New Forest

Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, the New Forest is a spectacular landscape made up of a unique mix of woodlands and open habitats that are globally important for nature conservation

Forestry England manages 47% of the New Forest National Park, including much of the best-known ancient woodlands, wetlands and heathlands, which are home to many rare species of plants and wildlife. In fact, we look after more land and more trees than any other organisation in England. You can help care for the forest by following The New Forest Code.

Whether you’re connecting with nature by exploring scenic trails or spotting rare wildlife, the New Forest is a place where history, nature, and adventure come together. Download our Essential Guide to the New Forest to make the most of your visit.

Cars parked under the trees in a forest car park

Changes to car parking in the New Forest

From April 2026, parking charges will be introduced at all of our car parks in the New Forest. Forestry England charges for parking at forests throughout the country. The New Forest will now join these, with the money raised helping to fund our vital work to care for the nation’s forests.

Discover and enjoy timeless beauty 

Whether you’re walking through ancient woodlands, cycling on waymarked trails, or spotting wildlife, the New Forest offers endless ways to connect with nature.

Where to visit

Looking up through the trees at the Jubilee Grove at Bolderwood
Veteran trees and a royal past and present

Explore big, old trees that are home to rare wildlife and plants. Bolderwood is part of Queen Elizabeth II's Ancient Canopy.

A view of the sign, path and trees at the entrance of Blackwater Arboretum
A tree collection from around the world

Walk the arboretum trail, be awed by the giant redwoods and enjoy the sensory sculptures.

The Knightwood Oak
The largest oak in the New Forest

The 500 year old Knightwood Oak is the most famous tree in the New Forest.

Deep pink sky with single silhouette of tree and frosty grass
An ideal spot for walks and picnics

If you are looking for an ideal spot for picnicing, a walk in the woods or amazing views then Wilverley has it all.

Hatchet Pond lake sunset
The New Forest’s largest body of fresh water

Hatchet Pond is one of the UK’s most important ponds for nature and wildlife.

A woman and young children smiling over a wicker picnic hamper, with trees in the background.
A shady spot nestled in the trees

The perfect spot to park up and enjoy a picnic surrounded by woodland and wildlife.

Three New Forest ponies standing on open grassland.
Stunning heathland views

Enjoy the stunning views of heathland and trees beyond. An ideal spot for all the family for walks or picnics.

Bolton's Bench in Lyndhurst
Nestled in Lyndhurst

Walk up to the top of the hill to take in picturesque views of the heathland, ancient woodlands and grassy lawns.

Eyeworth Pond
Wander through history

Walk around the man-made gunpowder mill pond or take a walk through the woodland.

Verderers’ Hall after restoration
Located in Lyndhurst High Street

The Verderers’ Hall is the meeting place of the Verderers’ Court, a body originally authorised by the crown to deal with Forest Law.

Things to do

Explore the New Forest on two wheels!

We have more than 100 miles of waymarked family-friendly cycle routes, much of it off the public highway and traffic-free. There are plenty of...

Walking trails are suitable for all ages and abilities and some are pushchair and buggy friendly. You don’t even need a map. Follow the wooden posts with the coloured marker bands...

Relax, restore and rediscover... that's the order of the day when you stay at a Camping New Forest campsite!

With 10 stunning sites, operated by our partners Camping New Forest, you...

Horse riders have always enjoyed open access on the Crown Lands of the New Forest, which is well furnished with lots of suitable tracks. Seeing this ancient landscape from the back...

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