Located in the South of England, between Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset counties, the New Forest National Park is by far one of the most stunning places to visit. It is suitable for any kind of traveller, from family expeditions, to lone wanderers. A perfect place for animal-lovers and horseback-riders, the New Forest never fails to attract the eye. Packed with fun and unique places to visit and things to do, this National Park promises to be a lovely retreat at any time of year.
Walk amidst the roaming horses and between ancient trees
This magical place consists of gorgeous forests surrounded by clearings of ferns and vast heathlands where wildlife is free to roam. In the winter, the fairy-like streams freeze over and the grass turns frosty and crunchy underfoot, in the summer, the fields of ferns are a vivid green and the holly boasts clumps of bright red berries. Stunning in all seasons, this national park hardly seems part of this world where horses and cows wander carefree across the roads and into the woods. In the Autumn, pigs are also left to roam the forests and eat the acorns while dogs are not restricted to leads. The landscape is dotted with charming little villages and churches that promise a warm pub lunch after a day of exploring the forests and heathlands. The forest is also full of deer and rabbits that can be spotted if patient enough.
Walk amidst the lush history of the forest
The New Forest was established in 1079 by William the Conqueror for the sole purpose of a hunting ground. The concept of the pigs foraging for acorns; “pannage” dates back since the 16th century and has been in use ever since. Many of the residing families in the New Forest are descendants of the farmers that used to work for the upper classes generations back. This rich history continues into the First and Second World Wars whereupon many of the trees growing there were cut down for timber and replaced with faster growing trees such as coniferous trees. Hints of the rich tapestry of the New Forest’s History can be spotted everywhere and make this an even more enchanting place to wander in.
Go for scenic walks and bike rides along stunning sights
The New Forest is famous for its magical walks in the forest and in the plains and never fail to take your breath away no matter what the weather is. The Official website for the New Forest also has very helpful maps and walk suggestions in the link below. I also recommend bringing maps and compasses or the ViewRanger App to avoid getting lost as cellular data is often faulty in places and it is very easy to get confused. The New Forest can also get extremely muddy in places so wellington boots or appropriate walking shoes are essential. It is also common for any equestrian lovers to take horses out for the day and ride across the countryside on tracks that are made especially available for horses, wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Visit the capital of the New Forest
Lyndhurst is the village found in the centre of the New Forest and can be a lovely break from walks. It boasts a variety of cozy tea rooms, restaurants and shopping opportunities and a day here can be equally as lovely as a day out biking. Much in the spirit of the New Forest, cattle occasionally wanders into the villages and can slow up traffic, but this never fails to be a charming sight. The New Forest Museum can also be found here and helps give an account of the rich history of this National Park.
Treat yourself to the many perks that the New Forest offers
The New Forest also has a beautiful coastline that looks out onto the Isle Of Wight and is an absolute must-see. Even in the dead of winter, getting an all-day breakfast at the beach cafe after an invigorating walk along the pier can be a remarkable experience. There is also a wealth of local produce to be found all over the New Forest, most notably supplied by the New Forest Marquee; an accreditation team that works on promoting local produce such as jams, meat, fish and cakes. Finally, the New Forest Lavender Farm is definitely worth stopping by for a taste of coffee and lavender biscuits, if not to see gorgeous flower garden on display.
Escape to this ancient wood for some unforgettable experiences
All in all, the New Forest can be a spellbinding experience for all types and ages due to its wealth of activities and charms. It is accommodating to all and can be the perfect holiday to get away, being a world in itself. The walks are renown for their enchanting sights and is recommended for all animal and nature lovers. Having the perfect balance of town, sea-side, forest and heathland, the New Forest is sure to please. The rich history and heritage only makes it even more special to walk amidst such wild landscapes.
History
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