Our family’s adventure began in the heart of the New Forest, in the charming village of Lyndhurst. On the 25th of July 2018, which was Georgia’s birthday, we decided to go camping at Wych Green. That summer was particularly hot, and it provided the perfect weather for our camping trip.

We set up our tent in a lovely, secluded spot surrounded by lush greenery. Our trusty dog, Rupert, was with us, adding to the joy and excitement of the trip. The warm weather made the camping experience truly enjoyable, allowing us to spend the evening under the stars, sharing stories and enjoying the serene environment.

The next day, on the 26th of July, we embarked on a scenic walk around Lyndhurst. The village, often referred to as the “capital” of the New Forest, is filled with picturesque views and charming spots. Rupert enjoyed exploring the various paths and trails, and we took some beautiful photos to capture the memories of our journey.

As we continued our walk, we wandered into the nearby village of Brockenhurst. This unplanned detour was a delightful surprise. Brockenhurst is known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil ambiance. We spent the day exploring the village, taking in the sights, and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.

On the 27th of July 2018, our adventure took us to Milford-on-Sea. We enjoyed a lovely walk along the beach to Keyhaven Lake. After our walk, we had a delightful lunch in Keyhaven, although I can’t recall exactly what we ate, it was quite nice. I carried Georgia in an Osprey rucksack designed for carrying children, which was incredibly convenient. She even fell asleep at one point during our journey.

We continued our day by visiting Hurst Castle at the end of our walk. Built by Henry VIII in 1544, Hurst Castle is situated on the seaward end of a shingle spit that extends 1.5 miles from Milford-on-Sea. It was one of the most advanced artillery fortresses in England and played a significant role during various historical events, including being the place where Charles I was imprisoned before his trial and execution. Exploring the fort was fascinating, and Rupert enjoyed roaming around as well. It was an amazing experience, filled with historical intrigue.

Georgia fell asleep at 4:19 PM in the rucksack, and we have a beautiful photo of her asleep in the rucksack in the car park as we were putting her back in the car. It was a perfect end to a wonderful day filled with exploration and discovery.

On the 28th of July 2018, we continued our adventure with a walk through Ashurst down to the Beaulieu River. The walk was serene, surrounded by the natural beauty of the New Forest. We had lunch in the forest around Ashurst, accompanied by the sights and sounds of the beautiful animals around us. This peaceful and picturesque setting provided the perfect end to our memorable journey.

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit the New Forest?
The New Forest is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter offers a peaceful and quieter experience.

2. Are dogs allowed in the New Forest?
Yes, dogs are welcome in the New Forest. Many trails and open spaces are dog-friendly, and some attractions, like Longdown Activity Farm, even allow dogs to join in the fun.

3. What are some must-visit spots in the New Forest?
Some popular spots include Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst, Milford-on-Sea, and Beaulieu River. Each location offers unique experiences, from scenic walks and historical sites to charming villages and beautiful landscapes.

4. Can you camp in the New Forest?
Yes, there are several campsites in the New Forest where you can enjoy a camping experience. Wych Green is one of the many beautiful spots to set up camp and enjoy the natural surroundings.

5. What activities are available for children in the New Forest?
The New Forest offers a variety of activities for children, including visiting farms like Longdown Activity Farm, exploring adventure playgrounds, walking trails, and learning about nature and wildlife.

Thank you for joining us on our family adventure through the New Forest. Have you visited the New Forest or taken any trips around the UK? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Share your stories in the comments below.