Trains to the New Forest
Let the New Forest’s wild ponies, birdlife, scenic views, and activities help you reconnect with nature.
Getting to the New Forest
Feeling refreshed and rejuvenated by nature has never been so easy, as the New Forest encapsulates three major CrossCountry stations. Both Southampton Central and Bournemouth are on the edges of the national park, making them ideal options for visitors that seek to combine city and countryside holidays - for the best of both worlds. If you would prefer to get straight into the heart of the national park, arrive directly into Brockenhurst on a CrossCountry service. With so much to take in, let CrossCountry get you to the centre of the stunningly picturesque national park.
Wildlife in the New Forest
One of the key attractions of Hampshire’s New Forest is the beautiful variety of wildlife on display, from the spring flowers to the wild ponies. With 566 square kilometres of expansive countryside to explore, this is the ideal place to spend a weekend (or longer!) spotting donkeys, ponies, cattle, and pigs roaming wild. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is a special joy for children and adults alike, making the New Forest a wonderful spot for family holidays.
If you prefer nature’s more delicate beauties, make sure to bring your binoculars for an unmissable opportunity for birdwatching. The New Forest’s rich habitat is a diverse landscape that provides a home for around 100 species of breeding birds, including buzzards and kingfishers. With plenty of locations offering guided walks for spotting birds, and places like Lymington and Keyhaven Marshes nature reserve or Roydon woods, there are so many ways to get involved with bird watching on your trip to the New Forest.
Whichever season you plan your visit, the natural scenes in the New Forest are second-to-none. From spellbinding bluebells in spring to golden brown leaves in autumn, these are some of Britain’s finest views.
Pack in some New Forest Activities
If you’re looking for the adventure of a lifetime without ever needing to leave the UK, the New Forest cannot be beat for outdoor activities to reconnect with nature. Whether you’re here for a weekend, a few days, or even longer, there are plenty of opportunities for cycling, long-distance hiking, bushcraft, kayaking, horse riding, golf, paddle boarding, and fishing in both lakes and the sea!
Maybe you prefer the finer things in life or a more relaxed holiday - not to worry, there’s plenty on offer for you too! Why not indulge in a mini cruise on a luxury yacht, visit a relaxing spa, or take in some culture and history at museums like Beaulieu National Motor Museum or Breamore House.
