One of the great things about the New Forest is that there’s so much to do whatever the weather. Even on those rainy days, there’s plenty of fun to be had for all the family, ensuring you can make the most of your getaway.
Here are some of the best indoor activities & attractions in the New Forest ....
Calshot centre, on the shores of the Solent, is a great shout for when you fancy getting out and staying active without having to face the elements. In The Hanger, you’ll find climbing walls, a ski slope, a velodrome and an aerial obstacle course to get the adrenaline pumping.
There is also an indoor cafe where you can cosy up with a warm drink and tasty food, watching the world go by.
If you’re not afraid of a little rain and don’t mind getting wet, the centre also offers an array of watersports such as sailing, kitesurfing and kayaking from April to October.
Paultons Park is a must-visit attraction for families visiting the New Forest. With a range of activities, rides and themed zones, there’s plenty to enjoy come rain or shine.
Peppa Pig World is a particular hit and also includes an indoor play zone and toy shop for when you need to escape from the rain.
Ideal for younger kids and animal lovers, Longdown farm attraction boasts a range of fun-filled activities and animal encounters. With things to do both indoors and outdoors, the weather won’t ruin a day out here.
Visit the various animal barns to see cows, goats, pigs, horses, alpacas and more. The indoor soft play area is also ideal for burning off a bit of excess energy when it’s too rainy to run about outside!
Museums and galleries are another great option when the weather takes a turn. Beaulieu’s Motor Museum is home to a fascinating collection of cars, motorcycles and memorabilia, including iconic models and cars made famous by the silver screen.
The museum often hosts special exhibits and events to attract families and ensure you can make a real day of it.
Next to the motor museum is Palace House, a lovely example of a Victorian country house that invites you to step back into the past and discover how the area has changed.
Here you can explore the various rooms, including a well-stocked library and a restored Victorian kitchen. There’s loads here to keep you enthralled and out of the rain.
Buckler’s Hard is a picturesque village on the banks of the Beaulieu River. If you’re after some indoor activities, head to the maritime museum where you can learn all about the local area’s shipbuilding history.
Discover how villagers would’ve lived and worked in the 19th century and explore the village’s historic connection with Nelson and the Battle of Trafalgar. When you’ve had your fill of history, the Captain’s Table is a cosy spot for a bite to eat or an afternoon tea.
If you’re staying in Lyndhurst, a visit to the Heritage Centre can make for a great rainy-day activity, encouraging you to learn more about the area and community. The museum sets the scene perfectly, taking you through the New Forest’s many stories and traditions.
The centre also hosts a range of exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing paintings, photography and art with local significance. Plus, like with any good museum, there is a cafe and shop stocked with tasty delights and local produce.
For a vibrant day of art and culture head to the St Barbe Museum and Gallery, a much-loved hub focusing on the history of Lymington and curating a varied exhibitions programme in the galleries.
The museum hosts a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the year, including numerous craft workshops. A trip to the cafe and shop will round off your visit perfectly too.
There’s nothing better than a sweet treat when the weather is on the more miserable side! Sit back, relax and get cosy with a warm drink and a bite to eat at one of the many top-notch New Forest cafes.
For more recommendations on where to eat, check out our food lover’s guide to the New Forest.
Or, take the kitchen yourself and embark on a cooking course at Chewton Glen. The hotel and spa provides a fantastic range of courses where you’ll learn loads of new skills – plus, you’ll end up with something delicious to eat.
The Cookery School offers various classes, including making bread, pastries, Korean food, Thai street food and much more. The school also hosts several family-friendly and junior courses to keep everyone entertained and engaged with their foodie side.
A bit of retail therapy is a great all-weather activity, and the New Forest is home to some lovely independent stores filled with unique treasures. Lymington’s High Street offers a lovely shopping experience, with charming Georgian buildings and a range of independent shops and boutiques to pique your interest.
The villages of Beaulieu and Burley also provide some nice shopping experiences, giving you the chance to pick up a souvenir or a tasty treat.
The Malt is a lovely little community cinema and the ideal place to spend a rainy afternoon. The theatre offers screenings for a range of entertainment, with everything from the latest blockbusters to ballet and opera recordings. You can even treat yourself to a New Forest ice cream whilst there.
For the ultimate day of relaxation, book a day pass for one of the New Forest’s various spas to enjoy indoor swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, spa treatments and yoga sessions.
Places like Elmers Court, Lime Wood and Chewton Glen offer an array of spa packages so you can treat yourself to some pampering.
For your own private slice of luxury, why not book one of our New Forest cottages with a hot tub or pool and keep that spa feeling just to yourself?
If a bit of rain doesn’t bother you, head to one of the many local outdoor attractions and experiences to see what the New Forest is all about – just remember your waterproofs!
A walk along one of the forest trails can be great fun in the rain, especially for little ones who want to splash in the puddles. Our winter walks guide provides some great recommendations on where to go for some fantastic wet-weather adventures.
There are also several lovely gardens to visit in the New Forest – these offer landscapes of colour and vibrant diversity during every season so don’t let a little rain put you off. Plus, with various cafes and tea rooms attached to these attractions, there’ll be plenty of chances to dry off.
With cosy cottages and luxe countryside retreats, our handpicked range of luxury New Forest cottages ensures you can find the perfect escape to act as your base while you embark on all of your adventures.
Still planning your getaway? Book an escape today.
