NEW FOREST
From cliff-top walks to open woodland, pretty coastal towns and cosy pubs, there’s loads of reasons why the New Forest should be on your ‘must-visit’ list for 2023. Every village, hamlet or town is blessed with its own special character. Lyndhurst, where Alice Hargreaves (inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland) lies in the 17th century Queen’s House churchyard, is a good base from which first time visitors can explore the Forest. For those drawn to water, Lymington is fab; it’s a pretty sailing port where the lively market forms a vibrant part of daily life. Then there’s Beaulieu – a charming town on the banks of the Beaulieu River with a heath that is a rambler’s paradise. From there, visit the tiny secluded hamlet of Buckler’s Hard nearby, which offers a quiet magical charm of its own. For flora and fauna, go inland to Brockenhurst, home to the annual New Forest Show and also home to a 1,000-year old yew! Alternatively, pay a visit to Burley on the north western fringe of the Forest which is famous for its magnificent beeches in Burley Wood.
Beaulieu, home of the National Motor Museum and annual VW show and the historic 18th century village of Buckler’s Hard nearby (). If you’re a fan of real ale head to Ringwood Brewery (). Alternatively, for a
