What to Do With Kids and Teenagers in the New Forest?

Teenagers and family holidays don’t always go hand in hand, but luckily, the New Forest is full of surprises. From adrenaline charged adventures to calm, scenic escapes, it caters to every type of teen: high-energy thrill seekers, nature lovers, budding content creators, and even Wi-Fi addicts looking for the perfect Instagram shot. With so many activities within reach of the New Forest, you’ll find plenty of options to keep the whole family entertained, including kids and slighter bigger kids. Here’s our guide to what to do with teenagers in the New Forest, packed with inspiration for a memorable family break when you’re staying at Green Hill Farm.

For Thrill Seekers…

Go Ape Moors Valley

Go Ape Moors Valley is a treetop adventure park featuring zip lines, rope bridges, and challenging obstacle courses. Teens can swing, climb, and soar above the forest floor, testing their courage and agility.

Why teens love it: Speed, height, and adrenaline make every challenge feel like a personal victory. 

Insider tip: Arrive early to beat the queues and combine your trip with nearby cycling along some of the best road cycling routes in the New Forest. Which leads to our next best thing to do with teens in the New Forest…

Cycle Trails

Bring your own or rent bikes for a fast-paced ride along the New Forest’s scenic trails. From woodland paths to open heathland, cycling is a fun way to explore the area and burn off energy. When you stay at Green Hill Farm, you can hire bikes directly from us and set straight off on your New Forest cycling adventures.

Why teens love it: Freedom, fresh air, and the thrill of racing along winding trails.

Insider tip: Plan a route with stops at hidden ponds or wildlife spots for extra adventure.

Wild Swimming & Paddleboarding

The New Forest has plenty of water-based fun. Green Hill Farm has a few wild swimming options on the doorstep, or why not encourage teens to test their balance on a paddleboard.

Why teens love it: It’s refreshing, active, and a little daring, perfect for making memories.

Insider tip: Early morning or late afternoon swims are quieter and safer for beginners. Children and teens should always be supervised in open water.

For Nature-Loving Teens…

Horse Riding Trails & Pony Spotting

The New Forest is famous for its free-roaming ponies, and guided horse riding trails offer a fantastic way to explore the area. Teens can experience nature at close range while spotting ponies, deer, and rare birds. Learn more in our guide to spotting New Forest native ponies.

Why teens love it: They get hands-on interaction with wildlife and the thrill of walking beside them or riding them through the forest.

Insider tip: Combine horse riding with a forest walk to increase wildlife sightings.

New Forest Reptile Centre

The Reptile Centre offers hands-on experience with local snakes, lizards, and amphibians. Teens will love learning about conservation and wildlife in a fun, interactive setting.

Why teens love it: Getting up close with unusual creatures sparks curiosity and excitement.

Insider tip: Visit during feeding times for extra engagement.

Forest Bathing

Forest bathing, or slow, mindful walks through the woods, has become TikTok famous for its calming effect. Teens can enjoy the beauty of the forest while unplugging from screens. Something many grow-ups will benefit from too!

Why teens love it: It’s relaxing, immersive, and great for creative thinking.

Insider tip: Pair a forest bath with photography or journaling for a memorable outdoor activity.

For Budding Content Creators…

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary

Teens can capture stunning wildlife photos at Bolderwood, with lookouts providing guaranteed views of deer and other forest animals.

Why teens love it: Wildlife encounters and perfect photo ops make it highly ‘Instagrammable’. And this is how you know you’ve got their attention…

Insider tip: Sunrise or sunset provides the best lighting for photos.

Sunset Picnics at Hatchet Pond

Pack a picnic and head to Hatchet Pond for golden-hour views over the water. Teens can take photos, relax, and enjoy the changing sky.

Why teens love it: The vibrant colors, peace, and opportunity to create content for social media.

Insider tip: Bring a blanket and some snacks, it’s ideal for a small group outing.

Ancient Trees & Fairy Tale Vibes

From centuries-old oaks to moss-covered trails, the New Forest is filled with photogenic scenery that feels straight out of a storybook. 

Why teens love it: It’s perfect for creative expression, social media posts, and exploring magical corners of the forest.

Insider tip: Explore quieter trails for unique angles and fewer crowds. Prepare some witchy or ghoulish stories for younger teens to scare and delight them.

Striking the Balance Between Screens and the Great Outdoors

All of our parks have Wi-Fi, varying from superfast to Wi-Fi hotspots, so teens can stay connected when they want, while still having the choice to unplug. Encourage a “digital detox with real rewards” by balancing screen time with forest adventures or trying one of our Ranger Activities, stargazing, hot tub time or challenging the whole family with a board game. 

In the Event of Rain…

When the weather turns, there’s plenty to do indoors with teens, within the bounds of the New Forest:

Rainy Day Plans
When the skies turn grey, take the whole family to:

• Beaulieu National Motor Museum – a hit with older teens; cars, history, and interactive exhibits.
  
• Escape Rooms (Southampton or Bournemouth) – for teamwork, puzzles, and problem-solving fun.
  
• Indoor Climbing Walls – burn energy and challenge yourself whatever the weather.
  
• Calshot Activities Centre – from climbing to cycling, it’s got it all under one roof.
  
• Romsey Rapids – splash-filled, indoor water fun.
  
• West Quay, Southampton – shopping, dining, and entertainment for all.
  
• New Forest Heritage Centre – discover the Forest’s history and culture.

FAQs: Discover Activities for Kids and Teens in the New Forest

How to find activities for teens in the New Forest?

Explore our best activities in the New Forest guide, check local attractions, and balance adventure with nature for a varied experience or check out the handbook in your holiday accommodation.

What is there to do in the New Forest for kids?

From pony spotting and forest walks to motor museums and indoor play, there’s something for every age. Get creative, spark curiosity, and see where your teen comes alive the most.

Book Your New Forest Adventure today

The New Forest offers the perfect mix of adventure, creativity, and relaxation for families with teens. From thrilling treetop courses to serene nature walks and Instagram-worthy wildlife encounters, your family will create memories that last a lifetime. Make your next holiday seamless and exciting by booking a stay at Green Hill Farm, our one and only holiday park in the New Forest, where comfort, safety, and adventure meet in one unforgettable holiday.

Book now