New Forest Events and Attractions This Winter

A wonderland waiting to be explored, discover local festive events and attractions to enjoy, then when hands need warming and bodies need refuelling, dash back inside, find a spot beside the fire and simply relax. Book dinner in The Terrace and sample the flavours of the forest, always inspired by the season. Or if muddy paws dictate, head to our cosy country pub, Monty's Inn, for hearty plates and seasonal favourites.

When you getaway for a winter hotel break, we recommend having a couple of things planned and then leaving some time either side for essential relaxation. You are on a break after all.

Book our ‘Stay two nights & save 15%’ offer, a chance to plan some winter fun and ensure you ease your way into the winter with some time for you to relax and unwind. Two nights away gives you the chance to explore and take time out, perhaps an afternoon walking through ancient woodland or deep relaxation at SenSpa. Just six miles away at our sister hotel, Careys Manor, the five-bubble Thai spa awaits. Our guests are treated to complimentary access to the leisure club, or you can make it a spa day and take advantage of exclusive rates for full spa access, including experience showers, Rhassoul, and thermal rooms.

Perhaps during your break you’d like to try something new, in which case, our Wild New Forest sessions began last month, and will take place on Friday mornings throughout autumn and winter. These friendly, informative and relaxed sessions will be taken by Wild New Forest’s knowledgeable guides, who will lead you through the stunning landscape we are lucky enough to have right on our doorstep, ‘unveiling the mysteries of mushrooms and toadstools during the winter season, and the beauty of flora, butterflies, and birds up close in spring.’

Winter is also a time of togetherness; a chance to bring family and friends closer, whether it’s to celebrate the end of year, mark the festive season or simply a wonderful excuse to share a meal and a bottle (or two) of wine.

Festive dining welcomes you to eat, drink and be merry without the stress of hosting. So, take the pressure off, instead, gather loved ones or colleagues at our Beaulieu hotel - you provide the guest list, we’ll take care of the rest. And if you would like to make it a short break - a day or two off before the Christmas rush - please be our guest.

Another winter favourite that’s become a winner with guests of all generations is our delicious Festive Afternoon Tea. No one can resist an indulgent afternoon looking out over our country garden sipping tea (or bubbly) and enjoying freshly baked scones, classic finger sandwiches, and Christmas-inspired sweet treats. You can even make it a Gin & Tonic Afternoon Tea – it’s Christmas after all!

When it’s time to get out and explore in between your festive feasting, head to well-loved local attractions like the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu.

Throughout winter they have their fantastic Festive Fun event that promises to ‘ignite your Christmas spark.’ The grounds and gardens will be transformed, enjoy the ‘enchanting glow of festive Christmas lights as you step into a traditional Victorian Christmas at Palace House. Take in all the beautiful decorations and wander past roaring log fires as songs are played on the piano and carols are sung.

Watch the Montagu family rehearsals for this year’s pantomime, A Christmas Carol, and catch Father Christmas driving around in a car from the museum. And, new this year, follow the magical Montagu Bear Christmas Trail.

Their Christmas activities are included in a general admission ticket, so you can also have fun discovering the National Motor Museum, Little Beaulieu, On Screen Cars, the Secret Army exhibition, Beaulieu Abbey and the grounds and gardens.
7th – 8th December | 14 – 15 December |21 December – 5 January

It may be chilly out there but with the right layers and a fun activity to warm you up, you can get out and surround yourself in nature and experience ‘the most unique way to meet Father Christmas!’

A wonderful family-friendly and dog-friendly activity this winter is the Christmas Canoe Paddle. Get out on the water with New Forest Activities, you’ll be in stable and safe Canadian style canoes, paddling along the tranquil Beaulieu River for approximately 90 minutes, with professional guides leading you the whole way. And the best part is, you’ll warm up with a hot chocolate, fuel up with mince pies and meet Santa as he paddles in his boat full of Christmas gifts!

If there’s just too much to do and not enough time to enjoy it all, consider a visit to our hotel as a Christmas gift for a loved one. The shared experience of a dining break or simply an Afternoon Tea to look forward to together.

You will find our Hampshire hotel in the midst of a winter wonderland and a break that is just right for you, no matter whether you wish to simply spend a few days sleeping, eating and celebrating or you intend to bring your four-legged friend and spend your short break walking our frosty wintry trails.