The New Forest is a place of exploration and discovery – something that’s especially true in spring, when flowers start blooming, baby foals take their first steps, and the sun makes its return. With loads of family-friendly activities across the New Forest, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your May half-term!
Hunt For Bluebells on a Forest Walk
It might sound cliché, but the New Forest really does come alive in spring. By May, the forest is a riot of colour, with rich green foliage and all sorts of colourful flowers dotting the landscape. The main show-stopper is, of course, the bluebell. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to spot the last of the season’s bluebells emerging from the forest floor in blankets of blue and purple.
Head on a walk through popular bluebell spots, such as Roydon Woods or Ivy Wood near Brockenhurst or Pondhead Inclosure near Lynhurst – you’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to forest walks! For more inspiration, see our full guide on where to see bluebells in the New Forest.
Enjoy a Bike Ride Around the Forest
Cycling is another quintessential New Forest activity, ideal for getting the whole family out there to enjoy some fresh air. With over 100 miles of way-marked cycle trails and various New Forest bike hire centres, you can pretty much just pick a direction and ride. No matter if you want to cycle beneath leafy glades, by the sea or take on an ambitious loop, finding a great trail to suit everyone won’t be hard.
Experience Life on the Water with Canoeing
New Forest Activities in Beaulieu offers all sorts of fabulous family adventures, which really come into their own in the spring. There’s no better way to explore Beaulieu than via the river itself. The centre’s friendly and knowledgeable instructors will show you the canoeing basics before setting off on a guided tour. 90-minute sessions encourage you to explore hidden creeks and waterways while providing plenty of opportunities to spot the local wildlife. This is a great way to spend an afternoon with the family, particularly on those sunnier days.
Test Your Skills With Archery
Another of New Forest Activities’ guided sessions, archery is loads of fun and sure to bring out everyone’s competitive side. With bows and arrows sized for everyone to have a go, here you’ll be given some pointers by the instructors before being let loose on the targets. Embark on target challenges to hone your skills and try for that bullseye – there’s nothing quite like hitting your mark!
Explore Exbury Gardens
With spectacular floral displays, picnic spots aplenty and the iconic steam train, a trip to Exbury Gardens always promises a brilliant day out. The main attractions during spring include the camellia collection, azaleas, rhododendrons, magnolias and the impressive Daffodil Meadow, with lots of winding trails to discover. During the May half-term, you can also see the Four Seasons Art Exhibition (free with garden admission), showcasing a range of artists and their interpretations of the natural world.
Have an Adventure in Beaulieu
Beaulieu is your one-stop shop when it comes to family fun during the holidays. Firstly, the National Motor Museum is always a hit with car lovers, offering a variety of exhibits that showcase iconic vehicles from history and the screen. Take a trip on the monorail for a bird’s eye view of the museum and grounds, too! Right next to the museum, you’ll also find Palace House, a Victorian manor that invites you into the past, with opulent interiors, interactive displays and guides dressed in Victorian costume.
Be sure to stop by Little Beaulieu, a wooden adventure play replica of Palace House, as well as explore the tranquil grounds, which include an Alice in Wonderland-themed topiary and a sculpture walk.
Discover Trails at Hurst Castle
For a day by the sea and a chance to lean into the area’s history, a visit to Hurst Castle, down from Keyhaven and Milford-on-Sea, is ideal. This Tudor military fort sits on Hurst Spit, supplying some great views out to sea and towards the Isle of Wight. During half-term, the site is running daily family trails that encourage you to explore the castle with a new lens. There are kids’ activities along the way, as well as a prize upon completion of the trail.
Get Crafty at Highcliffe Castle
Just along the coast from the New Forest, you’ll find Highcliffe Castle, built in the 19th century in the Romantic and Picturesque style. The grand architecture sets the scene wonderfully, giving you plenty to marvel over. There are a number of activities taking place over half-term, including an indoor trail from Sunday to Thursday and crafts available on Tuesday and Thursday. You can also make the most of the family day, which offers 50% off admissions on Wednesday!
Head to Longdown Activity Farm
Longdown Activity Farm is packed with things to do, from making friends with animals in the Animal Encounter Barn to burning off some steam with the outdoor play zones, trampolines and zip wire. As well as the usual animal-feeding sessions, other seasonal activities include the Tractor Time weekend (30th & 31st May), which includes static displays and tractor rides, great for tractor enthusiasts, young and old.
Encounter Animals at New Forest Wildlife Park
For more animal fun, take a trip to the New Forest Wildlife park, home to all sorts of animals, from ferrets, otters, and lynx to bison, boar and wolverine. Alongside the animals themselves, there are several playgrounds and a cafe, so you can make a real day of it. Keep an eye out for the keeper talks taking place during half-term, including daily deer feeding time talks and wolverine talks, where you can learn all about the animals and their quirks!
Visit Paultons Park & Peppa Pig World
For high-octane thrills and fast-paced adventures, take a trip to Paultons Park, one of the UK’s top-rated theme parks. With a range of family rides for younger kids, roller coasters for adrenaline seekers and 140 acres of parkland to explore, you’ve got a fun-filled day out ahead, promising the ultimate half-term break. Little ones will also be keen to explore Peppa Pig World, with loads of slower-paced rides and the chance to meet beloved characters.
For more holiday inspiration, see our guide on free things to do in the New Forest with kids.
Staying in the New Forest for May Half-Term
Still looking for the perfect family accommodation to make your May half-term one to remember? Whether you’re hoping to spend the whole week away or just a few nights, our handpicked selection of New Forest holiday cottages offers something for everyone, from countryside retreats and swish townhouses to impressively luxe stays.
Looking ahead to July and August? See our availability for summer holidays in the New Forest.
