new forest tourist sites

New Forest Guide

41 Best Things to Do in the New Forest [2024]

If you’re heading to the New Forest National Park area, then of course you need to know exactly where to visit ! This list of the best things to do in the New Forest will help you decide which New Forest attractions to add to your list. I live locally, so I’m lucky enough to know just where to go for wildlife encounters, dining, motoring heritage, shopping, pretty views and more. 

Some of the best New Forest places to visit you may already know about. Such as the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. But some of the really nice places to go in the New Forest are a little more off the beaten track. For the best days out in the New Forest you really cannot beat a bit of inside info. 

From where I’ve seen more New Forest ponies or whether Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is worth it to Exbury Gardens, Hurst Castle, the Beaulieu River, New Forest Wildlife Park, Lepe Beach and Brockenhurst village, here are 41 New Forest things to do that you should not miss! Beginning with the top 21. 

Best Things to Do in the New Forest Contents

• National Motor Museum
• Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
• Cycling in the New Forest
• Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway
• Hurst Castle
• New Forest Picnic
• Beaulieu River boat trip
• Spa Day in the New Forest
• New Forest Wildlife Park
• Lepe Beach and Country Park
• Brockenhurst village
• Shopping trip
• Rhinefield Ornamental Drive
• New Forest Reptile Centre
• Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum
• Peppa Pig World @ Paulton’s Park
• New Forest Ponies
• New Forest Water Park
• Open Top Bus Tour
• Afternoon Tea
• 20 more outdoor & indoor activities in the New Forest
• New Forest visitor attractions FAQs

Top 21 Things to Do in the New Forest

1. beaulieu national motor museum.

• Where: Beaulieu, Brockenhurst SO42 7ZN
• When: 10 am to 5 pm daily
• Highlight: World of Top Gear
• Local’s tip: The grounds are bigger than you might think

The National Motor Museum in Beaulieu is one of the biggest attractions in the National Park. It’s one of the best things to do in the New Forest for families, as there’s so much to see. Your ticket also includes entrance to historic Palace House, so there’s more here than mere motoring heritage. 

Make sure your smartphone battery is fully charged before your visit, as there are so many super cute vehicles to capture on camera! The site is much larger than you might expect, so if you’re bringing little ones you are going to need that buggy. It’s something to bear in mind for those with mobility issues too. 

If the children do get bored, take them to Little Beaulieu, an adventure playground where they can let off some steam. For me, World of Top Gear is the highlight, so make sure you leave plenty of time to gawp at the cars you’ve seen on the small screen. The amount of pictures I’ve taken at the Motor Museum is considerable!

Find out more in the complete National Motor Museum guide .

2. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

• Where: Bolderwood Arboretum Ornamental Drive, Lyndhurst SO43 7GE
• When: Open 24 hours
• Price: Free
• Highlight: Feeding time (around 12 pm to 3 pm)
• Local’s tip: Pack a picnic or bring a BBQ

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is also high on the list for family days out in the New Forest. Do bring a picnic or even a disposable BBQ, as it’s all set up for al fresco dining. There are picnic tables, toilets and a decent sized car park here. We like to set up a picnic here, so we’re ready to jump up when the deer appear. 

The creatures are fed by the ranger, and this will normally be sometime between midday and 3 pm. That’s why it’s a great idea to pack a picnic, so you have something to do while waiting for the feeder to show up. Then you have your best chance of seeing the fallow deer as they gather to enjoy their own lunch. 

Free activities in the New Forest are always a bonus, right? A visit to Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary – with a picnic – is so worthwhile on a dry day. 

3. New Forest Cycling

• Where: All over the New Forest ( map here )
• When: During daylight hours
• Price: Free (+ cycle hire if required)
• Highlight: Over 140 miles of cycle routes
• Local’s tip: Don’t cycle on open forest, public footpaths or Forestry England tracks

Cycling in the New Forest is a real pleasure. I cycle to the edge of the forest on a daily basis as it’s near where I live, and also love the routes between the villages and towns. Once, when staying at the Balmer Lawn, I even took my bike in the car and set off for an early ride to ward off a hangover. The previous day, I’d cycled from Brockenhurst to Beaulieu and back again too. 

Burley is a local favourite spot, as it’s close to my home, but do beware of that ultra steep hill leading to and from the village. Even on my e-bike that one feels like a challenge, due to the incline and the fear of rolling backwards!

Anyway, there are cycle paths to follow all over the forest, so you can take your pick according to where you’re staying. If you need to hire a bike, you can do so in Burley village, from Cyclexperience based at Brockenhurst station, at Sandy Balls holiday park in Fordingbridge or at rental shops in Lymington and Lyndhurst. 

4. Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway

• Where: Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AF
• When: Mid March to late October, 10 am to 5.30 pm
• Highlight: Spring, summer and autumn gardens
• Local’s tip: The spring azaleas, camellias, magnolias and rhododendrons are legendary

Exbury Gardens is down the road from Beaulieu, near Lepe and Buckler’s Hard. While you cannot visit in winter, this is one of the things to see in the New Forest in spring, summer or autumn. Spring is most famed for the colours of the camellias, magnolias, azaleas and rhododendrons, but summer and autumn also have their highlights. 

After the blooming of the shrubs in April and May, the Centenary, Herbaceous, Iris and Sundial Gardens are at their best. You can also see lots of tropical flora, or head to Dragonfly Halt by steam train to see these beautiful winged beasts fluttering around. 

The acers ranging in colour from amber or tangerine to cerise and burgundy are one of the autumn sights to witness. Or take a trip on Exbury Steam Railway during any season to travel the Rhododendron Line, passing the Dragonfly Pond en route. 

5. Hurst Castle

• Where: Milford on Sea, Lymington SO41 0TP
• When: Late March to late October, 10 am to 5.30 pm
• Price: £ 
• Highlight: Getting there is all part of the fun
• Local’s tip: You can only reach the castle via a walk or ferry ride

Hurst Castle is top of the list of New Forest attractions for families. It’s also a three season site, open between the end of March and late October. It was built as an artillery fortress by Henry VIII in 1544, and the first King Charles was also imprisoned here during the 17th century. 

You can only get to Hurst Castle via a walk down the shingle spit or by ferry from Keyhaven, which adjoins Milford-on-Sea. This is known as the Solent Way Walk. The entrance fees are low, but don’t forget to budget for the ferry ride if you want to take that.

 It’s an educational option, bringing history to life for the kids, and the coastal setting is stunning. There is a cafe on site. 

6. Pack up a Picnic

• Where: All over the New Forest
• Highlight: Wilverley Road area
• Local’s tip: Horseshoe Bottom is our favourite picnic spot

Should you need an excuse to visit any of the fine New Forest farm shops of the area, then forget the usual New Forest tourist attractions for a moment. Packing up a picnic is one of life’s simple (and most affordable) pleasures, and there are few places on earth better suited to this spring and summer activity than the forest. 

Pile into the car or hop on your bike and you could soon be enjoying one of the top things to do in the New Forest, with dogs, with kids, with both or without either. From romantic things to do in the New Forest for couples to an extended family outing, this is one for people of all ages and interests. 

My top tip is to head for Wilverley Road, which runs between Burley and Brockenhurst. Wherever you end up, you can wander beyond the car park if you like to stretch your legs among the springy heather and – probably – more ponies. 

7. A Boat Trip on Beaulieu River

• Where: From Buckler’s Hard, SO42 7XB
• When: Start of April to end of October at 11 am, 11.45 am, 12.45 pm, 1.30 pm, 2.15 pm, 3 pm, 3.45 pm and 4.30 pm
• Highlight: The local New Forest wildlife in a natural habitat
• Local’s tip: You can only buy boat tickets on the day of travel

A unique way to see the New Forest is to take a boat trip on the Beaulieu River. You can do this from Buckler’s Hard, a tiny but very pretty place just down the road from the equally picturesque village of Beaulieu. It’s a great way to ensure an encounter with local wildlife too. 

It’s one of the more unusual things to do in the New Forest as it’s less obvious to many visitors, but that only adds to the appeal. You can only buy tickets when boarding, so get there early if you can. While you’re waiting, Buckler’s Hard has a Maritime Museum and the Master Builder’s Hotel. 

8. New Forest Wildlife Park

• Where: Deerleap Lane, Ashurst, SO40 4UH
• Highlight: Owls, grey wolf, pine marten, red-necked wallaby and Scottish wildcat  
• Local’s tip: Check feeding times here for the best experience (11 am to 3 pm)

A trip to the New Forest Wildlife Park is super easy if you’re staying in Lyndhurst, and worthwhile in any case if you’re not. As well as all the animals you can see, there’s an adventure playground and a cafe, plus a gift shop. One of the top things to do in the New Forest for any family. 

Make sure you visit the specified area at feeding time for a closer encounter with one of the resident creatures. You can also ask the keepers questions at these times. There’s a good range of animals to see at any time, and learning about conservation can make it an experience for kids that’s both fun and educational. 

9. Savour a Spa Day

• Where: At hotels all over the New Forest
• When: During hotel hours
• Price: Prices vary
• Highlight: The five star spas at Chewton Glen and Lime Wood
• Local’s tip: Combine the spa with fine dining for a decadent day out

Hotels in the New Forest offer some of the finest spas in England. You really are spoiled for choice when it comes to pampering and me-time in this part of Hampshire. This is also, of course, one of the best things to do in the New Forest in the rain. 

It’s impossible to pick a favourite. There’s plenty to pick from in Brockenhurst, such as the SenSpa at Carey’s Manor , Saltus Spa at Balmer Lawn , the Potting Shed treatment rooms at The Pig and the spa at Rhinefield House .

Other great spas include the Herb House Spa at Lime Wood near Lyndhurst, the gloriously scented spa at Burley Manor (yes, I would pay just to inhale that aroma all day long) and of course the mighty Chewton Glen ’s sumptuous spa.

10. Lepe Beach at Lepe Country Park

• Where: Lepe Country Park, Exbury, Southampton SO45 1AD
• When: 7 am to 7 pm (car park and toilets)
• Price: Free, but parking charges apply 
• Highlight: The views across to the Isle of Wight
• Local’s tip: Wear good hiking footwear for the Lepe Loop walk

Forming part of Lepe Country Park, Lepe Beach has a remote, untouched air about it. Taking a walk here is one of the best New Forest things to do for free, though parking fees apply if you’re driving down. The beach was voted the best in Hampshire in 2022 by Beach Guide readers. 

If you want to take the Lepe Loop walk, it’s five miles long and sturdy footwear is recommended. While dogs are welcome at the country park, they’re now allowed on the sands in summer, so do bear this in mind. Book a table at The Lookout restaurant in advance if you want to make a day of it. 

11. Brockenhurst village

• Where: Lyndhurst Road, Brockenhurst SO42 7RL
• Price: Free 
• Highlight: The choice of pubs, shops, cafes, hotels and restaurants
• Local’s tip: Take the train to Brockenhurst station in the village centre

You can’t come to the New Forest and not visit Brockenhurst, frankly. Whether it’s officially the heart of the New Forest or not, to me it is the central hub. While Lyndhurst may be the administrative centre and a larger place, it doesn’t quite have the midst of the forest feel that Brock does. 

As someone who often likes to wing it, I love the fact that visiting Brockenhurst doesn’t require any real forward planning. You can simply dip in and out of shops, cafes and pubs, or wander to the edge of town and see which path you end up following into the forest. 

Brock is also great for a night out, as you can get the train and thus avoid driving. There’s plenty of pubs, plus restaurants to dine at, some of which are within hotels. Brock is also ideal for spa days, as several hotels in the village have a good wellness centre on site.  

Discover more New Forest villages and towns here .

12. Take a Shopping Trip

• Where: In villages and towns all over the New Forest
• When: During store hours
• Highlight: Unique boutiques, gift stores and farm shops
• Local’s tip: The smart selection of shops in Lymington always wins for me

You may not think of the New Forest as a shopper’s destination, but I’m here to prove otherwise. I love shopping in this area, especially in the town of Lymington on the New Forest coast. A browse here, punctuated by the odd stop for coffee or stroll to the harbour, is a pretty perfect way to spend a day. 

Lymington has all the nautical or outdoor lifestyle shops you might expect – Fat Face, Joules, Seasalt et al – plus some lovely little independent places. Other forest retail highlights include Beaulieu Chocolate Studio, the witchcraft-themed gift shops in Burley, and Lyndhurst’s main street, which is lined with an attractive choice of retail outlets and cafes. 

13. Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

• Where: Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, Brockenhurst SO42 7QB 
• Highlight: Blackwater Arboretum
• Local’s tip: Arrive early as the car parks can be packed

One of the most obvious things to do around the New Forest is to take a walk. The best place for this is Rhinefield Ornamental Drive. A bonus here is the proximity to both Brockenhurst and Lymington, and the fact that there are short, family friendly walks to take. 

We like the Tall Trees walk from Blackwater car park, close to Rhinefield House Hotel . An optional add-on is the Blackwater Arboretum, and for me that was the highlight of our walk. It’s all very well maintained, and an ice cream van is often present at the car park in summer for a post-walk sweet treat. 

The queues can be long, though, and the car park busy – so arrive as early as you can. Especially on summer weekends.

14. New Forest Reptile Centre

• Where: Lyndhurst Road, Lyndhurst SO43 7GR
• When: Open between April and October
• Price: Free, but a £3 donation is welcomed
• Highlight: Seeing rarely-spotted British snakes and reptiles
• Local’s tip: Take the family friendly Discovery Trail walk while you’re here

New Forest Reptile Centre is near Lyndhurst. It’s free to get in here, though a small donation is welcome. As the snakes and reptiles of the UK are very rarely seen in the wild, this is a great way to ensure an encounter. You can see adders, sand lizards and smooth snakes in specially designed outdoor pods. 

The centre is open during the summer season. While visiting, it’s worth allowing time for the Discovery Trail. It’s a child-friendly walk along a smooth, gravel path, and as it’s only a mile long minimal effort is required.  

15. Tuck into a Pub Lunch

• Where: At pubs all over the New Forest
• When: During pub hours – lunch service is typically between 12 and 3 pm
• Highlight: Sunday lunch at a snug pub with a warm, crackling fire
• Local’s tip: Choose where to eat carefully and you may not need to drive

As far as indoor activities in the New Forest, tucking into a substantial lunch at a country, village or town pub cannot be beaten. For the best experience, book Sunday lunch, so you can enjoy a roast with all the trimmings – and of course lashings of gravy. 

A good pub meal is a treat during any season, but in autumn or winter you may also be treated to a crackling fire to warm your cockles. If you want to savour a lazy Sunday lunch at a gastropub with rooms , go for an option such as The Huntsman in Brockenhurst, The Bell Inn near Lyndhurst, The Montagu Arms in Beaulieu, The Mayflower in Lymington or The White Buck in Burley. Many also have beer gardens for summer. 

16. Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum

• Where: Bashley Cross Road, New Milton BH25 5SZ
• When: Early March onwards 10 am to 4.40 pm; otherwise check here
• Highlight: 500 bikes from all over the world
• Local’s tip: Visit Ferndene Farm Shop while you’re so close by

If motorbikes rev up your engine, then you need to add the Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum to your New Forest itinerary! It’s one of the most fun things to do in the New Forest for those who come here specifically to visit Beaulieu Motor Museum too. 

Sammy Miller is a British motorcycling legend, who accumulated a vast collection of bikes between winning time trials. The museum was converted from a farmhouse he bought in 1996, and its new Upper Gallery opened in 2021 to supply even more space. 

Don’t Ferndene Farm Shop if you’re planning a barbecue or picnic. Turn right out of the museum and it’s a short way along the road, towards Hoburne Bashley . It’s my local go-to and the sausages are some of the best you’ll find anywhere. There’s lots of picnic fare too, plus super fresh local produce. 

17. Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park

• Where: Ower, Romsey SO51 6AL
• When: From mid-February, 10 am to 4.30 pm daily 
• Price: £££££
• Highlight: Seeing young children’s faces light up 
• Local’s tip: Don’t bother if your kids aren’t keen on Peppa

Though my daughter would roll her eyes at the prospect of visiting Peppa Pig World, there was a time when she’d have gone mad for it. In a good way. One of the top things to do near the New Forest for any family with little kids who love watching what Peppa, George and their parents get up to. 

There are nine Peppa themed rides at Peppa Pig World. The main park offers over 70 rides in total, so there’s plenty to keep you busy for a full day out. And as prices aren’t cheap, you will want to get your money’s worth!

18. Find some New Forest ponies

• Highlight: Finding ponies wandering wherever they like
• Local’s tip: Drive carefully, or you may encounter a pony in the worst way possible

Going out to look for some New Forest ponies is always fun, and you shouldn’t have to go far to find some. The best places to look, in my experience, are at the picnic stops along Wilverley Road mentioned earlier, between Burley and Brockenhurst. 

Alternatively, try Burley village. I’m pretty sure I’ve never been there without encountering a pony or two (or ten). If you have no luck in the centre, wander in any direction and you should soon get lucky. Brockenhurst and Beaulieu are also good. Forget the towns or coastal areas, though, I’ve never seen any ponies in those parts. 

19. Make a Splash at the New Forest Water Park

• Where: Ringwood Road, Fordingbridge SP6 2EY
• When: Check here
• Highlight: Racing friends or family around the obstacle courses
• Local’s tip: You can hire wetsuits, grippy socks & all equipment on the day

The New Forest Water Park near Fordingbridge offers a lot of water-based fun for all the family. There’s a wakeboarding park, you can try out a SUP board or kayaking, or head for the main aqua park. 

You can even book open water swimming here if you’re a member of the National Open Water Coaching Association (NOWCA). There’s also a campsite with woodland pitches. The aqua park is split into two areas – ‘Poseidon’ and ‘Neptune’ – and they’re set up like obstacle courses. 

For things to do in the New Forest National Park that are water-based, this is great fun. It’s also ideal for trying out a new sport in a safe environment. 

20. Hop on the New Forest Tour bus

• Where: 3 routes covering the New Forest area
• When: Late June to mid September, find out more here
• Highlight: It’s the no-stress way to travel around the New Forest
• Local’s tip: Multi-day tickets are cheaper per day (if you’ll use them)

The New Forest tour bus is a great way to see the area. You can use it just to get to the New Forest attractions for families you want to go to, or at the start of your time here to get an overall feel for the region. 

There are three routes, and between them they call at popular spots including Sandy Balls Holiday Park, New Forest Wildlife Park, the Old Station tea rooms in Holmsley, Exbury Gardens, the Balmer Lawn hotel, the National Motor Museum and Brockenhurst train station. Plus many more. 

So the stops aren’t only in towns and villages , though of course the route also covers those. You can reach Ashurst, Lyndhurst, Beaulieu, Lymington, Barton-on-Sea, Fordingbridge, Burley and other spots by taking the bus. It operates for the summer season, from late June to mid September.  

Check out this complete guide to the New Forest tour bus

21. Enjoy Afternoon Tea

• When: Afternoons
• Price: ££ to ££££
• Highlight: Ideal for refuelling after a long walk or ride in the forest
• Local’s tip: Don’t be afraid of asking to take the leftovers away with you

One of my favourite New Forest things to do is to have afternoon tea somewhere lovely. There’s lots of venues to choose from, especially in Brockenhurst. There, I particularly recommend the Balmer Lawn or Carey’s Manor. 

The Montagu Arms in Beaulieu is also fabulous – especially if you’re partial to a glass or two of Taitt. Other top spots include the Old Station tea rooms near Burley, the five star Lime Wood hotel near Lyndhurst or The Bell Inn at Brook. 

What could be nicer than finger sandwiches, pretty cakes and jam and cream laden scones? Especially if accompanied by forest views (and champagne). 

Discover all the best New Forest afternoon tea spots here

20 Extra New Forest Activities and Attractions

If that’s not enough to keep you busy while visiting the New Forest, here’s a quick reference list of 20 more activities and attractions in the area!

• Private Day Tour – Personalised 4-hour trip from Southampton
• Ringwood Brewery – Tours, tastings and sales
• Moors Valley Country Park – Cycling & walking trails, adventure playground and cafe
• Go Ape – Also at Moors Valley Country Park
• Fordingbridge Museum – A doll’s house, toys and other exhibits in Fordingbridge
• Day Trip to Christchurch – Historic town with stocks, ducking stool, river and quay
• Furzey Gardens – 10 acre woodland garden in Minstead 
• Rockbourne Roman Villa – Small but well set-up archaeological site in Fordingbridge
• Longdown Activity Farm – Baby animals and feeding near Ashurst
• Lymington Sea Water Baths – Swimming and obstacle course by the harbour
• Friends of the Air Fields Museum – Local Aviation history in Bransgore
• Liberty’s Owl and Reptile Centre – Birds of prey and reptiles near Ringwood
• Day Trip to the Isle of Wight – Ferries operate between Lymington and Yarmouth
• Insight Activities New Forest – Shooting range and outdoor activities in Fordingbridge
• Hatchet Pond – The New Forest’s biggest stretch of freshwater with lots of wildlife
• Breamore House – Elizabethan mansion at Cranborne Chase
• St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery – Heritage, culture and exhibitions in Lymington
• Burley Villa School of Riding – Beginners are welcome to try life on horseback
• Cat and Fiddle PYO – Strawberries, pumpkins, farm shop and cafe near Christchurch
• New Forest Cider – Tastings and sales in Burley

Places to Visit in the New Forest FAQs

How do you spend a day in the new forest.

With so many things to do around the New Forest, the options are endless. Explore a town or village, follow the cycling or walking trails, pack up a picnic, enjoy a pub lunch, book a spa day, go pony or deer spotting or visit a paid attraction such as the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, Hurst Castle in Milford on Sea or New Forest Wildlife Park. You can also spend time by the sea, or in summer hop onto the New Forest tour bus. 

What is the nicest part of the New Forest?

It’s all lovely! But some of the most scenic and popular parts of the New Forest include Beaulieu village, Rhinefield Ornamental Drive, Buckler’s Hard by the Beaulieu River, Exbury Gardens, Lepe Country Park and its beach, Hurst Castle in Milford on Sea and the parking areas off Wilverley Road, which runs between Brockenhurst and Burley. Discovering your own secret spot is all part of the fun. 

Is the New Forest worth visiting?

The New Forest is so worth making the trip for. Idyllic English villages with thatched cottages, family attractions, miles of walking and cycling trails, lovely pubs, outdoor activities, and luxury hotels with superb spas all await. If you need to unwind or stretch your legs while enjoying the fresh air, there’s no better place to visit. 

Is the New Forest famous for anything?

The New Forest is known for being one of Britain’s finest unspoiled locations. A combination of ancient woodland, heather-scattered heaths and untouched wetlands means many species of flora and fauna flourish here. During the late 11th century, William the Conqueror claimed the forest to use as a Royal hunting ground. The free-roaming New Forest ponies are also famous, and can even be found wandering around the villages. 

What about things to do in the New Forest in winter?

Though some seasonal attractions are closed during the colder months of the year, there is still plenty to do in the New Forest during winter. The UK’s mild climate means you can explore the trails all year round on foot or by bike. You can also visit the pubs, villages and towns, have afternoon tea, or enjoy a spa day at a hotel. While doing so, you’ll benefit from more peace and quiet, and possibly lower rates for accommodation. 

Which New Forest Attractions Will You Visit?

As you can see, there are so many New Forest activities and attractions to get involved with! Whether you wanted to find things to do in the New Forest this weekend or are planning a future visit, I hope this guide has given you some inspiration.

For more to do in the local area, check out my guides to things to do in Bournemouth , Christchurch and Poole .

Note –  This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy via these, I may earn a small fee. This has absolutely no effect on the price you pay. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

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The New Forest; the best villages, sights and places to visit

The New Forest is the beautiful national park of Southern England, which covers a vast and varied region. Found within the New Forest are areas of dense forest, unspoilt heathlands, and picturesque villages lined with thatched cottages.

The forest may be referred to as the "New" Forest, but it has ancient origins, being founded in 1079 as the private hunting grounds of Willian the Conqueror. Since its formation, medieval laws have allowed livestock to graze freely over the lands, and to this day, many thousands of ponies, cattle and pigs roam freely.

As a tourist destination, there is a lot to see and do in the New Forest, but as it covers such a large area, it is very easy to miss the highlights of the region. This article will detail the very best of the New Forest and help you get the most from your visit here. Related articles: The best beaches near the new Forest

The New Forest and the forest

Even though the national park is known as the "New Forest", large swathes of it are farmland or nondescript heathland that have been grazed on for centuries. The forest sections are within "Inclosures", protected from the grazing farm animals by fences and cattle grids.

The best forest inclosures are around Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst or along the "Ornamental Drive", and the Ornamental Drive is our recommendation if you are after a walk in the forest.

Insight: The forest "inclosures" are named after the medieval spelling of enclosures as they originate from the "Inclosure Act" passed in 1801

"Bratley View" overlooking the heathlands of the central New Forest

Highlights of the New Forest

The best towns and villages: 1) Lymington 2) Burley 3) Brockenhurst 4) Lyndhurst 5) Milford-on-Sea The best nature and walks: 1) Tall Trees Trail and Blackwater 2) Bolderwood 3) Lepe 4) Wilverley Inclosure and plain 5) Hatchet Pond 6) Knightwood Oak (a 600-year-old tree). The unique sights: 1) Exbury Gardens 2) Beaulieu National Motor Museum 3) Hurst Castle 4) Buckler's Hard 5) Paulton's Park (for young children)

The interactive map below displays the location of the highlights of the New Forest. The yellow markers display the best towns and villages , the green markers are the best walks , while the blue pinsshow the tourist attractions .

Key: 1) Lymington 2) Burley 3) Brockenhurst 4) Lyndhurst 5) Milford-on-Sea 6) Tall Trees Trail and Blackwater 7) Bolderwood 8) Lepe 9) Wilverley Inclosure 10) Hatchet Pond 11) Knightwood Oak 12) Exbury Gardens 13) National Motor Museum 14) Hurst Castle 15) Buckler's Hard 16) Paulton's Park

The following sections will detail the best of the New Forest and why you should visit.

If it rains, Rhinefield House is a grand setting for Afternoon-Tea

Lymington – Best town of the New Forest

Lymington is a delightful harbour town and must be visited during your visit to the New Forest.

Lymington is a historic town that has become a centre for luxury yachting, and today contains one of the largest marinas in England. There is a lot to see in Lymington, there is a pretty quay and harbour, a traditional Highstreet, and scenic walks around the coastal nature reserve.

For families, there is the amazing "Lymington Sea Water Baths" with its 200m long inflatable obstacle course, while on Saturdays, the town comes alive with its bustling market. A whole day of sightseeing could be spent in Lymington, and a trip is often combined with Hurst Castle and Milford-on-Sea Related articles: Lymington guide

Lymington quay

Tall Trees Trail and Blackwater – best forest walks

The Tall Trees Trail is the finest walk of the New Forest, and this footpath leads from the car park at Blackwater. The path meanders through a forest of massive Redwood trees and Douglas firs, as it follows the "Rhinefield" section of the "Ornamental Drive".

The Rhinefield Inclosure was planted during the Victorian era when it was fashionable to grow exotic species of plants, such as the non-native redwood trees.

The southern section of the Tall Trees Trail crosses the Blackwater stream, and this gives the area its name. The Tall Trees Trail is only 2.5km long, but there are many other longer paths leading from the car park at Blackwater. Blackwater is the best forested area of the New Forest, but it can get very crowded in the summer.

A bridge crossing the Blackwater stream

Burley – best village of the New Forest

Burley is the quintessential New Forest village. Found within Burley are traditional cottages and characterful thatched houses, while wild ponies wander freely about the village. The centre of Burley has a varied selection of independent shops, cafes and pubs, and is a delightful place to visit after a walk in the forest.

In Burley, bikes can be hired, or for something more sophisticated, "Afternoon Tea" can be taken at Burley Manor. Insight: Burley is only a small village and does not take long to visit

Bolderwood – Forest walks

Bolderwood is another beautiful section of the New Forest, which provides trails through native British forests. From the car park are three signed routes; the Deer Watching Trail (0.75km), the Jubilee trail (1.6km) and the Radnor Trail (3.2km).

Also, at Bolderwood is a Deer Sanctuary, a meadow where the deer are fed (May to September) which contains a viewing platform at the top of the hill to watch the timid animals. Note: The deer are very shy and nervous, and are often difficult to spot, as they hide at the bottom of the hill.

Bolderwood is the most popular area of the New Forest, so expect the car park to be busy in the summer.

Bolderwood deer sanctuary

Lyndhurst should be the finest town of the New Forest, but sadly it is choked with traffic, and if you drive, its endless traffic will fill you with despair.

The town is the administrative centre for the New Forest and is the crossing point of the forest's two main routes (hence the bad traffic). Within Lyndhurst, is the New Forest Heritage Centre, a Victorian church, a characterful shopping street and a Ferrari garage (Meridien Modena).

Lyndhurst has a decent selection of restaurants and pubs, and is worth visiting, but do check traffic first, as there is no point getting stuck in 30 minutes of traffic just to visit it!

The highstreet of Lyndhurst – just as the traffic lights turn red so there is no traffic!

For beachgoers, the New Forest does not have a great coastline, with the majority of it being marshlands or privately owned. Lepe is the only section of the coastline that has a partially sandy beach and is accessible.

Lepe has a wild and unspoilt appearance, and is more a destination for appreciating natures beauty than for spending time on the beach. Along the coastline are views over the busy Solent Estuary, while to the eastern side are remains of the secret naval docks constructed during World War Two.

The beach at Lepe is a mix of shingle and sand, and is okay for families (it is the best beach in the New Forest), but there are strong currents in the sea. Insight: For good beaches you need to travel to the west, to Highcliffe (Avon beach), Christchurch (Mudeford Sandspit and Southbourne beach) or Bournemouth. Related articles: The best beaches near the New Forest

The Lepe coastline is outstanding for walking but only average for a beach day

Buckler's Hard

During the 18th century, Buckler's Hard was a major naval shipyard, constructing massive sailing ships from the New Forest's oak trees.

Buckler's Hard is a unique historic sight, and comprises of two rows of labourers' cottages, separated by a large grassy avenue on which the trees would have been stored, and leads down to the former docks on the Beaulieu River.

Along with the historical sights, there are boat tours along the Beaulieu River, and there is a footpath to Beaulieu (2.5km to the north). Note: The walk from Buckler's Hard to Beaulieu used to be very scenic and followed the river, but now due to damage (and protecting the natural environment), the path is inland.

The labourers' cottages in Buckler's Hard

Knightwood Oak

Knightwood Oak is the oldest tree in the New Forest, and this magnificent Oak tree is estimated to be over 600 years old. Knightwood Oak is on the northern side of the Ornamental Drive and to the rear of the car park are forest tracks that are great for cycling.

Knightwood Oak may not be as tall as the Redwoods at Blackwater, but it is much more ancient

Brockenhurst

Brockenhurst has become the tourism centre of the New Forest. This large village offers everything you could want tourist-related; there are bike rentals, pubs, restaurants and shops.

Brockenhurst has a decent selection of pubs, and it is an enjoyable place to spend an evening. Brockenhurst also has the main train station of the region, with direct services to London.

One of the highlights of the village, is Brockenhurst Beach, a shallow section of the Lymington River where children can splash in the river and families have picnics.

The village centre of Brockenhurst

In the summer the most popular areas of New Forest (such as Bolderwood and Blackwater) can get extremely busy. At these times it is better to head to lesser-known areas of forest such as Wilverley.

Wilverley is surprisingly good, with a large forested enclosure and a heathland plain where ponies wander freely. Wilverley also has the advantage that it is close to A35.

Forest walks around Wilverley Inclosure

Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle is the heavily fortified and fascinating castle that has defended the Solent Estuary since the reign of Henry VIII in 1640.

The castle stands at the end of a shingle peninsula that juts out into the estuary, and behind the massive fortifications are rows of huge cannons that protected Southampton up until 1945s.

The castle is reached either by walking along the 2km shingle bank or catching a ferry from Keyhaven.

The formidable defences of Hurst Castle

Hatchet Pond

Hatchet Pond is where the ponies gather to drink water, and to be photographed by tourists! This is one of the prettiest heathland areas of the New Forest and there is a pleasant 2km walk around the lake.

Exbury Gardens

Exbury Gardens is famed for their wonderous displays of rhododendrons, scenic wooded walks and model steam railway. The gardens are part of Exbury House and were created by the Rothschild family during the early 20th century. www.exbury.co.uk

The model steam railway of Exbury

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Top 45 Unique Things to Do in the New Forest

From cute villages, to lavender, to castles, to cars, here are the best things to do in the New Forest on your weekend or day away. 

I hadn’t heard of the New Forest National Park until I was in my late 20s, now, I’m a little bit obsessed with the New Forest attractions. I love it there, and lucky for me it’s less than an hour from my house. 

I’ve still got quite a bit left to explore, it’s a work in progress but I thought I’d introduce you to a few of the best things to do in the New Forest , as discovered so far. 

This article lists the most unique things to do in the New Forest to help you plan your day trip, weekend or holiday. Almost everything has been tried and tested by me. 

– Read on to see the best places to visit in the New Forest!

Just a little bit of background before we begin though. The New Forest is in Hampshire, it’s the smallest of England’s national parks, it’s mostly owned by the Queen and it’s the perfect place for a weekend away. 

Also, there are lots of New Forest attractions to enjoy.

Watch my video on what to do in the New Forest

And subscribe to my YouTube for more!

Top 40 New Forest Attractions 

This quiet corner of south England is home to the New Forest National Park, which itself is 219 square miles of nature, beautiful coastline and quaint English charm. And there’s so much to do here, think everything from steam trains to watersports, otters to vintage cars.

So if you fancy a getaway but want to keep it closer to home, head here for an authentically British weekend. Start your journey working your way through this list of top things to do in the New Forest.

• 1. Visit Brockenhurst village

Brockenhurst is the cutest village, complete with Tudor style houses and a secret watersplash ford. It was once declared ‘Britain’s Most Beautiful Place to Live’ and given that wild ponies, donkeys and cows happily plod through the village you can see why – it’s one of the top places to visit in the New Forest.

There’s a really cute church there, St Nicholas Church and if you go in the priest will show you around and tell you all about the New Zealanders that were once in the area fighting for us. 

Visiting Brockenhurst is one of the top New Forest days out.

• 2. Eat at the Huntsman

Errrhmhagod, The Huntsman is so good.

I’ve been twice now, once for a weekend dinner with the ladies, and once for Sunday lunch with my boyfriend. Both, wonderful experiences. 

It’s a lovely setting, in the aforementioned Brockenhurst, full of lovely furniture, beautiful pictures, and a cool vibe. There’s a lunch menu full of great takes on British classics, and I can definitely vouch for the red wine menu too. 

Also, their beer garden is one of the best in the whole of the New Forest. I’d definitely recommend planning your New Forest visit around going to The Huntsman.

Need accommodation?

6 Best Places to Go Glamping in the New Forest

3. Go kayaking on the Beaulieu River 

New Forest Activities are the only company allowed to use river for fun. I took a kayak out for a self-guided tour and had a lovely time kayaking up to Beaulieu along the banks of the Beaulieu River. 

It costs £27 for three hours and you can travel up and down the river as much as you please. 

The Beaulieu River is the only river in England not owned by the Queen. It’s owned by Lord Montague, he owns the actual river bed. Something about Henry VIII giving it to his great ancestors back in the day. 

My favourite part of the kayaking in the New Forest was getting to see the big, fancy houses that line the river bed.

Riiiiiich people live here. 

Take some time to get an ice cream in Beaulieu afterwards – another one of the New Forest’s beautiful villages . Or if you’re really hungry, try the Pallett’s Tea Shop for a traditional New Forest cream tea, or a bit of cake. 

• 4. Walk on Lepe beach

To the south of the New Forest is Lepe Beach. It’s lovely. I mean, when I visited it was a beautiful sunny day but still, I imagine on a grey day it’s still nice too. There’s a lovely cafe there, and you can take a nice walk along the seafront too. 

It’s a great place to walk the dog, or to go in the water. 

• 5. Visit the PIG BEER Brewery and Tap Room

PIG BEER Brewery and Tap Room  is a real hidden gem of the New Forest. Tucked away in Brockenhurst, PIG BEER is an independently owned brewery located on a former pig farm. They brew all of their own beers on site using hops from their own hop plantation. Couple this with a heated and covered beer garden, PIG BEER is a great spot to spend a few hours and enjoy a few beers – you can even get some bottles to take home with you from their shop!

If you’re a fan of craft beer and local produce, this is a great stop on your journey through the New Forest!

• 6. Have a go at archery

Again with New Forest Activities, have a go at the archery. Honestly, first go and I got the yellow bit right in the middle, and then just got progressively worse. 

I ended up coming 5th out of 12. 

– There are loads of outdoor activities to do in the New Forest, it’s why it’s loved so much! –

Thoroughly enjoyed myself though and that’s the main thing, right? 

Top tip for you: keep your arm up, and back, and hold your fist close to your cheekbone. Retreat. Go for it. And hopefully you’ll at least get it on the board. 

Two hours-ish of archery costs from £18 each, depending on the time of year. Check out New Forest Activities on this link. If you’re stuck for what to do in the New Forest, then they’re a great place to start. 

• 7. Go wild for lavender

Did you know lavender farms are a thing, and that they exist right here in the UK?

The Instagrammers love them . 

– Pic from the New Forest Lavender Farm

The New Forest Lavender Farm has all the sweet smelling stuff you can imagine plus an array of other plants in its nursery. Spend an afternoon exploring and working out which plants you won’t kill once you get back home.

And if you’re into your flowers, check out the bluebells in season at Roydon Woods near Brockenhurst too. 

If you’re with your Grandma and Grandpa and wondering what to do in the New Forest, then a flower trail is a great idea.

• 8. Visit Hurst Castle

– Hurst Castle is one of the best places to go in the New Forest

As one of Henry VIII’s old joints, it’s exactly as you’d expect; all dungeons, high walls and spooky feels. You can tour Hurst Castle to learn all about its time as an active fortress and then a 17th century prison, before finishing up on the turrets and enjoying the lovely views of Milford on Sea.

Hurst Castle is a lot bigger inside than it looks from the picture above. I was genuinely amazed! 

Entrance is £5.50, and there’s a little cafe on site too. This is one of the top New Forest places of interest to explore. 

You can definitely spend a day here as there’s a beautiful lighthouse too. I loved it here, but make sure you go on a summer’s day as the 40-minute walk up the spit can be very windy! 

9. Stay at one of the lush spa hotels 

There are some amazing  hotels in the New Forest. Really, really , lovely hotels with spas, golf courses, amazing New Forest restaurants and incredible bedrooms.

I recently stayed at the Balmer Lawn Hotel . It was LUSH, and I’d totally go back again. It’s definitely one of the best luxury hotels in the New Forest .

– Visiting the spas is definitely one of my favourite things to do in the New Forest –

There was a lovely spa, an amazing restaurant (with the best steak I’ve had in years) and was set in a beautiful part of the New Forest (again, Brockenhurst). We enjoyed an evening in the on site bar, and the next morning (after a buffet breakfast) the Jacuzzi, again. 

– Check out the latest prices at the Balmer Lawn Hotel , and the rest of the facilities! 

• 10. Take to the water

It can be easy to forget this forest is on the water but it does stretch across 43 miles of coastline. And where there’s water, there’s watersports, and plenty of them in New Forest.

– I REALLY want to do this! 

As well as the kayaking in the New Forest at point number 3, you can keep it chilled with some fishing or boating, or opt to amp up the energy with some paddleboarding or canoeing.

You could even go all out with a trip to the New Forest waterpark , which spans two lakes and looks absolutely AMAZING. If you’re wondering what to do in the New Forest with kids, then get over here!

One of the top New Forest places to visit for sure. 

• 10. Visit the New Forest Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park

Have yourself a hoot at the New Forest Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park where you can see these two breeds up close. They’re not alone though. If you’re lucky you’ll also see some bison, deer and lynx as well as lots of cool plants.

There’s also a tropical butterfly house and a whole load of things to learn about caring for animals too. This is one of the best places to visit in the New Forest for kids – they’ll love it. 

READ MORE 

• How to Have a Brilliant Weekend in the New Forest
• 11. Change gears with a visit to the National Motor Museum

Rev up the action with a visit to the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. Tickets are £15 and get you in to see 250 cars from multiple eras. Once you tyre yourself out (lols), head up to Palace House, the secret army exhibition or the World of Top Gear where that same ticket will see you right in — bargain!

I haven’t actually been yet, but it’s high on my list so expect a pic soon. This is usually cited as the number one thing to do in the New Forest. Get yourself down there!

• 12. Visit Exbury Gardens to let off some steam

– Pic from ExburyGardens.com

As if your trip could get any more kitsch, take the traditional steam train through Exbury Gardens. It’s the most relaxing way to explore the the 200 acre gardens and see the multitude of flowers and plants its home to.

Tickets cost £18.75 but that does include your 20 minute train ride. Mark that as a top place to visit in the New Forest on your map!

• 13. Enjoy a beer at Ringwood Brewery

After all these New Forest attractions, you’re bound to have built up a thirst. The Ringwood Brewery is the perfect pitstop for quenching it. You can tour the place for £10, learn how craft beer is brewed before sitting back and enjoying your complimentary drink.

– pic from Wikipedia

The Ringwood Brewery is right on the edge of the New Forest so if you live west, it’s a great stop on the way home. And if not, you can find the brewery beers on the taps at various pubs throughout the New Forest. 

This is one of the most popular places to visit in the New Forest for a pint.

14. Take your bikes 

Cycling round the New Forest is one of the best ways to explore what it has to offer. There are miles and miles of cycle trails in the New Forest and it’s a lovely pace to see it from. 

You can either take your own bikes and park up, to see what’s what. Or, there are plenty of bike rentals shops in the New Forest too. Check out the Woods Cyclery in Lymington for a great place to hire from. 

Cycling around is definitely my favourite of all the New Forest activities. It’s just a great pace to see the forest at. 

15. Check out the quaint New Forest pubs 

– The New Forest pubs are a whole attraction in themselves! – 

You’ll find some amazing pubs in the New Forest, ones that are absolutely full of character. From The Oak Inn near Lyndhurst, above, to the excellent beer garden at the Royal Oak near Beaulieu, traditional pub grub is available in abundance. 

After a long bike ride on a summer’s day, there’s nowhere I’d rather be than one of the top pubs in the New Forest . 

16. Visit The Pig Manor House 

Once you’ve finished wandering around all the rural charm of the villages, fill up with some traditional pub grub at The Pig . It’s a beautiful old manor house where you can stay over if you have the cash, or just visit in the day for lunch or dinner.

You need to book early if you want to get in the restaurant but you can turn up to the garden. Those piggy flatbreads in the courtyard are YUM!

Lunch at No Man’s Fort in Port Solent

The Best Festivals in Hampshire

Best Restaurants in Southampton

17. Hang out at the beach at Milford on Sea 

Milford on Sea is the cutest village. On the south coast of the New Forest it’s a really, really lovely part of England. You can hang out in the village, or walk down to Hurst Castle. It’s a 40-minute walk along the spit and you’ll find an impressive Henry VIII castle with even more impressive views at the end. 

I didn’t actually go to the Greek restaurant in Milford on Sea, but it looked fab. Definitely would next time.  

18. Explore Rhinefield Ornamental Drive 

– My brother fooling around in the New Forest! – 

If you want a New Forest attraction you can do in the car, check out the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive. It’s beautiful.

You can drive along for a few minutes and enjoy the huge Redwood trees, or get out and walk among them. Car parks are close so if you just want a little walk in the New Forest, this is the perfect spot. 

One of the more natural New Forest attractions, and definitely one of the best. 

19. Just admire the thatched houses 

– You don’t need to spend a lot of money to have fun in the New Forest, just wander! –

So many pretty houses in the New Forest! 

Just take a drive around the New Forest and you’ll find many a thatched house in among the brick ones. Get your camera out and enjoy the show.

20. Admire the New Forest ponies 

The wild New Forest ponies have the right of way in the New Forest, so if you’re driving – watch out! 

You can find them everywhere, but especially in Beaulieu and Brockenhurst. If you can’t find them, just look for them outside the Balmer Lawn Hotel, there are loads there.

Fact about the New Forest

The New Forest is England’s eighth National Park. It has 61 ancient monuments, 634 listed buildings and 18 conservation areas within its boundaries. The Forest is famous for its wildlife, particularly ponies and cattle.

21. Solent Way Walk

One of the most popular things to do in the New Forest for active travellers, is to walk The Solent Way. It’s a 60-mile footpath linking Milford on Sea in the New Forest with Emsworth Harbour on the Hampshire / West Sussex border. The views from the walk make it all the more special, with vistas out to the Isle of Wight. 

It’s also really easy to follow along the coast. Enjoy! 

22. Breamore House

– The incredible houses are one of the main New Forest attractions – 

Open to visitors April to October, Breamore House is a fantastic house in Fordingbridge in the New Forest. It’s so amazing that it’s used as a filming location in Pride & Prejudice and HBO films too.

Visit the Elizabethan Manor House and Countryside Museum and you can tour the drawing rooms, the dining rooms and the bedrooms too – it really is one of the most magnificent things to see in the New Forest. 

If you’ve got a few quid you can hire it out as a wedding venue too. 

• 23. St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery

You’ll find the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery in the beautiful, historic coastal market town of Lymington. Here you can learn about the history of Lymington and the New Forest Coast through the artwork of the local community and beyond. 

Expect hands on displays and changing collections to keep you enthralled. 

• 24. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

At Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary there’s a purpose-built viewing platform overlooking a large meadow area where a herd of fallow deer regularly gather. And if they’re not there, hold out till feeding time between noon and 3pm and they’re guaranteed to come running.

You can even use that zoom on your new phone you never thought you’d use to get a close up pic. 

There are some great walking routes through the deer sanctuary, including one through Bolderwood’s Ancient and Ornamental Woodland. Just generally walking around is one of the top things to do in the New Forest. 

Some of the tallest trees in the New Forest are here, from Douglas Fir and Redwoods to native beech and oak. They’ve been here for years. 

This makes for a great family day out in the New Forest – at least for patient, animal loving children anyway!

• 25. Peppa Pig at Paulton’s Park

Who doesn’t love Peppa Pig hey? 

Well, me, but I felt like Peppa Pig at Paulton’s Park needed to be included on this list of the unusual things to do in the New Forest, as it’s one of the most popular. This family theme park has nine rides, and you can meet some of the characters too. There’s also a 4D cinema, water rides and a small zoo too.

This is one of the top choices for things to do in the New Forest for kids. 

• 26. Goodall’s Strawberry Farm

A pick your own strawberry farm , who could ask for anything more?!

– If you’re looking for New Forest things to do – go pick some strawberries! –

You can get a wide range of fruits and veggies here, as well as a traditional New Forest cream tea. The picking usually starts from May time. 

In autumn you can visit the pumpkin farm here and pick up a pumpkin for your pie, or for carving. Or, if you love your Instagram, don a twirly dress and come and get your pic taken.

27. Go Ape Moors Valley 

“Moors Valley is the quadruple whammy of forest fun. With Treetop Challenge, Treetop Adventure+, Forest Segway and Nets Adventure, all thrill-seeking, family entertainment boxes are firmly ticked. Push yourself on the Challenge course which will take you 11-metres skywards and features a massive 166-metre zip wire. Whilst the Adventure+ course boasts narrow crossings, suspended walkways and tree-high platforms. We’ve also got an hour of challenging woodland trails if you’re up for exploring on our all-terrain Segways.” – Go Ape Moors Valley

Go Ape is known as the ultimate in tree top entertainment in England, and the Go Ape in the New Forest is no different. Visit for a fun day out with your friends and / or kids! 

28. Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum 

The Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum, near New Milton, is home to one of the world’s biggest collections of motorbikes. Miller is a motorcycling legend and winner of over 1400 events. At his museum you can take a look around the Racing Hall, Road Bike Hill and our Sports Bike Hall.

There are also animals here, it’s home to alpacas, goats, chickens, donkeys, sheep, turkeys, and ducks. Something for youuuu, something for the kids, that works right? 

And most importantly, you can pick up some tea and cake at the Bashley Manor Tea Rooms in the grounds. 

Glamping in the New Forest

Check out these New Forest listings for some great places to stay – and I’ve picked out the best of the New Forest glamping here .

• 29. New Forest Wildlife Park

Visit New Forest Wildlife Park in Ashurst and you’ll find bison, wolves, otters, owl and foxes waiting to welcome you. They like to put on a special event for our annual celebrations so keep an eye on the website for the up to date info from the keepers.

The New Forest Wildlife Park is a comparatively small wildlife park compared to some of the others in England, but you can follow the ancient woodland trails to see amazing animals in beautiful natural settings. 

• 30. Go horse riding in the New Forest

The bridleways that criss cross the New Forest National Park make for the perfect route for horse riding. There are a few riding schools in the New Forest so you can take your pick for a trot.

Some riding schools even let you bring your own horse along to be with the others.

The Burley Villa School of Riding is one of the most popular places to go horse riding in the New Forest. 

31. Play some golf 

There’s lots of fun for golfers in the New Forest, with courses for all abilities. There are 9 to 18-hole golf courses here. Luxury five star, Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa has its own 9 hole par 3 golf course within the hotel’s extensive grounds. 

While Lymington Golf Centre has pay and play sessions, a driving area and the New Forest Adventure Golf coursefor kids. This one is a bit more fun than the others. The holes are named after towns, villages and special places in the New Forest, so you can get to know the area even more. 

There are around ten golf courses in the New Forest so have a look around to find the best one to suit you. 

32. Chill at the spa 

As quite a ‘fancy’ and ‘well to do’ area, there are plenty of spas in the New Forest to keep you busy for a weekend. I’ve stayed at the Balmer Lawn Hotel, which was blummin lush. Really nice hotel and we had the spa area downstairs to ourselves too.

The New Park Manor Spa is next on my list, as it looks amazing. They have an adults only hot tub area, a large pool, thermal rooms and an experience shower too.

Chewton Glen is known as the fanciest of all the spas in the New Forest. It’s award winning and has Europe’s largest hydrotherapy pool, a 17m indoor pool and aromatherapy saunas, crystal steam rooms and loads of outdoors activities too. 

Limewood, the Rhinefield House Hotel and Careys Manor Hotel all look pretty sweet too! 

New Forest Attractions Tip

Sign up for a Go New Forest Card .

This way you can get lots of money-saving offers on attractions, activities, places to stay, shops and eating out. There are around 350 offers are available for card holders, all for £10.

• 33. The Mill at Gordleton

If your idea of a good time in the New Forest is to eat and admire gardens while scoffing, then  the Mill at Gordleton  is the one for you. The Mill is on the River Avon and the restaurant serves food exclusively from the local area.

Look around and you’ll find the ‘Secret Garden’ featuring the renovated Victorian pond and the Mill’s Art Gardens where local and national artists exhibit their work.  

• 34. Apple Court Garden & Nursery

Apple Court Garden and Nursery is actually  just  outside of the New Forest, but absolutely worth including in this guide to things to do in the New Forest thanks to its tranquility and proximity. If you want a cup of tea and cake in the sun then this is the place to enjoy it. The Japanese Garden is filled with  koi carp, Japanese maples and bamboo. While the rest of the garden has tropical plants, unusual horticulture and mature flowers, shrubs and trees from around the world.

You can also expect exotic, sub-tropical borders, grass borders, a fern walk, woodland borders, many day lilies, and other unusual plants too.

35. Hire a New Forest Classic Car 

Surely this is one of the coolest things to do in the New Forest?

Hire a classic car from New Forest Classic Car Hire and you can enjoy a unique self drive experience across the New Forest. Cruising around the New Forest in a classic car sounds like an amazing thing to do on a summer’s night, especially as the sun’s setting. You can choose from an AK Cobra 427, a Jaguar E-Type Series 1 2+2 Coupe or an Austin Healey 3000 Mk III Convertible

Prices start from £150. If you’re looking for unusual things to do in the New Forest with your mum and dad – this is the one. 

– Horse riding is one of the top attractions in the New Forest – 

36. Go swimming 

Leisure centres in the New Forest include Applemore, Ringwood, Lymington, New Milton and Totton. They’re all indoors, and they all have lanes if you want to do ‘proper’ swimming. Make sure to check each pool for their opening times before you go. Some of them have spas and saunas too.

There are quite a few hotels in the New Forest with a swimming pool too. 

– The ponies are one of the main New Forest attractions – 

37. New Forest Outdoor Centre 

The  New Forest Outdoor Centre  is a great place for team building activities – perfect for stag and hen groups too. You can do axe throwing, rock climbing, fire craft skills and canoeing too.

I’ve never been but it all looks so much fun I’ve just spent over half an hour looking round their site. I want to go and play!  

38.  Take a wagon ride in Burley

Burley is one of the New Forest’s prettiest villages, and the most unique way to see it is with Burley Wagon Rides. You can take a 20-minute ride on a horse-drawn wagon and go on a joyful little trot around the nearby woodland. Definitely one of the more unique things to do in the New Forest!

In Burley you can also get an afternoon tea to round off the day. You’ll find afternoon teas are a ‘thing’ in the New Forest – available in every village. 

39. Take a powerboat in Lymington 

Get your mates together and you can get out on a power boat for the day. For around £350 between up to ten of you, you can get the boat for yourself. Where you then take it is up to you – pack a picnic to really make the most of the day. 

Of all the amazing attractions in the New Forest, cruising out on a powerboat is definitely up there!

40. Drink cider at New Forest Cider 

And if all else fails, or you’ve completed the entire list, then visit the  New Forest Cider Factory . Here you can sample the unpasteurised, real cider straight from the barrels in the pretty village of Burley.

The apples used come from their New Forest orchard and you can choose between dry, medium, sweet, Kingston Black and Perry as well as a selection of bottled ciders including their handcrafted Cider Bouche and popular Champagne method Cider.

And if you’re  reeeeeally  interested in cider production then check their website regularly for details of their annual steam pressing weekend and you can watch the cider being pressed in the traditional way. 

They also offer accommodation if you’re really planning on getting on it. 

• 41. Boat trip from Buckler’s Hard

Hop on a boat trip from Buckler’s Hard to cruise down the Beaulieu River. You’ll feel like a character in a whimsical fairytale, surrounded by lush greenery and rocked the gentle sway of the water. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, from charming waterfowl to cheeky river otters.

Buckler’s Hard boasts a rich maritime history, and you can explore the quaint shipbuilding village while pretending to be a swashbuckling pirate or a dashing sailor. So, whether you’re after a dose of nature, a touch of history, or just a delightful day out, this boat trip promises a fantastic time filled with smiles and laughter.

• 42. Longdown Activity Farm

This is a great place to spend a few hours in the New Forest with the kids. When we went in July, my toddler could feed a baby goat, and see these baby chicks too. There was a great playground, but Reggie particularly liked the ride on tractors.

The Longdown Activity Farm is definitely my favourite trip out for my toddler in the New Forest.

• 43. Moors Valley Country Park

Visiting Moors Valley Country Park is like stepping into a natural wonderland on the edge of England’s New Forest.

This 1000-acre park offers loads of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery for nature enthusiasts and families. Visit and you can explore meandering trails through ancient woodlands, discovering hidden treasures like tree-top walkways and enchanting play areas for kids.

• 44. Visit the New Forest Reptile Centre

The New Forest Reptile Centre, near Lyndhurst, helps protect rare snakes and lizards and encourage the re-introduction of these animals across the country.

There are special outdoor ‘pods’ which provide a natural home to the sand lizard, smooth snake and adder. These reptiles can be difficult to see in the wild as they are rare and very secretive, so the New Forest Reptile Centre is a great place to see them close-up.

Perfect for reptile / dragon /dinosaur loving kids!

• 45. Learn more at the New Forest Heritage Centre

The New Forest Heritage Centre serves as an informative gateway to the New Forest’s rich history and natural beauty. Nestled in the heart of Lyndhurst (in a handy car park) this cultural gem offers a glimpse into the forest’s past through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and informative presentations.

If you want to know more about the history, this is definitely one of the best things to do in the New Forest.

Visitors can explore the park’s unique ecosystem, learn about its ancient traditions, and discover the tales of smugglers and commoners.

The centre’s charming gift shop and cosy café provide a perfect stop for souvenirs and refreshments. With its educational programs and special events, the New Forest Heritage Centre is not just a museum but a living testament to the enduring legacy of this enchanting national park, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers.

There are also some great Lyndhurst pubs just round the corner, if you’d like to explore.

Things to do in the New Forest 

It’s hard to find secret places in the New Forest, as it’s so open and available to visit. My top tip for finding New Forest hidden gems would be to go somewhere that’s a little more difficult to get to. If there’s a car park and toilets, and it’s a sunny day, you can guarantee it’ll be busy. Go off piste and see what you find!

I hope this post gives you an idea of just some of the amazing New Forest attractions there are to enjoy. It really is an amazing, active and beautiful place just nestled on the south coast. This guide to things to do in the New Forest is definitely a work in progress.

As I explore more, I’ll tell you aaalllll about it! 

More on Hampshire 

• 22 Reasons Why I Love Living in Southsea
• 4 Best Places for Wild Swimming in Hampshire
• 58 Brilliant Things to Do on the Isle of Wight

Quicklist of the best New Forest Activities

• 3. Go kayaking on the Beaulieu River 
• 9. Stay at one of the lush spa hotels 
• 14. Take your bikes 
• 15. Check out the quaint New Forest pubs 
• 16. Visit The Pig Manor House 
• 17. Hang out at the beach at Milford on Sea 
• 18. Explore Rhinefield Ornamental Drive 
• 19. Just admire the thatched houses 
• 20. Admire the New Forest ponies 
• 21. Do the Solent Way Walk
• 22. Explore Breamore House
• 27. Go Ape Moors Valley 
• 28. Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum 
• 31. Play some golf 
• 32. Chill at the spa 
• 35. Hire a New Forest Classic Car 
• 36. Go swimming 
• 37. New Forest Outdoor Centre 
• 38. Take a wagon ride in Burley
• 39. Take a powerboat in Lymington 
• 40. Drink cider at New Forest Cider 

PIN THESE THINGS TO DO IN THE NEW FOREST FOR LATER

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• 6 Amazing Places to Go Glamping in the New Forest
• 9 Best Luxury Hotels in The New Forest for a Treat
• 29 Best Places for Wild Swimming in Hampshire & IOW
• New Park Manor Hotel Review (Amazing Baby Friendly…
• 7 Best Restaurants in the New Forest You NEED to Try

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Loved your ideas for activities in the New Forest , can I just add that Moors Valley is not simply about Go Ape, they have an amazing play area and play trail in the woods for the younger kids which is immensely popular plus a cafe and miniature train ride. It’s a fabulous day out for families, there is a charge to park and for the train otherwise free, take a picnic, lots of areas to sit and eat

Oh good tip – thank you!

Thanks for the great info for a family weekend away! Found your blog really useful and did a number of things on your recommendation and enjoyed them all!

Oh that’s great to hear Becca, thanks for letting me know!

No mention of Lyndhurst!? ‘Capital’ of the New Forest. Lots more gems there.

Oh dear, is there not – this definitely needs rectifying and updating!

Hi Vicky. Swing along to Milford onSea and try our funky retro Ebikes. They are awesome!! 😊

Ooo, checked out the website. Yes! They look great. Definitely a fun way to explore the New Forest!

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The 10 best things to do in the New Forest

From wild horses to cookery schools, the New Forest has exactly what you need for the perfect weekend away

Sometimes, you have to see the New Forest to believe it. Famous for its horses, ponies wander past you and deer come up to say hello. Cycle trails lead through thick forests and couples relax in hotel spas. New Forest is a National Park which covers parts of Hampshire, east Dorset and Wiltshire, so you’ll want to figure out the kind of trip you want before planning your trip. 

That’s where we come in. The best things to do across the New Forest range from scenic picnic spots to quaint tearooms, and local museums to postcard-perfect high streets. We’ve got where to see wild horses and where to have a picnic. We've got family activites and couples' retreats. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a springboard right here for an ideal weekend away. Here are the best things to do in the New Forest. 

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New Forest things to do

1.  New Forest National Park

Where is it?  Almost the whole of the New Forest area, covering parts of Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire.  What is it?  Exactly what you’re here for. A magnificent, beautiful park of hiking trails, ponies and light poking through trees.  Why go?  New Forest National Park is a bit like stumbling into paradise. Get lost in the forest and eventually settle down to have a picnic, and you’ll most likely spot deer, horses and a ton of rare birds. And if you’re looking to splash out a bit, definitely stay at Limewood Hotel , which has its own cookery school and spa, and some incredibly luxurious cabin rooms. The River Test is just around the corner, so you can have a go at fly-fishing, but the deer sanctuary at Bolderwood in the heart of the New Forest is the main attraction. 

2.  St Barbe Museum and Gallery

Where is it?  Right in the middle of Lymington.

What is it? An excellent museum and gallery showcasing historic artefacts.

Why go?  This museum in Lymington has won plaudits for its fascinating displays which detail the history of the town and the wider New Forest. Its top-notch rotating exhibitions mean there’s always something original on show – no matter what time of year you visit.

3.  Brockenhurst

Where is it? In the middle of the New Forest National Park.  What is it? Brockenhurst is the most populated village in the New Forest, Hampshire. Why go?  Brockenhurst is beautiful. You'll find ponies, deer – even the odd donkey or cow – roaming the streets of Brockenhurst. Set up camp at thriving local hotel The Pig , which is home to a gorgeous kitchen garden, smoke house, wild flower meadow orchard, chickens and a paddock of, well, pigs. There are even spa treatment rooms, housed in a former potting shed and shepherds hut – and the restaurant serves the sort of uncomplicated British home cooking that always goes down well. Antique hunters should look out for collector’s fairs at nearby Brockenhurst Village Hall.

4.  Exbury Gardens

Where is it? Between Beaulieu and The Solent.  What is it? A 200 acre informal woodland garden in Hampshire. Why go? With two spectacularly pretty designated picnic areas – and a tearoom in which you can grab a locally-made ice cream – Exbury Gardens is ideal for a wholesome family day out. Adventure trails are devised for kids of all ages, but the real star attraction is the Exbury Steam Railway. A 20-minute journey carries visitors across the pond in Summer Lane Garden, along the top of the rock gardens, and into the beautiful American Garden.

5.  Burley Villa School of Riding

Where is it? New Milton.  What is it? Burley Villa offers both English and Western-style horse riding trails around the New Forest. Why go? Ever fancied yourself as something of a buckaroo? Live your Western fantasy without leaving the country at Burley Villa. Their ‘Paint’ and Appaloosa horses in full Western turnout are quite the sight trekking through the wooded enclosures, rippling streams and open plains of the New Forest National Park. Who needs those sweeping American deserts and canyons, anyway? The school provides an optional barbecue too, and yes, Cowboy Beans are on the menu. If that’s not your thing, super-popular Ferndene Farm Shop is nearby and stocks grass fed beef, sausages, fruit, veg and their own free range eggs. It’s a good pit stop if you’ve got a taste for the outdoors and decide to try out a fishing trip in nearby Orchard Lakes .

6.  Beaulieu

Where is it? South Hampshire.  What is it?  A pretty village, the National Motor Museum and the privately-owned Beaulieu River (formerly known as the River Exe), which is regarded as one of the most beautiful marinas on the south coast. Why go? Beaulieu is stunning. Family days out don’t get much better than the National Motor Museum, with its famous cars, pretty grounds, monorail and interactive play areas. Hang around to see the river (owned by Lord Montagu of Beaulieu), which runs through the centre of the New Forest, and is peaceful enough to navigate by canoe. Located on the banks of the river, New Forest Activities canoe base will get you started, with open ‘Canadian Style’ canoes and lessons starting from £25. If you get peckish, there are a few nearby dining options to choose from, including a Gourmet Rivière foodie pop up on the river bank. Captain’s Cabin Tea Rooms provides a decent afternoon tea, light lunches and hot and cold snacks.

7.  Lymington

Where is it? Right on the Solent, facing the Isle of Wight across the water. 

What is it?  A Georgian sailing town with cobbled streets and proper salty pubs.

Why go?  Lymington’s a refined seaside town with postcard-perfect high streets – but the boat-filled harbour is the main attraction. Get out on the water with one of the town’s sailing experiences, join a chartered fishing excursion or just watch the world go by with a pint from one of the wonky-fronted old pubs.  Go in August and you might catch Lymington Seafood Festival – or swing by Apple Court Garden & Nursery for a cup of tea and slice of cake in the sun. With an exquisite Japanese garden and tropical borders, the nursery is worth a look for those interested in picking up particularly unusual plants.

8.  Buckler’s Hard

Where is it? On the banks of the Beaulieu River.

What is it? The eighteenth-century naval village where Nelson’s fleet was built.

Why go?  To travel back in time: Buckler’s Hard is preserved exactly as it was more than 200 years ago. With its own Maritime Museum and a series of period homes, there’s loads and loads to learn about as you wander. And the Beaulieu setting is properly idyllic too.

9.  New Forest Paddle Sport Company

Where is it?  Milford on Sea. What is it? Fancy soaking up a bit of New Forest scenery from the water? Try paddleboarding. Why go? Based in beautiful Milford on Sea, The New Forest Paddle Sport Company offers up the chance to explore the New Forest coastline and salt marshes of Keyhaven from the water. They even provide extra-special options, like a post paddleboarding sunset picnic. With views of Hurst Castle and the Isle of Wight, it sure is a fun way to burn a few calories. Calories you can swiftly replace at nearby, award-winning fishmongers and restaurant Verveine , where seafood is served the best way - super-fresh and super-simple.

10.  Hurst Castle

Where is it? Milford on Sea.  What is it? An artillery fortress established by Henry VIII in the 1500s. Why go? Used as a prison for seventeenth-century captives, Hurst Castle was completed in 1544 under the reign of Henry VIII. It was deemed the ideal location to defend the western approach to the Solent (the strait separating the Isle of Wight from mainland England). Modernised during the Napoleonic wars, and again in the 1870s, it is now open to the public (managed by English Heritage). The castle sits on a shingle spit that extends 1.5 miles from Milford on Sea, and the end is less than a mile from the Isle of Wight. Enjoy the views from the top of the castle, or hire a boat from the Hurst Marine Fleet.

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Things to Do in New Forest National Park Hampshire - New Forest National Park Hampshire Attractions

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Tours in and around New Forest National Park Hampshire

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16 Of The Best Things to do in The New Forest

Looking for things to do in the New Forest? Don’t miss this step by step guide. 

The New Forest is a beautiful area of forest and heathland in southern England and one of my favourite destinations in the UK. 

Just a short hop from London, it’s well known for its roaming ponies, cattle and pigs, which you can often see wandering the roadsides.

But there’s so much more to explore in the New Forest than just its animals. This is an area that’s ripe for exploration. Here are my top picks for things to do in the New Forest. 

The Best Things to do in the New Forest

New forest national park.

The big attraction in the New Forest is, uh, the New Forest itself. A large swathe of it has been dedicated as a National Park, and it’s totally unmissable.

I know, England has a lot of woodland. But this is a very, very special woodland.

Describing it as a “magical forest” seems a bit of a travel writing cliche – but it’s very fitting in this case. Not only is the dense forest spectacularly beautiful, but then there’s the abundance of wildlife as well.

Deers, hedgehogs, owls – oh my. The New Forest definitely has the best of our British native species.

Then there’s the livestock. 

It is, of course, criminal not to mention the gorgeous New Forest ponies . It’s basically impossible to drive through the forest without spotting a group of gorgeous ponies just chilling by the roadside.

As well as the ponies, you might also spot sheep, cows and pigs as well. 

The fact that they all roam freely dates back to commoner’s rights, which allow locals to let their animals roam. Don’t worry, though – they’re all really well taken care of.

Highcliffe Castle

Pretty much all English castles are pretty fancy, but I’ve got to admit Highcliffe Castle is kind of what fairytale castle dreams are made of.

Fittingly, the Castle is in a style known as “romantic” and, well, romantic it is. You half expect Belle of Beauty of the Beast to suddenly slide down the balustrade in her cupcake-like dress.

Highcliffe Castle was built in the 1830s by a DIplomat inspired by French style (fair enough, they are pretty stylish across the channel). 

The castle was inhabited for about a century, before it became a children’s home in the 1950s. After a devastating fire in the 70s (luckily no-one was hurt), it was almost entirely abandoned.

Luckily, in the 1990s, the decision was made to restore it and open to the public. 

I have to say I’m pretty glad they did. It really is a spectacular sight, and one of the best things to see in the New Forest.

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

While we’re on the topic of British wildlife, another of the best places to visit in the New Forest is the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary .

As the name suggests, this park is most famous for its population of Fallow Deer. 

Between April and September, the deer are fed by a park ranger – giving you an amazing chance to see them from the viewing platform.

There’s no set time as it’s more of a “when the ranger gets around to it” kind of thing.

However, it is between 12.30 and 2.30pm and you can go for a walk in the nearby woodland while you wait.

Best of all, there’s no cost for entry – so it’s one of the best free things to do in the New Forest.

The Beaulieu River Trail

The Beaulieu River Trail is a lovely walk that takes in the beauty of the river and surrounding countryside. It’s an easy walk, and can be done in a couple of hours.

Starting at the Beaulieu visitor centre, the trail follows the river for most of its length. There are some great views of the river and its banks, as well as some lovely woodland sections.

Keep an eye out for kingfishers, herons and other wildlife. The trail also passes close to Bucklers Hard, a historic dockyard on the river.

Go Cycling on the Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland Trail

The Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland Trail is a lovely cycle route that takes you through woodland and heath. 

It’s an easy, family friendly ride with good views of the surrounding area as well as some ancient trees.

It starts from Brockenhurst railway station, which makes it ideal for those coming to the New Forest by train. The route follows a mixture of forest tracks and country lanes, and is well signposted.

You can do the ride in as little as an hour, or take a more leisurely pace and spend a few hours exploring the area.

Rhinefield Ornamental Woodland Trail –  Route description and map 

More New Forest Attractions

Exbury gardens.

The New Forest does have a bit of a regal air about it – it was, after all, declared a Royal Forest in the 12th Century. You’ll definitely also feel this at the sprawling Exbury Gardens .

Located just east of the town of Beaulieu, the gardens are one of the many properties owned by the ultra-wealthy Rothschild family.

Luckily for us commoners, they keep them open for the public to enjoy.

In total, the gardens are over 200 acres and absolutely gorgeous. It’s beautiful no matter what the season, but in spring they explode with azaleas, camellias and more.

There are several set paths that will allow you to take in the best of the garden.

Another way to explore it is to catch the famous steam train that leaves from the north-east of the garden. 

Even the Queen has ridden on it!

Horse Riding at Burley Villa Riding School

The New Forest is pretty much paradise for horse lovers. While just spotting the famous ponies is a thrill, it’s even better to explore the best places in the New Forest on horseback.

For those of us who aren’t lucky enough to have a trusty pony in the garden, there’s a great riding school that specialises in rides through the forest.

Burley Villa Riding School is the place to go to enjoy the ultimate New Forest riding experience.

Their riding school is perfect for experienced riders as well as total novices, with well-trained horses that love nothing more than a gentle stroll through the forest.

They also do lessons and “own a pony for the day” experiences for kids (the ten-year-old in me is loving that idea.)

Hengistbury Head

Technically it’s just out of the New Forest, but it’s an easy (and fabulous) attraction to add to your itinerary.

Hengistbury Head is a headland that juts out off the coast not far from Bournemouth.

It’s a bit of a nature lover’s playground, with lots of different animals around and a pretty amazing beach.

It’s not just me who thinks so – the beach huts here are some of the priciest in the country. Recently, five teensy-eensy huts sold for over a million pounds. Now that’s London pricey.

As well as the beautiful nature, Hengistbury Head also has a cool hidden history.

It’s a named Ancient Monument, as there’s believed to be an Upper Paleolithic settlement underneath it. Pretty cool. 

New Forest Otter, Owl and Wildlife Park

I might be a city kind of girl, but I’m certainly not immune to the charms of British wildlife. I mean, come on, how cute are otters?

Since most British wildlife can be on the timid side, for the best chance of spotting them you’ll want to head for a wildlife park.

I love the New Forest Wildlife Park , not just for their adorable animals, but also for their commitment to conservation.

They do a great job in looking after hurt and rescued otters, as well as beautiful native owls as well. 

Otters and owls might be the most well-known residents, but wait – there’s more!

The wildlife park is also home to other native animals including deer, ferrets, water voles and hedgehogs (another fave of mine).

While I can’t guarantee you’ll see every animal at the wildlife park, you’re pretty certain to come face to face with plenty of gorgeous British critters.

Things to do in the New Forest When it Rains

Beaulieu national motor museum.

If you prefer horsepower to horses (haha – great dad joke there), then you can’t miss a visit to the Beaulieu National Motor Museum .

This museum is quite the playground for petrol heads, having been started by a motoring enthusiast by the name of Edward Doglas-Scott-Montagu.

If the triple barrel surname didn’t give it away already, he was really rich and powerful. 

So rich and powerful he actually introduced King Edward VII to the “automobile”.

Not content just to introduce royals to the joy that is driving, he also opened up a small display for members of the paying public. 

Over time, it grew to be one of the best car museums in the world.

There’s a permanent collection of over 200 historic vehicles from Mini Coopers to Bugattis, as well as temporary exhibits. 

Some of the exhibits hosted in the past include a pretty awesome display of James Bond cars (‘cos we all know the cars were the best bit of the movies.)

Hurst Castle

While Highcliffe Castle might be an impressive structure, you can’t really beat the setting of Hurst Castle .

Just a little way from the edge of the New Forest, Hurst Castle is built on Hurst Split – a large causeway that juts out from the coast.

As a result, it takes in some pretty epic views of the sea.

It also has a pretty amazing history. It was built by Henry VIII (yes, the one with the penchant for executing his wives) in the 16th century. 

It was first and foremost a defensive structure, and played a role in many conflicts. Notably, during the English Civil War of the 1600s, it was used to detain King Charles I.

The castle remains in pretty good condition, and is a great stop for anyone interested in English or military history. Or who just likes to look at cool castles.

New Forest Heritage Centre

The New Forest is so much more than a simple woodland.

Between the commoner’s animals and the links to the English aristocracy, there’s an amazing backstory to this place.

To learn about it, I recommend a visit to the New Forest Heritage Centre in Lyndhurst. 

This is no usual little village museum – it’s really well done with a wealth of information. I especially loved learning about the New Forest Pony Sales (sadly, I decided my London flat was not the ideal home for a pony.)

The staff here are really enthusiastic and happy to chat all about the New Forest. 

So, if a little rain is threatening to spoil your fun – a visit to this museum is definitely one of the best things to do in the New Forest.

Buckler’s Hard Story

A New Forest attraction devoted to shipbuilding might seem a little on the niche side, but Buckler’s Hard Story has much wider appeal. 

You certainly don’t need to be a naval enthusiast to enjoy this place to go in the New Forest.

Buckler’s Hard Story is essentially a small village that was all set up around shipbuilding in the early 19th century.

Over the next 200 years, many of Britain’s most significant ships would be built right in the New Forest.

As well as providing exhibits and information about the ships themselves, Buckler’s Hard also allows you to learn more about life for the workers. 

Several cottages are open to show what life was like for the shipbuilders and their families. While the cottages are modest, the setting by the water is pretty amazing.

There’s also a cafe if you fancy a rest or afternoon tea in the New Forest and a gift shop, as well as a lake and garden trail to explore.

Unusual Things to do in the New Forest

Stand up paddleboarding in milford on sea.

The New Forest is a playground for outdoorsy types, and it’s not just the woodland trails on offer. A great option for unusual things to do in the New Forest is trying out stand up paddleboarding.

The ever-popular watersport is on offer at Milford on Sea , a pretty spot to the south of the New Forest. 

While they also do kayaking trips, stand up paddleboarding is where it’s at.

They do both single and group paddleboards, with the latter a perfect way to have a family argument while far out from the coast.

I kid, I kid. Afterall, the scenery is gorgeous and the whole thing is very relaxing – arguments will be the last thing on your mind. 

Plus, it’s a good core workout so it’s absolutely guilt-free fun.

Take a Ranger Walk in the Forest

There are plenty of “do it yourself” walks around the New Forest, but you’ll get even more from a guided walk.

The best kind are led by the Forestry Commission – so you can live out your childhood dreams of being a park ranger. 

Even better? They don’t cost a penny – shooting them straight onto your list of free things to do in the New Forest. 

Throughout the year, the Forestry Commission’s rangers run various guided walks.

They cover topics from forestry foraging (perfect if you’re planning any Into the Wild style trips) to the history of the New Forest Pony.

Most of them need to be booked ahead but they’re generally free and lots of fun. You can find the calendar on the Forestry Commission website . 

Sunset Puffin Cruise Across the Solent

Walking is great and all, but how about taking in the beauty of the New Forest from the comfort of a boat, drink in hand?

Sounds pretty good, doesn’t it?

That’s exactly what’s on offer with Puffin Cruises, who’ve been operating in the New Forest for some 40 years.

It’s the perfect way to close off a day in this beautiful place, watching the sun set over the forest and hearing some commentary along the way.

Best Things to do in the New Forest: Practical Tips for Your Trip

Where to stay in the new forest.

While there are plenty of hotels in the New Forest, it’s really a destination that lends itself well to hiring a cottage or your own accommodation so you can do your own thing.  

Plum Guide offers a range of comfortable and stylish properties dotted around the New Forest. 

This gorgeous waterside retreat is a particular favourite. 

See Plum Guide’s full range of New Forest properties here

How to Get To The New Forest

One of the best things about the New Forest is that it’s actually really close to London. In just an hour and a half, you can go from the concrete jungle of the capital to this magic woodland.

The easiest way to get to the New Forest from London is by train. There’s a direct train from Waterloo that stops at many of the biggest towns including Ashurst, Beaulieu, Brockenhurst and Lymington.

Things to do in the New Forest: Map

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Great tips for the New Forest! Heading there tomorrow for a little horseback riding and wanted a few more things to do!l as a first time visitor. Thank you.

Hi Lori – total pleasure! Hope you had a brilliant time? How was the riding?

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21 brilliant things to do in the new forest.

One of my top 50 things to do in the UK is to visit the New Forest!

Why? Well honestly, there’s just s much to enjoy here!

From spotting wild ponies to hiking amongst the trees, visiting traditional tearooms and pubs to cycling, kayaking, camping or even taking a museum or too, this is a delightful area that packs a lot in.

One of England’s few national parks (and one of only a handful that encompasses countryside and coastline) taking a trip to the New Forest is a UK travel must in my book, especially as it’s very accessible from London and most of the south of the country.

So if you’re considering a trip to this wonderful part of the UK, then read on to discover my list of the top 21 things to do in the New Forest National Park…

Related Posts

• 10 Best New Forest Walks
• Ultimate Guide to Camping in the New Forest
• Top 15 New Forest Pubs

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#1 Soak in Brockenhurst

Coming in at number one on this list of the top things to do in the New Forest, it’s a tried and tested classic that never fails to disappoint!

Yes soaking in the quaint atmosphere of Brockenhurst is something you can’t miss in this area, as it’s one of the flagship towns in the New Forest.

Filled with cute pubs and cafes, historic thatched homes and of course, some lovely wild pony friends, Brockenhurst is a delightful spot to either start your trip or base yourself while you’re here.

Frequently named one of the best places to live in the UK, it’s easy to see why this charming town makes it into my top list.

#2 Take a Trip to Lyndhurst

I’m going to actually kick off this list with all the main towns in the New Forest as I think spending a bit of time in each of them is a great way to orientate yourself in the area.

So, next up, it’s Lyndhurst.

Often thought of as the central point in the forest, it’s home to the main visitor centre and has some good bike hire places too.

And that’s not to mention vintage-esque shops, tearooms and pubs as well of course, so heading here to snap the cute high street is absolutely a must at least once during your trip.

#3 Stroll Lymington

And the third main town on this list of the top things to do in the New Forest is Lymington.

Down by the coast, this cute spot with its cobbled streets and sea views is a great place to stroll and enjoy an ice cream.

Getting out on the water too (via a SUP, kayak, sailboat or cruise) is a must here and there’s swimming baths as well for the brave cold-water lovers among you!

Full of vintage seaside charm, this is a great place to take in the diversity of the New Forest area and a break from all the shady trees if you want to get some sun in!

This is also the spot to catch the Isle of Wight ferry if you’re continuing your UK travels in that direction.

#4 Visit Hurst Castle

And from Lymington, it’s just a short drive to either Milford on Sea or Keyhaven, where you can then enjoy a lovely coastal stroll out to Hurst Castle.

Built originally by Henry VII and located at the end of a coastal spit, enjoy a seaside stroll to get here complete with views of the Isle of Wight’s famous Needles.

Once you arrive you can enter Hurst Castle, which is currently looked after by English Heritage – meaning members get in free.

It’s an amazing historic place you can spend a couple of hours exploring before taking the cute ferry back across the estuary, which seems much more fun than retracing your walking steps.

#5 Hike the Solent Way

And while we’re on the coastal theme, no list of the best things to do in the New Forest would be complete without including the mighty Solent Way.

A 60 mile long track that starts at Milford on Sea and continues through the coastal region of the New Forest and beyond, this is a delightful multi-day hike you can easily complete in sections if you’re not up for the whole thing.

When following the trail look for the emblematic white bird on a green background, which can be found on markers to help you navigate your way.

#6 Amble The Pig Manor House Gardens           

Now back inland, if you like a stroll, then this one is also for you!

The Pig Manor House is part of the famous chain of lovely British boutique countryside stays and the one located in the New Forest won’t disappoint.

Not one for budget travellers, you needed despair if the restaurant price tag make you baulk however, because it’s good to know that ambling through the beautiful gardens of this historic place are totally free and totally worth it too!

Maybe push the boat out with a drink at the end?!

#7 Sink a Pint in a Trad Pub

And talking of drinks, you can’t miss checking out some of the lovely New Forest pubs while you’re here.

With many historic gems, including some thatched roof beauties with roaring fires in the winter and super sunny beer gardens in the winter, whether you want to drink alcohol or not, a New Forest pub is a lovely place to unwind and enjoy some great food at the end of a fun-filled day.

Check out my list of the top 15 New Forest pubs for some inspiration.

#8 Taste a Tour Ringwood Brewery

And the beer theme continues with number 8 on this list, which is to enjoy a tour at the Ringwood Brewery.

Founded in 1978, the brewery sits in the cute market town of Ringwood.

A great activity for those with a taste for craft ales, this lovely spot also comes with a great bar and eatery where you can enjoy some superb beers at the end of it all.

Costing £12 per person, tours explore the brewery, including the history of beer making in this area which stretches right back thanks to the crystal waters of the River Avon and the farmed barley of the rural Hampshire countryside.

#9 Cycle it Off!

And now, after all that indulgence, it’s time to get healthy again and thankfully you’ve come to the right place!

The New Forest is a cyclist haven with some wonderful road, as well as designated trails, cycling.

This means that, even for those who aren’t super confident, there’s plenty of safe and traffic-free options to choose from.

A great way to see the forest, not least for the peaceful and relaxed feels cycling provides, much of the landscape is quite flat here too, which many will find a relief!

And don’t worry if you’ve forgotten your bike – there’s plenty of hire outlets in towns and campsites around the national park.

#10 Kayak or SUP

But if it’s active watersports you’d rather enjoy than cycling – or perhaps a bit of both – then you’ll be pleased to learn that all of this is on offer in the New Forest too.

Yes providing a nice alternative, kayaking or SUP-ing is definitely one of the best things to do in New Forest with equipment easily rental from many of the top coastal and riverside spots around here.

You can also take tours if you don’t feel that confident, or want to build up your skills, and the towns of Lymington, Fordingbridge and Beaulieu are key places where companies provide both lessons, tours and equipment hire.

#11 Get Charmed by Beaulieu

Which leads me seamlessly into talking about Beaulieu!

Apparently pronounced bu-ley (… or near enough, unless you’re French and then it’s bow-lee-ah), this cute village is an absolute must-see when you’re in the New Forest.

In fact, I think it was my favourite village thanks to its historic homes, quaint shops and lovely wild ponies and donkeys!

Snap away to your heart’s content in this chocolate box destination, or else hike or kayak your way along the river here.

A classic route is from Beaulieu to Bucklers Hard – the place where Lord Nelson’s favourite ship Agamemnon was built in 1781.

Beaulieu itself means “beautiful place” and was established in 1204 by Cistercian monks who founded an abbey here.

Honestly, it’s not hard to see why the spot appealed to them, and still appeals today!

#12 Snap The Ponies!

Not quite sure how it took me until number 12 of this list to mention the wild ponies that the New Forest is probably most famous for, but there it is!

So yes, in at number 12, it’s stop and snap those wild ponies!

If you’re yet to see any up until this point during your meanderings through the Forest (in which case, I’d also ask how?!), then heading to Beaulieu pretty much guarantees you a sighting!

Wild, but incredibly used to people, the ponies are the symbol of this National Park and actually have priority here – even over cyclists, walkers and traffic!

If you get stuck behind a big jam in the New Forest therefore, it’s likely to be pony induced!

#13 Head to Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

And if it’s wildlife you’re after, especially if you have a child, then you also can’t miss a visit to the Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary in the New Forest.

With tons of, yes you guessed it, deer to be spotted here care of a handy viewing platform, these wild animals also add to the pony, donkey and cattle affair that is the New Forest wildlife scene!

With some lovely walks around it too (check out my list of the top 10 New Forest walks here ), the Deer Sanctuary is a family-friendly must-visit!

#14 Road Trip Ornamental Drive

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is actually situated along one of the most famous stretches of the New Forest, so while you’re here, there’s no question you should take a leisurely cruise along Ornamental Drive too.

With magnificent forest views, as the trees tower above you on either side of the road, this is a delightful drive or cycle, which will really have you feeling like you’ve visited the New Forest.

#15 Walk the Tall Tree Trail

And also along the Ornamental Drive is the famous Tall Tree Trail.

A great 2.5km loop, the handy information boards here, as well as the range of historic and majestic trees you can spot along the way, make this a classic!

Flat and easy for kids too, there’s plenty of opportunities to play in the leaves, run around and snap the beautiful forest at its best.

A handy car park near the trailhead, which features picnic tables and public toilets, also makes this an accessible one and is def one of my top 10 New Forest walks .

#16 Check out a Museum… or 2!

But what if you visit the New Forest and the weather doesn’t play game, I hear you cry.

What? Rain in England? Never!

Alas, it’s true, the weather can’t always be guaranteed down here in Hampshire, but fear not, the New Forest has plenty of wet weather things to do too!

And top of the list is visiting one of the many museums here.

From the National Motor Museum to the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery, there’s plenty to choose from no matter your interests or inclinations.

Now back to an activity that hopefully you won’t have to do in the rain, yes camping in the New Forest is certainly one of the best ways to experience this idyllic countryside area at its best.

From glamping to campervanning, old school tenting to caravan life, there’s so many options to choose from here, and so many great independent and fun campsites, that this opportunity really should not be missed!

Learn all you need to know in my ultimate guide to camping in the New Forest.

#18 Hit the Beach

Another warm weather special – or it doesn’t even have to be warm actually, just preferably not wet! – hitting up the beach when you visit the New Forest is a lovely day out.

Although it’s more famous for its trees, it shouldn’t be forgotten that this part of Hampshire also has some delightful coastal stretches and top of my sandy-toe list are the beaches at Lepe or Milford On Sea.

Don’t miss them!

#19 Visit a Working Farm

Coming towards the end of our list now, but there’s no way I could overlook this one.

Yes, rural Hampshire is farming heaven and those working farms in the New Forest are no exception!

Many can be visited and some of them even allow animal petting or “pick your own” activities!

Strawberries are a key produce item here, so head to the New Forest in May or June to grab bags full of these gems from a farm shop.

Or, why not visit in July when the lavender season is in full swing and the Instagram brigade are heavy on those beautiful purple field shots?

#20 Enjoy an Afternoon Tea

And talking of strawberries, whether it’s in a lovely farm cafe, or a quaint village tea room, grabbing an afternoon tea complete with scone, cream and strawberry jam, along with a good-sized teapot full of a strong brew are a must in these parts.

As an area known for its quintessential feels, the New Forest afternoon tea session really does complete the picture!

#21 Jump Onboard the Steam Railway

And last but not least, number 21 on this list of the best things to do in the New Forest is to visit the great Exbury Steam Railway.

What did I say about the New Forest being a quintessential classic?

Well now here’s the proof!

As part of a visit to the lovely Exbury Gardens, you can actually jump onboard a working steam engine here, which departs from a replica Victorian station before heading through a tunnel, over a bridge, round a Pond and finally through the gardens.

A great one for families and a super fun way to round off your time in the New Forest, the train departs roughly every hour!

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Top Tips for Travel in the New Forest

  When to Visit the New Forest?

No question in my mind that the best time to go to the New Forest is between the months of June and September when the weather is at its direst, sunniest and warmest.

Not only does this make for a more pleasant travel experience, but the better weather at this time of year will also allow you to enjoy more of the park’s beautiful landscapes too – whether that’s walking, cycling, hitting up the coast or just staring out your tent door!

I visited the New Forest in mid-April and experienced idyllic weather that saw me hiking and cycling under brilliant blue skies every day, but this isn’t a given!

Don’t forget that this being England it can rain at any time of the year, even in the height of summer, so it pays to come prepared!

Within the summer months, do remember that the school holidays and sunny weekends will be by far the busiest months here, so if you want to get the cheapest prices or the thinnest crowds, it’s probably best to avoid these times!

How to Get to the New Forest?

Situated in the south of England, in the county of Hampshire, the New Forest is very near the coast and the port cities of Southampton, Bournemouth and Portsmouth.

It’s just a few hours’ drive from London too and if you’re heading down to the Isle of Wight or even across to Dorset , the New Forest can be a great stopping point on the way.

Driving is the best way to get to the New Forest and if you don’t have a car, you may consider renting one.

As always, I recommend Discover Cars as they offer some great deals on car rental and are very reputable.

Learn more in these top 12 tips I wrote about hiring a car in the UK on a budget .

Attentively, if you’d rather use public transport, you can get to the New Forest easily from London Waterloo via 8 train stations that sit within the area.

• Beaulieu Road
• Brockenhurst
• Hinton Admiral

My top tip is to use Trainline to find the best deals on rail tickets across the UK, as they use split-fare technology to get you the cheapest prices.

How to Get Around?

Once in the New Forest, there is a pretty good bus service.

More information including timetables and fares can be found here .

In the summer months, additional New Forest bus tour routes also run.

If you don’t want to catch public transport however, then cycling is an ideal to get around the New Forest.

With many great, designated trails, as well as calm and quiet country roads to enjoy, it’s the perfect option!

Otherwise, you may opt to drive a car around instead.

There are many roads through the forest, making it easy to explore large sections of it over a fairly quick amount of time in a vehicle.

How Long to Spend There?

From a weekend to a week, both shorter and longer trips to the New Forest are well worth it.

Just remember not to overpack your itinerary and try to cover the whole of the New Forest in a couple of days!

You won’t be able to take it all in or enjoy it this way.

Where to Stay in the New Forest?

Accommodation in the New Forest isn’t the cheapest, so for those of you on a tight budget, camping really is the best option.

Discover more in my ultimate guide to camping in the New Forest , which includes a list of the top 7 campsites in the area.

For those who want something a bit comfier however, the Highfield Bed & Breakfast in Lymington gets rave reviews thanks to its great location, facilities and service.

Otherwise, these Brockenhurst Apartments are excellent for those who prefer self-catering accommodation with a full kitchen in the heart of the New Forest.

For something a bit more quirky, this brilliantly rated Shepherd’s Hut near Ringwood is the glamping option to go for!

5 Packing Essentials for the New Forest

#1 Walking Shoes – I highly recommend these lightweight and comfortable ones from North Face , which are perfect for the job.

#2 Waterproof, Windproof Jacket – Bring a good waterproof and windproof jacket no matter what time of year you’re coming ok?!

#3 Swimwear & Towel – I thoroughly recommend bringing swimwear and a travel towel with you to the New Forest, especially if you’re coming in the summer!

#4 Camera – I love my Sony A6000 , which never leaves my side. I also enjoyed having a GoPro when I was in the New Forest to capture all the hiking and cycling action.

#5 Portable Charger – Come armed with 2 fully charged Anker portable chargers , so you can fire up your phone, camera or other devices whenever and wherever you need.

PIN IT TO PINTEREST!

So there you have it, my list of the 21 things to do in the New Forest.

Have you visited this amazing part of the UK?

What did you enjoy doing there most?

Any tips you can leave to help other travellers in the comments would be greatly appreciated!

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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Top New Forest attractions

A true natural wonder with its acres of woodlands, heathlands and free-roaming ponies, the New Forest has been enhanced with some great places to go for days out. Whether you’re a historian or into sports, or have a whole family in tow, there is a huge variety of New Forest attractions for everyone, dotted amongst these beautiful landscapes.

We have picked some of the best days out in the New Forest, from adults-only brewery tours to action-packed theme parks for kids. We’ve found places where you can learn to paddleboard, get up-close to wildlife and discover mighty castles, meaning you’ll never be stuck for things to see and do during your stay. Here are some of our favourite New Forest days out, and if you haven’t already found somewhere to stay, just click the button below to browse our collection of New Forest cottages.

Best New Forest attractions for adults

Exbury gardens.

Exbury Gardens  is a beautiful spot to spend a couple of hours, wandering among colourful blooms and getting lost along its 20 miles of pathways. Close to the Beaulieu River, the gardens are home to the Rothschild collection of plants and flowers. There are no less than three separate woods to explore and a collection of ponds with carp and pretty water insects too.

If you feel like giving your feet a rest, ride the 12-gauge steam train along Exbury’s park railway and through the beautiful grounds. The tearooms at Mr Eddy’s are also worth paying a visit to for refreshments. Whether you're a garden enthusiast or simply want to admire some beautiful natural scenery, Exbury Gardens is one of the best New Forest days out for adults.

Our  guide to New Forest gardens  offers some more beautiful spaces to explore.

VISITOR INFORMATION

• Price:  Adults from £11.50, children from £3.65, family tickets from £26.65, under-3s free
• Opening times:  10am-5.30pm, from 20th March until 5th November only
• Dogs are welcome on the lead
• Wheelchair-friendly, with a buggy service offered to help explore the gardens
• Shop, cafe and picnic areas on site
• Toilets and baby changing facilities available

Where to stay:

• Danny’s Cottage , sleeps 2
• Sandalwood , sleeps 5 + 1 dog

BUCKLERS HARD MUSEUM

Buckler’s Hard Maritime Museum  is the best-preserved example of an 18th-century shipbuilding village in the world. Located on the banks of the Beaulieu River, it’s a grand day out for anyone with an interest in Maritime history, and a great rainy-day activity in the New Forest.

Buckler’s Hard is regarded as the birthplace of the British naval vessel. Many of Admiral Nelson’s Trafalgar fleet was built from oak trees felled in the New Forest. Much of the village's heritage can still be seen in the terrace of former shipbuilders' houses. Catch a boat downriver to birdwatch at the neighbouring North Solent National Nature Reserve too, if you have time. A guaranteed, excellent educational day out and one of our top New Forest attractions for adults.

• Prices:  Adults £6.90, seniors (60+) £6.40, children (5-17) £4.70, family tickets £19.70
• Opening times:  10am-5pm from 25th March to 30th September, 10am-4.30pm from 1st October to 24th March
• See accessibility statement on website for full accessibility details
• Restaurant, cafes, shops and picnic areas on site
• Toilets and baby changing facilities on site
• Dogs welcome outdoors only
• The Old Telephone Exchange , sleeps 2 + 1 dog
• The Shipwrights , sleeps 6 + 2 dogs

RINGWOOD BREWERY

After building up a thirst at all the top tourist attractions in the New Forest, adults can head over to the Ringwood Brewery for a refreshing tour and tasting. Discover how the award-winning beers such as Best Bitter, Fortyniner, Boondoggie and the revered Old Thumper are made: taste the malted barley, sniff the hops and see the beer fermenting in the Tun Room.

The tour experience lasts for around two hours and ends with a tutored tasting session and a complimentary drink. There’s also an opportunity to browse their shop which is packed with gifts, goodies, and great bottled and draught beers.

• Prices: Adults £12, children (8-17) £6
• Opening times: vary - check website for full details
• Toilets on site
• Dogs welcome in the Brewery Store only
• Bumble Bee Cottage , sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
• Pembrey House , sleeps 8

NEW FOREST ACTIVITIES

Adventurous couples wondering what to do in the New Forest, should head to New Forest Activities in Beaulieu . An enticing range of thrilling excursions are on offer, from relaxing canoe tours of the Beaulieu River Nature Reserve to the action-packed combat experience of Battlefield LIVE.

High ropes courses, bushcraft, archery and sea kayaking are also on offer, so whether you’re looking for a couple of hours of fun or a full day of adventure outdoors, there’s plenty to do. And for those who just like to take it easy, the ‘Paddle to the Pub’ excursion is sure to be a hit.

• Prices: Vary depending on the activity – check website for full details
• Opening times: 9am-5pm
• Picnic areas and Honesty Cafe
• Toilets and changing rooms on site
• Dogs welcome on canoeing and archery sessions
• Crow’s Nest Cabin , sleeps 2 + 1 dog
• Beaulieu House Annexe , sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in the New Forest, why not pack a picnic and spend the day at Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary ? Located just outside Lyndhurst within the heart of the forest, a herd of fallow deer regularly gather to feed in the large meadow here. The best time to appreciate this magnificent sight is between April and September when the herd is fed daily by a local New Forest keeper.

A viewing platform offers a brilliant vantage point to observe these beautiful animals grazing – it’s not unusual to see more than 50 New Forest deer in loose groups, tails swishing, waiting to be fed. And amongst the conventionally marked fallow deer, a number of white bucks and does are often present too. There’s a large picnic area shaded by the tall trees where you can lay out your lunch and afterwards, you can enjoy a hand-in-hand woodland stroll, with three different circular trails to choose from.

• Prices: Free
• Opening times: Open 24 hours
• Three walking trails
• Cycling trail
• Picnic area
• Dogs welcome
• Clares Cottage , sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
• Bench Cottage , sleeps 7 + 1 dog

Best New Forest attractions for kids

Paulton’s park and peppa pig world.

For young families,  Paulton’s Park and Peppa Pig World  is bound to be the highlight of the week. It's one of the best days out in the New Forest for babies, toddlers and young children, and great whether the sun's out or it's a rainy day. Peppa Pig World features themed rides, like a ride in a car with Daddy Pig, fly in the clouds to Windy Castle or whizz around in Miss Rabbit’s helicopter. Elsewhere, the kids can meet the real Peppa Pig and her family, whilst playing in her house and other scenes made famous by her wonderful books and TV show.

Besides Peppa Pig World there is a whole host of rides and games for all the family throughout Paulton’s Park at large. See a live Justin Fletcher show, or check out Paulton’s newest spectacle, The Lost Kingdom Dinosaur Theme Park. It houses two large rollercoasters, animatronic dinosaurs, prehistoric-style family rides and a Jurassic period-inspired adventure playground. If Peppa Pig is key to your family holiday, take a look at our  cottages near Peppa Pig World  and you'll be just down the road from Peppa and her friends.

Read our ultimate guide to Peppa Pig World to make the most of your day out.

• Prices:  Adults and children 1m and over £31.75, seniors £29.25, family tickets from £92.75, children under 1m free
• Opening times:  Vary - check website for full details
• Wheelchair-friendly with many rides offering wheelchair access
• Restaurants and gift shops on site
• Assistance dogs welcome only
• The Coach House Cottage – Lyndhurst , sleeps 4 + 1 dog
• Kingfishers – New Forest , sleeps 5

NEW FOREST WATERPARK

Looking for something active for the whole family? The  New Forest Water Park  is the best place in the region to get involved in a bunch of water-based activities. These include wakeboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, inflatable floating obstacle courses and more.

It makes for great all-weather days out with the kids in the New Forest. Close to  Ringwood  and  Fordingbridge , the waterpark is within an hour’s drive from anywhere in the New Forest National Park area.

We’ve found even more things to do in the New Forest in the rain in our guide.

• Prices:  Vary depending on activity
• Opening times:  Vary - see website for full details
• Disabled access
• Cafe on site
• Winnalls Wood , sleeps 7 + 1 dog
• Rightmans Place , sleeps 11 + 2 dogs

BEAULIEU – NATIONAL MOTOR MUSEUM & ESTATE

Beaulieu – National Motor Museum & Estate  is home to one of the best and largest collections of automobiles in the world and that alone makes it one of the best family days out in the New Forest. Among its collection of prestigious cars include vehicles from film and TV, including the Trotters' van, and the World of Top Gear exhibit.

Besides its vast collection of motor vehicles, the museum is located in gorgeous, landscaped gardens. You can also visit Palace House and the ruins of the local abbey. The estate has a monorail and a vintage double-decker bus to ferry you about the large estate if you don’t fancy walking. There are some great paths meandering in and out of the woodlands and walled gardens. Be sure to include a trip out to  Beaulieu  – a great destination for gardeners, kids and petrol heads alike.

• Prices:  Adults £24.75, over-60s and students £23.75, children £12.50, under-5s free, family tickets £64
• Opening times:  10am-6pm in summer, 10am-5pm in winter
• Wheelchair-friendly, with mobility scooters for hire
• Restaurants, cafes, shops and picnic areas on site
• Dogs welcome in the grounds on a lead
• Treetops , sleeps 5
• The Saddlery , sleeps 6 + 1 dog

MARWELL ZOO

Located just outside of the New Forest,  Marwell Zoo near Winchester, is a fun-packed family day out with plenty of fantastic wildlife to see. Spread across 140 acres, there are hundreds of different animals to meet, including rhinos, penguins, meerkats, snow leopards, cheetahs, hippos and tigers. The zoo has now opened a new exhibit, the Lemur Loop, where you can get up close to four different kinds of lemurs.

There's also plenty of other things to do, from strolling through the gardens to a scenic train ride and letting the kids run free in the five adventure playgrounds. The zoo is one of the best places to visit in the New Forest if you’ve got a variety of ages to please.

• Prices:  Adults £19, children £15, under-2s free, students and seniors £16.50, family tickets £63
• Opening times:  Open from 10am, closing times vary - see website for full details
• Wheelchair friendly, carers go free
• Cafes, kiosks, picnic areas and shop on site
• The Wood Shed , sleeps 5 + 1 dog
• Holmfield House , sleeps 7

HURST CASTLE

When it comes to educational places to go in the New Forest with the kids, then Hurst Castle in Milford on Sea should definitely be on your list. Perched on the end of Hurst Spit, this dramatic New Forest castle was built in the 1500s by Henry VIII as an artillery fortress to defend the south coast from invasion. It was here that Charles I was kept as a prisoner in 1648.

Managed by English Heritage, there are dungeons, high walls and mysterious staircases to discover, and there are always plenty of family activities at weekends and during the school holidays. Exhibitions around the castle provide you with a chance to piece together its long and fascinating history, and the views over the Solent from the top of the towing turrets are simply breathtaking.

Discover more mighty fortresses with our guide to castles in the New Forest .

• Prices: Adults £5.50, children (5-17) £3.50, students and seniors £5, family tickets £17, English Heritage members and under 5s free
• Opening times: 10.30am-5.30pm seasonally
• Wheelchair and pushchair access to the castle is limited as paths are uneven with loose gravel
• Café on site
• Dogs welcome on leads
• Joyful Cottage , sleeps 4 + 2 dogs
• Southerly , sleeps 6 + 1 dog

Map of attractions in the New Forest

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If you're looking to stay close by and explore these New Forest attractions and the rest of what the national park has to offer, take a look at our full collection of cottages in the New Forest for some inspiration on where to base your next holiday.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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What to do in the New Forest? 20 best places to visit in New Forest!

What makes the New Forest special? Beyond the scenic New Forest walks and picture-perfect villages, it’s home to the iconic beautiful ponies and a myriad of adventures waiting to be discovered.

Nestled in Hampshire, South England , the New Forest has rich roots dating back to its days as a royal hunting ground for William the Conqueror. Today, it has transformed into one of England’s most magical destinations – a playground for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

From quaint villages to sprawling forests and charming small towns, every corner of the New Forest promises something unique. Thinking of a scenic drive near London ? Or perhaps a family day out that everyone will remember? Look no further! The New Forest offers both tranquility and excitement, from hidden gems to popular attractions.

It’s not just a forest; it’s a world of wonder and discovery. As a renowned UK landmark , the New Forest beckons weekend wanderers and those seeking a magical escape.

So, whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, the New Forest is sure to leave you enchanted.

New Forest – car hire

Check out our guide to the  best car hire company in the UK  or simply explore the options directly on  discovercars.com  if you need a car to visit the best places in the New Forest.

What is the New Forest famous for?

What is special about the New Forest? The New Forest is a famous destination for many reasons. It is one of the largest remaining areas of unenclosed heathland, pastureland, and forest in the south of England .

The New Forest is well known for being the hunting forest of William the Conqueror and also is the place where King William II was killed. He was shot by an arrow by Sir Walter Tyrrell in the New Forest in 1100AD. The area is also famous for the native ponies which roam the national park.

Where is the New Forest area?

The New Forest is a national park in Hampshire and can be found between Bournemouth and Southampton, just below Salisbury. This area in the south of England includes many major towns and villages within its land, including Beaulieu, Brockenhurst, Burley, and Lymington .

The New Forest spans down to the south coast of England, across the water from the Isle of Wight. With idyllic glades, open moors, and clifftop walks, it is one of the most popular destinations in England.

What is the most popular area in the New Forest?

The New Forest is a beautiful and popular national park in southern England. While the entire area is known for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, there are a few areas within the New Forest that are particularly popular among visitors. Please note that my knowledge is based on information available until September 2021, and popularity can change over time.

One of the most popular areas in the New Forest is Lyndhurst. It is often considered the “capital” of the New Forest and serves as the administrative center. Lyndhurst offers a range of amenities, including shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making it a convenient base for exploring the park. The town is also known for its picturesque location and historic buildings.

Another popular area within the New Forest is Brockenhurst. It is a charming village situated in the heart of the national park. Brockenhurst offers a peaceful atmosphere and is surrounded by beautiful woodland, heathland, and meadows. The village has a range of amenities and is well-known for its New Forest ponies, which can often be seen grazing in the surrounding areas.

Lymington is another popular destination in the New Forest. Located on the coast, it offers a mix of natural beauty and maritime charm. Lymington has a bustling marina, a variety of shops and restaurants, and serves as a gateway to the Solent and the Isle of Wight.

These are just a few examples of popular areas within the New Forest, but the entire park is worth exploring as it offers numerous trails, wildlife spotting opportunities, and beautiful landscapes.

Where is the best place to see wild horses in the New Forest?

The New Forest is known for its population of free-roaming ponies and horses. While they can be encountered throughout the national park, there are certain areas where the chances of spotting them are higher.

Beaulieu Heath, located near the village of Beaulieu, is a popular spot for observing wild horses in the New Forest. This heathland area is known for its open spaces and grazing opportunities, making it a favored location for the ponies. You can often see them roaming freely and grazing on the heather and grass.

Another recommended area is Bolton’s Bench, located in the village of Lyndhurst. It is a large open space that attracts ponies, and they can often be seen grazing or resting in the area. Bolton’s Bench is easily accessible and offers a great opportunity to observe the horses up close.

Additionally, areas such as Longslade Bottom and Bolderwood are known for their populations of wild horses. These locations offer tranquil surroundings and open spaces, making them favorable for horse sightings.

It’s important to remember that the ponies are wild animals, and it’s advised to observe them from a safe distance and not to feed or approach them. Enjoying their presence in their natural habitat is a wonderful experience that contributes to the unique charm of the New Forest.

How do I spend a day in the New Forest?

The New Forest is a beautiful national park located in Hampshire, England. There are many things to do and see in the New Forest, so here’s a suggested itinerary for a day trip:

Morning : Start your day with a visit to one of the many picturesque villages in the New Forest, such as Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst or Beaulieu. Wander through the quaint streets and browse the local shops, cafes and pubs. You could also visit the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst to learn about the history and ecology of the area.

Afternoon : After lunch, head out into the forest for a walk or bike ride. There are many trails to choose from, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. You can also rent a bike or go horseback riding. Some popular spots include Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, Blackwater Arboretum and the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive.

Evening : As the day draws to a close, head to one of the many traditional country pubs in the New Forest for a pint and a meal. Many of the pubs have a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and some even have outdoor seating with stunning views of the forest. Alternatively, you could head to the coast to watch the sunset over the Solent and enjoy some fresh seafood at one of the many beachside restaurants.

Overall, spending a day in the New Forest is all about enjoying the natural beauty of the area, so make sure to take your time and appreciate the scenery.

How big is the New Forest?

The New Forest covers a huge area of 566 square kilometres or 220 square miles. It became a National Park in 2005 and includes around 15 miles of coast along the south of England.

The 15 miles runs from the most easterly point at Calshot Castle, along to the most southerly point at Hurst Castle. In acres, the New Forest covers 140,000 acres of Hampshire land, with some parts of the park heading into the county of Wiltshire.

Why is the New Forest called the New Forest?

The New Forest got its name from its rich history. The area was created by William the Conqueror as his ‘new hunting forest’, and he promptly named the area ‘Nova Foresta’. Over time this evolved into its English meaning of the New Forest, and eventually became the New Forest National Park.

It was called a forest not because of its woodland or trees, but because it was an area subjected to Forest Law. This means it was reserved for the pursuit of beasts exclusively for the King and his official officers.

How many New Forest ponies are there?

So, how many ponies are in the New Forest? The New Forest has many ponies dotted all across the national park. There are roughly 5,000 ponies in the New Forest area, and they are easy to spot wandering around the heathland.

These ponies enjoy the nutritious food which grows across the open moorland, and you are likely to catch small groups grazing freely in the area. All the ponies in the New Forest are owned by the local people known as Commoners, who have the right to graze their animals on the open land.

How do I get to the New Forest?

The New Forest is located in the south of England, about 90 miles (145 km) southwest of London. Here are some ways to get there:

By car: If you’re driving, the New Forest is easily accessible from the M27 motorway. Take junction 1 for Cadnam or junction 2 for Lyndhurst, and follow the signs for the New Forest.

By train: The nearest train station to the New Forest is Brockenhurst, which is located in the heart of the national park. Trains run regularly from London Waterloo, Bournemouth, Southampton, and other nearby cities. From the station, you can catch a bus or taxi to your destination within the New Forest.

By bus: There are several bus routes that run through the New Forest, connecting the various villages and towns in the area. You can catch a bus from Southampton, Bournemouth, and other nearby cities.

Once you’re in the New Forest, the best way to get around is by car, bike, or on foot. There are many cycle and walking paths throughout the area, and there are plenty of car parks where you can leave your vehicle while you explore.

Where to stay in the New Forest?

Best places to stay in the New Forest? There are plenty of lovely towns and villages to stay in around the New Forest. The National Park has plenty of accommodation that suits all budgets, requirements, and preferences. Popular towns to stay in include Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst, Burley, Beaulieu, Lymington , and more.

There are also lots of countryside places to stay which are far more rural. Wherever you stay in the New Forest, be sure to be a Forest-friendly visitor and keep the park clean and friendly.

Is New Forest good for a day trip or a staycation?

Yes, the New Forest is a great destination for a day trip by car or a UK staycation .

If you are planning a day trip, there are many attractions and activities to enjoy in the New Forest, including hiking, cycling, horse riding, and wildlife watching. There are also many scenic drives that you can take through the New Forest, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views.

If you are planning a staycation , the New Forest has a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You could stay in a traditional country inn, a cozy B&B, a luxury hotel, or even a camping or glamping site. There are also many family-friendly attractions and activities to enjoy, such as the New Forest Wildlife Park, Paultons Park, and the Beaulieu Motor Museum.

Overall, whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer stay, the New Forest offers a wonderful mix of natural beauty, history, and culture, and is definitely worth considering as a destination in the south of England .

Things to do in the New Forest:

1. new forest ponies.

Top things to do New Forest? One of the best things to see in the New Forest National Park is the ponies that roam freely around the land. With 5,000 across the area, you are likely to stumble across some whether you are looking for them or not, but if you are keen to see them, head to Beachern Wood near the town of Brockenhurst.

Never touch or feed these ponies as they are wild animals and can be dangerous, but feel free to watch them from a distance. The foals are particularly lovely to see and are best to visit in spring.

2. Beaulieu

Best New Forest villages? The quaint village of Beaulieu dates back to the 13 th century and is situated at the top of the Beaulieu River. The Abbey in the village was founded back in 1204 by Cistercian monks who were given the land by King John.

Today, the village has a charming high street to explore, as well as stunning riverside spots and an impressive motor museum. Beaulieu is great for a day out or as a comfortable base for exploring the rest of the New Forest National Park.

3. Lymington

Best places in New Forest? On the coast of the New Forest National Park is the Georgian market town of Lymington . It sits between Bournemouth and Southampton and is famous for its sailing past. In Lymington , you will find two large marinas filled with yachts and fishing boats.

Along the pretty, winding streets are period cottages and beautiful old buildings which make up the town’s many pubs and restaurants. On a visit to Lymington High Street, you will come across many independent boutiques and designer shops, and there is a local market held each weekend.

4. Lyndhurst

Places to go in the New Forest? Lyndhurst is a delightful village in the New Forest and is often considered the capital of the national park. The main attraction is the Royal Manor which many Kings and Queens have visited over the years after being declared the royal hunting ground of William the Conqueror in 1079.

Today, the village is still the administrative centre of the New Forest. At the top of the high street is an incredible gothic church that was built in the mid-nineteenth century.

5. Brockenhurst village

Best places to visit in the New Forest? Brockenhurst village has been hailed as ‘Britain’s most beautiful place to live’, and it is clear to see why. It is very common to see deer, donkeys, ponies, and cows roaming the main streets of the village, and there are stunning sweeping views in all directions.

There are various spots around Brockenhurst Village that are well worth a visit, including a lovely swimming spot on the Lymington River and the Watersplash Ford. By population, Brockenhurst is the largest village in the New Forest.

6. Minstead

New Forest places to visit? In the heart of the New Forest is the small village of Minstead, nearby the popular village of Lyndhurst. Minstead features many small country roads, which are a firm favourite among the local free-roaming ponies and donkeys in the area.

This village has a rich history and was mentioned in the Domesday Book as Mintestede, or mint place, because it was an area where mint grew in the wild. Minstead is also famed as being the burial place of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes.

7. Lepe beach

Where to go in the New Forest Hampshire? Lepe Beach is located within the Lepe Country Park, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Hampshire. It offers stunning views across to the Isle of Wight and beautiful coastal walks with cliffs lined by pretty pine trees.

On a day at Lepe Beach, you will see D-Day remains and can enjoy a stroll in the wildflower meadows. The beach itself is made up of sand and shingle, and various activities are available such as swimming, windsurfing, and kayaking.

8. Ringwood

Best things to do in the New Forest? Ringwood has been the main market town in the New Forest for centuries. It stands on the west side of the New Forest National Park, at a point where the River Avon crosses.

With a strong history as a market town, Ringwood still holds a lively market every Wednesday morning. In addition to this, the town has a mix of modern and boutique shops, street entertainers, and various pubs and cafes to visit.

New Forest best places to visit? The village has several local amenities including shops and pubs as well as a community centre that hosts regular events. A large portion of the land is owned by the National Trust, which has maintained its nature conservation values by limiting development on this land.

Burley is made famous by its history of witchcraft. Just go and explore the village centre yourself – you will see a variety of shops that make reference to this to this day.

10. Hurst Castle

Whats on New Forest? The beautiful Hurst Castle stands on a remote and exposed spot between the Isle of Wight and the mainland of the New Forest. It is a stunning escape by the sea and certainly worth a visit when in the New Forest National Park.

Hurst Castle was built by Henry VIII and was once one of the most advanced fortresses in the country. Visitors can enjoy unbeatable panoramic views from the castle while also learning about the colourful history.

11. Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

Must see in the New Forest wildlife park? In the heart of the New Forest National Park, along the Ornamental Drive, is Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary. It is known as the best place to observe the deer in the New Forest, and there is a dedicated viewing platform overlooking a large, pretty meadow.

Car parking is free, and the viewing platform is just a short walk from here. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of the park and discover some of the wildlife which calls it home.

12. Buckler’s Hard

Must-visit places in New Forest? Buckler’s Hard was once a busy shipbuilding village, and today it is a very popular beauty spot. It brings stunning scenery and rich history together for a lovely day out in the New Forest countryside. Buckler’s Hard is where Nelson’s Navy ships were built, and there is a Maritime Museum that shares the interesting story of the village over the years.

In some months, you can enjoy a cruise along the Beaulieu River, which provides a close-up view of some of the wildlife on the river banks.

13. Tall Trees Trail

Unusual things to do in the New Forest? Near Brockenhurst is the Tall Trees Trail in the New Forest National Park. The short trail runs around the Forestry Commission’s Blackwater Arboretum and gives explorers the chance to see one of the most important tree collections in the world. You can learn about the tallest, heaviest, and toughest trees on the planet from the various information boards along the trail.

During your trip, you will walk past some majestic conifers which were planted back in the 1850s, making them some of the oldest Douglas fir trees in the country. You can also see views of two enormous Redwoods on this trail.

14. Lymington Sea Water Swimming Baths

Best places in the New Forest? Lymington Sea Water Swimming Baths is an open-air natural sea water swimming pool located on the seafront of Lymington, Hampshire. The baths are free to enter, although there is a charge for changing rooms and lockers and towels can be hired at reception.

Sea water swimming baths have been a feature of the Lymington seafront for centuries. The first recorded sea bathing house was built in 1730 and was located where the Marine Pavilion stands today.

Today there are two sea water swimming baths – one for adults and one for children – both with stunning views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight.

15. Exbury Gardens

Where to go in New Forest? Exbury Gardens is over 100 years old and can be found in Exbury in the New Forest. It is home to a spectacular selection of contemporary and formal gardens, landscaped woodlands, and riverside views. On a visit to Exbury Gardens, you can set off on the narrow-gauge steam train which travels through the gardens and surrounding areas – a fantastic way to enjoy your surroundings.

These gardens cover 200 acres of land, and they look beautiful all year round, although the best time to visit is spring, when most of the flowers are in bloom.

16. Moors Valley Country Park

New Forest things to do? Moors Valley Country Park is a perfect place to visit for those who love the great outdoors. Located in Ringwood in Dorset , this park offers something for everyone to enjoy. There are more than 1000 acres of parkland and forest to explore.

The Play Trail is ideal for children of all ages, and includes wooden play sculptures, an exciting crocodiles crossing, and a life-size Gruffalo sculpture. There is also a Go Ape Tree Top Challenge for the thrill-seekers of the family.

17. New Forest walks

Best New Forest walks? If walking and hiking is a top pastime of yours, then the New Forest will not disappoint. There are so many walking routes and trails throughout the New Forest National Park, and it is the best way to explore the beautiful heathland, ancient woodland, and quaint villages.

Across the New Forest, you will find over 140 miles of footpath and tracks, so you can find a route suitable for any age or ability.

18. Calshot Beach

Things to do in New Forest this weekend? This unique beach sits on a mile-long shingle spit that heads out into the mouth of Southampton Water. Calshot beach offers great views of the ships arriving and leaving one of the largest ports in the UK.

Not only that, but you can enjoy panoramic views of Southampton, Isle of Wight, and the Solent. Calshot beach is also home to one of the UK’s largest outdoor and water sports centres, so you can try your hand at kitesurfing, windsurfing, climbing, or sailing.

19. Fordingbridge

Best places to visit New Forest England? Fordingbridge is a small riverside town that is known as the gateway to the New Forest National Park. It is situated on the banks of the River Avon, and was mentioned in the Domesday Book as ‘Forde’. One of the best things to see in the town is the medieval bridge, which you will find upstream of the ford. It has seven wonderful arches spanning over the river.

Fordingbridge is famed for its smuggling history, and the infamous ‘Smuggler King’, Captain Diamond spent a lot of time in the town.

20. Paultons Park Home of Peppa Pig World

Best place in New Forest to visit with kids? Paultons Park is a family park located in the New Forest, Hampshire. It is home to Peppa Pig World, an indoor and outdoor amusement area based on the popular children’s TV series Peppa Pig.

A popular attraction for families with young children, Paultons Park has over 60 rides and attractions including two roller coasters, a world-class zoo and an adventure playground set within 800 acres of beautiful countryside.

The New Forest history

The New Forest is a historic and picturesque national park located in Hampshire, England. Its history dates back over 900 years and is closely tied to the country’s monarchy.

In 1079, William the Conqueror declared the area as a royal hunting ground, which he called “Nova Foresta,” meaning “new forest” in Latin. William wanted to create a hunting preserve for himself and his nobles, and the New Forest was an ideal location due to its dense forests, open heaths, and abundance of wildlife.

Over the years, the New Forest became a popular destination for the royal family, who would stay in hunting lodges and go on hunting expeditions. However, the forest was also home to local communities, who were granted “commoner’s rights” to graze their animals and collect firewood.

In the 18th century, the New Forest became an important center for the timber industry, with oak trees being used to build ships for the Royal Navy. The forest also played a role in World War II, as it was used for military training exercises and as a landing site for gliders during the D-Day invasion.

Today, the New Forest is a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and historic sites. It remains a working forest, with many locals still exercising their commoner’s rights, but it is also protected by national park status to preserve its natural beauty and heritage for future generations.

What attracts visitors to the New Forest?

The New Forest is a popular tourist destination in the south of England, known for its natural beauty, history, and diverse wildlife. Here are some of the key attractions that draw visitors to the area:

• Scenic Beauty: The New Forest is known for its beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills, ancient forests, and heathland. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, walking trails, and bike rides through the countryside.
• Wildlife: The New Forest is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, ponies, wild boar, and rare bird species. Visitors can go on wildlife safaris or take part in guided tours to learn more about the local fauna.
• Outdoor Activities: The New Forest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, watersports, and fishing. There are also plenty of parks and gardens to explore, as well as beaches and seaside towns.
• History and Culture: The New Forest has a rich history dating back over 900 years, including its origins as a royal hunting ground and its role in the timber industry. Visitors can explore historic landmarks, museums, and galleries, as well as attend cultural events and festivals.
• Food and Drink: The New Forest is home to a thriving food and drink scene, with many local producers offering artisanal products, including cheese, beer, and wine. There are also many restaurants, pubs, and cafes serving up traditional and modern British cuisine.

The New Forest is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty, history, and culture of the English countryside.

What famous film was filmed in the New Forest?

The New Forest has been the location for many films and TV shows over the years, but one of the most famous movies to be filmed in the area is “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” (1991), starring Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, and Alan Rickman. The movie was partly filmed in the village of Beaulieu, which was transformed into medieval Nottingham for the production. Many of the film’s outdoor scenes were also shot in the New Forest, including Sherwood Forest and the Battle of the Trees sequence. The movie was a huge box office success and helped to boost tourism in the New Forest.

The New Forest tourist information

The New Forest is a popular tourist destination in the south of England, known for its natural beauty, history, and diverse wildlife. Here is some tourist information to help you plan your visit:

Visitor Information Centers: There are several visitor information centers throughout the New Forest, where you can get maps, guides, and advice on where to go and what to see. Some of the most popular centers include:

• Lyndhurst Visitor Information Center: Located in the heart of the New Forest, this center has a wide range of information on local attractions, events, and activities.
• Beaulieu Visitor Information Center: This center is located in the village of Beaulieu, home to the famous Beaulieu National Motor Museum and Palace House.
• Lymington Visitor Information Center: Located on the coast, this center has information on the many beaches, marinas, and sailing opportunities in the area.

Attractions: There are many attractions to see and explore in the New Forest, from historic landmarks to outdoor activities. Some of the most popular include:

• Beaulieu National Motor Museum: Home to over 250 classic cars and motorcycles, this museum is a must-see for any motoring enthusiast.
• Buckler’s Hard: This historic shipbuilding village was once a key location for building ships for the Royal Navy, and now features a maritime museum and riverside walks.
• New Forest Wildlife Park: This park is home to a wide range of native and exotic animals, including wolves, otters, and bison.

Outdoor Activities: The New Forest is a great place to get outside and enjoy nature. Some of the most popular outdoor activities include:

• Hiking and Biking: There are many trails and paths throughout the forest, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes and bike rides.
• Horse Riding: The New Forest has a long history of horse riding, and there are many stables and riding schools where you can explore the forest on horseback.
• Watersports: With its proximity to the coast, the New Forest is a great place to try your hand at sailing, windsurfing, or kayaking.

Accommodation: There are many accommodation options in the New Forest, ranging from campsites to luxury hotels. Some of the most popular include:

• Camping and Caravanning: There are many campsites throughout the forest, offering everything from basic facilities to luxury glamping.
• Bed and Breakfasts: There are many cozy B&Bs in the local villages, offering a chance to stay with local families and experience the traditional New Forest hospitality.
• Hotels: There are many hotels throughout the forest, ranging from boutique hotels to luxury resorts.

Overall, the New Forest has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, wildlife, or outdoor activities.

What to do in the New Forest in the rain?

While the New Forest is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities, the weather in the UK can sometimes be rainy, which can put a damper on outdoor plans. However, there are still plenty of things to do in the New Forest when it rains. Here are a few suggestions:

• Visit Indoor Attractions: There are many indoor attractions in the New Forest, including museums, art galleries, and historic houses. Some of the most popular indoor attractions include the Beaulieu National Motor Museum, the New Forest Centre in Lyndhurst, and the Palace House in Beaulieu.
• Go Shopping: There are many charming towns and villages in the New Forest that offer a range of shops and boutiques. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, antiques, or handmade crafts, there are plenty of places to explore.
• Take a Drive: If the rain isn’t too heavy, consider taking a scenic drive through the New Forest. The countryside can look particularly beautiful in the rain, with misty landscapes and moody skies. Just be sure to drive safely and watch out for flooded roads.
• Enjoy Indoor Activities: If you’re looking for some indoor activities, there are plenty of options available in the New Forest. You can go to the cinema, visit a local pub, or book a spa treatment. Many hotels and resorts also offer indoor activities such as swimming pools, games rooms, and fitness centers.
• Attend a Festival or Event: The New Forest hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, even in the rain. Check the local events calendar to see what’s on during your visit. Many events, such as food and drink festivals, music concerts, and craft fairs, take place indoors or under cover.

There are plenty of things to do in the New Forest when it rains, so don’t let the weather spoil your plans. Just be sure to pack appropriate clothing and footwear for wet weather, and keep an eye on the weather forecast to plan accordingly.

Best places near the New Forest to visit

The New Forest is a beautiful part of England with many wonderful things to see and do. If you’re looking to explore the area beyond the boundaries of the New Forest, here are ten nearby places that are worth a visit:

• Salisbury: The city of Salisbury is about 25 miles north of the New Forest and is known for its stunning medieval cathedral, picturesque streets, and bustling market square.
• Winchester: Winchester, about 20 miles north of the New Forest, is a historic city with a rich heritage dating back to Roman times. Its cathedral, Great Hall, and the medieval streets of the city center are all popular attractions.
• Beaulieu: The village of Beaulieu is located within the New Forest, and is home to several popular attractions including the National Motor Museum, the Beaulieu Abbey, and the picturesque Beaulieu River.
• Isle of Wight: The Isle of Wight is a beautiful island just off the south coast of England. It’s a great place to go for a day trip or a longer stay, with stunning scenery, beautiful beaches, and charming seaside towns.
• Bournemouth: The seaside resort town of Bournemouth is only a short drive from the New Forest and offers a wide range of attractions including beaches, parks, and gardens.
• Lymington: The pretty coastal town of Lymington is located on the southern edge of the New Forest, and is known for its Georgian architecture, picturesque harbor, and lovely beaches.
• Christchurch: Christchurch is a historic market town located just outside the eastern boundary of the New Forest. It’s home to a magnificent priory, a stunning harbor, and some lovely beaches.
• Poole: Poole is a bustling coastal town with a rich maritime heritage. Visitors can enjoy a range of attractions including the Poole Harbour, the famous Sandbanks Beach, and the Poole Museum.
• Dorchester: Dorchester is a historic market town that is known for its connection to Thomas Hardy, the famous novelist. Visitors can explore the many landmarks and museums dedicated to his life and work.
• Stonehenge: The ancient monument of Stonehenge is located about 25 miles north of the New Forest, and is one of the most famous landmarks in England. It’s a great place to visit for a day trip to explore the mysterious history of the site.

All of these places are easily accessible from the New Forest, and offer a range of experiences and attractions to suit all tastes.

Is New Forest worth visiting?

The New Forest is certainly worth visiting if stunning scenery, nature, and wildlife are up your street. There is so much to see and do in this National Park, and it is a great weekend destination for families , couples, or individuals.

From relaxing breaks to active holidays, the New Forest offers it all. The diverse area boasts woodlands , heathland, coastline and roaming wildlife, a combination that can’t be found anywhere else in the country.

New Forest England FAQ:

Great news! Entry to the Forest National Park is free so you can explore this amazing park without paying a penny.

There are many dedicated parking spaces around the New Forest. In fact, there are over 100 free car parks in the New Forest so you not only have free entry to the part but also will not pay for the parking!

Yes, Forestry England do not prohibit parking on the verges in the New Forest. Please don’t break the rules! There are enough dedicated parking spaces around the park so there is no need to park your car on the verges!

The population of New Forest National Park is around 34,000. Only three towns within the National Park have over 3,000 people. The largest is Brockenhurst with 3,400 people followed by Sway & Lyndhurst.

Whether you’re seeking the best spots in the New Forest for a tranquil retreat or searching for vibrant New Forest attractions for the whole family, this location truly shines. It’s not just about the places, but the experiences. Immerse in its history, explore magical places, or embark on unusual things to do – there’s something for everyone.

As one of the top places to visit in South England , the New Forest guarantees memorable days out, be it through scenic drives, captivating walks, or village explorations. Don’t just ask “what to see in the New Forest?” – experience it for yourself and uncover why it’s regarded as one of England’s finest treasures.

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Further reading

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Top Things to Do in New Forest National Park Hampshire - New Forest National Park Hampshire Must-See Attractions

Things to do in new forest national park hampshire, explore popular experiences, popular cities in new forest national park hampshire.

Tours in and around New Forest National Park Hampshire

2.5 Hours SightSeeing Tour in Beaulieu River

Luxury Sailing Experience Day with Champagne and Lunch or Dinner

Retro E-Bike Hire Experience exploring the New Forest coastline

New Forest Day Out Private Tour from Southampton

Private 4x4 Safari - Lulworth, New Forest & Corfe - Southampton

Guided Walking Tour of New Forest National Park in Hampshire

New Forest Sunset Bike Rides

Southampton Cruise Terminal to London with Stopover at Beaulieu Motor Museum

Small-group New Forest Discovery Walk from Lyndhurst

Southampton: Post-Cruise Tour to London via Salisbury, Stonehenge and Windsor

Top attractions in new forest national park hampshire.

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Let’s explore the New Forest

New Forest travel guide

One of my personal favourite regions in the UK, I return to the New Forest time and time again to explore more of its hidden corners and reconnect with nature.

I love that you can find a little nook of luxury within this gem of rural England, with unforgettable fine dining and exceptional hospitality. But I find it’s also the place to enjoy a slower pace of life, surrounding by the forest and the iconic New Forest wildlife.

About the author

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Whether you’re looking for wildlife and gorgeous scenery, or action and adventure, the New Forest is the perfect travel destination for families, couples, groups, and solo travellers alike. You’ll never be short of things to see and do, and you’ll be treated to some mouth-watering cuisine along the way.

If you’re all about nature, the New Forest National Park shows you how diverse the land is and showcases the wonderful wildlife in the area. For the motor-mad, Beaulieu is the place to be, with the National Motor Museum displaying 285 vehicles for your viewing. For those who enjoy getting active, the New Forest offers various sports and activities both on and off the land.

Those who prefer to relax and indulge in the finer things in life (I’m with you!) will also find what they’re looking for in the New Forest. Discover a number of award-winning spas, luxury hotels and memorable restaurants in this pretty part of the UK.

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How to get to the New Forest

The New Forest is very accessible from anywhere in the South of England. It also has great connections to the rest of the country, whether by road or rail. International visitors have the choice of several nearby airports.

• If you’re travelling to the New Forest from anywhere in southern England, you’ll easily be able to get there by car. Situated just south of Salisbury, the New Forest is a short drive along the A338 from the cathedral city.
• There are four train stations in the New Forest District, meaning travellers from all over the UK can easily reach the New Forest. These stations are: Ashurst New Forest, Brockenhurst, Beaulieu Road, and New Milton.
• If you’re travelling from abroad, the nearest international airports to the New Forest are Bournemouth International Airport (BOH), and Southampton Airport (SOU). These are just a short distance from the New Forest, meaning you can land and start exploring near enough straight away! Alternatively, the New Forest is an hour and a half drive from London Gatwick for those flying into London.

How to get around the New Forest

There are several ways you can choose to get around the New Forest, depending on what you’re hoping to do and how much time you have!

If you’re able to, I’d really recommend driving as this gives you the freedom to explore at your leisure. You’ll be able to drive to all the attractions you’d like to see, park up, and get going on your adventures easily. 

If travelling by car is off the cards, you could make use of the train stations in the New Forest to get around, or use public transport like buses. While you can walk around specific attractions like the New Forest National Park, the New Forest District spans a large area so this isn’t practical to get from place to place.

Alternatively, you can get around many places by bike, which I think is a great way of soaking up the scenery.

Best time to visit the New Forest

Any time spent in the New Forest is time well spent, but you’ll have a different experience depending on the time of year you choose to travel in. The unreliable British weather can sometimes catch you out, but you won’t mind all that much when you’re surrounded by the beauty in the New Forest.

New Forest highlights

New forest national park.

The New Forest National Park is an absolute must see for anyone travelling to the New Forest. It gained its National Park status in 2005 to help protect the beautiful landscape so that people can continue to enjoy it for generations to come. With unmatched natural beauty to spare, this place will be a stand-out in your trip to the New Forest. If you look closely enough, you might be lucky enough to spot some of the special species of butterfly that reside in the New Forest National Park.

There’s pretty much every type of nature for you to enjoy in the New Forest National Park. 26 miles of coastline meets farmland, heathland, and stunning ancient trees. The National Park is home to thousands of freely roaming animals, so always stay alert! From cattle and sheep to donkeys and ponies, it’s magical to see these animals going about their lives without a care in the world.

Discover more of my favourite  things to do in the New Forest .

The Georgian market port town of Lymington is set on the coast in the New Forest, between Bournemouth and Southampton – and it’s one of my favourite towns in the New Forest . The town is famous for its sailing history, and is proud of this with two large marinas and two sailing clubs.

The cobbled streets of Lymington are filled with pretty cottages, quirky cafés, and friendly locals. Lymington is home to the oldest open sea water baths in the UK, so why not give it a try if you’re feeling brave enough to brace the cold? Personally, I’d stick to trying out the baths in summertime when it’s warmer weather! 

Facing Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, Lymington offers a car ferry service operated by Wightlink. This gives visitors the chance to explore the Isle of Wight as well as the New Forest. There’s some wonderful walks you can do in Lymington, offering beautiful views of the Isle of Wight and also the Needles. Discover hotels in Lymington . 

Beaulieu is a small village that lies in the eastern part of the New Forest, just outside of the New Forest National Park. While it may be a small village, you won’t be short of fun and exciting things to do in Beaulieu! I’d recommend riding the monorail for a birds eye view of all Beaulieu has to offer.

From the National Motor Museum and a Secret Army Exhibition, to Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House, there’s something for everyone in Beaulieu. See a replica of F1 legend Michael Schumacher’s 1996 Formula One car with Ferrari, in which he achieved three race wins, and a total of eight podiums at the world-famous National Motor Museum.

Even if you aren’t a fan of the Grand Prix, you’ll be able to see the latest exhibitions. This includes Bond in Motion – No Time To Die , featuring costumes, cars, and gadgets from the latest 007 film. Find hotels in Beaulieu .

Where is the best place to stay in the New Forest?

There are a number of gorgeous towns in the New Forest , all of which would make a wonderful base for exploring the area. Brockenhurst is a popular place to stay in the New Forest, with a number of luxury hotels  to choose from. While Lyndhurst, Lyminton and Beaulieu also provide great bases in the New Forest.

Is the New Forest a dog-friendly place?

Yes, the New Forest is the perfect  UK destination  for you and your furry friend(s). With acres of countryside to explore, you’ll be spoilt for choice with dog walks. Just be wary of areas in which you may need to keep your dog on a lead, due to all the free roaming animals. The New Forest is also home to plenty of dog-friendly pubs, where you can both enjoy a well-deserved drink.

Is the New Forest a good destination for solo travellers?

The New Forest is a wonderful place for solo travellers to explore. Take the opportunity to move at a slower pace, soaking up nature without rushing through an itinerary. It would also make an ideal destination for a digital detox – just you, nature, and perhaps a good book.

How long does it take to get to the New Forest from London?

It takes around two hours to drive from central London to the New Forest. It could take less time, or it could take longer, depending on traffic and where in  London  you are travelling from. If travelling by train, it takes around 90 minutes from London Waterloo.

How many Michelin star restaurants in the New Forest?

There are currently no Michelin star restaurants in the New Forest. However, there are a number of restaurants recommended by the Michelin guide. Discover my guide to the  best restaurants in the New Forest . 

When is the lavender season in the New Forest?

The lavender season in the UK runs from mid-June to mid-August. The New Forest Lavender Farm tends to open from early July, but I’d advise checking before you visit.

Are there Christmas markets in the New Forest?

There are a handful of Christmas markets in and around the New Forest. Christmas markets within the New Forest include the Family Christmas Fair at Exbury Gardens and Victorian Christmas at Beaulieu. Nearby Christmas Markets also take place at Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth.

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Luxury accommodation picks

From coastal stays to luxurious spas, the New Forest offers a number of exceptional hotels. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back vibe, a foodie’s haven, or a high-end spa, here are the best luxury hotels in the New Forest

Lime Wood Hotel

The pig hotel, chewton glen, burley manor, new forest restaurants.

There are a number of exceptional restaurants in the New Forest . Characterised by their use of fresh, local ingredients and gorgeous settings, a visit to the New Forest would not be complete without a delicious meal.

The Pig, Brockenhurst

The terrace, beaulieu, hartnett holder & co, lyndhurst, elderflower, lymington, new forest walks.

Walks don’t come more scenic than in the New Forest. Hike through beautiful landscapes and woodlands, spotting the local wildlife and listening to nature. Here are some of the best walks in the New Forest:

Beaulieu Food Trail

New forest travel inspiration.

Planning a trip to the New Forest? Have a read of these New Forest travel articles to help you plan your visit.

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The New Forest is a place I keep returning to time and time again, as I can’t get enough of its beautiful scenery and quaint villages. There are so many New Forest towns and villages

11 best restaurants in the New Forest for an unforgettable meal

The New Forest is one of my favourite places to visit in the UK and it offers some of the finest dining in Hampshire. Although there are currently no Michelin star restaurants in the New

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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Beautiful (and less crowded) alternatives to the 10 most popular US national parks

National parks are popular for a reason but with visitation numbers growing each year, some travelers might be looking toward similar experiences with less of the hassle that comes with visiting a top 10 national park. 

I’m Ashley, and I’ve been covering travel and the outdoor space for nearly a decade. Every year, the National Park Service releases annual visitation numbers from the previous year, and as a travel expert and journalist, I think it’s a helpful tool to use when researching national park travel. 

The most visited national parks generally remain the same year to year with some variance due to weather and other events. In 2023, two parks rose to top 10 status, Grand Teton and Olympic, which were further down in visitation in 2022. 

GORGEOUS ALL YEAR: The best national parks for every season 

To help recommend some alternative destinations to the most visited national parks, I talked to Erin Ruane from RV Trader to get her takes on locations that give you the same feel and opportunity for similar activities. 

Instead of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit…

With nearly 13.3 million visitors last year, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP for short) saw 14% of all national parks visits. There’s so much to see in the surrounding areas that you can get a similar feel and activity offerings just outside the park. 

PARKITECTURE: Check out these iconic national park lodges

To avoid the crowds and parking fees of GSMNP, Ruane recommends visiting Cherokee, North Carolina, which is home to the park’s quieter entrance, Oconaluftee: “Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, one of three recognized Cherokee tribes in the U.S. While it’s a sovereign nation, visitors are invited to experience the area’s culture through arts and crafts shopping, native elk viewing, and historic attractions.”

More options: 

• Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
• Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina 
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Instead of Grand Canyon National Park, visit…

I love the Grand Canyon for families , but there’s no getting around its crowds at popular times of year given that the park attracts 4.7 million annual visitors.

MAKE MEMORIES: Great family vacations for single and solo parents

Ruane recommends another large canyon in Arizona, Sycamore, which is the state’s inaugural designated wilderness area. Ruane loves the canyon's “vibrant cliffs, towering pinnacles, and desert riparian zones, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and various other creatures. Encompassed by the Prescott, Kaibab, and Coconino National Forests, key attractions within the wilderness include Sycamore Falls and the Paradise Forks climbing crag.”

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado 
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Instead of Zion National Park, visit…

Zion can be a fickle national park to visit between crowds and weather, you really have to time your visit right to have a go at popular hikes like Angels Landing and the Narrows. 

INSPO AHEAD: 50 amazing family vacation ideas from experts

Instead of competing with the parks annual 4.6 million visitors, consider activities in the surrounding Greater Zion area, like the Belly of the Dragon hike (bring a flashlight or headlamp), Red Hollow Slot Canyon, and Kanab Sand Caves: “These experiences not only involve a moderate hike but also provide opportunities to enhance your agility. The blend of natural wonders and man-made formations within these sites offers breathtaking views of canyons, creating a genuine sense of adventure as you navigate through captivating caverns,” says Ruane.

• Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• Snow Canyon State Park, Utah
• Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Instead of Yellowstone National Park, visit…

Yellowstone’s geothermal features and wildlife make it one of the most popular parks in the U.S. with nearly 4.5 million annual visitors. 

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But the park’s surrounding area offers other similar activities, like in West Yellowstone: “West Yellowstone is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, boasting ATV, UTV and snowmobile trails, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting. The southern Montana town also has year-round family friendly events and restaurants serving up regional specialities,” recommends Ruane.

More options:

• Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota 

Instead of Rocky Mountain National Park, visit…

With 4.1 million annual visitors and timed entry passes required during peak season, Rocky Mountain National Park has plenty of alternatives that offer similar activities and geography with more flexibility in planning. 

SLEEP WELL: Best hotel booking sites, reviewed

Ruane recommends the nearby, 1.5-million-acre Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests: “Renowned for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, the forest offers numerous trails and campsites. Visitors can explore the Indian Peaks Wilderness, enjoy scenic drives along the Cache la Poudre River, and witness diverse wildlife.”

• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
• Pinnacles National Park, California

Instead of Yosemite National Park, visit…

California’s crown jewel of a national park attracts nearly 3.9 million visitors every year and requires seasonal entrance passes that need to be reserved in advance. 

CLOSE TO THE PARK: Best hotels near Yosemite National Park

A little over 2 hours south, you’ll find Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks that offer similar landscapes and activities to Yosemite: “Sequoia, situated in California's Sierra Nevada, is renowned for its towering sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on Earth … Kings Canyon, adjacent to Sequoia, is characterized by the impressive Kings Canyon, one of the deepest in North America. The park offers a mix of rugged terrain, waterfalls, and scenic canyons. Notable attractions include Zumwalt Meadows, Roaring River Falls, and the majestic Kings Canyon Scenic Byway,” says Ruane.

Instead of Acadia National Park, visit…

As the only national park in the Northeast, Maine’s Acadia National Park attracts nearly 3.9 million visitors each year.

While it’s the getaway to the national park, Bar Harbor offers plenty to do without needing to enter Acadia: “The town boasts an array of quaint shops and diverse restaurants, providing a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and exploration. The waterfront views are especially captivating, providing a backdrop of rugged coastline and serene harbors. Bar Harbor's welcoming atmosphere and proximity to Acadia make it an ideal base for those seeking a balance between outdoor adventures and charming coastal experiences,” says Ruane.

• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont
• Voyageurs National Park National Park, Minnesota
• White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire 

Instead of Grand Teton National Park, visit…

Wyoming’s Grand Teton saw 3.4 million annual visitors, adding it to the top 10 list of most visited parks this year.

Instead, Ruane recommends visiting the nearby Snake River, located in the Jackson Hole valley: “A scenic float trip allows for a leisurely drift along the river, providing breathtaking views of the Teton Range and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Alternatively, adrenaline seekers can embark on thrilling whitewater rafting adventures, navigating the river's rapids for an exciting and immersive experience.”

• Curt Gowdy State Park, Wyoming
• Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Colorado and Wyoming
• Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

Instead of Joshua Tree National Park, visit…

Southern California’s Joshua Tree is a popular location for weekend trips from Los Angeles and shoulder season travel seeing about 3.3 million visitors each year.

To the southeast you’ll find the state’s largest lake, the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, where there's "birdwatching, fishing, and exploration of the lake's distinct desert landscapes. The area's diverse ecosystem attracts a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers,” says Ruane.

• Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Channel Islands National Park, California
• Mojave National Preserve, California

Instead of Olympic National Park, visit…

The Washington park went from the 14th most visited park in 2022 to the 10th in 2023, seeing nearly 2.9 million annual visitors.

Enjoy similar landscapes nearby at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, near Port Angeles: “Visit the Dungeness Spit, a unique sand spit that extends into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It's a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery,” recommends Ruane.

• North Cascades National Park, Washington 
• Redwood National and State Parks, California
• Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest, California and Oregon

Beautiful and less crowded alternatives to the 10 most popular U.S. national parks originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 11 tourist attractions that live up to the hype
• The most incredible national park campgrounds
• How to make the most of a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

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New Forest Visitor Information

When you are new to an area it can sometimes be hard to know where to start. Let us help you plan your visit to the New Forest by providing helpful information to help you make the most out of your trip, whether you are here for just the day or a longer break.

Visitor Information Points

When visiting the New Forest there are numerous Visitor Information Panels around the area, along with various Local Information Points which can provide really useful information to help you enjoy your time and make the most out of being in our National Park. The local information points can be found at various stores, shops and activity centres across the forest. Whether you are looking for the perfect hotel to stay in or to find out what's on locally, they can offer you advice as well as ideas of places for you to visit for days out.

Plan your visit in advance

From a map of the New Forest, through to brochures and guides , let us help you plan your trip in advance.

We can also provide you with some useful Accessibility pointers about the New Forest to ensure your time here is made as easy as possible.

In this section of the website we will share with you the easiest ways to travel to the New Forest , details of how to travel around the New Forest once you’re here, including how to get from A to B and the best ways to travel around by public transport .

If you are travelling to the area by car, not only will our maps help you to plan your visit but we have lots of information on car parking in our rural and towns & village car parks across the National Park.

Save money off your New Forest days out or holiday

The Go New Forest Card with nearly 400 special offers saving you money at attractions, activities, places to eat, shops and accommodation around the forest. Read more about this scheme and help save pounds off your visit. All of the discounts and offers are available to you for the small payment of £10.

Caring for the Forest

Before visiting, please ensure that you take a look at the New Forest Code , which helps everyone do their bit to look after our unique and special wildlife and nature. The New Forest Code especially highlights the regards to animal safety , parking, dogs and fires and BBQs. Please make sure that you keep to the speed limits at all times and slow down for any wildlife that may be in or near the road.

We also ask if you could please look out for the animal’s safety whilst you’re here. Including keeping your distance not touching, petting or feeding the ponies!

We have to mention these things as they are all put in place to help preserve and protect the National Park and the special flora and fauna which come to thrive here for future generations.

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Moscow’s Top 13 – The Main Attractions of the Russian capital

13 Moscow Attractions

One of the most fascinating metropolis, breathtaking city, and a vibrant European capital, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world famous sites and attractions that are worth exploring. However, it would take weeks to really explore all facets of the Russian capital – unfortunately hardly any traveler has that much time, which is why you should concentrate on the absolute Moscow top attractions and highlights. Here is the list of top 13 Moscow attractions you can choose on your next Russian travel journey.

What Times Square means to New York, Pariser Platz with the Brandenburg Gate to Berlin, or Trafalgar Square to London – Red Square means to Moscow. The heart of Russia’s capital it is the central meeting point and the most famous photo opportunity. No place stands for Russia and Moscow more than “krasnaja ploshchad”, as Red Square is called in Russian.

It is arguably one of the Moscow main attractions and most visited. With the gigantic military parade on Victory Day in World War II, which takes place every year on May 9, the pictures of the square go around the world year after year. But for the rest of the year you will mainly meet local and foreign tourists here, who take peaceful pictures and soak up the unique spirit. The square looks spectacular illuminated at night, but you should visit the square at least once in daylight as well.

If you stand in the middle of the huge cobblestone square, in the clockwise direction you can see the Kremlin and the Kremlin Wall with a total of 20 individually designed towers, Lenin’s Mausoleum, Historical Museum built with red bricks, the little Kazan Cathedral, the impressive luxury department store GUM, the imposing St. Basil’s Cathedral and, the bridge over the Moskva River. This unique ensemble offers more sightseeing highlights at one stroke than any other tourist attractions in Moscow or the world.

So it’s no wonder that Red Square is UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the most popular photo opportunities worldwide. When visiting Moscow, there is no reason not to visit to Red Square and a selfie is practically also a must – getting there is easy even for Russia newcomers. Although Red Square does not have its own metro station, it is still child’s play to find the way there – especially since the Square is the absolute geographical center of the city.

There are four metro stations in the vicinity, from which it is only a short walk to Red Square, Okhotny Ryad and Teatralnaya directly at the northwest entrance of the Square at the Historical Museum; further to the west is the Lenin Library station, from which one arrives at the same entrance through the Alexander Garden. As well as the station Revolution-square behind the GUM department store, which leads past to the northeast side of the Square.

The Kremlin

This is the biggest active fortress in Europe offering a week’s worth of attractions. For more than 70 years, the Kremlin was the power center of the Soviet Union, which the US President Ronald Reagan called the Empire of Evil exactly 35 years ago, one of the symbols of the East-West conflict in the Cold War. People in the West feared the «dark» plans that were built behind the thick walls of the Kremlin.

The Kremlin is built in a triangular shape on the natural elevation above the Moscow River, known today as the Kremlin Hill. Today’s metropolis Moscow has expanded in a circle around it and the road around the Kremlin is considered the first of several ring roads in Moscow counting.

Now Kremlin has lost its terrifying image, although it is still the seat of the Russian President and thus one of the most important places in World political events. It is an inviting, historical sight for tourists, and one of the famous Moscow tourist attractions which can be visited for just a few dollars.

The large parts of the 28 hectare site can be visited by tourists – with the exception of the Kremlin towers, the presidential Grand Kremlin Palace and the Senate Palace. The first port of call on the site is the so-called Cathedral Square, which is the geographical center of the Kremlin and at the same time the highest point on the Kremlin Hill and contains the three oldest structures in the complex. The three 15 th -century cathedrals of the Kremlin (the Dormition, Archangel Michael and the Annunciation Cathedrals), which together with the Ivan the Great Bell Tower and the Cathedral of the Deposition of Mary, make the most famous ensemble of the Kremlin. Also to be visited here are primarily the Armoury and the Patriarch’s palace.

To get to the Kremlin, you have to pass a security gate at one of the two publicly accessible entrances – these are located at the Kutafja and Borovitsky towers. Tickets cost from 700 rubles upwards, the admission to the Armoury, the Ivan the Great bell tower and the Patriarch’s Palace being paid for separately.

More about the Kremlin

Lenin’s Mausoleum

This is the ultimate love it or hate it tourist attractions in Moscow It may be mistaken for a gloomy performance, but Lenin remains an absolute attraction almost a hundred years after Vladimir Lenin death. The founding father of the Soviet Union is not only a fascinating historical figure of world renown for supporters of communism. Despite ongoing discussions about a final burial of the leader of the communist October Revolution in 1918, hundreds of thousands come year after year to the dark marble building on Red Square, right next to the Kremlin wall, to see the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary.

First opened to the public in 1924, the Mausoleum attracts 2.5 million visitors every year, so, visitors have to wait a long time to get into the illustrious building. Also, photos from inside the Mausoleum are prohibited. But a visit is still a must for Moscow visitors, especially since the visit is free. Please note that the Mausoleum is only open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The queue starts behind the Historical Museum and before you get into the actual mausoleum, you have to pass an airport-like security gate – cameras and cell phones are not allowed into the Mausoleum, but can be safely placed in a cloakroom for a small fee. On the way out of the Mausoleum, after the visit, you pass the graves of the other Soviet heads of state. Including the grave of Josef Stalin, who was briefly kept next to Lenin in the Mausoleum after his death. But in the course of de-Stalinization, the cruel dictator was moved to the less prominent place behind the Mausoleum.

More about the Lenin Mausoleum

The Alexander Garden (Alexandrovsky Sad)

If you visit Moscow in summer, the hustle and bustle in the metropolis of millions can get over your head. The city, best known for its icy winters, can turn into an absolute burning furnace in summer. It sometimes takes over an hour to get to the edge of the metropolis. The perfect retreat, located in the center of Moscow, is therefore the Alexander Garden and one of the Moscow top attractions.

Located directly on the western wall of the Kremlin, the Alexander Garden is just a small, but all the more well-kept park that extends to the nearby Manege Square (Manezhnaya Ploschad). The garden undergoes a lot of changes, with old trees cut down in 2012 and over 200 planted, the authorities also claim that there will be a rosary of 3000 roses. As soon as the first rays of sun warm up the Muscovites, tormented by the long winter, they set off into the countryside. If you are right in the center, you can choose the small park right by the Kremlin.

With a café in hand, which you can get yourself on Manege Square, you can linger here between the carefully tended flower beds. With the Grave of the Unknown Soldier and the regular changing of the guard, there is even a real tourist attraction on top. Entry is free.

The Moscow Metro

In no other metropolis in the world would the subway be declared a sight. Yes, that is truly right as riding this one of the top Moscow tourist attractions is an experience in itself or just a walk through the station is amazing in itself. Whether in New York, Berlin, London or Paris – the big city inhabitants of the world metropolises have a love-hate relationship with their metro. It’s different in Moscow – the residents of the Russian metropolis love their metro and there is a reason for that: in the early days of metro construction, dictator Stalin had built the stations into “palaces for the workers”.

All the splendor of the tsars, which the ordinary Russian never saw, is now open to everyone, regardless of their origin. Indeed, a number of stations on the Moscow Metro, each built shortly before or after the war, are unmatched architectural masterpieces. Mayakovskaya station is often compared to a ballroom for its chandeliers and ornaments. The Teatralnaya stop, located directly below the world-famous Bolshoi Theater, shines with decorations reminiscent of the country’s theater and ballet tradition. Colorful glass windows, almost like in a sacred building, adorn the Novoslobodskaya station.

But the uncalled queen among Moscow’s metro beauties is Komsomolskaya station, named after the youth organization of the Soviet Union. With its huge chandeliers and detailed ceiling decorations, it is the crown jewel among the 331 metro stations. It is not uncommon for tourists to stand in the middle of the platform and take photos under the glances of passengers who just want to walk past the annoying tourists to and from work as quickly as possible.

A ride on the metro currently costs 57 rubles, which is less than one dollar. You should plan a few hours for a tour of the most beautiful stations, but the good news is, once behind the turnstile, a single ticket is enough to stay in the metro system as long as you want.

The Bolshoi Theater

To see Tchaikovsky Swan Lake or the Nutcracker by the same legendary Russian composer on the famous Bolshoi stage – that is the dream of every ballet fan. Home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, nowhere else is the fine art of musical dance lived as much as in Russia – and has been since the times of the tsars.

The Bolshoi itself has been shining back to its former glory since it was built in 1776 since its extensive renovation that cost almost a billion dollars a few years ago. The large historical hall of the building impresses with its opulent golden decorations and creates a very special atmosphere – this was also used by the communist leaders of the Soviet Union, who held their congresses in the building directly at the Kremlin. The Theater is so famous that it currently adorns the 100 ruble banknote and is among the Moscow main attractions.

If you’d like to go to what is probably the most famous ballet theater in the world today, it’s easier than ever. The program can be found months in advance on the official website bolshoi.ru  and can be ordered at very reasonable prices. The cheapest seats in the hall can be booked for as little as 100 rubles, i.e. less than $ 2. However, you should reserve tickets early, as the performances are usually booked weeks in advance. Even for good seats, you pay very moderate prices compared to Western Europe.

There are a few things to watch out for, however, proper, appropriate clothing is welcome, but apart from the obligation to wear trousers, it is not an exclusion criterion for men. If you arrive late, you have to wait outside until the next break so as not to disturb the other guests during the performance. The best way to get to the Bolshoi is by taking the Moscow Metro via the Teatralnaya station, which was built especially for the theater and which stairs are right in front of the main entrance.

More about the Bolshoi Theater

The GUM department store

The Russian abbreviation GUM means main all-purpose shopping center and sounds quite formal for such a shopping temple. Located in front of the Kremlin on Red Square, GUM has existed as a department store since 1920 and was previously a market. It is the most iconic and largest department store in Russia and among the Moscow tourist attractions .   The facade of the building, built in 1890, fits perfectly into the overall picture of Red Square and is illuminated photogenically at night.

In contrast to the scarcity economy of the Soviet era, the GUM today really has everything to offer that one can imagine. It has become the flagship of the shopping and fashion metropolis Moscow. But today you will mainly find smaller luxury shops here. From western high-couture boutiques such as Prada or Gucci to fur for the icy Russian winter, a well-to-do Muscovite or a tourist will find everything their heart desires here.

People can walk through the wide and beautifully decorated arcades of the GUM, free of charge. Cafes invite you to linger. A delicatessen shop on the ground floor sells Russian specialties at affordable prices. Chocolate, honey and caviar, as well as the all-round vodka in Russia, can be bought here as souvenirs for friends and family at home. In addition, the Soviet-style cafeteria on the upper floor is very cheap for lunch.

The GUM offers a special highlight every winter when the department store administration built an ice rink in front of the building directly on Red Square. For only 200 to 300 rubles per hour, depending on the time of day, you can lace up your skates and glide over the ice with the unique panorama of Red Square.

More about the GUM department store 

The Historical Museum

The Historical Museum is a museum of Russian history wedged between Red Square, Lenin Mausoleum, small Kazan Cathedral, and Manege Square. The red brick building of the Museum is a real eye-catcher and Moscow top attractions located on the opposite side of St. Basil’s Cathedral. It is dedicated to Russian history and is built in the Old Russian style, the building did not open until 1883.

The Museum houses everything from an exhibition on the archeology of Russia, through the technological achievements, to the art of the gigantic empire in 16 sections and has a total of 5 million exhibits. So if you are interested in the history of Russia, you cannot avoid visiting this Museum and should plan enough time for it.

A visit costs 150 to 500 rubles, depending on which exhibition you want to visit. The Museum is open in winter, autumn and spring from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., closed on Tuesdays. In the summer months, the extended Saturday times apply daily.

It is probably the most famous park in the Russian capital and the top Moscow tourist attractions – a novel and its film adaptation and a Russian rock band have its name and numerous songs by Russian and international bands and TV series, such as House of Cards, mention it or act here. Gorky Park is a premier green space offering entertainment for every taste. Located southwest of the center of Moscow on the Moskva River, it is designed more for family attractions and rest and the classic park on the other side – has become one of the meeting places for Muscovites of all kinds in recent years.

Whether for a yoga class, a family picnic or beach volleyball match, skateboarding, and cycling – people meet here often. Because even in the Gorky there is an ice surface in winter, the largest in Moscow, which attracts many Moscow residents as well as tourists.

A large-scale renovation in 2011 breathed new life into the park – the roller kiosks were removed and more emphasis was placed on the maintenance of the green spaces. The park remained free of charge and developed into one of the most popular places in the capital. Whether with the rental bike through the green lungs, the pedal boat across the numerous ponds or simply watching the goings-on on the park bench – a visit to Gorki is also absolutely worthwhile for tourists.

Day trip to the Golden Ring

As much as the metropolis Moscow is fascinating, the side effects of a cosmopolitan city like Moscow – the noise, the traffic and the crowds – can overwhelm any tourist. What could be better than a day trip to escape the organized chaos of the cosmopolitan city?

The places on the Golden Ring near Moscow are an ideal destination for this and among the Moscow main attractions – located north-east of the metropolis, these old Russian cities, some of which have existed for much longer than Moscow itself, offer a welcome change from the hectic hustle and bustle of the capital.

Developed in the late 1960s uniting several mediaeval Russian cities located to the north-east of Moscow it is the most popular route around provincial cities of central Russia. More than a thousand year old city of Yaroslavl on the Volga is the largest, but at 260 km from Moscow also the most distant city of the Golden Ring. For only 650 rubles, however, you can take the three-hour train ride there.

Yaroslavl has been part of the world cultural heritage since 2005 and is best known for its two monasteries – the Monastery of our Savior and Transfiguration and the Monastery of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Tolga are located directly on the Europe’s longest river Volga and its inflow Kotorosl. Both testify to the long history of the Russian Orthodox Church. The cityscape of Yaroslavl is also really worth seeing with its classicist buildings – walking through the streets of the city with 500,000 inhabitants is a welcome contrast to Moscow. Things are even more slow in the small towns of Suzdal and Vladimir, both of which can still be reached with the Moscow suburban train network (known as Elektrichka) for a good 500 rubles. In both cities time seems to have stood a little – large sacred buildings dominate the cityscape.

Especially the Assumption Cathedral, located in the center of Vladimir, and the Golden Medieval Gate are the main attractions for tourists. The church, built in the early 12th century, is best known for its almost 700 year old wall paintings and frescoes and is a World Heritage Site. The Suzdal Kremlin is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage List and was first mentioned in writing in 1024.

Suzdal with its only 10,000 inhabitants has still retained the character of a small Russian town and in the town, which will celebrate its millennium in 2024, you can still find numerous wooden buildings typical of rural Russia – whether churches or houses, the colorful buildings are ideal as Photo motif and give an impression of the simple Russian provinces life away from the metropolises.

The exhibition of the achievements of the national economies is not in every travel guide as a classic Moscow main attractions and a must see of the Russian capital. But no other place in the modern mega-metropolis exudes the spirit of the Soviet Union as much as the enormous VDNKh (All Russian Exhibition Centre) in the north of Moscow. It was built as an agricultural exhibition before World War II, but was then renamed world exhibition for the 15 individual Soviet states and their achievements.

From the Armenian, Estonian and Kyrgyz culture, to the Soviet achievements in space travel and nuclear power, to statues about the heroes of the Soviet history, the VNDKh (Vystavka Dostizheniy Narodnogo Khozyastva) was an absolute attraction until the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. After that, the old charm fell into disrepair and the large central pavilion, which was built in the splendidly pompous Stalinist style, was filled with small traders selling souvenirs and matryoshkas.

Since its renovation in 2014, the exhibition in the park-like area is absolutely worth a trip again and with the metro station of the same name you can get from the center to the VDNKh quickly and without problems. There are still strange souvenirs, plus huge Soviet monuments worth seeing, as well as numerous rides for children. The Kosmos exhibition still exists and is now part of the Cosmonaut Museum, which is located at the front end of the park when coming from the metro station.

Here you can experience the various achievements of Soviet and Russian space travel vividly. From the very first Sputnik satellite, the spacesuit of Yuri Gargarin, the very first human in space, to the Buran space shuttle, you can learn an incredible amount about the conquest of the cosmos here. However, you should plan several hours just for a visit to the Cosmonaut Museum.

More about the cosmonaut museum

The Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery

To complete the cultural program in Moscow, you should definitely make a tour to the Pushkin Museum and the Tretyakov Gallery when visiting the Russian capital. It is the largest museum of European art and among the Moscow top attractions. The former Museum of Fine Arts was named after Alexander Pushkin’s death in 1837 – it is still one of the most important art collections in the world today.

It boasts one of the richest collections of foreign art in Russia, showcasing global artistic developments from early times to the present day in expositions numbering 700,000 works of art.  Not far south of the Kremlin, exactly opposite the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the Museum is housed in a classic building specially built for this purpose in 1898. From early Byzantine art to the famous Madonna by Lukas Cranach, the Italian masters, Peter Paul Rubens and masterpieces of Expressionism, for example by Paul Cézanne, you can admire a huge selection of important art here.

The regular entry ticket costs 800 rubles and the Ьuseum is open on weekends from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., during the week until 8 p.m. – only Monday is closed.

The second important art collection in the capital is the State Tretyakov Gallery. It is the national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the greatest museums in the world. Started by the textile entrepreneur and philanthropist Pavel Tretyakov as a collection of local contemporary art in 1851, the gallery has now developed into one of the cultural highlights of Russia. In contrast to the Pushkin Museum, you will primarily find Russian art from the 19th century and older icons.

Entry cost is 400 rubles and the Gallery is open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. – Monday is also the day off.

Take a stroll across Red Square, meet Lenin and see the world-famous Kremlin?

Then first of all you need a visa! !

Alexander Popov

Welcome to Russia! My name is Alexander, I was born in Moscow and I'm a passionate tour guide. I want to share my passion for Russia and my hometown with you. On my website you will find useful information to make your individual trip to Russia as interesting as possible.

The Museum of Cosmonautics and the Planetarium in Moscow

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90+ Moscow tourist attractions: what to see in Moscow, Russia

A huge list of the best Moscow tourist attractions.

Before the pandemic I used to visit Moscow every year. I would usually go there for a week, and I would still find new places to visit and things to do. Many people don’t realise how huge Moscow is and how many tourist attractions are there. Unfortunately, not all of these fantastic places are maintained, some are abandoned and can be enjoyed from outside only. Still, Moscow has attractions to satisfy the taste and requirements of any tourist and here I have a huge list of more than 90 places.

But let’s start with one of the most famous Moscow landmarks: the Kremlin!

NB : the post is very long, so just go to the table of contents and click on the section that interests you.

The Kremlin and its surroundings

The Kremlin should be in every list of Moscow tourist attractions 😊 You can easily spend a day exploring it and the surroundings.

1. The Kremlin : here you should definitely visit the Cathedral Square with its ensemble of old churches. Their interior is truly amazing with painted icons and graves of famous Russian rulers (in the Archangel Cathedral) – as Ivan the Terrible, for example. You can climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to see the square from above. Then there is the Armoury Chamber with its huge collection of royal regalia and gifts and everyday objects and the Diamond fund with, well, diamonds and other jewelry.

2. The Mausoleum . Frankly, despite visiting Moscow so many times, I have never been to the Mausoleum. Somehow, the thought of seeing Lenin doesn’t seem appealing to me, but, maybe, you want it. The entrance is free, at least.

3. The Red Square is the first place where every tourist goes. It is the center, the heart of Moscow and many tourist attractions are located there.

4. GUM is a huge shopping center on the Red Square. It is quite expensive, so not so many people go there for shopping. Still, it is a fancy place. In addition, there is a huge supermarket there and the famous canteen Stolovaya 57, so go there for a quick lunch.

5. Kilometer Zero of Moscow is at the Resurrection (Voskresensky) Gates at the Red Square. It symbolises the beginning of all roads in Russia. It is a square with a circle in the center: the edges have depictions of animals.

6. Aleksandrovsky Garden is at the Kremlin walls. It has amazing flower beds, fountains with fairytale sculptures, and there are lots of benches to rest your feet. The garden is famous for the monuments of the wars in 1812 and 1941-1945. And the eternal flame is here.

7. St Basil’s Cathedral is the most famous one in Moscow. Its colourful onion domes are easily noticed from afar. Ivan the Terrible ordered its construction to commemorate the capture of two cities, Kazan and Astrakhan. Now it is a symbol of Russia alongside other notable monuments.

8. Kazan Cathedral is another church on the Red Square. It’s not as lavishly decorated as St Basil’s, but it is a functioning church, so everyone can go inside. It’s not the original church, but a reconstruction: the original one was destroyed by Stalin’s order.

9. Change of guards happens every hour at the eternal flame in Aleksandrovsky Garden. It is quite a show with soldiers marching and music playing and many tourists gather at the spot to see it.

10. Monument to Vladimir the Great is a recent addition to the list of tourist attractions of Moscow: it was mounted in 2016. Vladimir the Great is one of the greatest rulers of Kievan Rus. The monument is 17,5 meters high and is located close to the Kremlin.

Parks and gardens

11. Zaryadye is not far from the Kremlin on the historical Varvarka Street. In addition to being a park, its floating bridge offers spectacular views of the Kremlin, the Moskva River, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and one of Stalin’s skyscrapers.

12. Gorky Park : shadowy alleys with benches to rest, fountains with music, a roller-skating rink, a pond with boats: Gorky park has everything! You can rent bicycles, skateboards, rollers, boats, and have some fun!

13. Sokolniki Park is huge and has numerous activities on offer like skateboarding, roller-skating, bicycles, ping-pong tables, a swimming pool, etc. Sometimes concerts and performances are held there.

14. Museon is next to Gorky Park and is famous for its weird sculptures and statues of Soviet rulers.

15. Aptekarsky Ogorod or the Apothecary Garden is the most famous garden in Moscow. It was founded by Peter the Great as a place to grow medicinal herbs, but expanded its collection of plants greatly.

16. Ermitazh Garden is one of the most beloved in Moscow. It was opened in 1894 and offered open-air concerts. Today performances and art exhibitions are held in the park. There are a couple of theaters in the territory and classes for kids.

17. Yekaterininsky Park is a monument to garden art. It has amazing flower beds and a huge pond with boats for rent. There are designated places for doing sports and a covered stage for live performances.

18. Patriarch’s Ponds are surrounded by trees today, but about 300 years ago it was a marshy place. At the end of the 17th century these marshes were dried and three ponds were dug. Later two of the ponds were filled up and trees were planted around the remaining one. The ponds became famous because namely here Mikhail Bulgakov’s masterpiece ‘The Master and Margarita’ starts.

19. Ostankino Park is now a part of VDNKh. It is huge and has plenty of facilities like bicycle tracks, paths for horse riding, open-air gyms, and the biggest open-air skatepark in Europe. Naturally, locals love it and it’s always full of people.

20. Clean Ponds : in the 17th century the place was called ‘Filthy marshes’ or ‘pagan marshes’ (depends on the interpretation). Later it was cleaned and nowadays it is a long pond which turns into a skate-rink in winter. Quite often artists put their paintings alongside the pond for passers-by to see. And there is an amazing song by famous I. Talkov about the place.

Did you know that there are more than 400 museums in Moscow? Of course, you can’t visit them all, so here I have a list of the most well-known and beloved ones in the city.

21. Tretyakov Gallery has several buildings, one of them dedicated to the 20th century art of Russia and the Soviet Union, and the other one to the Russian art at much earlier period till the 19th century. The latter one exhibits Vasnetsov’s, Shiskin’s, Serov’s, Ayvazovsky’s masterpieces. The vaults of the museum house a huge collection of old icons, the majority from the 14th century.

22. State Historical Museum : the dark red building of the museum on the Red Square is hard to miss. It houses huge collections of gold artifacts, manuscripts, jewelry, ceramics, old books, religious paintings, historical costumes, etc. Its coin collection has more than 1,7 million units!

23. Just like Tretyakov Gallery, the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts is the right place for art lovers. There are about 700,000 exhibits in the museum collection, including masterpieces of Matisse, Renoir, Picasso, Degas, Rubens, etc. It includes a huge collection of sculptures and archeological objects.

24. The Archaeological Museum of Moscow is an underground museum and is dedicated to the archeological diggings in the city. There are about 2,000 exhibits from the Paleolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic ages.

25. Moscow Museum of Modern Art . It is the project of the famous Zurab Tsereteli and his private collection is the core of the museum. There are numerous paintings and sculptures by the artists of the 20th century, including those of Picasso, Dali and Miro.

26. State Darwin Museum . This huge museum houses a collection of 400,000 exhibits, mostly stuffed animals. From what I have seen kids enjoy it immensely.

27. The Orlov Museum of Paleontology : as the name suggests, it houses everything related to paleontology. There are more than 5,000 exhibits from the Precambrian, Palaeozoic, Mezozoic and Caenozoic ages: ammonites, reptiles, skeletons of dinosaurs, etc.

28. The Museum of Cosmonautics is not far from the VDNKh and its collection includes technical devices, documents, personal belongings of cosmonauts, pictures, paintings, stamps, coins, etc.

29. The State Museum of Oriental Art was founded in 1918 to preserve the cultural heritage of the Eastern republics of the Soviet Union. Now it houses huge collections of Japanese, Korean, Arabian, Indian art in addition to those of the Soviet republics. In 2017 the famous Russian painter Nicholas Roerich’s collection was handed over to the museum.

30. Bulgakov Museum : the museum is dedicated to the famous writer Mikhail Bulgakov, the author of ‘The Master and Margarita’. It includes about 3,000 exhibits: letters, documents, pictures, furniture and personal belongings.

31. Museum of Soviet Arcade Machines : do you want to play an old Soviet arcade game? Just go to this museum! At the entrance you buy coins/tokens that you can use to play on any machine inside the museum.

32. Victory Museum on Poklonnaya Hill is dedicated to soldiers who fought and fell during the war of 1941-1945. It has several thematic halls, panoramas and a memory book.

33. Military exhibition on Poklonnaya Hill : this is another museum on Poklonnaya Hill and has a huge collection of military equipment, including tanks, planes, artillery, etc.

34. Museum-panorama “Battle of Borodino” : this museum is dedicated to one of the most famous battles of 1812 during the war between the Russian Empire and France. It is interesting that both sides claimed later that they won this battle.

Other places

35. Varvarka Street : there are some magnificent churches on the street and some historical buildings like the Old English Court, the oldest office of another country in Moscow, and the Chambers of the Romanov Boyars exhibiting the residential and household interior of the 16th-17th centuries.

36. VDNKh or the Exhibition of Achievements of National Economy or All-Russian Exhibition Center is one of the most popular places in Moscow. It was built in the 1930-ies to showcase the achievements of the Soviet Union in the field of agriculture. Every building has its own style and was to either represent a Soviet republic or house a specific collection. The highlight is the fountains with famous sculptures like the Friendship of Peoples and the Stone Flower on the central alley. And, I guess, everyone is excited to see the replica of the famous Vostok rocket.

37. Moscow Planetarium is the oldest one in Russia. It houses multiple exhibits and replicas, but my favorite parts are the hall with a huge dome for watching movies and the exhibits on the roof.

38. Poklonnaya Hill : its name can be translated as bow-down hill and the monuments and park on it are dedicated to the victory in the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945). Wait here until it gets dark: the fountains and columns get illuminated with red color, which is a magnificent sight.

39. Monument to Peter I on the Moskva River designed by the famous Zurab Tsereteli is 98 meters high. It is quite noticeable, but while it looks imposing, not everyone likes it. They even wanted to dismantle it and move it to another place, but it proved to be too expensive. By the way, this monument was in the top 10 of the ugliest ones in the world according to Virtual Tourist platform.

40. Krutitskoye Podvorye . This is the place where the spirit of olden times still lives: the buildings are old, it is quiet and cosy here. This courtyard belonged to Krutitsky Metropolitans, and a couple of churches from the 17th century are preserved along with palaces and houses.

41. Izmaylovsky Kremlin . You just have to see the colorful buildings, which replicate terems, houses in the traditional Russian architectural style. The Kremlin is packed with museums, there are several places to eat, so you won’t starve there. The biggest part of the Kremlin is a flea market with dozens of stalls with souvenirs, matreshkas, coins, boxes with traditional ornaments, furs, paintings, clocks, amber, shawls, clothes, books, icons, Soviet times items.

42. Stalin’s Bunker in Izmaylovo was built in the 1930-ies. There is a 17 kilometer long underground road that leads from the bunker to the center of Moscow. There is another bunker in Taganka.

43. Bolshoi Theater is one of the most well-known opera and ballet theaters in the world. It’s located not far from the Red Square, so just take some time to see it. If you are lucky to get tickets, lucky, because you should buy them long in advance, then you will see some of the best performances.

44. Metro tour . Moscow metro is one of the most beautiful in the world, it’s a fact. You can see everything here: stucco, paintings, sculptures, chandeliers, gilded walls, vibrant colours… some stations are true masterpieces! Pay a visit to Mayakovskaya, Kievskaya, Novoperedelkino, Komsomolskaya, Rasskazovka, Elektrozavodskaya, Ploshchad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square), Novoslobodskaya, Novokuznetskaya, Arbatskaya, etc.

45. Trubnaya Square/Tsvetnoy Boulevard is a magnificent place! Just make sure you go there in summer when everything is green and flowers are blooming. The boulevard is famous for Nikulin’s Circus. I have not been to the circus, so I like the boulevard for its park with circus-related sculptures and arches with blooming flowers and the views from the nearby Trubnaya square.

46. Strastnoy Boulevard is one of the most important streets in Moscow. It is a nice area with an alley and monuments. And there are many notable buildings along the boulevard.

47. Arbat is the most famous pedestrian street in Moscow: it starts at Smolenskaya metro station and runs almost till the Red Square. Arbat is full of fancy buildings and restaurants.

48. Alley of the rulers of Russia  is a place to see all the rulers at once. It is a small exhibition of busts hidden from the eyes of tourists. When I was there, I saw only three other people around. This is the place to see Ivan the Terrible, Alexander Nevsky, emperors from the Romanov family, Lenin and Yeltsin.

49. Triumphal Arch at Poklonnaya Hill was erected in the 1830-ies to commemorate the victory in the Patriotic War of 1812.

50. Moscow Mosque . The first mosque was built in 1904, but in 2011 it was demolished to erect a new one. Now it is a huge building with vibrant colors and minarets of different sizes. By the way, they used 12 kilograms of leaf-gold to decorate the dome and minarets.

51. In Russia there were many merchant courts ( gostinyy dvor in Russian), where people used to sell their goods. The one in Moscow was built in the 17th century, but it suffered a lot during the years, especially during the siege of Moscow in 1812. Now the building doesn’t house shops anymore, it is used for exhibitions.

52. Eliseyevskiy Supermarket isn’t a simple supermarket, it’s an experience. The interior is amazing, with intricate decoration, columns, chandeliers. Some people visit it like a museum. There are rumours that they want to close the supermarket, because it’s unclear who the actual building belongs to.

53. The teahouse on Myasnitskaya Street is a special building as well. It is easily recognisable thanks to the pseudo-Chinese decorative elements on its facade. At the beginning of the 20th century it was a tea shop and had apartments for rent. Now the first floor is a shop and they still sell tea there.

54. Bogdan Khmelnitsky (Kievsky) Pedestrian Bridge : this pedestrian glass-covered bridge offers stunning views of Moscow. And, naturally, it is more beautiful at night, when the lights are on.

55. Zhivopisny Bridge : this bridge is famous for its bright red arch, which is very photogenic at night.

Panoramic decks

56. Sparrow Hills : this panoramic deck is right in front of the Moscow State University building. From here visitors can see the famous Luzhniki Stadium, Stalin’s skyscrapers, Moscow-City, etc. Getting there requires a bit of effort: first you have to get to Vorobyovy Gory metro station which is under the bridge and then follow a path up the hill. Frankly, it is better to follow the crowd after exiting the station.

57. Deck at the Academy of Sciences is closer to the city center and offers views of Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow-City, the Kremlin, the statue to Peter I, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Frankly, this view is much better than the one from Sparrow Hills. Getting here is easier: just get to Leninsky Prospect metro station and follow a straight road to the deck.

58. Moscow City is a group of skyscrapers at the riverfront. Every skyscraper is built in its own fashion and has a name. Many of them are higher than 330 meters! The highest one is Vostok Federation Tower: it is 374 meters high! The 360 panoramic deck in the above-mentioned Federation Tower offers stunning views of Moscow.

59. Ostankino Tower : this place offers the farthest view of Moscow and it is not a wonder: the panoramic deck is at about 330 meters height. Personally, I prefer the other three decks, as this one is quite far from the city center.

Estates and mansions

As you probably know, Peter the Great moved the capital from Moscow to St Petersburg in 1712, so, naturally, many noble families built estates in the new capital, and the royals erected palaces there. Still, there are some in Moscow, and you should definitely see them.

NB: I have another post on some of the residences below with more information: click here to read it.

60. Kolomenskoye : before Peter I moved the capital from Moscow to St Petersburg, Kolomenskoye was the main royal residence. Michael I Romanov loved the place, but it was his son Alexis I the Quietest who built a magnificent wooden palace. While almost all the buildings in the area were erected in the 16th-18th centuries, the wooden palace is not the original one: Catherine the Great ordered its demolition to build another palace. The one visitors see now is an exact modern replica built between 2008-2010. However, the majority of the objects inside the palace are authentic.

61. Izmaylovo under the Romanovs started as a farm and a production unit and included glass and brick plants, bee garden, linen manufacture, livestock, etc. In addition, they built churches, towers and a wooden palace. According to some historians Peter the Great was born in Izmaylovo. Anna of Russia opened a zoo there, the biggest one in the empire, and tigers and lions lived there. During the reign of Catherine the Great many buildings were demolished, and many years after that Nicholas I ordered to build an asylum for the military. Some of the gates, churches and the asylum can still be seen today. Izmaylovo estate is close to the Izmaylovsky Kremlin I mentioned above.

62. Tsarytsyno is strongly associated with Catherine the Great. Though St Petersburg was the capital of the country during her reign, Catherine the Great bought Black Mud manor, renamed it into Tsaritsyno (tsaritsa is czarina is Russian) and ordered the construction of a huge complex. She died before the construction finished, and her son wasn’t interested in the project.

63. Liublino is located quite far from the center of Moscow. In 1800 a rich merchant Nikolay Durasov bought the place and built a palace in the form of a cross. It is luxurious, with exquisite furniture, silky drapes, columns, but what makes it special is its decoration. Nicholas Durasov adored theater so he decorated his home with scenes from ancient mythology. Just lift your head up, look at the ceilings and walls and you will see the muses, Apollo, Cupid, Gratiae…

64. Kuskovo Manor was a summer residence of the Sheremetev family, one of the wealthiest in the Russian Empire. There are many buildings in the complex, including the palace itself, kitchens, the Dutch house, the Grotto with naval decorative elements, the Italian house with some exhibits and the Great Stone Orangery. The main palace is built right in front of a pond. The decoration is rich, with tapestries, colorful fabric wallpaper, chandeliers, furniture. One of the most beautiful parts of the palace is the Mirror Hall.

65. Vorontsovo estate belonged to many people, including Ivan the Terrible. The place was first mentioned in the 14th century and since then changed owners frequently, until it was gifted to N. Repnin in the 17th century: he and his heirs erected the main buildings of the estate. At the beginning of the 19th century the place was rented out as summer residences and one of the tenants planned to build a dirigible there, but it didn’t work out. During the Soviet period it served as a collective farm, prison, then a scientific institute. Many buildings were either destroyed or reorganized, so not much is left of the original estate. Nowadays Vorontsovo is more of a park with different facilities, but some buildings are still there to see like the entrance gates, service premises and the church.

66. Kuzminki-Blachernae was a huge residence that belonged to Golitsyns, one of the most prominent noble families in the Russian Empire. The complex included numerous buildings, but at the moment almost all of them are in decay. The main palace burnt down in 1916, and after the revolution they gave the estate to the Institute of Experimental Veterinary. Many buildings were converted into laboratories and administrative premises, but the place is abandoned now, except one building that houses a museum.

Monasteries

Monasteries in Russia weren’t only places for religious ceremonies and monastic life. No, many of them were built to serve as fortifications to defend the city, and sometimes the defenders would find shelter behind its walls. That’s why don’t be surprised when you see thick walls: if it weren’t for church domes, one would think that it is a proper fortress. All the monasteries and convents were extremely important and the rulers of the country would usually donate money to build additional premises and decorate the churches.

The ones I mention below are very old. Some of them were used as prisons for the members of the royal family, some served as shelters during wars, others had facilities to care for the wounded, but many of them were located outside the city walls and served as a barrier: during attacks they would take the first blow giving Moscow time to prepare. Nevertheless, when the Soviet rule came, they all shared a similar fate.

67. Novodevichy Convent is the most famous one in Moscow. It was founded in 1524 and the buildings are still preserved. Many noble women took monastic vows and ended up living in the convent, some were forced to do it. During troublesome times, the royals hid there. The monastery was rich: for example, at the beginning of the 18th century 15,000 serfs belonged to the convent. Its cemetery is well-known as well, some notable people are buried there, so many people visit it just to see the graves. The convent was declared a UNESCO site.

68. Novospassky Monastery was founded in 1490, but became popular after the Romanovs came to power as it was their family burial vault. Before Peter I moved to St Petersburg, it was a burial place for many noble families like Naryshkins, Sheremetevs, Trubetskoys, etc., but during the Soviet times many graves were brought to ruin or moved to other places. The monastery was turned into a prison, and later was given to the NKVD.

69. Donskoy Monastery : this red-walled monastery was founded in 1591 after the victory over a Crimean khan, but many buildings were added later by tsars and noble people. During the siege of Moscow in 1812 soldiers were stationed there and they ruined the monastery and stole many valuables. Many famous people are buried in its territory, including Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. When the Soviets came to power, they turned it into a museum.

70. Conception Convent or Zachatyevsky Monastery: the fate of this monastery wasn’t easy. It was founded in the 1360-ies, but its main cathedral was built at the end of the 17th century. This very cathedral was later destroyed to erect a neo-gothic one. During the Soviet times it was turned into a prison, the cathedral and other premises were demolished, so after the collapse of the USSR they had to build a new one. Now the main church of the monastery, the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Holy Mother of God, is a recent addition.

71. Vysokopetrovsky Monastery is hidden behind walls and few people, even fewer tourists, know of its existence. Founded in 1315 by Metropolitan Archbishop Peter, its first churches were wooden, the stone ones were built later. In 1812 the French ransacked the monastery, they passed death sentences here and buried people at the bell tower. In the 1920-ies monks organised a backstreet monastic community here, but some of its members were later executed. The Soviets opened a library, a plant and shared flats in the monastery. It would be fair to say that restoration works started during the Soviet rule.

72. Andreevsky Monastery : the fate of this monastery is weird, frankly. It was founded in the 17th century, but there weren’t many monks there. In 1724 Peter I ordered to move the monks to Donskoy Monastery, and turn Andreevsky one into an orphanage and prison. Later it became a home for the insane and an asylum. In the meantime, some churches of the monastery were still active, and in 1991 it became a fully functioning monastery when all its churches opened.

73. Danilov Monastery : the monastery got its name because its founder was Daniel of Moscow, one of Alexander Nevsky’s sons. It was founded in 1282, but shortly after that it was moved to another place. Ivan the Terrible gave the place a new life and ordered to build a new church close to Daniel’s grave. Because the monastery was at the epicenter of many battles, it was ransacked often. During the Soviet times it was turned into a warehouse and Charles Crane, an American businessman, bought its bells and took them to Harvard University, but they were returned in 2008.

74. Sretensky Monastery was founded in 1395. Initially, there was only a church, but, according to a legend, an icon from the church helped to avoid the invasion of khan Tamerlane, so the ruler of the country ordered to build a monastery around it. It was enlarged during the next centuries, but in the 18th century it lost its significance and fell to decay, but the situation changed in the middle of the 19th century when the area was renovated. By the end of the 19th century it was the most famous monastery in Moscow. During the Soviet times some of its premises were demolished, icons were handed over to museums, and the rest of buildings were given to the NKVD. A new cathedral was built in the 21st century, but to do it they had to demolish some of the remaining buildings.

75. Ivanovsky Convent : it was founded as a friary, but was later turned into a convent. It served as a kind of prison as well for royal wives. When the capital was moved to St Petersburg, the convent fell into neglect, in 1812 it was burned and restored in 1865 only. Soldiers wounded during Russo-Turkish war would be sent to the convent. During the Soviet times it was given first to the NKVD and turned into a concentration camp, and later to the Department of Internal Affairs. Even nowadays, when many buildings are restored and religious services are held, some of the premises still belong to the department.

76. Simonov Monastery was named after boyar Stepan Khovrin, who donated lands to start it. He later became a monk and took Simon as his monastic name. Just like in the case of the monasteries above, the new buildings were added gradually, and the monastery was quite rich: at the end of the 17th century about 25,000 serfs belonged to it. During the reign of Catherine the Great it was turned into a sickbay, but the place was later restored. During the Soviet times many buildings were blown up to build a Hall of Culture.

Personally, I am a big fan of the Slavic church architecture. The churches are so vibrant, have intricate decorative elements, and just please the eye. Whenever I go to a Russian city, I dedicate some time to exploring churches. If you aren’t like me, just skip this section, but, maybe, a couple of pictures will change your mind 😊

77. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour : this is the main cathedral in Moscow, and you definitely have to see it. Its white walls and golden domes are seen from afar, inside it’s vibrant and bright. For a price you can climb up to its dome. In addition, get to the bridge nearby: the views of Moscow are stunning!

78. St Clement’s Church : this red and white church with blue and golden domes is located at Tretyakovskaya metro station relatively close to Tretyakov Gallery, so you might as well spend some time to admire its colors. It is built in Baroque style, which is unusual for Moscow, and is dedicated to Clement, a Roman pope, which is surprising as well.

79. Cathedral of St Nicholas in Klenniki is relatively close to the Kremlin, but if you are not in the area, there is no need to go to specifically see it. My hotel (I loved it, by the way), was nearby, and I passed by the church a couple of times a day. The church was built in 1657, but was damaged a lot in fires, so was constantly restored and renovated.

80. Temple of the Holy Trinity in Ostankino : this one you should definitely see! It is not far from the Ostankino Tower and VNDKh, so you can easily do it. The church was built at the end of the 17th century, and its distinctive feature is its decorative elements. It’s a monument of old Russian cult architecture.

81. All Saints Church in Kulishki : this one is really close to Zaryadye Park, so you can walk another 200 meters to see it. Its architecture is quite interesting as well, when you look at the windows, you can easily recognize old Russian style. When the Soviets came to power, they wanted to demolish the church, but used it for state security needs.

82. Resurrection Church in Kadashi Sloboda : this is another church not far from Tretyakov Gallery. It has peculiar architecture, and some parts of its facade are different from the other churches. It was ransacked in 1812, and during the Soviet times it housed the archive of the KGB. But today, after being restored, the golden domes of this red- and orange-walled church are seen from afar.

83. The Church of St. Vladimir in the Old Gardens : if you come to visit Ivanovsky Convent, this church will be across the road. The original church was built in 1516, but was rebuilt in the 17th century and lost almost all of its original elements. In 1980 a fire destroyed the books and frescoes and it was restored later. Today it is hard to miss this church with white walls.

84. The Church of the Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple in Barashi isn’t far from the Clean Ponds I mentioned above. It was built in Naryshkin’s baroque style in the 17th century and was richly decorated. During the Soviet times they handed the most previous icons over to Tretyakov Gallery and wanted to demolish it, but changed their mind and turned it into an electrical goods plant.

85. The Church of Deposition of the Robe on Donskoy : this church is close to Donskoy Monastery and Gorky Park, so you can as well go to see it. The stone church in Moscow baroque style was built in 1680 and was restored at the end of the 19th century. Interestingly, it didn’t close during the Soviet rule.

86. The Church of the Epiphany in Elokhovo : this one is quite far from any other Moscow landmarks, so it is unlikely you will go to see it 🙂 Unlike the churches I mentioned above, the walls of this one aren’t red, but light blue. It is said that Alexander Pushkin was baptised there.

Amazing buildings in Moscow

If you are into architecture or old Russian architectural style, you can spend some time looking for these buildings. Unfortunately, they can be enjoyed from the outside only (as far as I know, but I may be wrong), but if you are not far from them, why not have a look? 😊

87. House of Pashkov : it will be really hard to miss this white colossus not far from the Kremlin and the monument to Vladimir. It was built at the end of the 18th century and was later turned into a university. Now it houses the Russian State Library and it is possible to visit it during a tour : it is expensive and it looks like they accept groups only.

88. Egg house on Mashkov Street : this truly weird building looks like … an egg and was inspired by Faberge eggs. It was built in 2000-2002, so it is a relatively new addition to the architectural masterpieces of the city. Because it is weird, many people don’t like it and criticize the architect. And, frankly, it looks totally out of place. Nobody lives there: as the architect himself claims, the house isn’t very comfortable. If you have about 409 million rubles, you can buy it 😊

89. Arseny Morozov Mansion : the first owner of the building Arseny Morozov was inspired by Pena Palace in Sintra. Some say that Casa de las Conchas from Salamanca served as an inspiration as well, because there are shells on its façade. In any case, you won’t miss this snow-white building on Vozdvizhenka Street. By the way, the building was so weird for its times, that it was called ‘a fool’s house’. I think it is amazing!

90. Apraksins-Trubetskoys House at the Clean Ponds: the first owner of the baroque building was Count Apraksin, but it was later sold to the Trubetskoy family, hence the name of the mansion. In 1861 it became a school where some famous people like C. Stanislavsky studied. During the Soviet period the mansion was turned into an apartment building and then into a student dormitory. Now it could use some kind of renovation.

91. Volkov-Yusupov Chambers : unfortunately, this amazing building in Bol’shoy Khariton’yevskiy Pereulok (relatively close to the Egg house) isn’t open to the public, so you can see its façade only. It was turned into a museum for a couple of years, so it was possible to see its lavish interior, but not anymore. Now this building with red walls is hidden behind a neglected garden.

92. Stalin’s Seven Sisters or skyscrapers are 7 buildings commissioned by Stalin. There should have been 8 of them, but they didn’t finish the last one. These monumental buildings are a representation of the so-called Stalinist empire architectural style and are easily recognizable as they are so different from the surrounding cityscape. Sparrow Hills are a nice place to see them: actually, one of these skyscrapers, the building of Moscow State University, will be behind you 🙂 Another one you will see from the bridge in Zaryadye Park.

93. Averky Kirillov Chambers : if you come to see the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, just cross the Patriarshy Bridge and turn left. After about a hundred meters you will see an old house with red walls which can easily go unnoticed because of the huge buildings nearby. It belonged to Averky Kirillov, a notable merchant and state official. Built in the middle of the 17th century, it boasted exquisite decoration, but time and new owners didn’t spare it. It housed the Russian Institute of Culturology, but I am not sure what is there now.

Are there any other tourist attractions in Moscow that I missed? Tell me about them in the comments! 🙂

What to do in Moscow for free

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

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