Sarah
16 January 2020
If you’re a family who enjoys a mix of outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation, then you won’t find a better destination. New Forest family holidays are all about bike rides through the woodland, walks across open heathland, spotting ponies through the trees, pub lunches in idyllic villages, trying new activities on the river or picnicking in the sun. We could go on….
Whether you’re planning a short break in February, May or October half-term, a summer holiday in the countryside or a family celebration at Christmas time, our collection of cottages for New Forest family holidays will leave you with plenty of choices.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the New Forest in this delightful family house, located on the fringes of Lyndhurst village. With open countryside right on the doorstep and a short walk into the village, it offers the best of both worlds. Children will love spending time in the playroom, nestled into the eaves of the property and in the summer, the huge shared garden is perfect for BBQs and outside games.
What our guests say:
"Great house. Great location. Perfect for a family getaway. The New Forest is on your doorstep as are Lyndhurst’s shops, bars and restaurants. Grandparents, parents and our 3 boys had a fab time exploring all the area had to offer. The house itself ticked all the boxes especially the layout of the bedrooms - super family friendly!" - David
If it’s the wow-factor you are after, then we are sure this stunning property will impress you. Architecturally designed, this luxury family retreat is sleek and stylish with plenty of light and spacious living areas – including a study/playroom which the younger members of your family will love. Set in the coastal town of Mudeford, only metres from the beach and a short drive into the New Forest National Park, families can enjoy plenty of fun-filled days out, as well as ultimate relaxation.
- Sleeps: 8
- Nearby family attraction: Catch Mudeford Ferry from the quay and across to Mudeford sandbank. From here you can explore the wild habitats of Hengistbury Head, stopping for refreshments at the Beach House Cafe.
What our guests say:
"It's a modern, very beautiful and spacious property just a few hundred yards from the beach. All mod cons and then some! Very private, plenty of parking and a nice outside space. Great for families, children can play or watch TV etc without disturbing adults. It's hard to think of appropriate superlatives to describe it, our first and last reaction was WOW!" – Phillip
This charming cottage is the ultimate setting for a family holiday, with beautiful interiors and a warm welcome. Complete with a playroom and a garden playhouse for sunny summer days, children will love it here too. During the summer, spend time in the pretty garden - dine alfresco and watch the little ones as they play on the lawn and enjoy the great outdoors. You’ll be situated in the very heart of the national park in the idyllic village of Brockenhurst, where rural walks and bike trails are in abundance.
- Sleeps: 6
- Nearby family attraction: Explore the New Forest on horseback with Brockenhurst Riding Stables - children over 4 years old are welcome.
What our guests say:
"Lovely cottage which had been thoughtfully equipped. Our girls loved the upstairs play area and outdoor playhouse. Ideal for a family holiday in a perfect location. We had an amazing time. - Laura
You’ll be located on a peaceful country lane yet within walking distance of the local pub, and perfectly situated to choose from days out on the coast or in the forest. Every detail has been considered in this delightful house to ensure families enjoy a comfortable home-from-home – there is even a cosy cot room to accommodate the littlest members of your family. Complete with a wood burner and a pretty garden with space for al fresco dining and room for children to play, it’s a wonderful option for both winter breaks and summer holidays.
What our guests say:
"The house was as described and very clean with all facilities for couples or families and having two sitting areas was great for kids and adults alike when sharing. There was a good selection of children's videos and games so do not pack them. The White Buck is a few steps away and food is good, and they are very welcoming of dogs, children and adults." – Janet
This fabulous property near Ringwood will set you in a desirable location for family holidays in Hampshire, with easy access to Dorset, the Isle of Wight and the New Forest National Park. When it comes to choosing activities and days out, there will be no end of suitable opportunities. Beautifully decorated with a touch of luxury, you’ll feel truly spoilt throughout your stay. Complete with bunk beds, a rocking horse and outdoor play area, children will be in their element!
A wonderful option for family weekend breaks or a getaway over Easter, this rural idyll is set on a smallholding on a New Forest farm. A great way to engage youngsters with the natural world, they can spend the morning feeding the farm animals - including alpacas - and the afternoons picnicking by the river. When the temperature drops, you can all snuggle up in front of the wood burner in your cosy cabin to plan another day of activities.
- Sleeps: 5
- Nearby attraction: Peppa Pig World is only 10 minutes away! Read our guide >>
What our guests say:
"The cottage is perfect for a family holiday. It is cosy and very well equipped, with thoughtful touches, like plastic plates, cups etc for the children. It is set in a secluded spot, which is very peaceful. Children will love the alpacas, and the friendly cat, who visits every day! There is a barn with toys and games for all to play! There is a shop which sells everything in less than a 2-minute drive, and Peppa Pig World is only 10 minutes by car. A lovely location, and very friendly owners." – Juliet
Although perfect at any time of the year, Gilpin comes into its own during the summer – it's complete with an outdoor swimming pool, hot tub and plenty of outdoor space for little ones to burn off some energy! Sleeping up to ten people and a dog, this is the ultimate setting for family celebrations that include grandparents, aunties, uncles and cousins too! If you can tear yourself away, gather the troops for the day and head into the New Forest for plenty of outdoor adventures. Located 2 miles from Lymington, choose from both the coast and countryside.
What our guests say:
"Fantastic house, location, facilities. My family (10 people from a 6 mth old to grandparents) spent the early May Bank Holiday weekend here and spent the entire time in relaxing and enjoying the facilities as this place has it all (even a 24-hr Co-op over the road). Highly recommended, we will definitely book it again." – Chris
Stay beside the river on the historic Beaulieu Estate in this luxurious property. Not only does it enjoy one of the most beautiful settings in the New Forest, but it is also surrounded by a plethora of things for families to see and do. Whether you stay in summer or winter, every season at Beaulieu House is special, from daily ambles through the grounds to enjoying the quirky yurt (available on request) to drinking hot chocolate beside the fire after a day exploring the New Forest or the Jurassic Coast.
Haven by name, haven by nature! This nautically-inspired holiday home in the seaside village of Mudeford is perfect for beach-loving families and offers a chic décor with stunning open-plan living space. Take a short stroll through the village for a bucket and spade day on Avon Beach or discover some of the fantastic family days out in Hampshire and the New Forest. Complete with a cute twin room and a summerhouse packed with games, children of all ages have been well-catered for. Stay in the summer and no doubt the beautiful garden will get plenty of use, sit back on the comfy chairs while your dinner sizzles on the BBQ and the last of the sun melts away.
- Sleeps: 6
- Nearby attraction: Enjoy numerous activities for kids during the school holidays at Highcliffe Castle
What our guests say:
"A bright and spacious one level cottage in a good location for the beach and harbour. Well-equipped and impeccably presented, the cottage and garden were welcoming and comfortable with good quality linen, towels and china. The games room in the garden was great! We are looking forward to returning next summer." – Gillian
Split across two buildings, this is a great option for families who need a little more space. In addition to the main house, two guests can sleep in the converted barn, which also houses a games room! As well as seven humans, your canine friend is welcome to join you too! While the adults catch up in the kitchen, children can watch a DVD in the handy snug or play on the swings in the garden.
What our guests say:
"Fantastic location if you want to be close to nature; just minutes away from footpaths yet also close to villages, lovely pubs and restaurants. Something for everyone. The house was more than we hoped for. Ideal for families; gorgeous grounds for fine weather and the barn to socialise in when the weather is poor. We would love to return." – Nicola
Have you been inspired by these fantastic options of New Forest accommodation for families? If you’re still searching, check out our full collection of family-friendly cottages to find something perfect.
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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.