'A place of tranquil beauty and ancient traditions' – a perfect description of the New Forest, whose peaceful landscapes and rich heritage have inspired visitors for centuries.

Created as a royal hunting ground in 1079 by William the Conqueror, the New Forest is one of the most treasured corners of southern England — a place where wild ponies roam free, ancient woodlands whisper their stories, and traditions passed down through generations still thrive today.

Stretching across Hampshire and into neighbouring Wiltshire, the New Forest is not just somewhere to visit — it’s somewhere to experience. And for those keen to immerse themselves in the character and charm of this National Park, there’s an abundance of tours, workshops and guided experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether it’s learning an age-old craft, joining a wildlife walk, driving a vintage car, tasting local produce, joining a foraging workshop, or simply soaking up the peace and beauty of its woodland paths, the New Forest offers something for every visitor to enjoy.

And it’s why we’re so delighted to highlight just some of the wonderful experiences available, all set against the backdrop of this beautiful, ancient landscape.

These New Forest villages and towns are some of our favourite places for guided tours, workshops and outdoor adventures:

Brockenhurst

Nestled right in the heart of the New Forest, Brockenhurst is a lively village surrounded by woodland and open heath. It’s a popular starting point for guided walks and wildlife tours — with expert rangers sharing their knowledge of the ponies, deer, birds and rare plants found nearby. Alternatively, you can relax in a traditional thatched New Forest cottage and enjoy an afternoon tea at Esme's Tea Room

Beaulieu

Best known for its famous motor museum, Beaulieu is also a hub for outdoor adventures. Join a kayaking tour along the peaceful Beaulieu River, or take part in a guided foraging walk to discover edible plants and wild herbs growing in the nearby woods.

Lymington

This charming coastal town sits right on the edge of the New Forest and offers a wonderful mix of land and sea experiences. Visitors can take part in cookery classes using locally sourced forest ingredients or join food and drink tours showcasing New Forest cheeses, wines and artisan produce. Lymington is also the starting point for boat trips along the Solent — perfect for spotting seabirds and taking in views of the forest from the water. Sailing experience days for small groups are also popular, with the opportunity for everyone to take the helm!

Burley

Famous for its connections to witchcraft folklore and smugglers’ tales, Burley is a magical place to explore. Guided walks reveal stories of the village’s intriguing past, while craft workshops and traditional skills courses celebrate the forest’s heritage. Visitors can try their hand at willow weaving, herbal remedies or even make their own forest-inspired souvenirs.

Lyndhurst

Often called the ‘capital’ of the New Forest, Lyndhurst is home to the New Forest Heritage Centre — a brilliant starting point for learning about the area’s history and wildlife. Join a ranger-led walk from here, or take part in cycling tours that follow the forest’s quieter tracks and hidden paths. The surrounding woods are also a perfect setting for guided mindfulness walks and seasonal foraging events.

There are also a host of self-guided walks from the town. New Forest Walks offer numerous routes available to download from their website

Minstead

A small, peaceful village tucked away among the trees, Minstead is full of character and history. It’s the resting place of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, author of Sherlock Holmes, and the village’s quiet lanes are perfect for walking tours. Nearby, traditional craftspeople offer courses in green woodworking, leatherwork and other rural skills — keeping alive the forest’s centuries-old craft heritage.

From ancient trees and wildlife encounters to artisan workshops and local food trails, the New Forest remains a place where history, nature, and creativity come together in the most wonderful ways.

It is, without doubt, much more than just a forest — it’s a living, breathing landscape of stories, skills, and unforgettable experiences.

Did you know that the The New Forest National Park won the Number One 'National Park in Europe' in the 2022 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards for Destinations?

Our top tip for a New Forest walk - Park at Linford Bottom (Free car parking, but no toilet facilities. Ice cream van at peak times!) and head along the stream in to the forest. The first section can be busy at peak times, but most people don't walk more than 5 minutes from the car park. Follow Linford Brook deep in to the forest to enjoy the ancient woodland. Go early in the morning or in the evening to stand a chance of seeing deer. Linford Bottom