Kirsty Fensome
09 December 2018
Visiting the New Forest should be a bucket list item in itself, so once you’ve arrived you’ll need to know how best to spend your time to make the most of the beautiful area. We’ve picked a few events and things to do that we think you should be seeing and doing in 2020 to really discover the best of the area.
From the 28th to 30th July, the New Forest and Hampshire County Show returns once more to the region. Now in its 100th year, the show is packed with producers, businesses, farmers and animals, with plenty to keep everyone entertained. Explore the trade stands, marvel at the main ring attractions, and tantalise your taste buds with delicious local goods in the food hall. If you only go to one show this year, make it this one!
One of the New Forest’s premier attractions, Beaulieu is more than just cars – although there’s plenty of them there for you to admire if you’re a motor head! Beautiful grounds, a monorail, Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House combine with a kids’ play area, Secret Army Exhibition, World of Top Gear and the motor museum itself to create a cacophony of action, culture and fun. With some not-to-be-missed events throughout 2020, including the Mini Cooper Register Rally and Simply VW, it’s one destination you’ll want to tick off your list – then return to again and again.
If you only have one meal out in the New Forest, get to Verveine. Creative and truly innovative, the restaurant has its own in-house fishmonger, and has won countless awards both locally and nationally. The stunning dishes, meticulous attention to detail and beautiful interior make it an indulgent treat for all the senses, and one that you just have to experience.
If the thought of running with thousands of people in a big city marathon like London frightens you into never wearing that exercise gear again, then why not try the smaller scale, far more scenic race route in the New Forest instead? On Sunday 13th September, there will be seven different types of trail to run on, ranging from a woodland walk to a full marathon, meaning there’s something for all ages and capabilities. Its beautiful location makes it a must-run race for those more experienced, whilst for many it’s simply another way to see the glorious surroundings, raising lots of money for great causes at the same time. Challenge, surprise and enjoy yourself!
Whilst the best way to see the New Forest is to simply walk, getting up close to all the nature and animals, sometimes it’s nice to rest your feet and let someone else do the hard work. Taking an open-top bus ride through the region offers a unique perspective, with three routes all taking in different areas, villages and attractions. Get a new outlook on life in the New Forest on one of their tours!
If this year’s festive celebrations are anything to go by, Paulton’s Park are sure to host yet another euphoric yuletide event in 2020. Kids will love Peppa Pig World, the decorations, rides and attractions, with something for everyone to keep one and all entertained. It’s a must-see Christmas experience for all the family, and a great bit of fun in the festive season.
Why not see what beautiful cottages we have that you can stay in to make your time in the New Forest extra special?
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.