Your essential guide to living like-a-local in the South West of the New Forest...
Nestled on the Hampshire-Dorset border, the south-west corner of the New Forest offers a wonderful mix of coast, countryside, charming villages, family attractions, and dog-friendly adventures.
Stretching from Christchurch and Mudeford to Highcliffe, Bransgore, Burton, and the surrounding forest edge, this area combines beautiful beaches with easy access to some of the New Forest’s most scenic landscapes. It is a little busier than the eastern side, as there are so many things to do.
Whether you’re planning a family holiday, a romantic break, or a dog-friendly escape, here’s everything you need to know about exploring this unique corner of the region.
The National Park areas on the western side of the forest are a combination of heath, oak and beech forest.
The coast at Avon Beach, Highcliffe, Mudeford and Christchurch is all beautiful, and while they can get busier in peak summer, there are plenty of places to get some space. Out of season, you may find you have the beach to yourself.
One of the biggest advantages of staying here is the variety. Within a short drive, you can spend the morning walking through ancient woodland, enjoy lunch overlooking a harbour and finish the day watching the sunset on a sandy beach.
To get the best out of this area, you will need a car.
Trains go to Sway, New Milton, Hinton Admiral, Christchurch and onto Bournemouth and Weymouth.
While many visitors focus on the central New Forest villages such as Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst, the south-west offers a different experience. Here you’ll find miles of coastline, bustling harbours, traditional seaside charm, excellent restaurants, and easy access to the quieter western forest.
Often considered the gateway between Dorset and the New Forest, Christchurch is one of the most attractive towns in the region. The town combines centuries of history with a vibrant waterfront atmosphere, making it a great destination for visitors of all ages.
The town’s centre is dominated by the impressive Christchurch Priory, one of the longest parish churches in England. Around the priory, you’ll find independent shops, cafés, riverside walks and attractive gardens. Christchurch Quay is particularly popular during warmer months, with families gathering to watch boats on the river and enjoy the open green spaces.
The meeting point of the Rivers Avon and Stour creates a beautiful waterside setting that feels far removed from larger seaside resorts.
Highcliffe is best known for its spectacular coastline and easy access to some of the finest beaches in the region. The town itself has a quieter, more relaxed feel than neighbouring seaside destinations, making it particularly appealing for families and couples.
The dramatic clifftop setting provides excellent views across Christchurch Bay towards the Isle of Wight, while the surrounding beaches offer plenty of space even during busier periods.
Mudeford is one of the most picturesque coastal areas in the New Forest region. The historic quay remains a working harbour and provides access to fishing trips, ferry services and some of the area’s most scenic coastal views.
The atmosphere here is relaxed and distinctly maritime. Visitors can watch fishing boats return with their catch, enjoy fresh seafood and stroll along the waterfront. During summer, the quay becomes a hub of activity with local events, watersports and family-friendly entertainment.
For those wanting a traditional New Forest village experience, Bransgore is an excellent choice. Surrounded by woodland and heathland, it provides easy access to some of the most beautiful walking routes in the National Park.
Unlike some of the busier tourist hotspots, Bransgore retains a peaceful village atmosphere. It is particularly popular with walkers, cyclists and visitors looking to experience the quieter side of the New Forest.
Whether you are staying in Bransgore, Christchurch, Highcliffe or nearby, you’ll find plenty to fill your days.
One of the area’s most impressive landmarks is Highcliffe Castle, a magnificent Grade I listed mansion perched dramatically above the coastline. Built in the 1830s, the castle is renowned for its striking Gothic Revival architecture and beautiful interiors, which feature intricate stonework and historic collections. Visitors can explore the restored rooms, learn about the fascinating history of the house and its former residents, and enjoy regular exhibitions and events throughout the year.
The castle’s grounds are equally appealing. Surrounded by landscaped gardens and woodland, the estate offers spectacular views towards the Isle of Wight. There is also direct access to the beach below, and along to the Steamer Point Nature Reserve, making it easy to combine a castle visit with a scenic coastal walk.
At the heart of Christchurch lies the popular Christchurch Quay, one of the most picturesque waterside spots on the south coast. Located where the Rivers Avon and Stour meet before entering Christchurch Harbour, the quay is a lively hub of activity throughout the year.
Visitors can stroll along the riverside, watch boats coming and going, enjoy an ice cream by the water or relax in the surrounding gardens. The area is particularly popular with families thanks to its play areas, open green spaces and opportunities to feed the ducks. During the warmer months, boat trips operate from the quay, offering a unique perspective of the harbour and local wildlife.
The quay is also within easy walking distance of Christchurch’s historic town centre and the magnificent Christchurch Priory, making it an excellent starting point for a day of sightseeing.
Few places capture the charm of the Dorset coast quite like Mudeford Quay. This traditional fishing quay remains one of the area’s most beloved destinations, attracting visitors with its working harbour atmosphere, seafood stalls and stunning coastal views.
Mudeford Quay is famous for crabbing, a simple activity that continues to delight generations of children. Families can spend hours lowering lines into the water in search of shore crabs before releasing them back into the harbour. The quay is also a popular launch point for paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing adventures.
One of the highlights of visiting Mudeford is taking the ferry across to Mudeford Sandbank. The short crossing offers beautiful views of Christchurch Harbour and provides access to one of the most unique stretches of coastline in the region, lined with colourful beach huts and golden sands.
This dramatic headland separates Christchurch Harbour from Bournemouth Bay and offers some of the finest coastal scenery in the area.
The walk to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views stretching across the Solent, Christchurch Harbour, the Isle of Wight and the surrounding coastline. The Hengistbury Head area is rich in wildlife and archaeological significance, with evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years.
Families often enjoy taking the land train that runs between the cafe and Mudeford Spit. The scenic ride offers stunning views of Christchurch Harbour, the Priory, and the surrounding landscape. Nature lovers will appreciate seeing the abundance of birdlife and rare habitats that can be found throughout the reserve.
We suggest parking on the ‘mainland’ side of Mudeford and walk the 20-30 mins walk up and over to the Mudeford Spit end. You can drop down to the beaches through the foresty sides of the ‘Head’. The views from here are lovely. For those with prams, take the pushchair-friendly track along the flat route.
One of the greatest attractions of this area is its coastline. The beaches here offer everything from family-friendly swimming spots to quieter stretches ideal for long walks.
Highcliffe Castle Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Backed by dramatic cliffs and overlooked by the historic castle, the beach offers a mixture of sand and shingle with plenty of space to relax.
At low tide, the beach opens up significantly, creating ideal conditions for walking, paddling and beach games. The nearby castle grounds and café make it easy to turn a beach visit into a full day out.
As you leave Highcliffe, there is a left turn into Rothesay Drive, with a short road just at the end, where you can park behind the castle and walk down to the beach from there!
Avon Beach is often considered one of the best family beaches near the New Forest. The white sandy shoreline, seasonal lifeguard cover and excellent facilities make it particularly popular during summer.
The views across Christchurch Bay are spectacular, and the calm waters are generally well suited to families with younger children. It also has a fab cafe and further up you’ll find the Noisy Lobster – a well loved and brilliant cafe!
The beaches surrounding Hengistbury Head offer a more natural and unspoilt coastal experience. The area is protected for its wildlife, archaeology and landscape, making it one of the most interesting coastal destinations in southern England.
Visitors can enjoy long stretches of beach, dramatic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife throughout the year.
Mudeford Sandbank offers a unique beach experience. Accessible by ferry, foot or the famous land train from Hengistbury Head, this narrow strip of land separates Christchurch Harbour from the sea.
The colourful beach huts have become iconic landmarks and create a distinctly British seaside atmosphere. The views in every direction are exceptional, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
Discover more about our favourite beaches in our Guide to Beaches in the New Forest.
Families are exceptionally well catered for in this part of the New Forest, with attractions ranging from outdoor adventures to beachside fun.
For families and outdoor enthusiasts, Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is one of the best attractions near the New Forest. Covering 800 acres of woodland and heathland, the park offers something for all ages throughout the year.
Children will love the large adventure play trails, which wind through the forest and feature climbing structures and interactive activities themed around the local wildlife. The park is also home to a miniature steam railway that provides a fun way to explore the woodland surroundings.
Walking and cycling trails criss-cross the park, all off-road, while dog owners can enjoy miles of scenic routes through the trees.
You only pay for parking, and the site is huge, with a very good café and visitor centre too. The site is accessible for wheeled mobility transport. It’s a day-trip destination for families and is very well priced.
During warmer months, Christchurch Quay’s splash park becomes one of the most popular family attractions in the area. Rather than a traditional swimming pool, the splash park features fountains, streams, paddling areas and interactive water features designed specifically for younger children.
The surrounding green spaces make it easy to enjoy a picnic while children play.
One of the most charming experiences for younger visitors is the famous land train at Hengistbury Head. The train runs between the visitor centre and Mudeford Sandbank, offering a fun alternative to walking.
For older children and teenagers, the New Forest Aqua Park provides an action-packed day out. The giant inflatable obstacle course is perfect for those looking for something energetic and memorable during their holiday. They also have a wake park, kayaking and SUP boarding on offer, so there’s plenty of fun to be had here.
Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy throughout the area, from casual beach cafés to award-winning fine dining restaurants.
Situated near Avon Beach, The Noisy Lobster has earned a reputation as one of the best beachside dining destinations in the region. Visitors come for the sea views, fresh seafood and relaxed atmosphere.
Booking ahead during summer is strongly recommended.
Located on Christchurch Harbour, The Jetty offers a more refined dining experience with exceptional waterfront views. It is a popular choice for special occasions and romantic evenings.
A local favourite in Christchurch, Soho Pizza combines excellent food with a lively atmosphere. Live music events and a vibrant setting make it particularly popular at weekends.
Known for its Thai cuisine and attractive outdoor dining area, The Rising Sun in Purewell offers something a little different from the traditional pub fare found elsewhere in the region.
Visitors looking for classic pub food and a warm welcome should consider The Three Tuns and The Crown in Bransgore. Both are popular with locals and visitors alike and offer a genuine taste of village life.
The combination of beaches, woodland and open countryside makes this one of the best areas in the New Forest for dog owners.
The woodland surrounding Bransgore provides excellent walking opportunities throughout the year. Many of the trails are relatively flat and accessible, making them suitable for dogs of all ages.
Nearby Burley is another favourite location, offering beautiful forest scenery and excellent opportunities to spot the famous New Forest ponies – just keep dogs on leads around the wildlife!
Many local beaches welcome dogs throughout much of the year, although seasonal restrictions may apply during the busiest summer months.
Whether you are planning a weekend break or a longer holiday, Highcliffe, Christchurch, Mudeford and Bransgore showcase a side of the New Forest that many visitors overlook – and that is precisely what makes it so special.
