Once a popular royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror, this ancient woodland is a charming and rather unique destination. Nowadays it is home to wandering deer, ponies, donkeys and cattle that roam free in the vast countryside. Meandering tracts of unspoilt woodland, heathland and river valleys make up this 566sq km national park.
Clean rivers, shady groves and hidden hamlets provide tranquillity and a car-free environment perfect for walking, horse riding or cycling. Forgotten your bike? Fear not; there are plenty of opportunities to hire a bike from a number of registered vendors.
There are few better places to enjoy a proper pint of locally brewed beer or cider in a traditional country pub. At the New Forest and its quaint villages you won’t be hard-pressed to find your new retreat. Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Burley and Lyndhurst boast some of the most charming watering holes in the south as well as a variety of independent cafes, antique shops and boutiques.
The charm and natural beauty of this endless landscape attracts thousands of visitors every year yet, due to its expanse, it rarely becomes crowded.
If you prefer the coast to countryside then head for the cliff tops at Barton-on-Sea, take a ferry from Hurst Castle at Milford-on-Sea to Keyhaven harbour or watch the boats come into Lymington Quay. If you’re feeling more energetic, try your hand at canoeing and kayaking on the gentle Beaulieu River.
There is fun to be had for visitors of every age: The beautiful Exbury Gardens, the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu, Breamore House and Museum near Fordingbridge and the 18th Century village of Buckler's Hard are all located within a short distance of one another.
The towns and villages in the New Forest offer an abundance of quality eateries with local, artisan and homemade sourced produce on their menus. From fine restaurants to cosy tea rooms there is something for everyone in this part of the world.
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