Christmas is a magical time, and no more so than here in the New Forest. Our woodlands offer tranquil and inviting walks, you’ll see the twinkling lights in our towns and villages and country pubs with roaring log fires to snuggle up in front of.
Things to do at Christmas
Christmas in the New Forest sees the area come alive with special Christmas events such as festive markets, illuminating light trails, wreath making, theatre shows, carol services and delicious festive cuisine.
Meet Peppa Pig and her family in a festive setting at Paulton’s Park - perfect for younger family members! Or enjoy a Christmas together at Beaulieu. Or perhaps you want to spot Santa as you paddle along the Beaulieu river with New Forest Activities? Loads of our other amazing attractions and activities in the New Forest are holding special festive events for you to join in with in the run up to Christmas - so make sure you take a look at our what’s on pages to discover more about the festive events taking place over Christmas in the New Forest.
Come and enjoy some Christmas shopping in our boutiques and independent shops. Lymington, Ringwood and Lyndhurst all make great places to pick up Christmas gifts, or head to one of our farm shops to get your fresh local produce - ideal for rustling up the perfect Christmas dinner.
The New Forest can become celebration central during the Christmas period, with hotels, pubs, restaurants and other local eateries offering some amazing Christmas menus and special deals. Check through our website for inspiration on where to celebrate with your family and friends. Plus, many locations offer Christmas Party packages for festive get-togethers with family, friends and work colleagues.
The colder weather doesn’t have to stop you from getting active either, why not embark on one of our many walks - ideal for nature spotting, or for getting away from the mayhem that can be the lead up to Christmas?
What better way to feel festive than a Christmas drink, or 2, at one of our local, cosy country pubs? Take a look at our pubs here - the majority of them are also child and dog-friendly...
Enjoy a wonderful Christmas Break in the New Forest this year
If you fancy a more relaxing festive season this year and don’t want to have to worry about organising Christmas then why not look at booking one of our festive breaks?
Many of our hotels offer Christmas breaks that include Christmas lunch, overnight accommodation and other fantastic entertainment. From luxury 5* Hotels to cosy country inns, the perfect place to spend this special time of the year is waiting for you!
Perhaps you still want to enjoy the day with all of your family and friends but where you live maybe isn’t the right place to hold the festivities?! Rent out one of our gorgeous Self Catering Holiday Cottages – there are hundreds of places to choose from around the New Forest, some hosting even more than 20 people!
Many of our B&Bs, Holiday Parks and Campsites also stay open over the festive season too.
Make sure you book now so you don't miss out!
Take the stress of cooking Christmas lunch away
If you live locally or if you are staying in the New Forest over the festive period, why not head to one of our hotels, pubs or restaurants for a delicious Christmas Day lunch so you don’t have to do any of the work? There are some fantastic menus and varied prices for everyone’s needs and budgets.
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