The New Forest’s endless natural beauty makes it a lovely backdrop for couples looking to create memories on a romantic trip away.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just fancy a weekend retreat to relax and recharge together, there are plenty of luxury New Forest cottages and romantic things to do to make your stay a memorable one!
The New Forest has activities and attractions to cater to all, with both peaceful days out where you can focus on enjoying each other’s company and action-packed memory-making adventures.
We work with a number of our favourite local companies to bring our guests exclusive discounts, so be sure to check out our offers to see if there are any that apply to your chosen activity!
Head out to Beaulieu River for a leisurely paddle via canoe or kayak, perfect for enjoying the surrounding scenes from a whole new vantage point. Run by New Forest Activities, here you have the opportunity to get up close to the natural world and do some one-of-a-kind exploring together.
Relish in the peaceful waterside views while spending quality time with your partner and getting out there to have some fun!
Similarly, a bike ride offers a wonderful way to spend time together in the New Forest’s stunning landscapes. With a wealth of safe and easy trails, you can’t go far wrong with a scenic bicycle ride through the woods. You could book a guided tour or head off just the two of you to see which tranquil trails you come across.
There are several great cycle hire services you can use to help your bike riding date run smoothly, including New Forest Bikes, Cyclexperience, New Forest Activities and The Woods Cyclery.
For route recommendations see our guide to cycling in the New Forest.
If you feel like spending a low-key afternoon together, why not pack up all your favourite treats and set up base at one of the New Forest’s gorgeous picnic spots?
A walk through the Blackwater Arboretum and a picnic amidst the trees here provides an especially magical day out. Roydon Woods is another nice picnic spot, especially when the bluebells are in full bloom in Spring.
In a land of glorious historic trees, The Knightwood Oak is perhaps one of the oldest and most famous. Believed to have been planted over 500 years old, this majestic oak, also known as The Queen of the Forest, has a regal, magical air, making it well worth a visit.
Take a stroll along the Knightwood Oak Trail to get immersed in the inherent history of this area. The trails and open spaces here make it another lovely spot for a picnic.
The New Forest is just as spectacular when it’s winding down for the day as it is during any other time. Make a point of enjoying an enchanting New Forest sunset when the sky burns with vibrant colour.
The beach at Milford on Sea makes for a wonderful sunset lookout point, as you can stroll along the shingle and enjoy the light reflecting off the water. Hatchet Pond is another amazing place to admire a sunset as you can take in the scenes out across the still lake.
If it’s ultimate relaxation you’re after, a pampering spa day offers the perfect opportunity to unwind with your loved one, with many local spas offering couples packages.
Indulge with massages, spa therapies, hydrotherapy pools and more to take a true break from daily life. Take a look at our recommendation guide to discover the best spas in the New Forest.
Buckler’s Hard is a charming village on the banks of the Beaulieu River. When visiting, you’ll get the sense that you’ve stepped back in time, with 18th-century cottages and a slower pace of life.
Meander around the tranquil village and museum before claiming your spot for a picnic or heading to The Captain’s Table, at the Master Builders for afternoon tea.
Exbury Gardens is a treat for all the senses, with 200 acres of woodland gardens waiting to be explored. Take a romantic walk among beautiful blooms, including the special rhododendron and azalea collections. The daffodil meadow in spring is also quite a sight to see.
With endless riots of colour and natural marvels, you’ll have loads of opportunities to take some lovely pictures together too!
The New Forest boasts a wide array of eateries making use of delicious local ingredients for some truly unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re after fine dining for date night or a cosy cafe to while away an afternoon, there’s plenty of good food going around to keep everyone happy.
Our food lovers guide to the New Forest gives the lowdown on some of our favourite places to eat.
One of the best ways to explore the New Forest together is simply exploring it by foot. Whether you fancy ancient forests, sweeping heathland or seaside scenes, there are some truly spectacular walks that help show off the region at its best.
Check out some of our favourite romantic New Forest walks to discover enchanting trails and picturesque spots.
The accommodation can make or break your couples getaway so it’s worth browsing around a bit to find somewhere you both really love. Our handpicked selection of couples stays includes a range of cosy hideaways, ideal for creating that intimate atmosphere where it feels like it’s just the two of you against the world.
From coastal hotspots to countryside sojourns, no matter what kind of retreat you’re after, we’ve got something to entice you. Start planning your New Forest romantic break today!
