New Forest Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the beautiful English region of Hampshire, the New Forest is a protected area that offers a unique and enchanting experience for travelers. With its unspoiled landscapes, ancient woodlands, and diverse wildlife, this natural wonderland is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Covering an expansive area of approximately 566 square kilometers, the New Forest is an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The forest is home to an incredible variety of flora and fauna, including majestic oak trees, wild ponies, deer, and rare bird species. Visitors can explore the forest's many walking trails, cycle through its scenic routes, or even embark on a horseback riding adventure to fully immerse themselves in its natural beauty.
In addition to its stunning landscapes, the New Forest is also rich in history and culture. The area has a fascinating heritage dating back to the time of William the Conqueror, who designated it as a royal hunting ground in 1079. Today, remnants of this ancient history can still be discovered, such as the Rufus Stone, a memorial marking the spot where King William II was fatally shot with an arrow.
For those seeking a taste of traditional English village life, the New Forest has a number of charming towns and villages to explore. Lymington, a picturesque coastal town, is renowned for its sailing heritage and vibrant marina. Beaulieu, another delightful village, is home to the famous Beaulieu Palace House and National Motor Museum, where visitors can delve into the fascinating world of vintage cars and immerse themselves in the opulent history of the Montagu family.
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New Forest Attractions - What to See and Explore
New Forest offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Paultons Park, Calshot Activities Centre, Sandy Balls, Exbury Gardens. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
New Forest – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of New Forest, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Salisbury Cathedral (Salisbury), Spinnaker Tower (Portsmouth), Clarence Pier (Portsmouth).
Best Time To Visit New Forest
Learn when is the best time to travel to New Forest weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Eurasian otter
The Eurasian otter, often referred to as the European otter, is a captivating semiaquatic mammal native to Eurasia. It is the most widespread member of the otter family, inhabiting waterways and coastal regions across Europe, parts of Asia, and northern Africa.
Mammals
Red kite
The red kite, a striking bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family, is commonly found in Europe and northwest Africa. First described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758, the red kite has two recognized subspecies, although one is likely extinct.
Birds
Common raven
The common raven, scientifically known as Corvus corax, is an impressive all-black bird found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Also referred to as the western raven or northern raven, depending on the subspecies, it is the most widespread member of the corvid...
Birds
Domestic Ferret
The European polecat, a member of the weasel family, is native to western Eurasia and northern Morocco. Its distinctive appearance includes a dark brown coat with a lighter underbelly and a dark mask on its face. One of its unique characteristics is the ability...
Mammals
Red Deer, Elk, Hangul, Maral, Wapiti
The red deer is a large and majestic animal found in various parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Over time, they have been introduced to regions such as Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. As ruminants, red deer possess a unique four-chambered...
Mammals
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