Why Your Dog Loves the New Forest More Than You Do

Yes, there are rare and beautiful birds for humans to watch out for and ponies to spot; yes, there are cosy country pubs to sit in where humans can enjoy a pint, and yes, humans seem to quite enjoy walks in the New Forest too, but they don’t wag their tails, jump up and down and get the zoomies do they. They don’t run around, back and forth, up and down until they can’t keep their eyes open or jump in every bog they see – only dogs do that!

And that’s because the New Forest National Park is somewhere where dogs can be their authentic, happy, waggy selves. A break here gives them space to breathe and be, well, more dog.

Take the Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard walk for example, straight out of the door and into Beaulieu village. There are plenty of sniffs to be had even just here, like a doggy newspaper, they’ll enjoy catching up on the comings and goings of the village and they can say hi to the local dogs on their regular walks.

Then, venture on and take the gravel path alongside Norris’ gift shop and through the gate onto a countryside path, a bonanza of scents here! Following the Solent Way and signs to Buckler’s Hard through The North Solent Nature Reserve, the path follows the Beaulieu River here, winding its way to the historic shipbuilding village. Home to an abundance of flora and fauna, a water wildlife haven, nose to the floor is the only way to explore! Here humans will be pleased to find a pub, a museum and even a river cruise.

The walk also incorporates the newer riverside loop paths created to protect sensitive wildlife habitats so it’s important to keep dogs on leads at all times. But this won’t dampen their spirit, with the changing terrain and winding riverside explorations, they’ll love the adventure. Dogs are now welcome in the Buckler’s Hard village, as well as in the Museum, the Captain's Table Tea Rooms and Henry’s Pub as long as they are kept on a lead. And for those looking for even more adventure, dogs are allowed on their River Cruise!

Not only are muddy paws welcome at Monty’s Inn but you can dine with your dog at our country pub. Boasting the ever-popular A La Bark menu, a break at our dog-friendly hotel means you can truly relax and feel at home whilst enjoying a tasty pub meal together.

Then, head to one of our relaxing dog-friendly hotel spaces, including our cosy lounge and conservatory or bar area to rest and unwind. Or perhaps it’s time to head back to your Hayloft Suite or Courtyard Retreat so they can curl up in the dog bed we happily provided with a treat from their welcome hamper and slip into sweet puppy dreams of forest runs, muddy meanders and hopes of what tomorrow might hold…

So now do you see why your dog loves the New Forest more than you do? Because instead of a break where dogs are allowed, they will enjoy a break where dogs are truly welcome. With accommodation options that will ensure you all feel relaxed, at ease and at home; where there are places to eat and be together in and around the hotel rather than just your room, and where there’s miles of coast and countryside to be sniffed and wandered.