Discover the New Forest, where ancient woodlands, untamed heaths, and a sprawling 23-mile coastline collide. Here, free-roaming New Forest Ponies sculpt the landscape. Embark on a spontaneous last-minute holiday to the New Forest with your family or friends.
Reasons to Holiday in the New Forest
The New Forest National Park
The New Forest National Park is a landscape shaped by its wildlife. One of the most notable things about the New Forest is the freely roaming animals. Ponies, cattle, donkeys and sheep are all owned by 'Commoners' but are let loose on 220 square miles of land. This is called 'Commoning'. As a result, the landscape has been beautifully crafted, and you'll notice that the grass is short and the bushes are kept in shape. This is all achieved by these amazing animals. The park is well organised for visitors, with trails for walking, cycling and horse riding. We have many cottages inside the National Park, so you and your family can explore and enjoy the New Forest as much as possible on your last-minute holiday. Enjoy your cottage knowing you've got the best deal available thanks to our best price guarantee. You can save even more by becoming a member and benefit from member discounts.
Walking
Walking in the New Forest is a joy in any season. With well-marked footpaths and a host of different landscapes and animals to spot, a day in the New Forest is far from just a walk in the woods. A popular walk is the Boldre Village trail. The walk takes you through 4.3 miles of ancient woodland, heathland, grassland, ponds and streams. You'll see flowers of all kinds, including a sea of bluebells in the spring. Look out for ponies and deer as well. For a shorter walk, The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary: Deer Watch Trail is an excellent choice. This walk leads you to a deer viewing platform overlooking fields, where herds of wild deer are regularly spotted. There are many more walks to discover in the New Forest. After a day of walking, return to your last-minute cottage to relax. You could even rent a last-minute cottage with a hot tub so you and your family can get those muscles ready for the next day.
Where to Stay in or around the New Forest
If you are looking to stay in the national park, there are many quaint villages to choose from. Two of the most popular are Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst. For a smaller village, try Burley or Minstead. If you'd prefer a coastal last-minute holiday just outside the national park, then Milford on Sea is a splendid choice for you and your family.
Where to Visit in and around the New Forest
Southampton is a vibrant port city with a fascinating maritime history, restaurants and museums.
Lymington is a quaint coastal town known for its sailing and shopping.
Winchester is a historic medieval cathedral city with winding streets and a zoo.
Fordingbridge is an idyllic riverside town nestled in the beautiful New Forest.