Plan the perfect weekend break in the New Forest with our itinerary recommendations.
Sometimes a short break away can be just what you need to rest, recharge and reconnect with yourself and your family. And where better to escape to than the New Forest?
Just a 90-minute train journey from London and in a prime location to be easily accessible from elsewhere in the UK, the New Forest makes the ideal backdrop for your weekend getaway. Whether you want to spend your time getting lost on a woodland trail, basking by the sea, visiting historic landmarks, or enjoying action-packed activities, there are so many ways to make the most of a short stay.
Why not use our example itinerary for a bit of inspiration on how to spend your New Forest weekend break?
If you’re after a quintessential New Forest adventure, you’ll certainly want to start by heading off on one of the countless woodland trails. There are various places to start, depending on how you want to spend the rest of your day.
For peaceful walks surrounded by ancient trees and breathtaking scenes, we recommend Brockenhurst. Take to Roydon Woods for a stunning forest adventure – the popular route leads you from the railway station in the village through protected woodland where you’ll see large oak and silver birch trees, before taking you back to the village for a well-deserved pub lunch.
If you’re visiting around April/May time, you’ll be treated to views of the woods’ famous bluebells, which blanket the forest floor in spectacular shades of blue and purple.
Another wonderful place near Brockenhurst to lose yourself in is Blackwater Arboretum, which offers various trails through giant redwoods and historic Douglas firs. Embark on the tall trees trail to get a real sense of escaping from the modern world and getting lost in nature.
There are so many walking and cycling trails that show off all the best qualities of the New Forest, it’s hard to choose a favourite! For more of our top spots, check out our New Forest walking guide.
If you want to enjoy the National Park on two wheels, you can easily hire bikes from Cyclexperience. The whole family will love whizzing through the trees and discovering all the glorious trails.
After you’ve spent the morning taking in the sights of the forest, you’ll need to refuel with some delicious local fare. If you’ve stuck to the Brockenhurst area, you won’t have to travel too far for some exceptional grub.
For classic pub food, stop by The Huntsman or The Snakecatcher (named after a local legend). If you’re hankering after a cuppa and a cake or cream tea, Rose Lea House is ideal.
If you’re feeling organised and want to spend some more time out among the trees, this is also a great chance to pack a picnic to bring along on your woodland walk. There are loads of great picnic spots to explore in the woods around Brockenhurst and further afield – see our favourite New Forest picnic spots for some specific recommendations.
Browse our Brockenhurst collection here…
After a tranquil morning strolling through the woods, it’s time to take in some local history and heritage. For a change of scene, head over to the picturesque village of Beaulieu. Whether you just want to spend a lazy afternoon poking around the shops or are keen to hit the nearby attractions, Beaulieu can make for a lovely day out.
Families and car enthusiasts will love Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum, boasting one of the best motoring collections in the world. The museum showcases a range of exhibitions throughout the year, with famous cars from film and record-breakers to marvel over.
Or for history lovers, you might prefer Palace House, a Victorian country house with mediaeval roots that’s situated just along from the motor museum. Home to the Montagu family since 1538, the house here is brimming with history for you to uncover.
Alternatively, if you opted out of a morning walk or are still up for even more, you could take the much-loved route from Beaulieu down to Bucklers Hard, where you can revel in woodland and riverside views. The unchanged village at Bucklers Hard will transport you back to the 18th century – immerse yourself in the area’s unique shipbuilding history and learn more about what makes it so special at the museum and constructed cottage.
Browse our Beaulieu collection here…
Now that you’ve experienced the wonders of the New Forest’s woodland and open countryside, why not take to the coast for more spectacular views and a chance to breathe in that fresh sea air?
Meander through the quirky streets of Lymington, enjoying the Georgian architecture and exploring the independent boutiques and stores before heading down to the idyllic quay, where you can watch bobbing boats and sit back as the world goes by. Stop by one of the lovely cafes like Coffee & Drift for a light snack or The Larder for lunch later on.
For those seeking fun and excitement (especially for the kids), look no further than the Lymington Sea Water Baths. The main event here is the 120m floating obstacle course, which will provide endless laughs and splashing about. You can also try your hand at paddle boarding, kayaking and aqua jousting if you don’t fancy the obstacle course.
If you’d rather stay on dry land, one of our favourite Lymington activities is taking a stroll along the sea wall walk towards Keyhaven. The rural path offers the best of all worlds, providing beautiful sea vistas, unspoilt landscapes and chances to spot local wildlife, including the famous New Forest ponies who you might see grazing on the marshes.
Once you reach Keyhaven, why not visit Hurst Castle, a fort commissioned by Henry VIII on Hurst Spit? Enjoy views of the Solent and out across to the Isle of Wight and learn about the castle’s intriguing military history from Tudor times to WW2. Hurst Castle is accessible via a short ferry ride or walk along the shingle spit. There is a nearby cafe if you need to recharge.
Browse our Lymington collection here…
For a true seaside experience, continue down along the coast to Milford on Sea. Here you’ll find a sandy stretch of golden beach where you can set up for an afternoon of sunbathing, sandcastle-building and swimming.
There are loads of lovely places to grab a bite to eat, and as it’s a coastal village you won’t be surprised to find a range of seafood specialities. Why not stop by the award-winning Verveine Seafood Restaurant to experience local produce at its finest? You can opt for either a 4, 6 or 8-course meal for an unbeatable dining experience.
Needless to say, there are also plenty of spots to get an indulgent ice cream to complete your mini seaside holiday. With great food and memorable sunset views, venturing to the seaside provides the perfect way to round off your weekend in the New Forest!
Whether you want to pack in as much as possible or take things at a more leisurely pace, hopefully, we’ve provided plenty of inspiration here to help build your perfect weekend itinerary!
Still need somewhere to stay? We have unique holiday homes dotted all over the New Forest, with countryside hideaways, coastal retreats and luxurious lodges to suit whatever kind of break you’re after.
Browse our Milford on sea and Keyhaven collection here…
Or view all of our New Forest holiday homes to find your escape.
