Top Things to Do in the New Forest with Kids This Summer

The Ultimate New Forest Summer Bucket List

Date

21 / 05/ 2026

Category

Family experiences, New Park Manor

Summer in the New Forest starts outdoors

The New Forest is made for summer days outside. Open heathland, shaded woodland trails, and plenty of space for children to run, cycle, and explore. It’s the kind of place where plans can stay simple, and days still end up feeling full.

At New Park Manor, the forest begins right outside the door, making it easy to head out for the day without needing to travel far. Families can borrow games, enjoy the grounds, and make the most of the outdoor pool and play areas between adventures.

Planning a New Forest family holiday?

Start here

If you’re looking for things to do in the New Forest with kids this summer, these are some of our favourite family-friendly activities nearby:

1. Spotting ponies and wildlife

One of the first things children notice in the New Forest is the wildlife. Ponies, donkeys, and deer roam freely across the landscape, often appearing when you least expect them.

Whether you’re heading out for a walk or driving through the forest roads, spotting them quickly becomes part of the experience. It’s simple, but it’s often what children remember most.

2. Family cycling in the New Forest

Cycling is one of the best ways to explore the New Forest with children. The routes are mostly flat, easy to follow, and surrounded by woodland, making them ideal for relaxed family rides.

You’ll find plenty of scenic trails nearby, with opportunities to stop for picnics, ice creams, or wildlife spotting along the way.

For route inspiration and everything you need to know before heading out, visit Cycling in the New Forest | New Park Manor.

3. A day at Paultons Park

For families with younger children, Paultons Park is always a popular choice. Home to Peppa Pig World as well as rides and play areas for a range of ages, it’s an easy day out from New Park Manor.

It’s lively, fun, and a good option when you want to mix forest days with something a little faster paced.

4. Exploring Beaulieu and the National Motor Museum

A visit to Beaulieu offers a bit of everything. The National Motor Museum is usually the main attraction for children, but the wider estate has gardens, open spaces, and plenty to explore.

You can easily spend a full day here, especially during summer events and school holidays.

5. Woodland walks and picnic spots

Some of the best days in the New Forest are often the least planned. Pack a picnic, choose a walking route, and spend a few hours exploring at your own pace.

There are plenty of gentle trails suitable for families, along with open clearings perfect for stopping off along the way.

6. Visiting Lymington

Lymington makes a great addition to a New Forest stay. The coastal town is known for its marina, independent shops, and relaxed atmosphere.

Spend time wandering the Saturday market, stop for lunch by the water, or pick up an ice cream before heading back into the forest.

7. Outdoor play at New Park Manor

Back at New Park Manor, there’s just as much to enjoy between days out.

The outdoor pool is a favourite during the summer months, while the children’s play areas give younger guests space to climb, run, and burn off energy before dinner. The grounds are large enough for families to spread out and properly relax.

It’s what makes family holidays in the New Forest feel easy here. You can fill your days exploring, or simply stay close to the hotel and slow things down.

8. Evenings in the forest

Summer evenings in the New Forest have their own pace. Walks become quieter, the forest cools down, and there’s still enough daylight left for one last wander before bed.

Sometimes it’s these slower moments that end up becoming the highlight of the trip.

Plan your New Forest family holiday

A family holiday in the New Forest is all about time outdoors, freedom to explore, and having space for everyone to properly switch off.

If you’re looking for a family hotel in the New Forest with woodland walks, cycling routes, and family days out nearby, New Park Manor is a great place to start.