Places to See, Things to Do in the New Forest

Places to See, Things to Do in the New Forest


The summer is fast approaching, the weather is warming up and many of us have already booked some time off work to relax and put aside the stresses. A lot of people have opted to stay in the UK and with so many different things to do is it any wonder that this is the case.

The New Forest is just one of many places in the UK that you may consider visiting. With so many activities there will hopefully be something to appeal to all members of the family.

Cycling is a popular way to explore the delights of the forest. There is over 100 miles of marked routes; a penalty of £500 can be incurred if you disobey the restricted areas so look for the green signs marked with a bike if in doubt before you enter.

Walking is one activity unlike the above that doesn't have many restrictions. It's an ideal way to absorb the atmosphere and take in the surroundings in all their glory. With endless gravel, grassy and sandy tracks it makes for perfectly suitable terrain for any enjoyable walk. There is also an abundance of car parks around to provide a starting and ending point and not to be read as endorsing drinking and driving a good pub is never far away.

Although walking isn't known as a high risk activity, dog walkers should be aware that there are adders around, also with nearly 100 adder bites happening yearly in the UK and half a dozen occurring here which are often caused by the snake being provoked, it is best not to try a "Steve Irwin" and give the stubborn and possibly surprised creature a wide berth. Also be aware, if you are a dog walker there are areas that you will not be permitted.

Whether you are an experienced rider or a first timer, how about trekking the gorgeous countryside on horse back? If you don't have your own horse there are many riding schools around. For first timers the pony trekking will allow you to ride in a more relaxed fashion. First timers don't be scared; apparently the ponies are very docile and nervous rider friendly. As with the cycling and dog walking, be wary of the out of bound areas.

As with most areas of natural beauty, a golf course or a fishing lake will sure to be found.

Activities have been briefly discussed but will hopefully give you a little taster of what is on offer, now it's onto the attractions. Each visitor can choose from a wide variety of attractions, for motor fanatics, how about visiting the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum, which was opened in order to keep the memory of the Golden Age of Motorcycling alive and with over 300 rare models, displayed in over four galleries, it could pose a Dad's delight. Maybe cars are more your thing, in which case Beaulieu National Motor Museum displays a unique collection, including those seen driven by none other than James Bond and for the children, they can partake in a mini car ride. Also within the grounds, lies Beaulieu Abbey, although much was destroyed during the dissolution of the monasteries around the reign of Henry VIII there are still things to see today.

Ok, so it is the summer holidays and the snow has melted but you may want to try your hand at skiing, Snowtrax maybe what you are looking for. Due to its unique mist-lubricated surface (if this means anything) it's useable all year round. Everyone is welcome from those wanting to practice for their forthcoming Austrian ski adventure to the complete novice who may want to appreciate the scenery.

Wildlife is something that the New Forest has in bucket loads, due to its differing habitats. There are many attractions around that will allow you to get up close and personal and most of them are actually outdoors and not taking the creatures away from their natural habitat.

If the weather isn't all its cracked up to be and the children are screaming out for something to do, there are indoor activities to take advantage of as well, most will require a short drive, Dorset's number 1 theme park, Adventure Wonderland could be the answer to your prayers, which promises to be great value for money entertainment.

These are only a few of the activates and attractions on offer, but from experience whatever your taste, age or budget there shouldn't be any restrictions to having a good holiday in the New Forest.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Knightwood Lodge [http://www.knightwoodlodge.co.uk]New Forest Hotel offering [http://www.knightwoodlodge.co.uk/rooms.htm]New Forest Accommodation for your next holiday.