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So much to do and See! There are numerous attractions in the New Forest that offer all types of activities for children and cover most types of taste. One obvious attraction for children in the New Forest is the wildlife, where children can see the New Forest Ponies and other animals such as donkeys and pigs roaming the villages and heath land.
Adventure Parks and Beaulieu 
For the very brave and adventurous there are the adventure parks such as Adventure Wonderland, Paultons Park and Beaulieu which offer an alternative and exciting option.
Activity Farms, Slithery Snakes and Birds of Prey
Other activities for children include visiting Longdown Activity Farm where they can interact with animals. The Raptor and Reptile Centre (see below) is very popular and children can see birds of prey in action and gaze at slithery snakes. There’s also the Heavy Horse Centre and the New Forest Cider Farm which never fails to please. There so much to do that you may end up spending much longer in the Forest with your children than you thought!
Ride a Bike or a Horse or Paddle a Canoe!
If you want to discover something of the heritage in the New Forest then children can check out some of the numerous museums, galleries and incredible gardens such as Exbury Gardens in the forest.
For children with lots of energy you could always hire a bike and not only see the forest but also burn off excess high spirits and calories. With miles and miles of car free cycle tracks you can see the Forest as it really is and get up close (but not too close) to the New Forest ponies. Water based New Forest Activities include canoeing, kayaking and even a banana boat ride. There are several horse riding stables in the New Forest that specialise in children.
A Day on the Beach or a Special Event
The New Forest has 26 miles of coastline and offers lots of opportunities for the more traditional seaside past times such as making sandcastles and playing cricket on the safe beaches. Many of the New Forest beaches are ideal for children as they shelve gently into deeper waters.
There’s also lots of special New Forest events that children will enjoy from the Ringwood British Pedal Car Grand Prix to the ever popular New Forest Show. Take a look at the events page on this site for more ideas and to make your visit very special.
If it rains the New Forest boasts three excellent leisure centres with indoor swimming pools at Ringwood, Lymington and New Milton.
There are special events happening in the forest every single day. From small locally organised events to ones that attract a worldwide audience. The events section on this site is the most comprehensive anywhere, and you are certain to find something that will make your visit to the New Forest even more special. |
