Unusual Things To Do In The New Forest

The New Forest is famous for its free-roaming ponies, ancient woodlands, and charming villages but if you’re willing to look a little deeper, you’ll uncover a wealth of unusual and quirky experiences. From secret wildlife encounters to foodie adventures and creative workshops, there are endless ways to enjoy the New Forest beyond the obvious. Whether you’re travelling with friends, seeking romance as a couple, or simply wanting something new, this unique guide will help you discover the New Forest in a whole new light. 

‘Quirky’ Adventures

If you’re drawn to experiences that feel a touch out of the ordinary, the New Forest is full of adventures that go beyond a standard walk in the woods:

• The New Forest Reptile Centre – Meet Britain’s rare reptiles and amphibians up close. This is one of the few places where you can see native species like adders, grass snakes, and natterjack toads.
  
• Guided photography walks – Capture the New Forest’s hidden beauty with a local guide who’ll help you spot and snap unusual wildlife, ancient trees, and secret landscapes.
  
• Bushcraft or survival skills workshops – Learn how to light fires, forage safely, and build shelters in this unique way to connect with nature. Discover the wild side of Green Hill Farm with our ranger-led nature activities, that include den building, as well as segways and trampolining for little ones.
• Paddleboarding and wild swimming – Cool off in the New Forest’s waterways. Find some of the best spots for paddleboarding here and top wild swimming locations here.
  

Unique Experiences for Foodies

For grown-ups who love to eat, drink, and explore local flavours, the New Forest offers many culinary surprises:

• Vineyard tours and wine tasting – Visit Setley Ridge Vineyard, located just outside Brockenhurst in the heart of the stunning New Forest National Park. Or take a trip to Burley, one of the prettiest villages in the area, and enjoy a tour of the New Forest Cider factory.
  
• Forager-led dining – Enjoy seasonal dishes inspired by what’s freshly foraged and grown. Restaurants like THE PIG and their 25 Mile Menu. We also prioritise bringing local produce and brands into our park shops.
  
• Cookery workshops – From artisan bread-making to seasonal cookery at the New Forest Show, you’ll find hands-on foodie experiences throughout the year. Discover New Forest cookery classes at Lime Wood’s Forest Kitchen, or join year round courses at The Kitchen Cookery School at Chewton Glen, where hands-on sessions celebrate seasonal and local ingredients.

For more delicious recommendations, see where to eat in the New Forest.

Romantic and Unusual Ideas for Couples

Looking for something a little different on a couples’ getaway? These unique experiences combine romance with adventure:

• Stargazing in a dark sky area – Share a magical night beneath some of the clearest skies in southern England.
  
• Spa day – Herb House Spa, inspired by the surrounding forest, offers a sauna, hydro and outdoor pools, mud house, treatment rooms, and even a Michelin-starred restaurant, just 20 minutes from Green Hill Farm. 

• Gourmet picnics – Pack local cheeses, breads, and wines and find a quiet meadow, riverbank or picnic spot to enjoy them.
  
• Evenings in a hot tub – Unwind in a hot tub under the stars with a glass of fizz, then enjoy magical stargazing in one of southern England’s clearest dark skies. We have safari tents, shepherd’s huts and lodges with hot tubs.
  

For couples who want something beyond the ordinary, the New Forest is a perfect destination for romance.

Secret Spots

The New Forest is scattered with hidden gems and creative corners:

• Craft workshops – Join seasonal workshops like dream catcher making or basket weaving via various New Forest workshops.
  
• Year-round creativity – From quilting to flower crown classes, local groups like The Crafty Hen keep the artistic traditions of the New Forest alive.
  
• Pottery and woodwork studios – Try your hand at creating something to take home as a memory of your New Forest visit.
  
• Hidden walking trails – Venture beyond the main paths to find quiet glades and ancient oak groves.
  

Offbeat Wildlife Encounters

While ponies and donkeys may be the most famous residents, the New Forest is teeming with other unusual wildlife experiences:

• Guided deer-spotting tours – Dawn or dusk walks offer the best chance to see majestic fallow or red deer.
  
• Birdwatching havens – Keep an eye out for rare species like the Dartford warbler or nightjar.
  
• Dog-friendly villages – Combine wildlife watching with a stop at a cosy pub or café in places like Lyndhurst or Brockenhurst.
  

Back at Green Hill Farm, visitors can enjoy a front-row view of local wildlife, as documented in a detailed report by ecologist Russell Wynn.

Rainy Day Activities in the New Forest

Rain doesn’t need to dampen your trip, the New Forest has plenty of indoor and sheltered options:

• Museums and heritage sites – Visit the Eling Tide Mill Experience, or discover local art and history at the St Barbe Museum and Art Gallery in Lymington.
  
• Historic castles – Explore Hurst Castle, with its views across the Solent.
  
• Calshot Activities Centre – Try indoor climbing, skiing, or water sports under one roof. If it’s already raining, why not jump right in?
  
• Charming villages – Browse independent shops, covered markets, and tearooms.
  
• Afternoon tea – Indulge in scones and cream while you watch the rain outside.
  
• Embrace the rain – Pop on waterproofs and enjoy the forest at its most atmospheric.
  

Planning Your Unconventional New Forest Trip

To make the most of these unusual activities:

• Book early – Many workshops and wildlife tours have limited spaces.
  
• Think outside the box – Elevate a beautiful  walk by turning it into a photography tour or a stargazing session.
  
• Respect nature – Stick to marked paths, take your litter home, and leave no trace.
  
• Stay flexible – Some of the best experiences come from spontaneous detours and discoveries.

If you’re looking for inspiration, take a look at your 7-day New Forest itinerary to plan each day with ease. Discover the best activities and things to see and do, from hidden walking trails to unique workshops and wildlife encounters that make your trip truly memorable.

Stay Uniquely: Holiday Parks for Your New Forest Adventure

The right base can transform your New Forest trip from great to unforgettable. Green Hill Farm Holiday Village isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a destination in itself, offering cosy accommodations, a welcoming community, and a true connection to nature.

Book now