Top 10 Things to do in the New Forest

Things to do in the New Forest

Welcome to the New Forest, a beautiful and serene location in southern England that offers breath-taking landscapes, abundant wildlife and exciting activities. If you’re looking for a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, then this is the place to be! In this blog post, we’ll take you through the top 10 things to do in the New Forest – from exploring historic castles to discovering stunning gardens. So, pack your bags, put on your hiking boots and let’s get started on an adventure like no other!

1. Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle is a historic site that has stood the test of time. Located at the end of a shingle spit, it offers stunning views over the Solent. Built by Henry VIII to defend against French and Spanish invaders, the castle has played an important role in British history.

Inside Hurst Castle, you can explore its many rooms and learn about its fascinating past. The castle also features exhibitions that showcase life for soldiers stationed there during World War II.

But perhaps one of the most interesting features of Hurst Castle is its connection to famous author Charles Dickens. He used to visit this location often and even set part of his novel “David Copperfield” here.

Today, visitors can take guided tours or simply wander around on their own – either way, it’s an experience not to be missed!

2. Ringwood Brewery

Ringwood Brewery is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts and anyone looking to sample some of the best local brews in the New Forest. The brewery has been producing fine ale since 1978, using traditional methods that have remained unchanged over the years.

Located in Ringwood town centre, this historic brewery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process and taste some of their fantastic beers. You’ll get a chance to see how they use locally sourced ingredients such as Maris Otter barley malt from Hampshire farms.

One of their most popular beers is Razorback IPA which is brewed with American hops giving it its distinctive citrus flavour. They also offer seasonal specials like Old Thumper, Fortyniner and Boondoggle, which are all unique in taste and colour.

After your tour or tasting session, you can visit their shop on-site where you can purchase souvenirs including bottled beer to take home with you. Additionally, if you’re feeling hungry after sampling all those delicious brews then head next door to The Inn on The Furlong – Ringwood’s very own pub serving up great food paired perfectly with Ringwood’s range of ales.

Visiting Ringwood Brewery is an excellent way to spend an afternoon immersing yourself in New Forest culture while enjoying world-class beer!

3. Bucklers Hard

Nestled on the banks of Beaulieu River, Bucklers Hard is a picturesque and historic village that showcases the maritime history of the New Forest. The village used to be a shipbuilding center during the 18th century, where many of Lord Nelson’s ships were built.

Visitors can explore the Maritime Museum to learn about Bucklers Hard’s rich history in shipbuilding and naval warfare. The free museum exhibits include artifacts such as tools, models, and paintings that tell the story of this quaint village.

Aside from its historical significance, Bucklers Hard also offers scenic river walks along its tranquil surroundings with breath-taking views. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along wooded paths or hop on boat tours for a closer look at Beaulieu River’s wildlife.

For those who are looking for some adrenaline rush activities, sailing lessons are available in Buckler’s Hard marina. Here you will find boats waiting to be rented out so visitors can sail away into Beaulieu River waters with confidence and ease.

Take your time exploring every nook and cranny in this charming coastal town because there is always something new to discover around every corner!

4. Bolton’s Bench

Bolton’s Bench is a famous landmark located in the heart of the New Forest. This beautiful site offers stunning views across the surrounding countryside and is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of the area.

The bench itself was named after Lord Bolton, who was an important figure in local history. The bench has been around for over 200 years and remains a popular attraction today.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk through the nearby woods before coming across this historic monument. Many people choose to sit on Bolton’s Bench and take in the breath-taking scenery that surrounds it.

In addition to its natural beauty, Bolton’s Bench also has cultural significance as it is associated with many legends and myths from local folklore. For example, some say that fairies used to dance on top of the hill where it stands!

If you’re seeking tranquillity and unmatched views while exploring New Forest, then visiting Bolton’s Bench should be on your list!

5. Furzey Gardens

Furzey Gardens is a must-visit attraction located in the heart of New Forest. This enchanting garden is home to rare and exotic plants, stunning flowers, and striking sculptures.

As you stroll through the gardens, you’ll be mesmerized by its beautiful flora and fauna. The garden has an impressive collection of rhododendrons which bloom in spring and are a sight to behold. Additionally, there’s also an extensive woodland area that provides a haven for wildlife such as birds, butterflies, bees and squirrels.

But aside from nature’s splendor, Furzey Gardens also boasts an array of intricate sculptures made by local artists. These unique art pieces add another dimension to the already charming surroundings.

What makes this garden even more special is that it was established with the aim of providing employment opportunities for people with learning disabilities. So, every time you visit Furzey Gardens not only do you get to enjoy one-of-a-kind beauty but also support their noble cause.

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from daily life or just want to discover new natural wonders then visiting Furzey Garden should be on your list of things to do in New Forest!

6. Painted Hall

One of the most iconic and breath-taking sites to visit in New Forest is the Painted Hall. This magnificent hall boasts an incredible painted ceiling that is sure to leave you speechless. The artwork was created by Sir James Thornhill, who spent nearly 20 years working on this masterpiece.

As soon as you enter the Painted Hall, you’ll immediately be struck by its grandeur and beauty. The walls are adorned with intricate paintings depicting historical events, while the ceiling features a stunning work of art known as ‘The Apotheosis of Naval Heroes’.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history behind this amazing piece of architecture, there’s plenty on offer at the site too! You can take part in guided tours or simply wander around taking in all that it has to offer.

Regardless of whether you’re an art enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique experience, a visit to Painted Hall should definitely be on your list of things to do when visiting New Forest!

7. New Forest Wildlife Park

Nestled in the heart of New Forest, lies a sanctuary for endangered animals – The New Forest Wildlife Park. This wildlife park is unlike any other as it offers visitors the opportunity to encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

The park is home to a wide range of rare and unique species including European wolves, wildcats, lynx, bison and otters among others. Visitors can explore various sections of the park such as the Eurasian section which houses red deer and wild boar or take a stroll through the aviary where they can marvel at different bird species.

One of the most popular attractions at this wildlife park is without a doubt, feeding time with some of its residents. There’s nothing quite like watching an otter munching on his favourite snack or seeing how quickly polecats devour their meals!

If you’re looking for something more interactive, then why not book one of their animal experiences? You could have an up-close encounter with owls or even feed some squirrels by hand!

All in all, The New Forest Wildlife Park is perfect for both adults and children alike who are looking to experience nature at its finest!

8. St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery

St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery is a hidden gem in the New Forest, located in the town of Lymington. This museum houses an impressive collection of local history and art that showcases the rich cultural heritage of this region.

One of its most popular exhibits is “Lymington at War,” which details the impact of World War II on this small coastal town. Visitors can learn about life during wartime through letters, photographs, and artifacts from local residents who lived through those tumultuous times.

The art gallery features rotating exhibitions that showcase both contemporary and historical works from artists with connections to the New Forest area. From paintings to sculptures, visitors can appreciate a wide range of artistic styles.

In addition to its permanent collections and temporary exhibitions, St Barbe also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults alike. These include workshops, lectures, and guided tours led by knowledgeable staff members.

St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in learning more about the fascinating history and culture of this beautiful region.

9. Brockenhurst

Brockenhurst is a beautiful village located in the heart of the New Forest. This charming place is known for its picturesque scenery, rich history, and friendly locals.

The village itself is surrounded by acres upon acres of lush greenery and tranquil forests that make it an excellent choice for nature lovers.

If you’re interested in exploring local wildlife, then you’ll be happy to know that there’s a plethora of animals to see in Brockenhurst. From deer to ponies and even rare birds like nightjars, this place has plenty to offer those who want to get up close and personal with nature.

Aside from natural beauty, Brockenhurst also boasts several historic landmarks such as St Nicholas’ Church – a magnificent 12th-century church with stunning stained glass windows.

If you’re looking for some retail therapy or simply need some essentials during your stay, then head over to Brookley Road where you can find various shops selling everything from souvenirs to groceries.

Brockenhurst is a must-visit destination when exploring the New Forest – especially if you’re looking for an authentic experience filled with history and natural wonders.

10. Forest Arts Centre

The Forest Arts Centre is a multi-purpose arts centre located in Walsall, England. It was originally built as a Victorian music hall in 1875 and is now home to a variety of performing arts events including theatre, live music, comedy, dance and exhibitions.

The centre also provides art workshops and classes for all ages. It has been refurbished recently to create a modern venue with state-of-the-art facilities for both performers and audience members. The centre is run by the local authority, which aims to provide an accessible cultural hub for the whole community.

The New Forest is truly a unique and wonderful destination that offers something for everyone. From exploring the beautiful gardens to learning about the area’s fascinating history, there are endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.