New Forest

The forest gets crowded in school holidays (July-August) – the campsites and hotels are full, the roads get clogged, and getting anywhere takes ages, so stay away from the main hubs if possible. At all other times of the year – even the winter months – it’s a delightful place with far fewer tourists.

Spring sees the birthing of foals, and forest floors carpeted with bluebells and daffodils. Autumn (September-October) is a riot of colour as the deciduous trees shed their leaves.

The forest is highly accessible, located right at the end of the M3 motorway. The main road in from the east is the A27, which joins the A31 (coming from the west) in the middle of the forest. There are train stations throughout the forest – the main entry point, Brockenhurst, is a 1.5-hour train ride from London Waterloo. Southampton and Bournemouth airports, on either side of the New Forest, are about a 20-minute drive away.

The forest is criss-crossed with small lanes and paths – fine for cars except in summer, when traffic can be heavy and roads become clogged. Otherwise, it’s easy to get around by car and there’s plentiful parking.

With miles of waymarked paths, the best way to explore is by bike and the forest is set up to be a cycle-friendly destination. Efficient, bike-friendly trains connect the main towns and villages.

There are excellent hotels dotted throughout the forest; there’s no need to stay near a town. Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst are the most accessible, but get crowded especially in summer. Beaulieu and Burley are two of the prettiest villages, and the sailing town of Lymington is at the southern edge, perfect for getting out on the water. Historic Christchurch, also south of the forest on a fine stretch of coast, is another excellent base.

The Forestry Commission has some great campsites dotted around the forest – many in beautifully unspoilt areas – even for non-campers, they are great for a night or two.