New Forest for Families: Kid-Friendly Activities and Attractions

When it comes to family excursions, the New Forest shines as a treasure trove of adventure, excitement, and the great outdoors. Nestled in the heart of southern England, this picturesque haven is not only famous for its sprawling woodlands and iconic ponies, but it also serves as a fantastic spot for families to explore together. Whether your little ones are energetic explorers or budding naturalists, there’s something for kids of all ages in the New Forest. So, pack your bags and get ready for a day (or weekend) filled with nature, history, and unforgettable fun!

Read on for the ultimate guide of kid-friendly activities in the New Forest.

🚶🏼‍♀️ Exploring the New Forest on Foot – Family-Friendly Walks and Trails 

With over 100 miles of trails, the New Forest is perfect for family walks or adventurous bike rides. Families looking for easy and scenic kid-friendly trails to explore will love the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Trail and the Blackwater Tall Trees Trail.

The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Trail is a gentle, family-friendly walk that winds through the majestic New Forest National Park. Expect to see herds of fallow deer grazing in the woodland setting, as well as an array of native bird species. The trail also features a viewing platform where you can get up close to the deer and observe them in their natural habitat.

The Blackwater Tall Trees Trail is another great option for families with young children. Located in the beautiful, ancient Blackwater Arboretum, this trail takes walkers through a serene forest filled with towering trees, including some of the tallest in Britain. Families can expect to see a variety of wildlife, such as squirrels, birds, and possibly even deer.

To make these walks even more enjoyable for young children, why not incorporate fun activities like scavenger hunts or wildlife spotting games? Give a list of items to find along the trail, such as different types of leaves, animal tracks, or specific bird species. As they explore, they can check off each item they find, adding an element of excitement and adventure.

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🐎 Meet the Animals – Wildlife Watching and Petting Farms 

What’s more exciting than getting up close with nature’s creatures? The New Forest offers numerous wildlife experiences that are sure to thrill your little ones.

New Forest Wildlife Park

This fantastic park allows families to observe native wildlife safely and naturally. From deer and otters to the ever-popular meerkats, it’s a splendid place to learn about animal conservation and habitats. There are also daily talks and feeding sessions that kids will love!

Birdwatching

For families with budding birdwatchers, spots like the Ornithology Reserve and the wetland areas are ideal. Bring binoculars and a bird guidebook, and see how many species you can tick off your list!

Bug-Hunting

Equip the kids with magnifying glasses and head out into the forest for some bug-hunting fun! From butterflies to beetles, the New Forest is teeming with incredible insects just waiting to be discovered.

Pony Spotting

One of the best things about the New Forest is the famous New Forest ponies that roam freely around the area. Kids will delight in spotting these gentle creatures as you stroll through the heathland. A fun family challenge could be to see how many different ponies you can find!

The Longdown Activity Farm

This interactive farm offers the opportunity to get up close and personal with a variety of animals, including sheep, pigs, goats, and chickens. In addition to animal encounters, the farm also features tractor rides, a play area, and daily feeding and milking demonstrations. It is a great place for both children and adults to learn about farm life and enjoy a fun day out in the countryside.

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🚴 Cycling Adventures – Bike Rentals and Trails for Kids 

Cycling is a fantastic way for families to spend time together and enjoy the great outdoors. One family-friendly cycling route that is perfect for those with children is the Brockenhurst village loop. This route is well-known for its gentle terrain, making it ideal for cyclists of all ages and abilities. In addition to the easy terrain, cyclists will also be treated to beautiful views of the New Forest National Park.

For families visiting the area without their own bikes, there are several bike rental services in Brockenhurst that offer child-sized bikes and trailers. These rental services make it easy to enjoy a day of cycling without the hassle of bringing your own equipment. So pack a picnic, hop on your bikes, and get ready for a fun-filled day of family cycling in Brockenhurst!

⚽ Treehouses and Playgrounds – Letting Kids Burn Off Energy

Moors Valley Country Park is a fantastic destination for families looking for outdoor fun and adventure. One of the main attractions is the tree-top trail, where you can explore the forest canopy from high above on walkways and zip lines. For younger children, there is a large adventure playground with slides, climbing frames, and swings designed just for them. The play area is safely enclosed and features soft surfaces to prevent any bumps or bruises. Older kids looking for a bit more excitement can try out the park's high ropes course, where they can test their agility and bravery as they navigate through a series of challenging obstacles high in the treetops. In addition to the play areas, Moors Valley Country Park also offers picnic spots and restroom facilities, making it easy for families to spend a full day enjoying the great outdoors.

Looking for a thrilling family activity that will get everyone's adrenaline pumping? Look no further than the Go Ape Treetop Adventure in the New Forest! This high-flying adventure features zip lines, rope bridges, and treetop trails that are perfect for older kids and teens looking for an exciting challenge. For younger kids, there are also junior courses that offer a tamer version of the treetop adventure, allowing them to experience the thrill of climbing and swinging through the trees in a safe and controlled environment. Safety instructions are provided for participants of all ages, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the adventure with peace of mind.

But the fun doesn't stop there! Families with older children can also explore other adventurous options in the New Forest, such as canoeing or archery. These activities provide a unique way to experience the beauty of the forest while staying active and engaged.

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📚 Educational Fun – New Forest Museums and Nature Centres

Located in the heart of the stunning New Forest, the New Forest Heritage Centre is a must-visit educational attraction for families looking to immerse themselves in the rich history, wildlife, and ecology of the area.

Here you can explore interactive exhibits that showcase the fascinating heritage of the New Forest, from its origins as a royal hunting ground to its role in World War II. Learn about the forest's unique ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts through engaging displays and hands-on activities.

One of the highlights is the New Forest Reptile Centre, where you can safely observe rare reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats. From adders to grass snakes, children can marvel at these elusive creatures up close in specially designed viewing enclosures.

🥪 Family Picnics and Scenic Spots – Perfect Places to Relax and Refuel 

Ashurst Lake in the New Forest National Park is a beautiful picnic spot with designated picnic tables, shaded areas provided by surrounding trees, and open spaces for kids to play. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding wildlife.

Rhinefield Arboretum is another scenic picnic spot with plenty of shaded areas and open spaces. Enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by beautiful trees and flora. There are also benches and tables available for picnickers.

When planning a family picnic in the New Forest, it is important to remember to pack all the essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day out in nature. Along with the basics like picnic blankets, sunscreen, and bug spray, a cooler stocked with food and drinks to keep everyone refreshed throughout the day. Don't forget to pack utensils, napkins, and trash bags to clean up after yourselves and prevent littering in this beautiful natural environment. Remember to follow the Leave No Trace principles which is key to preserving the New Forest and its surroundings for generations to come.

In addition to packing the necessary supplies, familiarise yourself with the local regulations regarding open fires and barbecues. Some areas may have restrictions in place to protect against wildfires and preserve the ecosystem.

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🧚🏼 Discover the Magic of the New Forest Fairy Trail 

The New Forest Fairy Trail promises a magical experience for children, captivating their imaginations as they explore a world filled with hidden wonders. As they wander through this magical realm, they will discover charming fairy doors nestled among the trees, inviting them to enter and uncover the mysteries of the forest. Along the way, they may also encounter delightful woodland creatures like squirrels, birds, and butterflies frolicking in the natural surroundings.

This whimsical adventure is designed to spark the curiosity of young explorers, offering an ideal and manageable route for them to follow comfortably. To begin their quest, head to Furzey Gardens near Lydhurst and embark on a journey through the woods, keeping a keen eye out for magical signs and hints of fairy presence that will make the experience truly unforgettable.

🏇 Horseback Riding – A Unique Way to Explore the Forest 

This is a fantastic activity to enjoy together, and the New Forest provides the perfect setting for exploring forest trails on horseback. Burley Villa School of Riding is a kid-friendly stable that offers a variety of options for families to experience the joy of horseback riding.

For young children, gentle pony rides are a great introduction to horseback riding. These short rides are led by experienced instructors who ensure the safety of children while allowing them to experience the thrill of riding a horse. These pony rides are perfect for children as young as 3 years old and provide a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.

For older kids and adults, more advanced trails allow riders to explore the beautiful New Forest on horseback. These guided trail rides cater to riders of all skill levels, from beginners to more experienced riders, and provide an exciting adventure through the forest.

☔ Rainy Day Activities – Indoor Fun for Families

• Indoor Play Centres: There are several indoor play centres in the New Forest where kids can climb, slide, and explore in a safe environment.

• Art Studios: Kids can unleash their creativity at art studios in the New Forest, where they can paint, draw, and make crafts.

• Soft Play Areas: Soft play areas are perfect for younger children to crawl, climb, and have fun indoors on a rainy day.

• The New Forest Centre: Families can visit The New Forest Centre to learn about the area's history and ecology through interactive exhibits and displays.

• Pottery Painting: Get creative with pottery painting at a local studio in the New Forest, where families can create their own unique masterpieces.

• Indoor Rock Climbing: For adventurous families, indoor rock climbing is a thrilling option on a rainy day, with safe and supervised climbing walls available.

• Nature-themed Crafts: Get crafty with nature-themed crafts indoors, such as making leaf prints, pinecone animals, or bird feeders to hang outside.

• Storytime at the Library: Head to your local library in the New Forest for a fun and educational storytime session for kids of all ages.

• Swimming at Indoor Pools: Take a dip in indoor swimming pools in the New Forest, where families can enjoy a splash and stay active on a rainy day.

• Family Movie Day: Set up a cosy movie day at your holiday cottage in the New Forest with popcorn, blankets, and a selection of family-friendly movies to enjoy together.

Looking for more New Forest inspiration?

The New Forest is a magical destination that provides endless opportunities for families to connect with nature and create memories together. From hiking and cycling through the beautiful countryside to spotting ponies and deer in their natural habitat, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The villages scattered throughout the area offer a glimpse into the region's history and charm, with local shops and cafes providing the perfect pit stops for refuelling and relaxation. By approaching the environment with a mindful and responsible attitude, families can ensure that their enjoyment of the New Forest does not come at the expense of its natural beauty. So gather your loved ones, pack your bags, and embark on an adventure that will be cherished for years.

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