Dogs are welcome in most of the forest provided they remain under control and are leashed where necessary. Whether you want to stroll and take in the scenery with your pet by your side or to enjoy something more energetic, the New Forest has plenty of dog-friendly activities on offer. Here are 5 to get you started.
You cannot visit the New Forest with your dog and not take a walk. Called the "Queen of the Forest", the Knightwood Oak, near Bolderwood, is reputed to be 500 years old and provides an ideal destination for a short stroll. With a girth of over 7 metres, the tree also offers a classic illustration of the ancient art of pollarding.
Located close to Fordingbridge, you and your dog are both welcome to visit the remains of this Roman villa that was once the central focus of a large agricultural estate. The site also includes the remains of a bathhouse, as well as living quarters and various farm buildings.
If the New Forest means ponies to you, a walk from Longslade Bottom is hard to beat. Provided you keep your dog close to heel or on a leash, you should see plenty of the famous New Forest ponies. Furthermore, this walk offers some of the best forest vistas so remember to keep your camera handy.
The New Forest encompasses a number of excellent beaches, and dogs are welcome at many of them. Calshot is the place to go for outdoor activities that include kite-surfing and kayaking. Hengistbury Head incorporates a variety of habitats, including heathland, woodland, and salt marsh. Because it is a nature reserve, you will need to keep your dog under close control but you may be rewarded by seeing some of the reserve's 300 species of birds.
Home of the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu welcomes dogs to its extensive grounds. You need to keep your pet on a lead but are otherwise free to wander through the gardens, including the Victorian gardens. Tie-up zones with water bowls are provided if you want to leave your dog while you visit the museum or other indoor attractions.
| 📏 Average size of a holiday home | 126 m² |
|---|---|
| 🥳 Busiest month | April |
| 🛏️ Popular accommodation types | House rentals and Cottage |
| 🌡️ Warmest weather | 21 °C in July and August |
| 🥶 Coldest weather | February and January |
| 🌧️ Rainiest months | 16 rainy days in January and December |
Holiday homes cost around £55 per night in New Forest.
In most cases, every Cottage is about 126 m² and average capacity is 5 guests - ideal for medium-sized groups and families.
There are a lot of options available when it comes to holiday rentals for Dog-Friendly Holidays in the New Forest, with 233 Cottage and 86 House rentals on offer.
