There is a wealth of opportunities for sporting and leisure activities in and around the New Forest, as well as local attractions for great family days out. This page lists a selection of places to see and things to do.
Meet the Natives
In the New Forest the ponies roam freely, and there is plenty of other wildlife to encounter - deer are usually easy to spot at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. The Forest is well known as a great place for walking and cycling, and there are several beaches within easy reach for those who love the sea. You may like to take the Isle of Wight ferry from Southampton to spend a day on the Island, and the little ferry from Hythe over to Southampton is fun too.
For general information on The New Forest and what is available have a look at:
Days Out
There really is something for everyone in the surrounding area:
- Visit HMS Victory and the Mary Rose at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
- Explore the romantic Mottisfont Abbey and Gardens.
- Check out the cars at Beaulieu Motor Museum.
- Visit WestQuay for shopping and the cinema.
- Visit The Ageas Bowl to see the Hampshire CCC.
- When they were little, our children enjoyed a trip to Paulton's Park (now home to Peppa Pig World), or Moors Valley Country Park.
- Enjoy a Saturday morning visit to Lymington for the market, and a walk down Quay Street to the harbour.
Eating Out
There are some great places to eat nearby:
- The Oak Inn at Bank is a gentle walk from Timbers, or a great place to end up in after a walk in the forest.
- The Waterloo Arms is a popular family friendly pub.
- The Ferryman is a lovely pub in Lymington.
- The Fox & Hounds is another popular village pub.
- Pebble Beach at Barton on Sea is worth the drive.
- Les Mirabelles is a hidden gem for great French cuisine - but you will need to book ahead.
- The Mailmans Arms for watching Sky Sports.