With an array of exciting and memorable attractions at every turn, there are plenty of ways to ensure your New Forest family holidays are packed with action and fun.
The New Forest is one of the UK’s best holiday destinations for families, largely thanks to the great mix of adventures to be had, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you and the kids can’t wait to take in the area’s vast natural beauty and spot some roaming ponies or head to a theme park for some unbeatable thrills, the New Forest has got it all!
No list of the best family attractions in the New Forest would be complete without mentioning Paultons Park. Touted as the best family theme park in the UK, this attraction caters to all ages, promising a fantastic day out for everyone.
Bigger kids will love the roller coasters and high-adrenaline rides while little ones will have a ball at Peppa Pig World and the indoor play zones. The park is also home to various zoo animals including penguins, lemurs, meerkats and many more, providing a truly varied and lively day out.
If you want to remain close to the action, our properties include a plethora of wonderful cottages near Peppa Pig World.
New Forest Wildlife Park is another beloved family attraction that is not to be missed by animal lovers. Here, you’ll get the chance to see a diverse range of animals and learn all about the park’s conservation efforts.
Animals you’ll get to see include otters, owls, deer, bison, lynx and more. There are often keeper talks and feeding sessions, providing a great opportunity to learn more and see the animals up close. The park also has fantastic adventure playgrounds, a cafe, designated picnic areas and a gift shop so you can make a real day of it.
The National Motor Museum in Beaulieu is a family favourite perfect for brushing up on your motoring history and seeing some classic cars from the screen.
The museum features over 250 vehicles in a range of exhibits including record-breakers, legendary models and famous movie icons. Step back in time with the recreation of a 1930s garage and enjoy a range of hands-on experiences. There is also a popular monorail that provides a great view of the grounds around the museum and an amazing wooden play area.
Right next to the National Motor Museum, you’ll find Palace House – what was once the gatehouse to Beaulieu Abbey and is now a wonderfully preserved Victorian country house.
Here, you’ll learn all about the Montagu family and the history of the building, with a chance to explore the Victorian kitchen and even hear about potential ghost sightings! Kids of all ages will love discovering the past in this evocative setting.
For more animal fun, head to Longdown Activity Farm where you can meet loads of friendly farm animals such as donkeys, pigs, cows, alpacas and goats. The whole family will get the opportunity to get up close and personal with these lovely creatures with various bottle-feeding and animal encounter sessions.
The play parks, complete with trampolines, zip wire, wheelchair swing and more, also provide a great chance to blow off steam.
For a chance to see some of the New Forest’s most elusive residents, take a trip to the Reptile Centre which is home to a range of amphibians and reptiles. The centre here does important work protecting our native reptiles, including the sand lizard, smooth snake and adder.
The animals are housed in outdoor pods which provide a natural habitat for them. Be aware that the Reptile Centre opening times are seasonal so double check before any visits.
Hurst Castle, located at the end of Hurst Spit down from Milford on Sea, is a Tudor artillery fortress with lots of rich history to discover. Learn all about its role as a prison housing Charles I as well as its importance during the Napoleonic and Second World Wars.
There is an adventure playground and plenty of open space for kids to explore here. With views out toward the Isle of Wight, it’s a great place for a picnic.
For more historical fun, head to Buckler’s Hard on the banks of Beaulieu River. The preserved 18th-century shipbuilding village encourages you to step back in time and appreciate the slower pace of life, ideal for when you and your family need a peaceful afternoon away.
The museum offers a range of interesting exhibits about its history of shipbuilding. The historic cottage displays also provide an exciting window into the past.
Possibly the most-loved play park on the South Coast. Pay to park, most is free after that. Acres of massive play structures, deep in the forest. With a mini ride-on train, miles of cycle trails, cafes and Go Ape. Moors Valley is brilliant for all ages.
Discover stunning woodland walks, floral displays and a miniature steam railway at the wonderful Exbury Gardens, spanning over 200 acres. The gardens and trails here provide the perfect opportunity to get in touch with nature.
Marvel at the azaleas, hydrangeas, irises, rhododendrons, daffodil meadow and so much more. For a fun way to enjoy the gardens’ many colours, smells and sounds, hop aboard the meandering steam train which takes you through the Summer Lane Garden and Rock Garden before looping back around Dragonfly Pond.
pssst.. guests of New Forest Escape can make use of our exclusive discount on entry to the gardens.
An enchanting garden full of charm and magic, Furzey Gardens provides a lovely family day out, encouraging everyone to unwind in the peaceful heart of the New Forest.
There are 40 whimsical fairy doors to discover when exploring the various garden trails, which are guaranteed to delight. Plus, there is a great woodland play area to continue the adventure.
For a chance to get out and about in nature and see some deer, Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is ideal. With a deer viewing platform, picnic area and a number of family-friendly trails through ancient woodland, a day out here makes for a wonderfully relaxing time.
Dogs are also welcome at Bolderwood, ensuring everyone in the family is set for a great day exploring.
For another easy but memorable day out amongst the trees, head to Blackwater Arboretum in Brockenhurst. Discover an array of special trees along the various trails and really make the most of this idyllic corner of the country.
The Tall Trees Trail is a particular favourite with families as the walk is relatively easy yet brilliantly rewarding. Here, you’ll walk among some of the biggest, most impressive trees in the New Forest, including grand redwoods and Douglas firs. The Blackwater Arboretum Trail complete with sculptures and sensory experiences offers another popular route.
Lepe Country Park offers another day out appreciating the natural delights of the New Forest. Here you can enjoy some seaside fun with the stretch of shingle beach, ideal for afternoon strolls and paddling in the waves.
There is also a circular walk around the park, taking you through all the best bits, with coastal trails and meandering paths through the countryside. The Lepe Point Nature Reserve is home to a variety of wildlife just waiting to be discovered too. With children’s play areas, a restaurant, a shop and plenty of good spots for picnics, there’s all the making of a fantastic family day out.
For even more inspiration for your visit, including during half terms, Easter or Summer, check out our guide to the best school holiday activities in the New Forest.
Still planning your perfect family getaway? See our selection of eclectic New Forest cottages to discover all the best properties for making unforgettable holiday memories.
From cosy hideaways to spacious pads with plenty of space to roam free and play, there’s a luxurious escape to suit every family!
