Within the New Forest three is really is something for all. There are miles of cycling trails, walking/hiking trails, boat trips along the coast considerable museums and historical sites to visit. There are 134 car parks open from March to November dotted all over the forest.
There are also many guided tours walking tours are available to help you make the most of your experience here. While one can drive through many parts of the forest, you will then miss out on some of the striking natural beauty to be seen whilst on one of the ranger-guided walks, or even horseback or bicycle tours if you prefer.
When ever you are visiting the New Forest, at what ever time of the year, there is always something to see. The ever changing seasons will note typical and beautiful scenery changes even making a familiar walk different every time. Experienced guides such as wildlife experts, geologists and Forest Rangers will take you through the wonders and natural beauty of this wonderful countryside.
Of course the New Forest is steeped in history and if you would like to hear about some historical news about the places you are seeing during your walk then there are many guides that can offer this throughout the tour as well, and details are normally available at the tourist information centres that can be found around the forest.
The visitors centre has information and ideas for travellers visiting the park, and the town itself is where Alice Lidell, inspiration for Alice in Wonderland lived. With the forest’s many miles of coastline and rivers, there are many aquatic attractions to be seen as well. Water sports such as kayaking may be enjoyed, along with boat trips from which one can see many historical sites.
The wildlife lover can quite literally have a field day walking around the park. Its status as a wildlife preserve means that there are many animal species here to be observed in their natural habitats. One of the best way to observe them is on one of the multitude of walks, whether guided or solitary in nature.
Deer are in abundance here as well, as are all manner of birds, frogs and reptiles. At dusk, bats may be seen as they emerge for the evening. If reptiles are your thing, the forest has a Reptile Centre which is certain to both educate and delight children of all ages. Children will delight at the varied wildlife here and to be able to get so close to the animals is an experience to be treasured.
Whilst not actually a forest walk a trip to Exbury Gardens is a really rewarding experience. Situated in over 200 acres you can walk along the miles of pathways until your hearts content. The best time to capture the absolute splendour of Exbury is of course in April as all the shrubs and bushes spring into to life and again in September time. That said the gardens are well worth a visit throughout the year.
If your planning a trip to the New Forest National Park and plan to stay over night there is a good variety of New Forest self catering cottages in the region where you can stay which can be found on the New Forest guides website.
Also while you are in the area make sure you visit the nearby city of Southampton which is renowned for its shopping experience and museums.
Tags: New Forest, New Forest Cottages, Southampton, The New Forest, travel
