The New Forest is a stunningly beautiful area of Hampshire, England. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty, with its heathlands, ancient woodlands, and wildlife-rich wetlands. It is a popular tourist destination, with its diverse range of attractions, activities, and accommodation.
History of the New Forest
The New Forest was declared a royal hunting ground by William the Conqueror in 1079. It has remained largely unchanged since then, and is now a National Park, protected by law. It covers an area of approximately 220 square miles, and is home to an array of wildlife, including red deer, wild ponies, and a variety of birds.
New Forest Attractions
The New Forest is full of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top attractions:
- New Forest ponies – the iconic wild ponies of the New Forest are a must-see for visitors.
- Hampshire countryside – explore the stunning Hampshire countryside with its rolling hills and lush green valleys.
- Hampshire tourism – take advantage of the many tourist attractions in the area, including historic sites, gardens, and museums.
- Hampshire attractions – take a trip to one of the many attractions in the area, such as Beaulieu Abbey, Exbury Gardens, and Hurst Castle.
- Hampshire walks – take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Hampshire countryside, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the area.
- New Forest walks – explore the many walking trails in the New Forest, from easy family walks to more challenging hikes.
- New Forest camping – spend a night or two camping in the New Forest, taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
- New Forest hotels – stay in one of the many hotels in the area, offering a range of accommodation for all budgets.
What to Expect
Visitors to the New Forest can expect to experience the beauty of the area, with its heathlands, woodlands, and wildlife. There are a range of activities to enjoy, from walking and cycling to bird watching and horse riding. There are also plenty of attractions, such as Beaulieu Abbey, Exbury Gardens, and Hurst Castle.
Tours
There are a range of guided tours available in the New Forest, from horse-drawn carriage rides to guided walks. These tours offer visitors the opportunity to explore the area in more depth, and to learn more about its history and wildlife.
Admission
Most attractions in the New Forest are free to enter. However, some attractions may require an admission fee.
Tips for Tourists
- Wear suitable clothing and footwear – the New Forest can be a wet and muddy place, so make sure you are wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Pack a picnic – the New Forest is a great place for a picnic, so make sure you bring some food and drinks with you.
- Respect the wildlife – the New Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, so make sure you treat them with respect.
- Be aware of the ponies – the New Forest ponies are wild animals, so make sure you give them plenty of space.
- Stay on the paths – the paths in the New Forest are there for a reason, so make sure you stay on them and don’t stray into the woods.
Practical Information
- Opening times – the New Forest is open all year round, but some attractions may have different opening times.
- Parking – there are a number of car parks in the New Forest, but they can be busy, so make sure you plan ahead.
- Public transport – there are a number of bus and train services that run to the New Forest, so make sure you check the timetable before you travel.
- Accommodation – there is a range of accommodation available in the New Forest, from camping to hotels.
Conclusion
The New Forest is a stunningly beautiful area of Hampshire, England. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty, with its heathlands, ancient woodlands, and wildlife-rich wetlands. It is a popular tourist destination, with its diverse range of attractions, activities, and accommodation. Whether you are looking for a relaxing break or an action-packed holiday, the New Forest has something for everyone.
