It is a truth universally acknowledged that sunny New Forest adventures are best enjoyed with an ice cream in hand! And luckily, the region certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to delicious seasonal sweet treats. Here’s the scoop on the best ice cream spots around.
Toot Sweets Ice Cream Parlour, Lymington
For indulgent desserts with toppings galore, head to Toot Sweets in the heart of Lymington. If the sheer number of ice cream flavours isn’t enough to entice you (24 flavours!), then the rest of the menu surely is. This family-run ice cream parlour is also famed for its ice cream milkshakes, sundaes and whippy trays which pair ice cream with your favourite sweets and chocolate bars – whatever your treat of choice, you’re bound to find it here.
Humbug, Lymington
Also based in Lymington, Humbug is a traditional sweet shop complete with wall-to-wall sweetie jars in a rainbow of colours. Set along one of the town’s quaint streets, a stone’s throw away from the Lymington River, this is the perfect pit stop for summer strolls. Delve into a range of ice cream flavours from classics like chocolate and rum and raisin to exciting taste sensations like unicorn cake and blue bubblegum.
Burley Ice Creams, Burley
With a range of ice cream specials and the choice to build your own delicious combinations, Burley Ice Creams is the place to go for sweet treat lovers! Start by picking your cone, then choose your Mr Whippy ice cream flavour, select your extras (from flakes to Oreo biscuits) and top it all off with your favourite topping and sauce for the ultimate ice cream experience. The stall is located in the enchanting, witchy village of Burley, right next to the Away with the Faeries shop.
The Moody Cow, Fordingbridge
This cafe and bar boasts a particularly well-stocked gelato counter with sumptuous flavours that are made on-site. Moody Cow gelato flavours include everything you’d want and more, with typical chocolate, strawberry and vanilla done to perfection alongside more unique offerings like Turkish delight, cookie crunch, rhubarb & ginger and even candyfloss & marshmallow.
Beachcomber, Barton on Sea
Located atop the Barton on Sea clifftop, this perfectly situated cafe serves ice cream with a view! Meander along the beach and take in the panoramic views before heading to the Beachcomber for a great selection of ice creams. This spot also regularly hosts live music events, offering a great atmosphere to relax and enjoy yourself, whether you’re in the mood for an ice cream or not!
Needles Eye Cafe, Milford on Sea
Another seafront spot, this Milford on Sea cafe provides glorious views out to The Needles, offering a fabulous spot to sit back, relax and enjoy the very best beachside, ice cream-fueled experience. With ice cream supplied by the award-winning local manufacturer New Forest Ice Cream, you won’t be disappointed with the selection here.
The Beaulieu Bakehouse, Beaulieu
If you’re visiting the beautiful, picturesque village of Beaulieu, be sure to stop by The Beaulieu Bakehouse, a popular cafe offering all manner of lunches and sweet treats. Top off your day of exploring with your pick of New Forest Ice Cream flavours, or go for a fresh milkshake, made with the popular local ice cream. It’s a great spot to watch the world go by!
Forest Glade Ice Cream, Lyndhurst
Set right in the heart of the New Forest, this high street ice cream parlour is a popular spot to refuel after exploring the various nearby forest trails and attractions. Locally made and providing a fantastic array of 25 flavours, there’s plenty of choice here. On the rare occasion you’re not craving ice cream, Forest Glade also offers frozen yoghurt, sorbets and milkshakes.
Trailside Cafe, Bolderwood & Blackwater
The Trailside Cafe mobile vans are located at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary and just off the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive in Blackwater Woods, making them ideal for post-walk refreshments. Enjoy speciality coffee, baked treats and, of course, award-winning local ice cream amidst the trees for the ultimate New Forest experience.
Still planning your perfect summer break? Explore our diverse range of luxury stays, including New Forest holiday cottages with hot tubs for a truly magical time away. From large multi-generational stays to cosy cottages for couples, our fabulous range of properties caters to all kinds of New Forest adventurers.
