If you’re inspired by Christmas movies like The Holiday, where the main characters stay in a gorgeous country cottage, now’s the time to make your vacation dreams come true.
The magical New Forest is bursting with beautiful self catering cottages, just waiting for you to book for 2024.
We’ve got cottages with thatched roofs, oak beams, roaring log fires and giant Victorian-style bath-tubs. We’ve also got cottages with swimming pools, cottages with wells and even a few with their own fishing rights!
Image - New Forest Cottages
Whether you want to be by the sea, in the middle of the forest, next to a river or overlooking the wild beauty of our heathland, you’ll find the perfect place.
Here are a few of our favourites to get you started…
Cottages with rivers…
The 5* Undercastle Cottage at Fordingbridge is on an idyllic spot, on the River Avon and comes with fishing rights on this highly-prized stretch, plus the opportunity to spot otters right outside your front door!
Image - Undercastle Cottage
Old Bridge Cottage also lies on the banks of the River Avon. Sleeping up to 18 people, with pool and a hot tub, it’s a fabulous place to gather with friends and family for a well needed break.
Over in Alderholt, Miller’s End cottage, at Alderholt Mill, is the perfect waterside hideaway for two, and comes with ancient oak beams and a working waterwheel.
Cottages on farms…
Upper Kingston Farm cottages are set on a working farm near Ringwood with five different spaces to choose from and owners who are more than keen to help you book some fantastic local activities.
Image - Upper Kingston Farm
Hucklesbrook Farm nestles in the Avon Valley near to South Gorley and visitors to the three cottages can enjoy the sight of the New Forest’s famous roaming ponies and cattle, as well as collect freshly-laid eggs for breakfast.
Bluebell Copse Cottages is set in 70 acres of stunning farmland. With modern touches to this beautiful home makes the ideal place to escape for some peace and quiet. Plus they have a hot tub, too!
Cottages on estates…
From the grand manor house with an Aga, to their converted railway carriage, to the rose-covered traditional cottage, Hinton Admiral Estate Self Catering near Christchurch offers holidays on your own country estate, to explore during your stay.
Meanwhile, Cadnam Lodge Estate in the Forest’s east has two catering cottages set in 12 acres of private parkland, including a lake
Image - Cadnam Lodge Estate
Cottages near the sea…
Dine overlooking the Isle of Wight’s famous Needles when you stay at New Forest Cottages’ Genesta House at Milford-on-Sea. The beach is just a few minutes’ walk from the cottage, which sleeps six, and is handy for cliff-top strolls.
Cottages with tradition…
Short Stay Homes’ Beck Cottage in Woodgreen sleeps 12, in a traditional cottage residence with a thatched roof and beautiful beams. The white décor and beautiful vintage touches perfectly encapsulate the modern country look.
Image - Short Stay Homes
Graylands Cottage at Godshill near Fordingbridge sleeps eight and is surrounded by countryside, with wooden beams plus an inglenook fireplace inside to cosy up in front of at the end of a busy day.
Think beamed ceilings, original features and a welcoming log burner, the recently refurbished Little Home Farm in Lymington still holds with wonderful traditional charm.
Cottages with…amazing extras!
The Coding Hut at Beaulieu, with New Forest Cottages, sleeps six and was once used as a spy base during World War II. Barn style, with vintage décor and a woodburning stove, the property is nestled between the forest and a shingle beach on a private track.
Image - New Forest Cottages
Burgate Manor Farm’s The Granary can sleep up to 18 people as well as seat 24 at its table. Along with views over the River Avon, there is a woodburning stove and two dishwashers, washing machines and fridges. Or take a look at Forester’s Cottage, with their brand-new games room!
For a complete contrast, Wilf’s Cabin at Burley Rails cottage takes you off the beaten-track, right into the heart of the beautiful New Forest. Sleeping two adults and two children, they also cater for horses, so, with prior arrangement, you can bring your four-legged friend, too. Or stay within the grounds of the lovely Careys Manor Hotel at Pittefaux Cottage, sleeping up to 8 guests in this home away from home!
Image - Pittefaux Cottage
- For loads more cottages, from dog-friendly, to fully accessible, visit thenewforest.co.uk