered a footpath sign and assumed it would be the pathway I wanted to walk back to Lymington. Please don't laugh, I ended up in Great New bridge copse and I think I am the first person to leave a review of it on Google. I definitely walked my 10,000 step's today. The copse is very muddy. I would like to say I completed the walk around the nature reserve but I didn't and got my boots muddy( and my hands when I did an uncontrolled skid and dive ) The walk around the nature reserve was great and peaceful. Even the dog's were friendly. All in all a great way to spend a Friday on a winter's day. 🌟🌟Thursday 9th May 2024. I decided to complete the 10 km walk on what has proved to be the hottest day of the year so far. I started out in Lymington and reached the " cycle path to Lymington" sign. I think the road is originally a single lane road that has been handed over to cyclist's and walker's. A lot of the track reverts to shingle and clearly flooded during the winter. Along the way
back to Lymington i saw a pheasant, numerous horse's and great countryside, field's and a great view of the coast path in the distance. It is a long walk but should be easier if you cycle. A lot of the tarmac route can be avoided if you become adventurous and explore the pathways as well. Obviously I didn't use Pennington car park but it seemed popular and would be really convenient for people walking around this side of the marshes. The walking route around is well signposted and quite easy to follow. The route is advertised as 10km The the route back to Lymington from Keyhaven does feel shorter. . The pathway's link up so you don't have to walk the whole way. The next stage is a Lymington to Hurst Castle walk. I have happy memories of walking the shingle spit 🤣 . Great for the leg muscles.
Ian C — Google review
Great place to visit. Especially if want to be close to nature, have great contrasting colours, see birds etc
We walked around Keyhaven Marshes. Even with not so great weather it was beautiful. We saw loads of different birds, most we couldn't put names to!! However we did pick out avocets and great egrets!
Absolutely stunning walkway! Easy to keep on walking and walking and before you know it you have covered 10 miles plus! The marshlands are littered with wild horses, birds and stunning scenery which stretches to the Isle of Wight needles! We walked along here in January and the wind was bitterly cold so wrap up warm and wear sensible foot wear as it gets incredibly muddy! One of the most enjoyable sea walks I have done!
Lovely little place, we viaited on a warm sunny day. Walked the dogs to the harbour where you can get a Ferry to Hurst Castle. There is alsoa light house. Good car park too
We love coming her.
The car park is close and the toilets get cleaned regularly but be aware you can't park by the bridge for free any more.
The Solent way gives you a good walk; bike ride; or even a run. Plenty to see and if your like us there is plenty of bird spotting to be done.
Beautiful scenery, lovely walks and great views of the Isle of Wight and The Needles and the marshlands are a wonderful haven for many different birds.
Great for dog walkers and families but not wheelchair friendly.
Great day out, nice walk around and identified 35 different species of birds. Level walking in a variety of habitats, views of the Isle of Wight, Hurst Castle and boats.
to Lymington section, Milford on Sea, United Kingdom•
Mentioned on
Lymington is a charming port town located on the west bank of the Lymington River in Hampshire, England. It offers a car ferry service to Yarmouth, Isle of Wight and is part of the civil parish of Lymington and Pennington. Visitors can easily access Lymington by coach or bus with National Express and Megabus connecting it to major hubs like Ringwood and Bournemouth.
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Beaulieu, a charming village in Hampshire, England, is nestled on the southeastern edge of the picturesque New Forest. It boasts attractions like Palace House and the renowned National Motor Museum. In 2020, it was recognized as one of the most beautiful villages in the UK and Ireland by Condé Nast Traveler. The Beaulieu Festive Fayre is a must-visit Christmas market set amidst this stunning location in the New Forest National Park.
Mentioned on
Bolderwood, located in the New Forest of Hampshire, is home to a popular deer sanctuary featuring a public observation platform. The area's car park is the most frequented in the entire forest. A short and easy walking trail known as the Radnor Trail takes visitors through Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, where they can stroll amidst sweet chestnut, oak, and beech trees that have been around since the 1860s.
Garden
Nature & Parks
Botanical garden
Scenic Railroads
Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway is a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The expansive woodland gardens feature a diverse collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, rare trees, and shrubs. With over 22 miles of pathways to explore, visitors can wander through wildflower, formal, and herbaceous gardens. The highlight for many is the narrow-gauge steam railway that takes passengers on a scenic 1 mile journey through the picturesque landscape.
A woodland garden with paved, gravel and grassy walks.
Dogs allowed on leads.
Wheelchair access is great on the tarmac, but variable on gravel, dependent on the strength of the pusher in loose stuff but fine where the paths are compacted by vehicles. Grass is OK in dry weather. The car park is relatively uncompacted gravel.
The sundial garden, with a tiny cafe in a lovely setting, and the art gallery are two highlights.
The two times of year to aim for are spring, for the azaleas and rhododendrons and the autumn for stunning tree colour.
David W — Google review
Had a really great day out in the gardens. Lots of lovely walking trails with fantastic views across the river. The gardens look very good even though it is the end of the summer. Had drinks and a snack in the old tennis courts. The restaurant looks nice as well. Ride on the steam train was very enjoyable. Dogs are welcome in all areas. You can also use the Gardener's World 241 card, what a great place.
Spent an absolutely cracking day visiting Exbury. It's an enormous site, 80-ish hectares. You can easily spend the entire day here exploring. Obviously, different things are going to be in bloom at different times so there's always going to be something interesting to see throughout the year. Paths are a mixture of surfaces: e.g., tarmac/pebble so book/hire an all terrain scooter if you or someone with you needs it. Dogs on a lead are welcome. Doggos are even allowed on the choo-choo (£7/per person extra). Loads of space for kids to exhaust themselves plus they have a dedicated play area and log trail. The usual amenities: loads of parking, restaurant, gift shop, plants for sale. Toilets are modern and everything works. Top tip: Gardener's World 2:1 is accepted and provides great VFM. Loads of activities throughout the year so check what's on via their website. All in all, a brilliant place to visit. Would deffo visit again...it must look stunning in the spring.
First time visitors to the gardens and definitely not the last! We booked the Halloween train and it exceeded expectations- the actors were amazing and turned up the scare-factor by jumping out and as my kids are age 10 and 13, so they loved it! They didn’t jump out for the younger children though so mindful of ages.
The gardens are beautiful in their autumnal glory and looking forward to re-visiting next year.
We had such a wonderful time at Exbury Gardens. The combination of the beautiful gardens and the steam railway was perfect for me and my son. He absolutely loved the train ride, and we enjoyed the scenic walks. It's a great place for children to run around and explore. A truly memorable day!
Lovely visit at the end of summer. We were trained in horticulture, many years ago!! So we know our stuff and thought that Exbury was one of the best gardens we had visited.
We particularly enjoyed the wide selection of trees.
We know less about fungi and enjoyed seeing so many different varieties and were so lucky to have picked this time of year when we could see so many.
We also enjoyed the specialist Nerine plant exhibition and bought a few to take home.
We would like to add how lovely and dog friendly the gardens are too.
A great day out.
Had an amazing day at the gardens today. Lovely walks exploring the gardens with my girls. There was a Halloween 👻 trail and the ghost train quite frankly was amazing. A reall treat there must have been a lot of planning and effort gone into this. Got chatting with Dave who has a real passion for his railway and engines. We’ll be back!
Have been when the gardens were in full flower so nice to see the changes the autumn brings. Train had been adapted to ghost train and the actors kept us entertained throughout. Gardens beautiful as ever and the Nerines exhibition was a nice addition to our day.
Exbury, Southampton, SO45 1AF, United Kingdom•
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Heritage building
Historical landmark
Hurst Castle, located at the end of a shingle spit near Lymington in the New Forest, is a hidden gem with a rich history. Built as a defense fortress by Henry VIII, it features impressive 38-ton guns and offers visitors an opportunity to explore its military past. Accessible via a scenic walk from Milford-on-Sea or a passenger ferry from Keyhaven, the castle also houses a lighthouse exhibition and cafe.
Hurst Castle is a great place to visit.
My husband and I took the kids and we all had such a lovely day.
We parked up at keyhaven and took the ferry which was great fun.
The castle has so much to see and stunning views of the needles/Isle of Wight and the fabulous lighthouse.
Staff were friendly and sociable.
We stopped for lunch in the castle and sat at one of the benches provided.
After we saw everything at the castle, we took a walk to the lighthouse and put our feet in the lovely clear water which the kids loved.
We have all said that it is one of the best places we've visited so far and already want to plan a future trip back here.
We are members of the English heritage and we got in for free, we only paid for the ferry crossing which was pretty good price wise.
All in all a great cheap family day out with lots to see and admire.
Hannah F — Google review
Really enjoyed it here, a mix of the old and the more modern, great history. We caught the little ferry boat over which was lovely, we were going to go back the same way but decided to walk back along the spit, was about 2 miles out in the open and shingle all the way, was very windy on the way back but a nice walk none the less. It's a bit of a gem and not over priced, definitely worth reading all the signs to learn about the history and the changes the castle went through.
I enjoyed my visit immensely. A great place to bring children to run around, although I suggest you use the ferry with the little ones as its a 2 mile walk from the carpark. Completely dog friendly I brought mine. He enjoyed sniffing around the rooms but was impatient to move on. So I photographed the information panels for later. There's a very small cafe and the toilets are open to the elements.
Hurst Castle is an absolute gem. The walk from the car park to the castle is about 2 miles with lovely views of the Needles. You can get the ferry from Keyhaven to save on the walk. Once inside the castle, there’s so much to explore and the exhibitions are well presented and bring the stories of the castle to life.
The views from the castle walls are breathtaking and you can see across to the Isle of Wight and watch the boats sail by.
I’d highly recommend bringing a picnic and spending a few hours wandering, learning, and soaking up the atmosphere. A brilliant day out for families, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys a walk.
We took the ferry across and then spent about 3 hours wandering round. Lots of different bits to see but the highlight are the views over to the Isle of White and the lighthouse.
There is a little cafe out front and some rustic toilets inside. If you intend on being there over lunch I’d suggest bringing lunch with you.
Great morning out looking around this castle.
Got the ferry there snd back which was great fun.
Lovely views from the top of the castle overlooking isle of wight and beyond.
Lot's of information given as you walk around.
Great place to explore, by foot over shingle spit or by little boat. Lots of rooms to explore and learn history of the building, surrounding area and lighthouses in general. We had great time.
This Castle has a lot to offer. Its history and role during various wars is well explained at various points inside the castle. There are many sections accessible only through narrow stairs. On an upper level there are lovely views across to Hust Beach and Keyhaven. In the other direction there is a clear view of the Isle of Wight.
Milford on Sea, Lymington, SO41 0TP, United Kingdom•
Vista point
Nature & Parks
Hiking area
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, located just outside Lyndhurst, Hampshire, is famous for its herd of Fallow deer. The deer are fed daily by a friendly local New Forest keeper between April and September, making them accustomed to human observers. Visitors can enjoy clear views of the herd from a large deer viewing platform. The sanctuary offers graded walks suitable for all abilities among tall trees, making it a popular spot for families in the New Forest.
Wonderful walk in the woods. You probably won't see deer unless early morning or late evening. Plenty of parking. Toilets and refreshment stand. 3 trails. Though plan ahead as it's not clearly signed which colour is which!
Duncan H — Google review
Lovely walk in a peaceful area but sadly we only saw one deer 😔 the route isn't sign posted so we did get a bit lost at one stage.
The ice cream truck in the car park had some delicious flavours and even one for the dog! Can get quite busy and difficult to park but just depends on timing.
This is one of my favourite stops for a walk in the New Forest. There are toilets and a coffee truck with yummy treats. There is also a viewing point to watch the deer in the sanctuary.
Very busy at the weekend but well worth a weekday visit or get there early!!
Part of the New Forest and absolutely gorgeous 😍 several walk ways you can take around the park over varying times. There is a deer viewing area designated to spotting deer, but you can see them in and around the park whilst walking. There are wild horses about, too. Plenty of benches to sit around the park and the car park is completely free. Little coffee and ice cream shop in the car park is lovely
A lovely deer sanctuary. We headed here for a short walk and to hopefully see some deer. There was no deer by the deer platform, but we did spot some in the fields near the paths. There's plenty of paths, including some decent, stony ones. There's plenty of space in the carpark and toilets. There's also lots of grass for children to run around on and build dens.
This place is free to enter. It has a lovely drive up with lots of great views. Wild horses just roaming around on the drive up. There are many different parks of the forest you can park in. We followed one of the trails but unfortunately all the deers were hiding. Nice to kills some time just roaming around with nature 🍄🟫
Lovely walk through lovely forest areas. The deer viewing platform is a 2 minute walk, easily accessible and we saw a few bucks. No cycling in the forest either so no worries about being flattened by speedy/jumping cyclists either.
Beautiful forest walk . The carpark was busy as we came on a Saturday, saw a young deer at the beginning as we arrived..sadly nothing after that! It's very dry in the forest & understandably the tap in the toilets for washing hands was not working!! But there is a small mobile coffee place , ice cream a bit expensive. We appreciated the natural beauty of the area & took the chance to donate voluntarily via text or QR code .
Bolderwood Arboretum Ornamental Dr, Lyndhurst, SO43 7GE, United Kingdom•
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11Burley
Burley is a charming village and civil parish located in the New Forest, Hampshire, England. With its ancient origins and tourist-oriented atmosphere, it offers visitors a unique experience. The area is known for its little shops selling trinkets related to witches and fairies, reflecting the local folklore about these mythical beings. Visitors can also rent bikes from Forest Leisure Cycling to explore the picturesque surroundings of trees and heather-covered heaths along designated cycling routes.
Nature preserve
Keyhaven Marshes is a breathtaking destination that showcases the beauty of coastal marshlands and mudflats, making it an essential stop for nature lovers. This area is rich in biodiversity, attracting thousands of seabirds and waders, particularly during winter when you can spot brent geese, dunlin, and black-tailed godwits feeding in the tranquil surroundings. The stunning views across the Solent to Hurst Castle and the Isle of Wight add to its charm.
Lovely walk and great for bird watching.
Spoonbill, grey plover, wood sandpiper, snipe, oystercatcher, curlews , lapwings, ring plover, turnstones & many more.
Carpark expensive at £4 for 2 hours.
You can also get a ferry to Hurst Castle.
Julie S — Google review
We had a great bird watching walk here in January. Highly recommended year round. Snipes, Curlews and Turnstones made to the list with a variety of other waders and ducks.
I had just a few days in the area and spent a half day walking the marshes. Time well spent. Absolutely breathtaking. Good for a meditative walk by yourself, a jog, or a walk with a friend.
Amazing. For anyone interested in bird photography, you won't have time to put the camera down. How I wish I lived within walking distance... So many firsts for me, in just the 4 hours I spent there.
Really good walk.
Great for bird watching.
Good path.
Circular walk.
Parking at harbour.
Toilets at harbour.
Pub at harbour!!
easy walk and superb for birds, over 30 species seen including avocet, brent geese and pintail. lots of waders and ducks
Beautiful location with a lots to do including kite surfing, walking, bird watching and much more.
Beautiful views around sunset at the marshes. Some friendly cows about too.
Unnamed Road, Lymington, SO41 0TR, United Kingdom•
Mentioned on
Milford on Sea is a charming coastal village and civil parish located in the New Forest district on the Hampshire coast, England. With a population of 4,660, it offers a relaxed atmosphere and vibrant menu featuring dishes made with New Forest ingredients cooked in a wood-fired oven. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as walking paths around the village and along the coast, crabbing at Sturt Pond Bridge, or relaxing by the Solent while kids play in the playground.
Wildlife and safari park
Outdoor Activities
Playgrounds
Zoos
Other Nature & Parks
Nestled in ancient woodland, New Forest Wildlife Park is a haven for diverse wildlife and endangered species. Visitors can engage in keeper experiences and explore the Nature Trail that winds through the wooded grounds, offering glimpses of otters, wolves, lynx, wallabies, and owls. The park also houses a variety of animals ranging from the massive Eurasian Bison to the tiny Harvest Mouse.
Me and my daughter took part in the keeper experience with Tristan. His attention to detail about all the animals was quite frankly amazing.
Feeding the otters, watching the bison and training Copper the fox were all a delight……..not forgetting the Wolverine!
Would highly recommend to all.
Hannah G — Google review
Visited today with my otter-obsessed teenage daughters (13 & 15) for a keeper experience with the Giant Otters and the Asian Short Clawed Otters.
We had the best day! Ali (our keeper) was so friendly and knowledge. Since it was a quiet day (lots of rain previously), she arrived with fish for the otters, but also food for the ferrets, polecats and deer (this ended up being a favourite as we got to hand feed and stroke the most beautiful fallow deer!)
The park is fantastic. The enclosures really feel like part of the surroundings, and none of the animals seemed stressed (unlike in some zoos!). They do a lot of rehabilitation work, and support rescue organisations with rehoming etc.
Honestly, I wish we’d come sooner! If you have kids that love animals, definitely visit. They have fantastic play areas as well as it being pretty accessible, and unlike some places is family-owned, so every visit matters.
We will definitely return - probably for another keeper experience as we’ve been spoiled now. Thank you to the team there (including the really lovely lady at the entrance!) - you’re a credit to the park 🫶
Visited New Forest Wildlife Park and had a great time exploring the grounds. Loved seeing beautiful animals like lynx and wolves up close in natural-looking enclosures. The park is peaceful, well maintained, and set in a lovely forest environment. Staff were friendly and knowledgeable.
Perfect spot for families or anyone who enjoys wildlife and nature walks. Highly recommend for a relaxing and interesting day out!
We booked a Keepers Experience for 2 of us for 2 hours. Ben was out keeper and it was his first time. He did extremely well. Very knowledgeable and friendly. We got to feed so many varieties of animals. It was very interesting. Highly recommend.
We had a lovely day. My chukcren especially enjoyed listening to the keeper talks and watching the animals being fed. Would have been 5 stars but there were a few animals which are not there currently which I was unaware of. May have missed this info on their website. Also was quite a cold day so would have been good to have been able to order hot drinks half way round.
An amazing wildlife park with beautiful well cared for animals and excellent knowledgeable friendly keepers.
We visit most weeks as annual member holders and throughly enjoy it just as much every time- and always see something different! The keeper talks are always informative and interesting and learn something new.
Their conversation work is amazing and it’s brilliant to see all the animals thriving. If I had to choose a favourite animal it would be the elusive Eurasian otter Chestnut but closely followed by the noisy Giant otter family- but love all of the animals.
I will continue to visit as frequently and renew when the year is up- I’m very excited to see what they have planned next. Keep up the great work.
A lovely few hours spent here today. My granddaughter loved seeing so many well cared for animals up close. The young man doing the deer talk was really good and he interacted with the children. We could like to come back and do a keeper experience as this looked really good.
My granddaughter drew sketches and wrote notes on the animals and she is only 6! A great day out.
A brilliant morning out. We bought our tickets in advance on the website so it was quick to get in. It was brilliant to see all of the otters and to see them being fed at 11 was a highlight as a keen otter lover. Place was quite easy to walk around and explore with no real steep inclines. Got to get close to the deer and were even able to pet one! It was disappointing to not see the wallabies not sure where they were hiding. There’s lots of things and places to keep kids entertained and overall a really good value experience.
Deerleap Ln, Southampton, SO40 4UH, United Kingdom•
Woods
Denny Wood offers an enchanting circular walk that spans approximately 5 miles, immersing you in the stunning landscapes of New Forest National Park. This trail is a nature lover's paradise, showcasing diverse wildlife and a rich variety of native trees and wildflowers. As you wander through heathlands and dense forests, you'll encounter winding paths, elevated banks, and charming footbridges that enhance your adventure.
Great way to to relax for a day or even over the weekend. There is a short trip from London (only 1.5H). Brockenhurst, it got beautiful nature landscapes and mostly whats beautiful it is... Are freely walking horses around. Whomever, love nature and horses will like to escape to recharge in New Forest. Recommended
Anna K — Google review
Mainly decideous area of the forest with lots of old oaks and beech - quite a few deer here too. There is an old track that heads north east starting on the opposite side of the road from the water tank above Denny Lodge, that will take you all the way to Beaulieu Road station and the pub - see if you can spot the old GPO markers along the way.
Great location for a walk . You can walk for miles or cycle . Well sign posted
Seems to be a nice tidy Campsite although personally I've never stayed here only passed through, although this Campsite isn't too far from matley Wood Campsite which is only further down the road.
Nice quiet area, to chill, and take in nature's wonder.
It's one of many carparks in the NF
Beautiful place to relax and have picnic or just run or walk with dog.
Love this walk
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16Fritham
Mentioned on
Nestled in the picturesque Hampshire countryside, Fritham is a charming village located in the northern part of the New Forest, close to the Wiltshire border. This quaint locale is a haven for walkers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering an enchanting circular route that showcases stunning views across Fritham Plain. As you embark on this invigorating four-mile trek, you'll be greeted by vibrant autumn colors and delightful landmarks at every turn.
Tours
Specialty Museums
Boat Tours
Bucklers Hard is a charming hamlet located on the picturesque Beaulieu River in Hampshire, England. This historic village features stunning Georgian cottages that line the riverbank, creating a postcard-worthy scene. As part of the expansive Beaulieu Estate, Bucklers Hard offers visitors a glimpse into its past as an 18th-century shipbuilding hub through attractions like the Maritime Museum.
Temporarily Closed
Wildlife refuge
Nature & Parks
National park
Wildlife park
Nature & Wildlife Areas
The New Forest Reptile Centre, located near Lyndhurst, is a seasonal conservation center dedicated to British amphibians, lizards, and snakes. It offers an exciting experience for families with its diverse range of reptiles and a forest trail for exploration. Visitors can observe hopping frogs and slithering serpents while also enjoying the surrounding woodland on foot or by bike. The center features live wildlife cameras for glimpses of elusive creatures like lizards and toads in their natural habitat.
Great if you are interested in herpetology and reptiles of Britain. Was great to see adders, toads, frogs, lizards etc., and also to enjoy a walk around the nature trail and see beautiful trees and enjoy the New Forest.
The staff were friendly and informative and there was a pony that came up to see if you had any food to spare - very clear signs saying not to feed the ponies.
FOYFAMFAMBO T — Google review
Loved our visit here. Such a delight especially having knowledgable volunteers on hand!
A converted horse box/drinks provision would be the icing on the cake! 😉
knowledgeable and friendly volunteers! just be aware that there are very few animals left after a rat invasion… we managed to see a couple of frogs with the help of other visitors! spent about 10/15 minutes here
Really nice place, would recommend going on a sunny day as more creatures to see as didn't see much as was very cloudy when we went an rained. Some food pic ic tables and forest walks to do as well. Dog friendly and wheelchair accessible.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Unfortunately, the reptiles were a bit shy on the day we visited, so we didn't see any. Free entry and parking, so nothing lost, worth a visit if you're in the area.
Brilliant place to go to with a toddler. Saw a fair few things basking in the sunshine. Then got a map with details of what to look out for from the rspb hut and followed the reptile red trail on 1.5 miles. We spotted ponies and newts on the trail too. And it's all free!!
What a great place to see the reptiles from the UK! Lovely staff who are very knowledgeable and are very happy to fill you up with information.
Loved seeing the adders and baby adders basking in the sunshine and the other snakes too.
Very interesting learning the difference between a toad and a frog.
Local species for all to see (as long as you have good eyesight 🤓) Super helpful volunteers, pointing out the different reptiles and giving us the lowdown on the centre. Mapped out walk through parts of the forest, highlighted with areas of interest. And dog friendly 🐶 which was a must for us as we're on a family holiday. All for the price of a donation!!
A35 Bournemouth Rd, Lyndhurst, SO43 7GR, United Kingdom•
Park
Blackwater Arboretum is a protected forest in the New Forest, featuring trails that lead through some of the oldest Douglas Fir trees in the country. The arboretum boasts a spectacular collection of enormous redwoods, sequoia, and Douglas fir trees, creating an enchanting backdrop for nature lovers. Visitors can also admire unique trees from around the world, including coastal redwoods and towering Douglas firs.
Love this place! Well maintained. Beautiful trees!
Coffee and ice cream van at the parking is great after long walks.
Be aware of ticks! For the first time during 10 years we’ve got 2 in one go.
Linda E — Google review
A beautiful location for a family day out or a romantic walk. There's 3 car parks which are usually busy, so I advise to arrive early. You have more chances to find a space in the smaller car parks which is the 1st one off the main road. In the main car park there's usually a coffee truck and ice cream. Picnic tables are also next to the main car park.
This is a stunning part of the New Forest with beautiful trails. The Tall Tree Trail is a personal favourite of mine, flanked by giant redwood trees it really feels magical to walk amongst these majestic trees. I grew up close to the New Forest and often return as it’s such a special place. This area, as well as Ornamental Drive are well worth visiting.
Just magical, so beautiful to walk around. This is an enclosed/gated area part-way along the Tall Trees Trail, only takes 15 minutes to walk around and then re-join the main trail. Lots of interesting information boards along the way.
We visited from an Airbnb in Portsmouth. It took us about an hour to get there, but it was well worth the trip! A great place to escape into nature in the picturesque New Forest. We did both the Tall trees trail and Arboretum trail in about 2 hours and this was with plenty stops for chats on the benches and little diversions walking more into the forest. It’s just be right amount of walk if you’re looking for something light but energetic. There were toilets and a van serving ice cream with a small choice of dairy-free and gluten free options too and plenty of picnic benches dotted around. We ended the trip with a coffee trip into the nearby village of Lyndhurst. Well worth the visit!
A great walk around some beautiful countryside, pretty flat so easy for all ages. Lots to take in and explore. Can imagine it would be beautiful whatever the season.
Amazing place to go for a walk. I will coming back soon. It has public toilets. And there is a small food truck that has all the essentials. Ice cream, coffee, snacks Great place !
The trail is very well-maintained with various species of trees from around the world located along the yellow path. An ice cream van and restrooms are available on-site, as well as free parking.
Rhinefield Ornamental Dr, Brockenhurst, SO42 7QB, United Kingdom•
Scenic spot
National park
Wilverley Inclosure is a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This enchanting woodland area features a three-mile loop that begins at the car park, guiding you along a wide gravel path through lush, dense forests. The trail includes some gentle inclines to get your heart pumping while remaining accessible for buggies. You can complete the walk in about an hour, but feel free to explore additional paths if you're looking to extend or shorten your adventure.
I enjoy coming here for a stroll with new forest ponies roaming freely and for the runners out there it’s also a great place for a park run
Mike B — Google review
If you get the opportunity this is a must walk in the most fabulous scenery. The trees and the landscape are simply awesome. It's a good solid route to walk, or cycle or whatever you choose. A great circular hike that I highly recommend
So beautiful at sunset and always ponies. Love the trees
Great walks.
One of my favourite spots in the New Forest. Beautiful scenery and great walks.
Easy access, free parking close to gate, nice landscapes for both walking and cycling..
Such a beautiful place for a leisurely stroll . Lots of bird song to listen to. Gentle two mile walk on good paths.
Beautiful and peaceful place for a walk with ponies walking around.
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Mentioned on
Fordingbridge is a charming town located on the banks of the River Avon, at the edge of the New Forest in Hampshire, England. The town is renowned for its late medieval seven-arch bridge, which spans the river and adds to its picturesque appeal. Originally known as 'Forde,' Fordingbridge gained its name from this historic river crossing.
22Lepe
Mentioned on
Located in south-west Hampshire, England, Lepe is a charming linear hamlet nestled on the Solent. It is part of the civil parish of Exbury and Lepe and boasts the picturesque Lepe Country Park that stretches from Stanswood Bay to the Beaulieu River mouth. The area offers stunning views of the Isle of Wight and provides ample opportunities for bird watching.
Southampton, SO45 1AD, UK
Mentioned on
Barton on Sea is a charming cliff-top village nestled in Hampshire, England, just north of New Milton. With roots tracing back to the Anglo-Saxon era, this picturesque destination boasts stunning clay cliffs that cradle a delightful beach below. The area is rich in natural history and offers an array of coastal walks perfect for exploring the breathtaking scenery.
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Amusement park
Paultons Park, home of Peppa Pig World, is a popular family theme park located in Ower near Romsey, England. The park offers over 50 attractions and rides including three roller coasters, two water rides, a vertical-drop ride, and a splash park. Visitors can also enjoy animal feeding and explore beautiful gardens. Additionally, the New Forest Golf Club nearby provides an opportunity for golf enthusiasts to experience a picturesque 18-hole course within the natural forest surroundings.
Coming from Canada this was a big part of our trip for our child and the park didn't let down. Cleanliness seemed as a top priority and all the staff experiences were pleasant.
Food was decent and priced as you would think an amusement park would.
Bathrooms and smoking areas available across the park.
The Peppa Pig portion is where we spent most of our day and it was well kept and looked up to date.
Al. M — Google review
You need more than a day to explore everything here!! That was our only complain. It is a great place to spend time with kids. No water related rides/pools for adults which we found disappointing as we came prepared for one (without checking in detail online). That's why the 4 star. There's a splash area for kids and that's it for anything water related as far as I can tell. Would give it 5 star purely for everything kids related. There's lots to explore here. I read on one the reviews to get a packed lunch and I'm glad I read it and we did bring something to eat during the day which did save us some ££!!. We went on a weekday during the school holidays and it wasn't that crowded. Parking is hassle free and they guide you to an empty spot. We went to Peppa Pig World first and managed to get on few of the rides without queuing for long. We found this to be better than Legoland based on our overall experience. Would be going back to explore the unexplored sections/rides hopefully soon!!
Paultons Park is a beautiful, well kept and very themed in the seperate of areas in the park. There is so so many family rides what everyone can enjoy. The ride access pass was so easy to use. The food in the Route 83 diner was really nice. Amazing price value in the shop & food outlets. The toilets was very clean. If the rides are getting to much you have got the gorgeous well kept gardens and animals to walk round. Paultons deserved the best theme park of the year as I had no faults with anything. 🤍
Stunning grounds, went in the summer and it was beautiful just been now(end October)and the work they have put into the grounds for Halloween are fantastic, great to see all the kids excited even before they got to the rides...
So clean, the ground staff do an amazing job..
Definitely buy tickets in advance.
And I would advise to take food and drink with u as it is a bit pricey.
It's a cashless site but you can get a card on entry and put cash on it
Great theme park, not only for younger kids but also for big boys along with adults. Went in Halloween and it was all Pumpkins everywhere. Nicely decorated, enough rides. Visited for 2 days with short break, but if either young or old kids only or if managed properly, all rides and parks can be covered in a day.
Ample free parking, easy check in, well done with the halloween theme, waits on some rides are reasonable. Their phone app is super useful showing locations and waiting times. Staff is friendly, rides are all safe, place and toilets are clean. On stage shows were entertaining. Great place for a family day.
What a lovely experience for my little man, even we the parent joined in and had good fun. The organisation was excellent, friendly people good atmosphere. The fact that you get to ride on all the rides and fun fair they have to offer.Definitely recommending and we will be going again that is if mummy pig decide to have fourth piglet
The rides are good, waiting times not too bad. A spacious site with plenty of places to get food and drink. Ive reduced by 2 stars as, when my son lost his phone on a ride, they couldn't be less interested if they tried. They said there was nothing theu could do and didn't take our details in case they did find it. I do understand that this probably happens all the time but also bit of compassion isn't hard. Won't be going back.
Romsey, SO51 6AL, United Kingdom•
National museum
Nature & Parks
Museum
Gardens
Specialty Museums
The National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, originally founded by Edward Montagu in 1952, boasts a remarkable collection of over 250 vehicles. From early motor cars to record-breaking machines like the Bluebird, the museum showcases a diverse range of automobiles. Visitors can also explore the World of Top Gear with their admission ticket, which includes access to Abbey and Palace House. Additionally, there are plenty of nearby attractions for day trips such as The New Forest Wildlife Park and Paultons Park.
A great museum full of exhibits from all eras. So much to see and do. The monorail is amazing,offering great views of the gardens and museum.
The abbey ruins is a beautiful place too and the information available about the monks and their life is great to read.
We were fortunate to visit during Halloween season so we're treated to ghost stories presented by a member of the Montague family,he was a great story teller and really captured the spooky atmosphere. It was the highlight of our visit,both children and adults sat,eyes wide open,listening to his spooky tales.
A must visit museum if you're in the New Forest,loads to see and will easily fill a day.
Thanks to all at Beaulieu for a great visit.
Antony S — Google review
Amazing place! Came for my birthday and had an amazing time.
Loved the vintage bus (Ellis was fantastic and credit to you) and very convenient for the mother in law who can’t walk very far.
Very interesting on all aspects of the site from the cars (what I came for) and the Abbey and Palace House.
Always enjoy coming here, attended for the Formula 1 75 exhibition, but also had a look at all the cars on display.
Enjoyed the monorail ride a look round the house and gardens, sad there was no classic cars out and about...
Food was good and tasty 😋
Staff were chatty and knowledgeable and helpful.
Overall a lovely day despite the weather
I thought it was a bit pricey to get in but we did spend most of the day there.
We took the dog as we were visiting on our way home from holiday accommodation. The dog wasn't allowed on the bus, Monorail, main museum or house. Which meant I did a lot of waiting around with her.
The cafe is expensive. £5 for a sandwich so would advise bringing your own. Tea for 3 , four sandwich outers and an apple juice, £38.
The children loved the play area but we didn't take them to the house as we kind of ran out of time and wasn't sure how interested they'd be.
They also enjoyed seeing Harry Potter's car and the, 'I had one of those' exhibition where you can get in the cars!
The staff we came across were friendly and helpful.
Whole area is clean and well tended.
I took my 6 year old daughter for her first visit (but far from mine) and she absolutely loved it! The weather held good despite the late October timing.
She loved seeing Mr Bean's car and the Disney display but her highlight (and mine, to be fair) was riding on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The driver was a blast and it was so cool to learn about the cars that were used in the film, and wave at everyone as we explored the grounds.
Beaulieu is one of my favourite places to visit when I'm in the UK and I think I can now say it is the same for my daughter.
Very highly recommended for anyone of any age.
Visiting this week in half term , my son wanted to see a Porsche 917 so I emailed before booking to confirm the car would
Be on display , very pleasant personal reply with confirmation. Don’t be put off with the price for the tickets . You will spend the whole day here so does represent great value for money . My children really enjoyed the “ we had one of those “ section as they could sit in the cars and experience the cars we grew up with .
Only points to mention , we had coffee and cake in the afternoon , rather pricey & the cakes were dry and not great . Also a lot of tables left uncleared and in places food on the floor under tables .
This is always a great visit and if you allow 'Gift Aid' your ticket becomes an annual pass (with some restrictions).
There's so much to see and do, it's well worth revisiting. There's a good café and on our last visit there were special additional exhibitions Formula 1 and Disney's 'Cars'. We and especially our grandson loved it.
Worth a visit and any number of re-visits - Visited on Saturday, 28/06/25. 3rd visit here and the first for about 11 years. Lovely weather, which always helps, and there was a Morgan owners meeting taking place, so there was more to see than normal. Parking is near the entrance, but uncovered. Bought the tickets online in advance, so you get a discount, and it's straightforward to get in. Once inside, the initial options are a Monorail and restaurant/toilet facilities. Very pricey for anything in the restaurant (£5 for 2 cans of soda), so suggest you bring your own. The monorail is an excellent way to get an overview of the site before exploring on foot, and the ride is included in the entry price and can be ridden more than once. The old Top Gear exhibition has been replaced in part by a new section of example cars from the 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's that you can get in and reminisce about (though these cars are in a bit of a state tbh). Beyond that, we visited the main museum, which hadn't changed much in the past 10 years, but had exhibits moved around. The F1 section was very good with more recent examples of cars, and whilst we visited, an excellent F1 Simulator which you can go in (you have to pre-book) for £15 for 15 mins. It's worth it, so suggest you book a slot as soon as you arrive. On this visit, we didn't have the time to explore the house and grounds, but there are some lovely walks to be had. The staff are all excellent and approachable, and friendly, and though I have been 3 times now, I would have no qualms about making future visits as there is generally a change each year.
John Montagu Building, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN, United Kingdom•
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Country park
Nature & Parks
Forests
Parks
Moors Valley Country Park & Forest is a sprawling park and woodland offering an array of activities for all ages. Families can enjoy wooden play structures like the Bewilderness climb and Crocodile Crossing, while thrill-seekers can tackle the Go Ape Tree Top Challenge. The park also features dedicated dog areas with refreshment stations, making it perfect for furry friends.
I hadn't visited in ages and I'll make sure I don't leave it too long before coming back. The amazing weather helped of course. Good to see they're reinvesting into the place with added installations, additional seating, and a refreshment stand on the play trail. Kids were happy and there are far worse surroundings. The woodland is beautiful. We parked offside and walked in which paid for the ice creams!
Tony C — Google review
Such a fabulous place for young children! Yes the parking charge is high but there is no entrance fee so it seemed good value to us, the one mile play trail of ten wooden structures to climb and explore dotted around the forest was the perfect length. Lovely park area near the main playground to bring a picnic etc. We didn't go on the train (costs extra) as there was more than enough to do without that.
Parking crazy expensive. I fully understand this is put towards maintaining the lovely area but I would prefer to pay a one off fee then relax knowing we aren't being charged by the minute/the longer we stay the more it costs.
We stayed for less than two hours, for a short walk around to break up a long journey and see if the go ape looked like something we could do with our kids on another visit or use our bikes in the area.
It cost us over £12 for the parking fee!
We won't be returning here unless we park outside if the area and walk/ride in.
Best day . It's so much to do. Kids were super excited all day. Staff super friendly, helpful. All facilities and area well looked after. Definitely worth it
Close drove to Southampton. Very big park with many free playgrounds and trails and few ££ activities. Big parking, toilets, cafes at the start. Bike rental available. No bins on whole trail only at the start so better buy cofee/ice creams and slushies on your way back. Toilets only at the start and close at 5.30.
This place is amazing ! I barely review much but what a place I was roaming around for hours,amazing views if you hike about abit there’s bike hire there go ape adventure trials with mini landrovers for kids 2 mini steam trains, cafes dotted about water stations and to top it off strangers wishing you good morning and good afternoon as you pass them by! Loved it here
Excuse my breathing I have copd
The park itself has a lovely range of activities walks with the wooden play activities, the playground, the train, Go ape has several different activities also. I have younger children who prefer the nets and while this can be busy as we went recently where there was a party of 30 usually it’s not quite that busy. The staff at the nets are very friendly. There are toilets, cafe although we’ve never eaten there we bring food and there is a great ice-cream kiosk too. I’d say too much too do in a day. The car park is however quite pricy. A few hours was £14 which when you’ve paid £50 for the nets feels a lot! But if you’re coming gotta walk that’s all your going to pay.
In my opinion the parking charges are a bit high. Overall a good place where you can spend the whole day walking around and let kids play in different playgrounds(free of charge). Of course there are some paid attractions like tree top nets , zip lines , mini golf , mini range rover trail and a mini steam train.
Horton Rd, Ashley Heath, Ringwood BH24 2ET, United Kingdom•
Nature & Parks
Farm
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Longdown Activity Farm is a family-friendly destination featuring farm animals, a trampoline barn, soft play area, produce shop and tearoom. Visitors can participate in daily activities such as feeding kid goats, calves and ducks, meeting pigs, and cuddling with baby rabbits, chicks and piglets at the baby animal encounter. The farm also offers tractor and trailer rides for an enjoyable afternoon.
What a great place! Very friendly staff, lots to do! We fed baby goats, calves, held chicks, it was fantastic! If you love feeding animals then this is the place for you! We also went on a tractor ride and me and my kids couldn’t stop laughing on it! It was a bumpy ride but one of the best tractor rides we have been on! If you then want your kids to let off some steam there is a huge play area with trampolines and a zip line! There is also a larger (cycle) go cart area as well as a smaller mini tractor area so it’s not just for little kids. There were donkeys ducks horses and the sweetest little piglets ever - so pleased we went as this is a gem!
Tabetha H — Google review
Loved it! Took my 7 year old daughter today and a fantastic place to visit. All the staff are friendly and the animals well kept and cared for. Feeding the animals is a great experience for the children. The play area is great to relax and watch the kids have fun with seating for picnics. The tractor trailer tour is fun and free! Plenty of emphasis on hygiene and the toilets were very clean when I visited.
Overall, I'd say a great place to visit for families with children of primary school age. You can easily go for the whole day but to be honest if not it's perfect for say 3 to 4 hours for a half day. Admission price is very reasonable and I feel excellent value for money. In summary, if you're in the area it's definitely worth a visit and my daughter can't wait to return.
Amazing!
We went with our 22 month old a couple of days ago. It was brilliant. Activities every half hour or so. You can spend hours here easily. It's well laid out, and tailored for the kids. There's quiet zones for the kids and a huge park and ride on toys, and go karts! There's also a gift shop with indoor play, and a cafe, and a farm shop. Very reasonably priced given what's included.
Fully recommend if you have children, and even if you don't we would still go!
Had a brilliant day out today with family, the youngest being 18 months old. Not too many animals but a fair bit of interaction with them which was nice. Lots of seating for picnics and resting, a nice big play area and trampolines, (not for over 90's tho) and the tractor ride was a "hang on for dear life" experience which we all thoroughly enjoyed, including the baby, lol. Am definitely coming back here again
Really brilliant day spent here with my almost 2 year old son. We went on the tractor ride, met lots of characters and fed lots of animals. The ducks all seemed a bit cramped but all of the other animals seemed to have lovely, clean and spacious areas. It was very sweet to be able to bottle feed the kids (baby goats 🐐) and ducks. It was a smaller site than I originally thought so managed to go around lots of times. Most of the staff were absolutely lovely, friendly and helpful.
What a great day out! With our lad who is just coming up to two years old, we had hours of fun. We went on a sunny Tuesday morning and turned out to be not busy at all. There was something different around every corner which included feeding goats, petting area, tractor rides and lots more, all included in the price. With friendly staff I Would highly recommend if you are thinking of going
We had such a fantastic day at Longdown Activity Farm with my 3-year-old son! He loved bottle-feeding the baby goats and calves, feeding the ducks, and exploring all the activities — from the brilliant sandpit and ride-on tractors to trampolines, play areas and even a tractor ride. There’s so much to do that kids never get bored! The animals all look well cared for and happy, not sad at all, which made the experience even more enjoyable. The staff are friendly, everything is clean and well-organised, and I really appreciated the many hand-washing stations with soap and sanitiser throughout the farm. A perfect family day out — we can’t wait to come back!
Superb day out. We go here every year. Lovely staff, plenty to do, hands on petting and fun for hours..well priced, not too busy amd an amazing farm shop to grab some treats. Perfect for toddlers up to big kids like us lot. Thanks guys. Always fun and a great mix with the park, tractor ride, petting, and not too much walking too. A gem of a place. See you next year 😊
Deerleap Ln, Ashurst, Southampton SO40 7EH, United Kingdom•
Museum
Specialty Museums
The Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum is a must-visit for motorcycle enthusiasts and families alike. Named after the legendary eleven-time British Champion, Sammy Miller, this museum boasts an impressive collection of fully restored motorcycles, including factory racers and exotic prototypes. What sets it apart is that almost every motorcycle in the museum is in full running order, making it a living museum. Kids can enjoy petting animals while learning about bikes, and there's also a cafe and craft shops to explore.
Since my husband is a motorcycle lover I thought it would be fun for him to visit this place during g our brief stay in the New Forest.
When I researched it and read the other reviews I had a good feeling that it would be an enjoyable experience, especially for him.
I did not expect that I would also love it as much as I did!
It is an incredibly well organised museum, with so much to see and be fascinated by. The way each section is arranged, the plaques by each model with interesting details and the other accessories which fill the spaces in between (which are all relevant to the concept of each section of the museum), make your visit even more fun and entertaining.
Already as you walk from the car park to the entrance at the rear of the building, you see some cool stuff (e.i. Retro petrol pumps and signs).
The staff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly and we had the pleasure of briefly seeing Mr. Miller himself in the workshop, working on a bike. Definitely inspirational!
The museum is dog friendly (small dogs at least), we checked that before the visit, and when we went it was not too busy. However, I can imagine that in busy times it can get quite challenging to walk around with your dog, as the lanes can be narrow in certain parts.
We allocated a couple of hours to visit the whole museum, but we could have easily stayed longer as there’s so much to see, read and immerse yourself in.
The outside space is also very nice, unfortunately the little shops were closed when we came out of the museum but we got to enjoy a scone and a tea at cafe adjacent to the museum(where there’s also the section with the animals).
My husband enjoyed it a lot and I honestly did too!
Giovina G — Google review
Went here for the Kickback weekend. Really brilliant museum, so much to see. We didn't get to see it all so definitely be going back again. Set in the New forest. Really good and alot of information. There is a cafe and gift shop.
Brilliant display of motorbikes. Very varied ranging from the very early years upto modern times. Easy to get around the ground floor. Stairs to upper level. Very well lit and easy access to the bikes. Great value for money. The bikes are immaculate. Lots of engines and cut away engines and gearboxes on display.
Decent car park. Excellent cafe, reasonable prices, good quality.
We visited for the first time last weekend (7th September) it was well worth the entrance fee. Hundreds of bikes and met some very interesting like minded people. Highlight of the trip was meeting and chatting to Sammy Miller! ...made my day! We will most definitely be back!
Took my dad for a visit, he absolutely loved it, so many motorcycles dating back to the year dot. Really good set up. Look out for the trainee on the desk, the cutest meet and greeter ever 😍
The Sammy miller motorcycle museum is an absolute must for any motorcycle enthusiast, it displays over 520 bike going back as far as 1909 with only 6 non runners! All of the bikes are kept in beautiful condition. We were greeted by Mark and John when purchasing our tickets, they were both very friendly and had a great chemistry so they bounced off of each other with brilliant humour very well they were both very knowledgeable and happy to chat about Sammy and the bikes. Will definitely be visiting again.
This has always been one of my favourite places to guarantee a great day out. Even my non biker friends and family agree. The newly opened Pitstone cafe is a must. The wraps at lunch superb. The staff very friendly and catering for allergies. The motorcycle collection is always growing and some machinery to make you think of biking times gone past. Love the 900ss.
An absolute plethora of fantastic motorcycles and memorabilia all in near pristine condition. Really too much to take in in one visit, I will definitely be going back for a second look.
Bashley Cross Rd, Roads, BH25 5SZ, United Kingdom•
Country park
Nature & Parks
Park
Lepe Country Park is a historical and picturesque destination offering various activities for visitors. The park features remnants of the Mulberry Harbours from the D-Day landings, providing a glimpse into its wartime significance. Additionally, it holds historical connections to Queen Victoria's first view of the Isle of Wight and being one of the last spots where the Titanic was seen from mainland Britain.
My friend and I took the dogs to Lepe on a week day and although it was the Easter holidays it wasn't overly busy which was nice. There's lots of parking and we parked in the top car park where there is a lovely green area for picnics and far reaching views. .
We walked down past the cafe to the beach and turned to the left and had a lovely walk along the beach, down past the nature reserve. It's a lovely mixture of beach and countryside and of course the New Forest is just down the road for more lovely walks.
This is a hidden gem of a place, perfect for families. Parking was £8, there is an adventure play area for kids and there is a block of clean toilets just behind the cafe.
Anne C — Google review
Great place to park up and have a beach walk or picnic. Fantastic children's play area and cafe. Interesting d day info further along the beach
This place makes for a great day out, with a vast beach, views stretching over to the IOW and a modern cafe available to suit most tastes it’s a great spot to relax.
An easy car park makes access a breeze.
Lovely circular walk through the countryside and along the coast. Really easy 2hr walk.
Only downside with dogs is there's a lot of barbed wire fences, my Springer Spaniel got a cut on her back, luckily nothing serious.
This is a lovely park along the Solent. There is the beach (shingle), a sensory garden, paths through the woods, and a café (very clean, small shop). There is a car park (administered by Hampshire County Council = expensive)
Really nice place to spend the day! You have a few little beaches, multiple parks, a cafe and somewhere to get ice creams and a good amount of fields to set up! Highly recommend for the family
We would have given more than 5 stars if we could. The first thing we noticed was how clean it was, no litter anywhere. We visited the cafe and found the food to be of good quality and very reasonably priced, it is also dog friendly.
Did, the Lepe loop walk which was lovely. Coastal, fields and woods. Had a lunch on the beech and then decided to go other direction to do "Dunkirk" walk. Amazed to find out what went from there to France as part of D day landing.
Highly recommend both walks.
Country Park, Lepe, Southampton SO45 1AD, United Kingdom•
Temporarily Closed
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historical place
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Breamore House, a stunning red brick Elizabethan Manor House, was completed in 1583 and is still owned by the Hulse family. The house features oak period furniture, family portraits, and tapestries that offer a glimpse into its rich history. Surrounded by beautiful parkland, the property includes a Countryside Museum with full-size replicas of village life and an impressive collection of steam-powered farm machinery.
If you want to visit the house or museum you are in for a treat, what a lovely house and area with a brilliant showing of how the land was worked and local shops looked like in times gone by.
I went for the Breamore Historic Weekend and the internal combustion engines that where on show was to a very high level
The cafe has a lovely menu and well priced food
If you want to visit its well worth it and free parking which in this day and age is very rare
Jamster M — Google review
This lovely house was well worth a visit. When you buy your ticket you are given a timed entry to join a tour. Our guide was excellent and full of useful and fun information. The position on the hillside, means that there are lovely views, and there are woodland walks around the estate. There is also an excellent cafe, Saxon church and museum.
The house is also an Historic House, so free for members.
Had a great time at Breamore House. The house tour with excellent guide Kevin - such an interesting history - followed by delicious lunch in the cafe. Can highly recommend the smoked salmon and avocado on sourdough toast. There's also the museum and a great shop.
The cafe, farm shop and little artisan shops are wonderful. The cafe and leather / vinyl works shop especially. We didn’t go in the museum as it’s quite expensive for what it is.
The ‘“lady” of the house has no business being as entitled and privileged as she is. If she doesn’t want people in certain spaces she can put up signs instead of expecting people to read her tiny mind. We made a small mistake with where we walked (nowhere near her house, but on what looked like public access grounds, after we were told we can walk the gardens by someone on the phone). She verbally abused my sister, my sister politely apologised and we left, yet she sped up to us in her car and verbally attacked us again with barking dogs in her car. We were with my niece, a 3 year old, who was immensely upset by the interaction, I’d say that will be a horrific core memory / trauma for her. What a violent person. I hope she gets the therapy she needs.
Imagine owning such a beautiful piece of history, letting people tour it for an unreasonable price, then shouting at people for walking on what looks like public right of way. Clearly we aren’t the only people to have made this mistake as we were told so by some staff. Put up signs around the grounds saying private, or stop opening it up to the public. Can’t take money from people then shout at people for walking in places where there are no signs to say it’s private. Can’t have it both ways, aggressive human.
Historic Elizabethean Mansion.
Well worth a visit. Book in advance for a guided tour (no self guided tours).
The tour guide was great, picking out all the notable features with background stories. Made the visit so much more engaging.
The tour took about an hour.
😎👍👍👍👍
Lovely House nice guided tour well worth money
Dogs not allowed in the garden. The house isn't dog friendly either which I understand and if you want to visit it you need a ticket but we couldn't see where to buy them. I think we must have missed the sign. However we had a nice day.
Great tour of the house but watch out for the owner’s dangerous dog, who is off lead who just attacked my dog who was on lead. She had no control and tried to tell me off for being there! She obviously has not heard of the Dangerous Dogs Act
“Police have warned owners that dogs are their owners responsibility, and that owners will be held responsible for the actions of their pet”.
Breamore, Fordingbridge, SP6 2DF, United Kingdom•
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Scenic spot
Sights & Landmarks
Cultural landmark
Historical landmark
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Nestled along the picturesque Bolderwood Ornamental Drive, the Knightwood Oak stands as a testament to nature's grandeur and history. This majestic tree, often referred to as the 'Queen of the Forest,' is believed to be over 600 years old, making it one of the oldest oak trees in the national park. With a remarkable girth exceeding 7 meters, its impressive stature has been shaped by pollarding—a technique that involves cutting back branches for growth management.
Nice place to explore and read about the history, one of the smaller parking places in the area. But I managed to find space. There are a couple of picnic benches near the oak if you want to sit and eat. As with all the new forest, very clean and well kept
Jay — Google review
500 years old and girth of 7+ meters. It’s okay I guess but there are far grander oaks to be found in the UK with others ~1000 years so this more like middle-aged. Still it’s worth stopping by for a look and the oak is still growing so might last another 500 years with some TLC. The paths and car parking were undergoing an upgrade with new surfacing so it’s probably gonna be much more accessible.
Beautiful ancient tree, well worth a visit if you're interested in either history or the majestic beauty of our arboreal world. She may not be the most beautiful specimen you've ever seen, but she will probably be one of the oldest!
Please note: There is a carpark that is very easy to find, if you head for Boulderwood, called The Knightwood Oak, but it's on the opposite side of the road to the tree and it's not particularly well signposted. Park the car then cross the small road and walk in a roughly straight line and you'll see the surrounding fence pretty quickly. It's literally a 5 minute walk along flat ground so it's easily accessible to most people. My mum is 91 and walks with a walker and she managed it just fine!
A large oak tree surrounded by a wooden palisade fence, a few boards with information about the history of the tree. Looked like someone had hacked it with a chainsaw as most of the branches had been cut off ruining the look of this beautiful old tree which was a little disappointing.
Very good accessible walk with lovely surroundings and a few picnic benches.
Good parking available with a short walk to the oak tree lots or other veteran trees to be seen nearby often full of wildlife. Don’t be surprised to see a couple of ponies to.
A wonderful relaxing walk through gorgeous woodland a must visit place
Great walking or cycling. Amazing walk through Tall Trees Hike and parking great, even for motorhome, alas not for overnight! In Oct deer very active for sighting and hearing. For drivers the 40mph zone is an incredible route through the New Forest.
Minstead, Ringwood, SO43 7GR, United Kingdom•
Bournemouth, located in Dorset, England, is a coastal resort town known for its warm and swimmable beach that stretches for seven miles. The lively Victorian pier offers arcade games and bars, while pastel beach huts and a charming promenade complete the classic British seaside scene. Established in 1812 as a health resort, Bournemouth has evolved into a vibrant town with two universities and the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), hosting world-class music acts.
Nature preserve
Hengistbury Head is a nature reserve located in Poole and Bournemouth, offering diverse habitats such as heathland, grassland, scrub, forest, wetlands, and coastland. It also boasts internationally significant archaeology and geology. Visitors can take a land train to Mudeford Sandspit for a relaxing ride and enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafes while taking in the view.
This is a beautiful and peaceful walk with gorgeous views of the sea. It is the perfect place to walk your dog (they should be on a lead). There are a few stairs but most of the walk is just a straight even path. I’ve seen quite a lot of elderly people and children do this walk. However it is quite windy. I definitely recommend doing this walk and if you have dogs, going to the beach after for them to run around as the beach is huge.
Noemi — Google review
What a fabulous place! Lots of walking to do here including walking the cliff path and the Nature Reserve.
Cafe and toilets right by the large car park (personally I think the parking fees are expensive).
We decided to take the train to the beach huts then walk back over the "head" to the car park. Will definitely visit again but will probably try and get a bus to the nearby village then walk to the head.
A beautiful and tranquil beach with both sandy and pebble areas, ideal for peaceful walks, fishing, or relaxing with family. The rocky groynes and dunes provide scenic spots for photography and quiet reflection. The sunsets are stunning, and the location is clean, comfortable, and well-suited for those who appreciate natural coastal charm. Highly recommended for a laid-back visit!
Amazing place ! Perfect for walking, jogging, dogs walks. Beutyfull view of the coast, perfect for a relaxing day out, perfect escape from the city busy life...
2 options for parking:
*. paid-car-park or
*. 1 h free parking on the road.
Many people only think of Hengistbury Head as a small hill and not much more but that is far from the truth. Here’s why…
The long peninsular that forms the southern and south-western arm around Christchurch Harbour, is a fascinating place with so much for the visitors. It has an excellent visitor centre which tells the history of this important piece of land. Near the centre is a good cafe and toilet facilities including a Radar accessible toilet.
There are many well maintained paths that form excellent walks around and up to the Head itself. When approaching the top from the landward side where there is plenty of parking, it’s a fairly easy walk up to the top with some benches and a trig point beacon. About 150 metres along the top is a coastguard watch hut with useful information regularly updated about the tide times and so forth. You can then walk right along to the end of the headland and then down all the way to the sea level and Mudeford Spit with its famous beach huts.
The birdlife all along the Head is hugely varied. On just one walk recently I saw lots of common, Ballack-headed and heron gulls, sandwich terns, shelducks, oyster catchers, a buzzard, a dartford warbler, a greenfinch, a turnstone, sand martins, starlings and other common passerines.
This is also a rare area for seeing the protected Natterjack toad.
A wonderful place for walkers, history, fabulous views of the harbour and the sea and the coast back to Bournemouth and Poole.
Lots of people told me about Hengistbury Head, but today I went for the 1st time. It was as good as people have said. Very dog friendly with plenty of bins around.
The coast part was great and great, but equally great is a well planned walk through dense woodland close to the sea line.
Amazing! worth the hour drive there. Dolly seemed to love the freedom and varied terrain off the lead meeting other well-behaved dogs.
I’ve been to the area several times but never visited this place. Beautiful views of the surrounding area. Fairly easy walk from car park to top and back down again. Well maintained and free ! (Other than parking at £3 per hour, cheaper after 2 hours).
Cafe near car park ok. Good selection and ok ish priced. Plenty of seating.
Both walk and cafe dog friendly.
Lovely part of the world, great beaches, beautiful views and you can walk for miles.
Unnamed Rd, Bournemouth BH6 4EN, UK, United Kingdom•
Car rental agency
Limousine service
Wedding service
If you're seeking an unforgettable adventure in the New Forest, look no further than New Forest Classic Hire Ltd. This family-run business offers a delightful opportunity to rent classic cars, allowing you to embark on a nostalgic road trip through stunning landscapes. Imagine cruising along winding roads as the sun sets, creating the perfect backdrop for romance and memories. Whether it's a special occasion or simply indulging in your love for vintage vehicles, their impressive fleet includes iconic models like the E-Type Jaguar and Morgan.
A wonderful company!!!!
After a bad experience with another car rental company I was nervous when I booked with Beaulieu Garage. However, I could not have been more pleased.
I bought the E-Type Jag driving day experience as a gift for my dad who has always dreamed of driving one. As soon as we turned up on the morning of the hire day, Adam was already out in the garage making sure the car was fit and ready to get on the road. And what a beautiful Jag it was. Adam was fantastic - so friendly and took his time to show us the car before handing it over to us.
We had a wonderfully sunny day in the New Forest which was just perfect for driving around in. Stunning views with a stunning car. I cannot recommend this company enough. Thank you to Adam, Matt and the team for a day out that my dad and I will treasure forever.
Stephanie W — Google review
We got the Miata from Nic a month back, he was friendly and we had a nice chat as well. Absolutely satisfied with the service he provided. Would absolutely recommend him.
The car was an absolute joy to drive. We had a blast on that weekend.
Thank you
We hired an Austin-Healy Sprite to drive to and from our wedding. The terms were clear, the website was easy to use and the owner we spoke to was very friendly and knowledgeable. The car was absolutely brilliant: I was a little nervous to drive an older car (as a 26 year old I have not driven a car with a choke before) but the owner kindly explained how to use it to start the car and I had no problems. We were also a little worried that the headlights may not be quite up to modern standards, but were pleasantly surprised to find that both the dipped and main beam were probably the best we've ever seen on any car! The car was in great condition, drove really nicely and driving to and from our wedding ceremony in our dream car just made our day that bit more special. This is a brilliant company and I would not hesitate to hire any of their classic cars in the future.
Nick saved me. Had a cancellation for an E Type at another hire company, 4pm the day before my wedding. Spoke to Nick and he sorted a last minute hire for a lovely red E Type that evening. My friend collected the car on my behalf, and I had my dream car for the big day! The car was brilliant and very reasonably priced. Being my wedding day, I didn't get full use out of it but I certainly intend to return and hire for a full day in the New Forest. Thanks again, Nick!
Avoid, avoid, avoid
I'm am fully disgusted by the treatment I received from new forest classic car hire.
We rented the 1966 mustang for my daughters prom (she was soooo excited) upon driving the car home it appeared to develope a fault (I was flagged down by an off duty police officer, name and badge number can be given if needed) its an old car so no problem (obviously very stressed as my daughter's prom was in 2 hours) it took over 25 calls and 30 minutes to get hold of someone to just be told its an old car. As the night went on the fault got worse and they simply said it was my fault the car had over heated and came to collect it - he was incredibly rude and all but called my a lier in front of my other daughter an wife. No apology just 'give me the keys' and maybe classic cars aren't for you.
As I said I appreciate its an old car and faults can happen but the customer service was appalling, I was promised a full refund (still waiting)
Attached are pics and videos to prove the state of the car
I hired the Morris Minor for the day and had an amazing time. I arrived later than planned, but Nick and his dad Keith were incredibly accommodating and made sure everything was still sorted. The car was spotless, ran perfectly, and clearly had been very well looked after. Great customer service and a lovely experience all round – would definitely recommend and hire from them again!
Just returned the 66 mustang. What an absolute pleasure to drive, hired for daughter's prom. Real head Turner. Booking process was so simple. An absolute must for anyone looking to hire a car. Will certainly do business with new forest car hire again.couldn't have asked for more and my daughter absolutely loved it. Thank you for the pleasure of driving this spectacular car
Brilliant company and selection of cars. 100% recommend. We enjoyed a beautiful day in the Morris Minor (renamed Maggie). Easy booking process and a very friendly and professional experience. Thank you!
Full Details On Booking, East Wellow, SO51 6BN, United Kingdom•
The Ashley Walk Bombing Range Observation Shelter offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This scenic route meanders through lush woodlands and provides stunning views of the surrounding hills, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. While the trail is generally accessible to most abilities, visitors should be prepared for muddy patches during wetter months by wearing appropriate footwear and layering up.
A WW2 bombing range used to train bomber crews.
Tallboy & the Grand Slam among many other ordnance was used here, lots of craters can still be seen.
A chalk ‘V’ & ‘B’ can be found as well as a large concrete arrow on the heathland.
A G — Google review
Excellent walk across the plateau with evidence of the bomb training area now taken back by nature
New Forest National Park, Godshill Ashley Walk, United Kingdom•
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Woods
Nestled in the serene, hilly northern region of the New Forest, Pipers Wait is a hidden gem near the quaint village of Nomansland. Standing at an impressive 140 meters above sea level, this viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas that are simply irresistible for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With easy access and a dedicated car park, visitors can effortlessly embark on a journey to its summit.
Great woods away from tbe bustling city. Perfect for introspection and a relaxing walk
MrZERK7 — Google review
(Translated by Google) A great place for a walk and relaxation
(Original)
Świetne miejsce na spacer i wypoczynek
Mentioned on
Salisbury, a medieval cathedral city in Wiltshire, England, is renowned for its historical and cultural attractions. Just 9 miles south of the famous Stonehenge, Salisbury boasts a majestic 13th-century cathedral with a towering spire and an original copy of the Magna Carta. The city's charming streets are lined with independent shops and diverse dining options, including acclaimed eateries like The Old Ale and Coffee House and Fisherton Mill Cafe.
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Southampton, a bustling port city on England's southern coast, offers a variety of attractions for history and art enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the SeaCity Museum to learn about the Titanic's ill-fated voyage or admire modern British art at the Southampton City Art Gallery. Aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the vintage aircraft on display at the Solent Sky Museum. For a glimpse into centuries of history, Tudor House & Garden showcases artifacts spanning over 800 years.
39Landford
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Landford is a charming village and civil parish located in Wiltshire, England, just 10 miles southeast of Salisbury. Situated near the border with Hampshire and the picturesque New Forest National Park, Landford encompasses the quaint village of Nomansland as well as the delightful hamlets of Hamptworth and Landfordwood. This idyllic area offers a 4.
Salisbury, UK
40Calshot
Mentioned on
Nestled in Hampshire, England, Calshot is a charming coastal village that marks the meeting point of Southampton Water and the Solent. This picturesque destination features the stunning Calshot Spit, a one-mile stretch of sand and shingle that invites visitors to explore its natural beauty. At the tip of this spit stands Calshot Castle, an impressive artillery fort built by Henry VII.
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41Ringwood
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Nestled in the picturesque landscape of south-west Hampshire, England, Ringwood is a charming market town situated on the banks of the River Avon near the renowned New Forest. With its origins dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era, this historic town has been hosting a vibrant weekly market since medieval times.
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New Milton, a charming market town in southwest Hampshire, England, is perfectly situated between the idyllic New Forest to the north and the picturesque coast at Barton-on-Sea to the south. With its convenient location equidistant from Lymington and Christchurch, this tranquil town offers easy access to stunning natural landscapes. Every Wednesday on Station Road, visitors can explore a delightful market featuring various stalls including a fishmonger, greengrocer, and butcher.
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The Avon Valley Path is a stunning 34-mile walking trail that beckons to avid hikers, starting from the historic city of Salisbury and winding its way to the picturesque Christchurch Priory. This scenic route meanders alongside the River Avon, offering breathtaking views of water meadows, chalk downlands, and charming villages. As you traverse this path, you'll encounter an array of wildlife typical of the New Forest region—keep your eyes peeled for New Forest ponies, kingfishers, and otters!
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Conference center
Gift shop
Highcliffe Castle, a Gothic revival mansion built in the 1830s, showcases restored exteriors and offers visitors a tearoom and gardens to explore. The Grade listed cliff top mansion is an excellent example of Romantic and Picturesque architecture from the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Despite its relatively young age, the castle's medieval French masonry gives it an older appearance, complemented by its Gothic revival features and ancient stained glass.
Very beautiful, big and detailed castle. Very similar to a museum but just about the castle. Was very fascinating and the volunteers were lovely. They knew what they were talking about and were so welcoming. Went to get a carer and disabled ticket due to 1 member of our party having autism and surprisingly no questions for proof were asked. They understood that not all disabilities are visible and we really appreciated this. Many rooms were interactive too which was amazing and made it more engaging. We were able to trace drawings, try on clothes they would have worn back in the day, make puzzles, look through kaleidoscopes and more! Perfect for all ages. Took lovely pictures too. Thank you for a lovely time.
Freya C — Google review
Highcliffe was brilliant, what a fantastic place to go! Every bit of it took my breath away, I couldn’t stop saying wow look at that. The zig zag to the beach was easy for anyone to use, the beach was amazing. When I went it was hot and sunny. No benches to sit on only big rocks or the beach. Can’t wait to go again and walk to the light house!!!
Got in at 1.15pm, and inside of castle tour was at 1.30pm. For only £3 extra was able to go into rooms not available to the public normally and get a really good storytelling volunteer guide named Sue. Very interesting and engaging. Exploring after that the grounds and eating cake were a plus. Love how its dog friendly for the cafe and their selection of food. Quite a historic place, very happy to have randomly found it on the map and making a detour.
Highcliffe Castle was built between 1831 and 1836 by Lord Stuart de Rothesay. Vast quantities of medieval French masonry was shipped across the channel and used in its construction, making it appear older than it actually is. Kings, Queens and the rich and famous have all stayed here over the years. The castle interior was destroyed by fire in the 60s but grants from Heritage and Lottery funding have been used in its restoration. It's a truly beautiful building with so much history! There's a lovely walk down to Highcliffe Beach as well.
Highcliffe Castle is a beautifully restored building located just back from the seafront on the Dorset Coast. Well worth a visit. Plenty of open space for children and dogs to run about. There are tours inside the house if you wish to pay for a ticket and explore the rooms. There is a lovely café/restaurant on site with outdoor and indoor seating. Very clean well maintained toilets too. I should imagine it can get very busy at peak times, although there is a good amount of parking space. A short walk to the nearby beach is available. Usually very quiet, and dog friendly as it is away from nearby Mudeford and Christchurch.
Looks magnificent on the outside but a bit disappointing on the inside in my opinion. Has been restored post 2 fires in the 60's but not quite back to its former glory, I don't mind the brick wall etc.but the modern style staircase just doesn't suit the style.
Amazing! Before you start your journey you can watch a very short informational video. Only issue I had was there was no reset for the video. Very friendly and helpful staff!
Really impressive castle right next to the beach. I didn’t have the opportunity to go inside but it is free to walk all around the castle. You can have a lovely walk around the garden and access the cafe + castle shop at the rear of the castle.
The castle is in walking distance of the beach where you can either take the stairs or an accessible route - the “zig-zag path” which is really convenient if you don’t want to tire yourself out by taking the stairs!
There is parking on site.
Rothesay Dr, Highcliffe, Christchurch BH23 4LE, United Kingdom•
Permanently Closed
Brewery
Food & Drink
Located on the edge of the New Forest, Ringwood Brewery is a must-visit attraction for adults looking to quench their thirst after exploring the region's top tourist spots. The brewery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the beer-making process and sample award-winning beers like Best Bitter, Fortyniner, Boondoggle, and Old Thumper. The tour lasts around two hours and concludes with a tutored tasting session and a complimentary drink.
Great tour, very charismatic and likeable. Good beers and everyone seemed to find something they liked even the baby! Lots to see and definitely one for wet windy day, maybe not ideal on a hot summers one! (Warm in some of the rooms)
Greg P — Google review
What a fantastic experience! Some brewery tours feel like just a tourist attraction, but Ringwood Brewery is the authentic real deal. We tasted the malted hops and how the 'chocolate malt' was discovered - and so much more about the history of ale in general. Would highly recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about the art of brewing, or anyone who just likes beer in general!
Love popping in and stocking up on beer. Great way to spend a lunch break. Fairly priced without a loyalty card, really good if you are a member
It's a real shame that the tours don't happen any more. Hopefully some new owners will reinstate this.
Always feel a bit cheeky going in and only buying the non Ringwood beers, bring back the XXXX Porter or the original strength Old Thumper, in my view those were head and shoulders above the other Ringwood branded beers.
What a gem! Beautiful little bar inside and a well stocked shop. Can take away freshly poured beer. Great traditional brewery with delicious ale!
Whenever I get the chance I pop in to refill my 4.5 pint jug with fresh beer from here. Popped in today to refill with Boon Doggle and it’s just so fresh. Really nice little shop with a selection of ales, wines and spirits, friendly staff and really reasonable prices for the quality you get. 4.5 pints for under £8 is brilliant value and I’ll keep coming back for more as you really can’t beat having proper fresh beer straight from the brewery. I keep the jug in my van just incase I ever happen to be passing.
My first tour here, and it was awesome!
I really enjoyed how their beer was made. I wanted to take a picture of inside, but I wasn't sure if it was allowed. I didn't wanna risk it so I chose not to.
But at least I got to try the free beers, that's a plus!👍
Finest beers I have tried. 🍺
£12/adult for the tour including free half pint jug glass and beer samples. You can pull your own half pint at the bar. Plenty if samples along with an entertaining and informative tour. Gift shop too. Those that have paid for the tour can have a discount on 'll goods.
Excellent value for money and a brilliant brewery tour experience. We were given a glass of Razorback beer on arrival and briefed on the history of the brewery whilst we enjoyed the drink. This was followed by a very informative and interesting tour which concluded back at the bar where we enjoyed sampling the other Ringwood beers. We were given the chance to be photographed behind the bar and to try pulling our own beer. The tour ended with us keeping the glasses we had been using and a bottle of beer to take away with us. All in all a very enjoyable Sunday afternoon. I would certainly recommend this tour to anyone, my wife doesn't normally enjoy beer but she enjoyed sampling the different types of Ringwood beer, learning about the history of the brewery, it's beers and the tour itself.
138 Christchurch Rd, Ringwood, BH24 3AP, United Kingdom•
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Outdoor activity organiser
Fun & Games
Children's amusement center
Sports Complexes
Located in Moors Valley Country Park, Go Ape offers an exhilarating treetop adventure for all skill levels. The venue features five different adventures, including the Treetop Adventure and Nets Adventure suitable for younger participants. Visitors can expect to navigate through the forest canopy on high ropes, encountering wobbly crossings and dual ziplines along the way.
We had such a lovely time at Go Ape! The whole experience was so much fun from start to finish, and all the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. A special shoutout to Jake and Maisie who went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and safe – they were absolutely brilliant! Thanks for making our day so enjoyable – we’ll definitely be back!
Emily S — Google review
I think the main thing was the amazing zip lines. There was plenty of variety as there were lots of loops. My eldest daughter got to go on the harder adventure plus while my youngest and I went on adventure. Would definitely recommend.
An incredible day out at Go Ape! The whole experience was thrilling from start to finish — from the high ropes to the zip lines, every course was well designed, safe, and so much fun. The staff were friendly, professional, and made sure everyone felt confident and supported. It’s a perfect mix of challenge and adventure in a beautiful natural setting. Whether you’re going with friends, family, or even solo, I can’t recommend Go Ape highly enough. We’ll definitely be back for another round!
Went to Go Ape as a group of ladies yesterday to celebrate some friends birthdays and had the most amazing time. This was my first ever Go Ape at the age of 61 and I didn’t know what to expect. I just wanted to do this review to say how good the staff were. They all had the most pleasant persona and really helped us enjoy our visit. Shout out to Erin in particular who led the group.
The course is fantastic and by the last zip wire I finally learnt how to land. 😂 Top tips, wear old clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and I wish I had worn some fingerless gloves as it’s quite hard on the hands at times.
Parking crazy expensive. I fully understand this is put towards maintaining the lovely area but I would prefer to pay a one off fee then relax knowing we aren't being charged by the minute/the longer we stay the more it costs.
We stayed for less than two hours, for a short walk around to break up a long journey and see if the go ape looked like something we could do with our kids on another visit. It cost us over £12. We won't be returning to do go ape here unfortunately.
I know it isn't Go Ape that organise the parking here but I feel like they are probably missing out because of it.
I had an amazing day at Go Ape in Moors Valley Country Park! The location is stunning, surrounded by beautiful woodland that makes the adventure even more special. The course is well-designed with a great mix of rope bridges, climbing nets, and thrilling zip lines.
The staff here are absolutely outstanding friendly, patient, and genuinely passionate about making sure everyone has a great time. I honestly wish there was a way to rate them individually on the website or Instagram, or even tip them, because they truly deserve it. Their attitude and energy are the reason I’ll definitely come back again. I wish I could spend more time there.
Safety was explained clearly, the equipment was in perfect condition, and the whole experience was exhilarating from start to finish. Highly recommend to anyone looking for fun, adrenaline, and amazing customer service.
We attended the Forest Segway experience. It was great fun and very well organised. Amy & George were excellent instructors. We were the 'oldies' in the group but we managed not to show ourselves up, even though I was the slowcoach at the back 🤣. All in all, a really fun experience 😀
Superb experience, friendly and helpful staff, put at ease even when nervous.
Moors Valley Forest also has plenty to do.
Great place to visit and different routes to try, more than we expected to find which made it a bonus surprise.
Moors Valley Country Park & Forest, Country Park, Go Ape, Ringwood BH24 2ET, United Kingdom•
Abbey
Sights & Landmarks
Anglican church
Parish
Sacred & Religious Sites
Romsey Abbey, a Church of England abbey dating back to 907AD, is a top attraction in Romsey known for its unique features. The abbey boasts a male-voice choir, youth orchestra, and bell ringing group that add to its charm. Surrounded by scenic countryside and the beautiful River Test, Romsey offers visitors the chance to explore deep-rooted history epitomized by the magnificent Norman architecture of Romsey Abbey.
A beautiful abbey in the centre of Romsey. We were warmly greeted by a lovely gentleman volunteer who then spent the best part of an hour showing us round and enamouring us with tales of the past that we wouldn’t ever have known had we walked round alone. Like cathedrals up and down the country it is very grand but unlike other historical buildings of this category, it is quiet, its peaceful and you are able to look around and read the little signs explaining certain aspects of the abbey, including the recently fitted memorial window to Florence Nightingale. Thank you so much to the.volunteer who chose to spend time with us, it made a big difference to our visit. Sadly without the throngs of visitors comes lack of donations. Please visit and donate a few pounds to this magnificent building.
Deb L — Google review
Romsey Abbey is a stunning Norman church in Romsey, Hampshire, England, with a rich history dating back to 907 AD. It's known for its impressive architecture, beautiful gardens, and vibrant community. Here are some key facts about Romsey Abbey.
History: The abbey was founded by King Edward the Elder, son of Alfred the Great, and has undergone several transformations over the centuries, including a significant rebuild in the 12th century.
The abbey features a mix of Norman and Early English styles, with a striking nave and round arches. It's the largest parish church in Hampshire and one of the most impressive churches in Southern England.
Romsey and its abbey is truly a hidden gem. I enjoyed the atmosphere a lot. But it was kind of strange to have no high tower on top of the church. But that's no reason to not go there. The inside is really impressive!!!
Forgot what a gem of a place this is. Appears compact but like a tardis when you step through the main entrance. Love the modern pews, and the stained glass windows rival many a cathedral.
We went to this Abbey on Wednesday when they have a free guided tour which is well worth hearing as it tells you a lot more about the history of the Abbey and it's artifacts than you'd get otherwise
Look out for the 1000ish year old crucifixes with a smiling Jesus, the Saxon head of hair and some interesting grave stones
This is an absolutely beautiful building.
As soon as we entered The Abbey, we were warmly greeted by the volunteers. They were eager to interact with people and excelled in making people feel welcome.
One of the volunteers kindly took the time to explain that she attended university in Canada, namely Montreal and I am touched that she spoke to us. I am a shy person and I really liked the fact that she took an interest.
It is the kind of place where one could spend hours reading a book because of the peacefulness of The Abbey and the sound of the organ.
There were also drawings of sheep placed throughout the Abbey and I do not know their significance, but it was quite alluring.
There was also information on the walls in close proximity to the entrance of The Abbey. It is very well-maintained. Although there is not an entrance fee, there are signs which encourage people to donate. For example, it costs over £1K/ day to maintain The Romsey Abbey.
I recommend this place100%.
Beautiful Abbey in this rather delightful unspoilt town. Welcome host at the door, it was a lovely experience to visit here.
Lit a candle for my brother... Bit of reflection time. Great place to visit, no admission fee... Wander around, enjoy the grounds, just don't miss it!
My family went to the Abbey for a Christening. It is a beautiful building and a lovely service. All the clergy were friendly and welcoming. If you are ever in Romsey which it’s self is lovely the Abbey is well worth a visit
Church Ln, Romsey, SO51 8EP, United Kingdom•
Lake
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Nestled near Beaulieu, Hatchet Pond stands out as one of the UK’s most significant natural havens. This tranquil spot in the New Forest is not only the largest freshwater body in Hampshire but also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, featuring rare wetland plants and animals that have vanished from other regions. Recognized as both a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area for Conservation, Hatchet Pond requires mindful visitation to protect its delicate ecosystem from pollution and overuse.
Went there for the first time with husband and dog. Great walk despite boggy in some places. It's great to see the wildlife, too, including a pair of swans with 3 cygnets. Saw Canadian geese, horses etc.
Katherine T — Google review
This is a gorgeous spot for a play and a picnic. We loved seeing the wild horses running around here. If you want particularly good sightings of the wild horses with their foals in spring head to Wilverley Plain nearby.
Perfect place for family walk or picnic. You can almost always see horses or donkeys here. Just remember that you are not allowed to feed them. A very good place to take pictures of sunsets. The reflections in the water make an amazing effect. On warm sunny days you can also find an ice cream van here.
Beautiful place, to observe wildlife, and incredible landscaping.
There is minimum one family of swans.
After rebuilding carpark year ago or so, access and convenience of this place increase. Still you need to be careful, as already appearing some deeper dips in the gravel surface.
Unfortunately after rebuild people with reduce mobility will have some challenges to move wheelchairs and reach the water edge.
Still worth to go any time of the year, and day.
Visited by chance as I needed to pull over somewhere and find something in the boot, turned out to be a lovely couple of hours exploring and soaking up the beautiful views, surrounded by nature. A quaint spot that basically sums up the New Forest, loved it. Pics say it all. A proper ponies in the woods spot..and cows, and donkeys.
No amenities, just a small gravel car park and nature - perfect for us but maybe take drinks and snacks if you have young kids and make sure you pee before you set off. Close to the very pretty village of Beaulieu - 5-10 minute drive depending on local traffic (foals).
Such a gem of a place! If you get your timings just right you might see some local animals enjoying the pond too…
Wow...beautiful, quiet and just stunning. Amazing walks and views...perfection
Always lovely for a walk. However if you want to see it’s full beauty then dusk or dawn makes for some beautiful views and reflections across the pond. Nearby is hatchet moor with its own small pond which has a spectacular show of water lilies throughout the summer months. Great place to have a picnic and to view many species of water birds. Free to park and walk.
Mentioned on
Christchurch is a charming town and civil parish located on the south coast of Dorset, England. It has a population of around 31,372 people. The town is adjacent to Bournemouth in the west and bordered by the scenic New Forest in the east. Christchurch has a rich history intertwined with smuggling folklore, including tales of bandits using caves for illegal activities near Lymington.
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Explore nearby places
- New Forest National Park Hampshire
- Lyndhurst
- Brockenhurst
- Ashurst
- Beaulieu
- Lymington
- New Milton
- Ringwood
- Fordingbridge
- Milford on Sea
- Romsey
- Christchurch
- Exbury
- Southampton
- Verwood
- Hamble
- Mottisfont
- Freshwater
- Totland
- Eastleigh
- Cowes
- Yarmouth
- East Cowes
- Bournemouth
- Salisbury
- Wimborne Minster
- Newport
- Brighstone
- Stockbridge
- Fareham
- Winchester
All related maps of New Forest National Park Hampshire
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- Map of New Milton
- Map of Ringwood
- Map of Fordingbridge
- Map of Milford on Sea
- Map of Romsey
- Map of Christchurch
- Map of Exbury
- Map of Southampton
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- Map of Cowes
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- Map of Newport
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- Map of Stockbridge
- Map of Fareham
- Map of Winchester
New Forest National Park Hampshire throughout the year
- New Forest National Park Hampshire in January
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- New Forest National Park Hampshire in August
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- New Forest National Park Hampshire in October
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