Explore The
New Forest

About The New Forest

You could be forgiven for thinking that the New Forest was simply a forest, however alongside the patchwork of ancient woodland is open heathland, rivers, valleys and a coastline of mudflats and saltmarshes. What’s more it contains the largest area of lowland heath in southern England.

The highest concentration of ancient trees in western Europe

Around 1,000 ancient trees have been recorded in the New Forest National Park. Full of character and charisma these ancient trees are rare and have been sculpted by time, having lived through remarkable changes in the environment around them. To give you an idea of their age, many of them would have been fully grown trees during the English Civil War!

New Forest visitors aren’t the only ones to value these immensely old trees. They are home to a whole host of wildlife – their twisted bark, hollows and dead wood provide a number of special habitats including nesting sites for various species of birds. The New Forest is also one of the most important areas in Europe for lichens, beetles, bats and fungi including many rare and endangered species.

More than simply a forest

The New Forest National Park also boasts 26 miles of very important coastline. This coastal area is a mix of shingle, saltmarsh, lagoons and mudflats – all rich with wildlife and much of it protected by law due to its importance for nature. The region is home to many species and in particular birds, with the coastal mudflats known as a vital refuelling post for tens of thousands of migrating waders such as godwits, snipe and avocet.

A popular part of this coastline is the Lymington-Keyhaven Nature Reserve which is not only rich with birdlife but also possesses a fascinating salt-mining history. Another captivating spot is Lepe Country Park with its miles of shingle beach, wading birds and historic reminders of the role it played in the D-Day landings.

There are so many activities to enjoy in the New Forest. Choose from walking, cycling, horse riding, playing golf, visiting historic sites or simply enjoying a drink or meal out in a beautiful setting.

Away from nature but just as much fun!

The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is a petrolhead’s dream and home to F1 race cars, classic cars and vintage motorbikes. Flora and fauna lovers can sit back and enjoy a train ride amongst exotic trees and colourful rhododendrons and azaleas at Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway while animal lovers can be on the look-out for species such as owls, otters and wolves at the New Forest Wildlife Park.

For fun on and in the water why not head to Lymington Sea Water Baths or the New Forest Water Park in Fordingbridge for kayaking, paddle boarding and the south coast’s biggest inflatable obstacle course.

Relax at your Riverside retreat

After a busy day exploring everything the New Forest has to offer our stylish and comfortable Riverside Park houses are the perfect place to relax and unwind while you plan your next adventure.

Our collection of nine holiday homes are located on the banks of the river Stour, just a couple of minutes walk away from Christchurch High Street and are the perfect base for exploring everything the New Forest has to offer.