Spending the Holiday Season in the New Forest: A Festive Guide to Christmas in Southern England
The New Forest, located in the heart of Hampshire, southern England, is a magical destination to visit year-round, but it truly comes alive during the holiday season. The region’s picturesque villages, charming countryside, and enchanting forests create a perfect setting for a memorable Christmas getaway. Whether you’re looking for festive markets, outdoor adventures, cozy pubs, or indulgent food experiences, the New Forest has everything you need to get into the holiday spirit. In this guide, we’ll explore the best Christmas events, activities, and seasonal experiences that will make your holiday season unforgettable in the New Forest.
1. Christmas Markets and Festive Fairs
No trip to the New Forest during the holidays would be complete without a visit to one of its famous Christmas markets. These festive events bring a sense of charm and cheer to the region, offering a delightful way to shop for unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats, and immerse yourself in the local holiday spirit.
Lyndhurst Christmas Market
One of the most popular Christmas markets in the New Forest is the Lyndhurst Christmas Market, held in the village of Lyndhurst, often referred to as the “capital” of the New Forest. The market is typically held over the weekend in early December, with festive stalls lining the village’s charming high street. Visitors can browse a wide variety of locally made crafts, handmade decorations, and unique gifts. From cozy knitwear to beautifully crafted wooden toys, you’ll find plenty of one-of-a-kind treasures to take home.
Beyond the shopping, the Lyndhurst Christmas Market is also a feast for the senses. Local food vendors offer everything from mulled wine and hot chocolate to traditional Christmas treats like mince pies and roasted chestnuts. The air is filled with the sounds of carolers and live music performances, adding to the festive ambiance. The market’s laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect place to spend a few hours soaking up the holiday cheer, whether you’re with family, friends, or on a romantic holiday retreat.
Other Christmas Markets in the Region
In addition to Lyndhurst, other nearby towns in the New Forest also host Christmas markets and seasonal fairs. The town of Brockenhurst, one of the New Forest’s most popular villages, is known for its lovely boutique shops, and it hosts a charming Christmas market with local produce, artisan products, and festive decorations. Over in Beaulieu, the Beaulieu Estate often organizes special Christmas events, including a Christmas fair with craft stalls and locally sourced gifts, as well as a Christmas tree festival at Beaulieu Abbey.
While these markets focus on holiday shopping, they also provide ample opportunities to enjoy the region’s quaint charm. From picturesque Christmas lights illuminating the town streets to the festive spirit shared by both locals and visitors, these markets bring a sense of community and warmth to the New Forest during the holiday season.
2. Outdoor Adventures and Winter Activities
For those who prefer a more active holiday experience, the New Forest offers plenty of outdoor adventures and winter activities that take full advantage of the region’s stunning natural beauty. From hiking through frosty woodlands to exploring the countryside on horseback, there’s no shortage of ways to stay active and enjoy the fresh winter air.
Winter Walks and Hikes
One of the best ways to experience the New Forest during the holiday season is by taking a winter walk or hike through its vast forests, heathlands, and grasslands. The region is home to an extensive network of walking and cycling trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. In winter, the New Forest takes on a serene beauty, with bare trees and frosted ground creating a peaceful atmosphere.
The Knightwood Oak Walk is a fantastic trail to try if you’re in Lyndhurst. It takes you through ancient woodland, where you’ll encounter towering oaks and possibly even spot some of the famous New Forest ponies roaming free. Another wonderful hike is the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary Walk, where you can often spot wild deer grazing in the meadows, creating a truly magical winter experience.
For a more leisurely stroll, the Milford-on-Sea beach walk provides a great opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the Solent and the Isle of Wight. The cool winter air and peaceful environment make this walk especially enjoyable during the holiday season.
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
If you’re looking for something a bit more romantic or leisurely, why not enjoy the countryside in a horse-drawn carriage? Several companies in the New Forest offer scenic carriage rides that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the forest without having to walk or cycle. These carriage rides are a charming way to experience the landscape and make for a relaxing afternoon activity. Imagine being wrapped in warm blankets while clopping through the snow-covered forest, taking in the crisp air and winter scenery.
Ice Skating
For those who enjoy classic winter activities, why not try ice skating in the New Forest? Several locations set up outdoor ice skating rinks during the festive season, offering a traditional winter experience in a beautiful setting. Lymington is one such place where you can find a seasonal ice rink, allowing you to skate under the twinkling lights and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
3. Festive Dining and Local Delights
The New Forest is renowned for its delicious food and drink, and during the holiday season, you’ll find a host of festive treats to indulge in. From hearty winter stews to seasonal pies and Christmas puddings, the region’s culinary scene is a real highlight of any holiday trip.
Traditional Pubs and Restaurants
The New Forest is dotted with traditional country pubs, many of which serve hearty meals perfect for warming up after a winter walk. Pubs like The Royal Oak in Fritham, The Turfcutters Arms in East Boldre, and The Montagu Arms in Beaulieu offer a cozy atmosphere, crackling fires, and delicious food, including classic Christmas dinners. Many pubs also serve locally brewed ales and New Forest ciders, making it a perfect place to relax with a festive drink after a busy day of exploring.
The Pig Hotel in Brockenhurst is another excellent option for foodies looking for a Christmas feast. Their famous “pig” restaurants offer farm-to-table dining, featuring locally sourced produce and seasonal ingredients. You can enjoy a traditional Christmas lunch with all the trimmings, or opt for something a little more innovative from their seasonal menu.
For dessert, make sure to try the region’s local specialties, including New Forest Cider and New Forest Venison, which is celebrated for its rich flavor and tender texture. New Forest’s artisan cheeses, such as New Forest Brie and Lyburn Cheese, are also popular options for a festive cheeseboard.
Christmas Afternoon Tea
A quintessentially British tradition, afternoon tea is a must during your holiday stay in the New Forest. Several local hotels and tea rooms offer special Christmas afternoon tea menus, where you can indulge in festive treats such as mince pies, cranberry scones, and gingerbread biscuits. The Lime Wood Hotel in Lyndhurst and The Montagu Arms Hotel in Beaulieu both offer seasonal afternoon teas in the most charming surroundings. These delightful experiences are perfect for a relaxing afternoon, giving you a chance to unwind and enjoy the festive season.
4. Festive Events and Entertainment
If you’re looking for something more festive, the New Forest offers a variety of events and entertainment throughout the holiday season. From Christmas lights displays to live performances, there’s always something to see and do.
Christmas Light Displays
Many of the New Forest’s towns and villages take pride in their Christmas decorations, and during the holiday season, they are adorned with beautiful lights and festive displays. Lyndhurst, with its charming village atmosphere, lights up in early December, creating a magical scene for an evening stroll. The Christmas lights in Lymington also create a sparkling atmosphere, perfect for shopping or enjoying a leisurely drink at a local café.
In addition to the town centers, many attractions in the New Forest also host their own light displays. Exbury Gardens, for example, is known for its annual Christmas at Exbury event, where the gardens are transformed with thousands of twinkling lights, creating an unforgettable festive experience.
Festive Performances and Theatre Shows
The New Forest is home to several theatres and venues that offer festive entertainment during the holiday season. The New Forest Theatre in Lyndhurst often hosts Christmas performances, including traditional pantomimes, live music, and Christmas concerts. For families, the festive pantomimes are a must-see, providing plenty of laughs and holiday cheer.
In Lymington, the Lymington Centre often organizes Christmas concerts, featuring choirs, classical music performances, and festive sing-alongs. For lovers of classical music, the New Forest Orchestra often holds holiday concerts, offering an elegant way to enjoy some Christmas music in a beautiful setting.
5. Relaxing and Unwinding in the New Forest
After all the festive fun, it’s important to take some time to relax and recharge. The New Forest is home to several luxurious spas and wellness centers, offering the perfect opportunity to unwind and indulge in some pampering.
Spa Retreats and Wellness Centres
Many of the region’s top hotels and resorts offer special Christmas spa packages, designed to help you relax and unwind after a busy day of holiday activities. The Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, for example, is renowned for its world-class spa treatments, including festive-themed massages and body wraps. Similarly, the Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa offers Thai-inspired spa treatments, perfect for easing stress and rejuvenating during the holiday season.
If you’re looking for a more peaceful retreat, there are plenty of peaceful areas
