You have to make sure the New Forest villages feature somewhere on your “must visit” itinery whilst in the New Forest. I`ve frequented these lovely little places so often both with and without our dogs. They do get busy during Summer but the bustling atmosphere only adds to the charm. Tea rooms and cafes are plentiful so you will always manage to get a cream tea or lunch somewhere. Its so easy to find your way around the forest as the roads are well sign posted. You will never be far away from a pretty little place to stop and have a wander around.
As you may know, the wildlife have just as much right as we do to roam the streets so don`t be surprised if you encounter ponies idling on the street corners in Brockenhurst, donkeys strolling along the windy roads of Beaulieu, or pigs snaffling their snouts in the grass verges of Burley. Though encountering the pigs mainly occurs in the Autumn season during pannage.
Some of the best New Forest villages have regular events going on during the Spring/Summer months and you can keep updated by picking up a brochure or event guide from many of the local shops and cafes in the area. Alot of the villages are steeped in history and local traditions so why not join in the fun and maybe take part yourselves.
Certain villages in the New Forest National Park will have a small supermarket to stock up on supplies. This is certainly handy if you are camping in the forest. There are a wide selection of campsites located throughout the New Forest and having the convenience of a nearby village is always reassuring when you start to run out of the essentials.
Experience The New Forest Villages
See some of the most popular New Forest villages that inhabit this amazing national park below…
Brockenhurst
Brockenhurst is one of the most popular villages within the New Forest. It is ideally situated for the main bus and rail links, including London. It is perfectly located for some fantastic walking and cycling routes and has been named as one of the prettiest villages to live in the UK. Find out more about Brockenhurst here…
Burley
Burley is a lively village that attracts visitors and tourists alike to its historic charm and folklore. There is plenty to do in this old traditional village, be it cycling, walking its pretty streets, watching the donkeys wander up the street, or simply having a relaxing beer in a delightful pub. Did you know about the witches of Burley that creates an air of intrigue? Find out more about Burley here…
Beaulieu
Beaulieu is one of the most recognised places to visit in the New Forest. This ancient village boasts the famous National Motor Museum and Palace House. You are almost certainly to meet a few donkeys and ponies whilst strolling through its pretty streets. You might also see the majestic swans that gather on the lovely Beaulieu river. Find out more about Beaulieu here…
Sway
A fairly small but none the less beautiful village set on the very edge of the New Forest National Park. Sway features a main line station that connects to major rail networks and also to London. It is famous for its 22o foot tower which is a listed building. It was built in the 17th Century by Judge Peterson. Sway is a village set right in the heart of walking and cycling country. Find out more about Sway here…
Milford on Sea
Milford on Sea is a lovely seaside village that sits on the the New Forest coastline. This tranquil setting affords views across to the Isle of Wight and The Needles. Christchurch Bay can also be seen in the distance. A pleasant shingle beach and a traditional village green make this pretty little village an appealing place to visit. Find out more about Milford on Sea here…
Hythe
Hythe has to be a special place if it got voted “2017 village of the year”. It is full of character with its wonderful Georgian and Victorian architecture and views across the Solent. Ocean Village where some of the world`s biggest cruise liners set sail for new voyages can also be seen from Hythe. Well worth a visit. Find out more about Hythe here…
Barton on Sea
Scenic cliff top walks and great beach walks await you at the seaside village of Barton on Sea. Away from the crowds and with amazing views a visit to this splendid coastal retreat is well worth a visit. Find out more about Barton on Sea here…