Explore The New Forest
In terms of physical size, the UK is not huge compared to many other countries throughout the world. That’s why it’s really amazing that there are so many places that are perfect for a holiday- especially a holiday involving getting some exercise in the great outdoors. There are the mountains of the Lake District and Cumbria “the country’s biggest playground”, the surf beaches reaching from Scotland to Wales to Cornwall, cycling in the Peak District… the list could go on and on.
This past weekend, I got to re-visit one of my favourite spots for a little outdoor adventure in the south, the New Forest. Armed with a handy Groupon voucher, resulting in a vastly discounted stay at the Forest Park hotel, I packed trail runners, some warm clothes, and my best adventurous spirit and started the easy 90-minute journey from London.
The New Forest was only recently created as a National Park (in 2005), but there are many areas within that must still look and feel as they did when William the Conqueror named the area his ‘new hunting forest’ all the way back in 1079. There’s something mythical and otherworldly about the Forest, especially in the winter. There is a mist that rises from the frosty landscape. The barren heathland is starkly beautiful against areas of ancient oaks and evergreen trees. But perhaps what makes the New Forest most unique is the wildlife, especially the famous New Forest ponies that roam free, meaning that you’ll often share the trails with more four-legged hikers than two-legged ones!
As someone who enjoys combining relaxation with a healthy dose of physical exertion, I feel that the New Forest has it all. The trails are perfect for long rambles or spirited off-road running (bring your Wellies or- if you’re running- that adventurous spirit; the New Forest has its share of bogs!) Brockenhurst is the perfect base, easy to get to on the train or by car, with easy access to the trails, cycle hire options, and a mix of shopping and restaurants for when you’re not exercising.
Speaking of cycling, it’s definitely another reason to pay a visit to the New Forest. Whether you prefer beginner-friendly off-road gravel paths, undulating road rides, or more adventurous single track, the New Forest will deliver. In fact, the Forest has a network of over 100 miles of cycle routes, so there’s no reason to ride the same place twice. Of course, you may want to- it’s difficult to take it all in at once.
Even though I love the fitness aspect of going to the New Forest, I also believe in balance in life- which must be why I also love the restaurants and pubs as well. Since the trip was so inexpensive, splurging on dinner seemed fair, so a visit to Verveine Fish Market Restaurant in Milford on Sea fit the bill perfectly. The running miles definitely had my stomach asking for a big meal, but with fresh, healthy fish choices, I still walked out feeling like the day was a healthy one.
And after a cold Sunday morning of activity, the best solution was a cosy pub. I love the warm buzzing atmosphere of The Royal Oak in Fritham, though with its almost hidden location, I feel tempted to keep it a secret. It’s the perfect surprise find for a hungry cyclist or hiker, but does seem to attract a local crowd as well- making it difficult to get a seat around one of the two blazing fires.
I recommend that every holiday, be it a short break or lengthy leisure-fest, and involve getting out and seeing the area on foot or by cycle. If you’re looking for a place that’s tailor-made for these activities all year round, check out the New Forest!
Photography by: davidgsteadman, jans canon, and OttoKristensen
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