Things To Do In Hampshire: Add These To Your Bucket List

Don’t let the adventuring stop just because it’s autumn. There is still much to see, do and experience here in the National Park, from our New Forest hotel, year-round. From walking with autumn as it beautifully transforms into winter, to trying new activities and exploring parts of the forest you’ve not yet discovered.

We’ve compiled just a few things to do in Hampshire for your autumn break in the New Forest so you can save a little time planning and spend more time doing, because visiting the New Forest National Park in autumn really ought to be at the top of any list.

When we talk about adventures, we’re not always talking about high-speed or adrenaline inducing escapades, we’re talking about the excitement of discovering somewhere new, falling in love with an ancient woodland, exploring newfound places and experiencing new things that are a little bit of you while you’re away, in what we hope will become a home from home.

When we walk anywhere we can stop and take it all in. Our famous New Forest ponies, the amber and crimson tones of the trees in autumn, the sunsets that set the forest aglow and the comfort of sitting down after a walk on a chilly autumn evening together for an unforgettable dining experience at The Terrace Restaurant or at our country pub, Monty’s Inn.

Our guests love to walk our forest trails, to wander along gentle and winding river-side paths or set out on day-long walking adventures through our National Park. Whatever type of adventure you’re looking forward to, we’ll have just the thing.

For those of you who can’t enjoy a break away without your four-legged friend beside you, why not bring them along too. We’re proud to be a dog-friendly New Forest hotel, we’re even hosting The Great Beaulieu Dog Walk on the 23rd October. Starting from The Montagu Arms Hotel, it will take you to the historic Buckler’s Hard after complimentary tea, coffee and dog treats to start the day.

We are always proud to celebrate our homegrown ingredients and our support of our local producers; campaigning for seasonal, local and sustainable ingredients and produce whenever and wherever possible to showcase the finest of our New Forest larder through every dish. Which is why we’re delighted to announce the beginning of our Wild New Forest sessions. Beginning on Friday mornings from the 24th October throughout autumn and winter, ‘Wild New Forest’s knowledgeable guides will lead you through the stunning landscape on our very doorstep, unveiling the mysteries of mushrooms and toadstools during the winter season, and the beauty of flora, butterflies, and birds up close in spring.’

Whilst out in the forest walking or during our Wild New Forest sessions you may see a different kind of foraging taking place. That of the Pannage pigs snuffling around for acorns and chestnuts that are poisonous to the ponies. The setting free of the pigs by Commoners, is called the ‘Pannage’ and is a tradition that dates back to the time of William the Conqueror, and is much-loved by locals and visitors alike.

On autumn days when all you wish to do is stay in bed, play board games or look forward to your next meal at The Terrace, you needn’t look outside our New Forest hotel for things to do in Hampshire when you have a Festive Afternoon Tea to enjoy. Available from the 9th of November, this traditional British pastime invites all the indulgence and deliciousness of our classic afternoon tea, plus a delightful burst of festive glitz. A great way to celebrate birthdays or achievements together as a family or to catch up with a friend. Served over three tiers, our afternoon tea comes with dainty finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, warm scones fresh from the oven, and lashings of homemade jam and clotted cream.

Take to the water and stay connected with nature. If you’ve always wanted to enjoy a tranquil canoe trip, now is the time. Wrap up and meander through the Beaulieu River Nature Reserve this autumn for a bucket list experience with New Forest Activities. During their canoeing or kayaking trips, you’ll be guided to hidden creeks, see views only possible from the water and given the opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, from seasonal and rare birds to Beaulieu’s resident seal!