The New Forest National Park in the UK is full of stunning views, villages and natural beauty. While there is a never ending list of things to do here, below are some of the highlights I went to on a recent trip.
Stand in awe at the Giant Sequoias in the New Forest
Reconnect with nature in the peaceful Tall Trees Walk. With free parking, this is the perfect way to break up your road trip and stretch your legs. The drive to the car park down Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is one of the most scenic in the UK.
Have a picnic surrounded by wild ponies
The only place you’re guaranteed to see wild horses and ponies. When visiting, put in Wilverley Plain Car Park into maps to get to the free car park (there are also free toilets to use). You may even have horses blocking your way into the car park there is that many! The open plain is the perfect spot to eat your lunch/have a picnic.
Spot wild deer
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is where you are almost guaranteed to see deer in the New Forest. They have a viewing platform which gives the best possible view. As well as deer you’re likely to see wild horses and deer too.
Strawberry picking
I did this trip in August and went past several strawberry farms that offered strawberry picking. No need to prebook and many open 7 days a week 10am to 5pm this is a really wholesome activity to add to your road trip through or stay in the New Forest.
Visit south coast beaches
Now, this is technically outside the New Forest but only by 20 minutes so would be rude not to visit some of the UK’s best beaches. Bournemouth has a number of beautiful sand beaches such as Durely Chine beach by the pier or if you travel further down Sandbanks should be less crowded with a nearby yacht club and Rick Stein restaurant.
If you’re visiting the New Forest as a bigger trip around the UK check out other guides on the South West such as Cornwall Road Trip and Lulworth Cove (Durdle Door).