10 Unique & Fun Places To Visit In The New Forest!

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Last updated on March 17, 2023 by Wandering our World

The New Forest is one of our favorite areas of England, partly due to the fact there’s so many great places to visit in the New Forest.

In fact ,whilst it’s mainly famous for wild ponies and quaint villages, there’s so many things to do in this region of the UK.

Here’s our pick of the best places to visit in the New Forest!

Evening light in the New Forest, Hampshire, UK
iStock.com/karleenstevens

1. Go Wild Pony Spotting in Beaulieu

Go anywhere in the New Forest National Park and you’re likely to come across the region’s famous ponies. However the best village to see New Forest ponies has to be Beaulieu.

This pretty little village seems to be a magnet for ponies. Many of which are so used to tourists and locals, that they almost appear happy to pose for a photo!

Our top tip – in the village the ponies like to hang around Hatchets Pond, and Culverley Green in particular.

new foresT
Photo via Unsplash+

2. The National Motor Museum

Staying in Beaulieu, the National Motor Museum is another must when it comes to places to visit in the New Forest.

The museum traces the history of motoring in England, with over 350 types of vehicles – the oldest of which dates from 1875.

With one of the best collections on the globe, it’s no wonder this place is world-renowned.

3. Snowtrax

This makes our places to visit in the New Forest list because it’s a little bit different. Snowtrax gives you the chance to ski and snowboard – in Hampshire!

The artificial ski slope here is the widest in England, and is set in a serene location overlooking a lake and the forest.

Beginners through to experts can use the slope – and there’s a great range of food and drink available to enjoy after you’re finished.

man snowboarding
iStock.com/Artur Didyk

4. Wilverley Inclosure

If you’ve read our camping in the New Forest guide, then you will know this region of England is an outdoor lover’s paradise. For that reason, we will always encourage getting outside and experiencing nature at it’s finest.

There are dozens of fantastic walks in the New Forest, ranging from a mile through to the 60-mile Solent Way. The Wilverley Inclosure walk is 3.5 miles, and is accessible to all ages and abilities.

It takes you through ancient woodland, and is a great place to try and spot deer and ponies. The Old Station Tea house is on the route – so why not stop in for a quick re-fuel on your way!

Feet sneakers walking on fall leaves Outdoor Autumn season
iStock.com/Everste

5. Exbury Gardens

Exbury Gardens makes our list of places to visit in the New Forest due to the sheer color you will encounter here!

Arguably the New Forest’s most vibrant place, this 200 acre woodland garden is home to many special collections of plants, including world renowned species.

Children (and adults!) will also love riding the small steam railway that makes its way through the gardens on a 1.5 mile track.

6. Ringwood Brewery

After a day of pony spotting, nothing is better than a well-earned pint. So why not head to Ringwood Brewery and try a beer that is local to the New Forest.

The brewery does a two-hour tour. As well as seeing the process from start to finish, you will also get to try samples – that’s two hours well spent!

friends enjoying beers at a bar
iStock.com/DisobeyArt

7. Burley Fudge Shop

You’ve had the beer, now it’s time for something sweeter – that’s where Burley Fudge shines!

All the fudge is made in the New Forest, and there are countless tastes to choose from. Our favorite is the Caramel Millionaire Shortbread flavor. But if you’re not sure what to go for, they have many tasters to try out in the store!

8. Burley Villa Equestrian Centre

After some delectable locally made fudge, head over to the Burley Villa Equestrian Centre. Here you can saddle up and explore the New Forest on horseback.

The centre does a range of packages, and it’s possible to get a quick lesson before going for a two-hour trek into the ancient woodlands in this part of England.

A day trip for the adventurous tourist, but what a way to explore!

9. Beaulieu River Kayaking

Exploring the New Forest by foot or in a car is the usual way to do things – but how about by kayak!

Just outside Beaulieu, on the banks of the river by the same name, you can hire a kayak for three hours. After a quick session showing you the ropes, you’re given a map, safety equipment and a paddle – then off you go!

It’s a really fun way to see the New Forest and spot wildlife along the way.

Man kayaking
Photo via Unsplash+

10. Milford on Sea – Paddle boarding!

Sticking to the water theme, how about heading to Milford on Sea to have a go at paddle boarding?

Here, the New Forest Paddle Sport Company allows visitors an opportunity to explore the stunning New Forest coastline and salt marshes.

Want to make that trip even more special? Well you can choose to do your paddle boarding adventure at sunset, and they will even provide a picnic.

Recommendations for your trip to the New Forest

If you’re thinking about camping in the New Forest, check out our guide to camping in the region, along with tips, best campsites, and more!

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  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.