Get More From Your New Forest Hot Tub Cottage Break
Booking cottages with hot tubs in New Forest gives you the perfect blend of ancient woodland exploration and pure relaxation. This stunning national park spans 566 square kilometres across Hampshire and parts of Wiltshire. You'll find everything from luxury cottages with private hot tubs to secluded log cabins tucked away in forest clearings.
The area offers incredible variety for your hot tub stays. Wild ponies roam freely across open heathland whilst deer graze in woodland glades. We love how you can spend your days hiking forest trails or visiting historic villages before returning to soak under the stars in your own jacuzzi.
What to do on a family or couple's hot tub break in New Forest
New Forest became Britain's newest national park in 2005 but its history stretches back to 1079 when William the Conqueror declared it a royal hunting ground. Today this ancient landscape attracts over 15 million visitors annually who come to experience its unique mix of woodland and heathland.
The region works brilliantly for hot tub breaks because you get proper countryside escape without travelling hours from major cities. Southampton sits just 10 miles away whilst Bournemouth's coastal attractions are a 20-minute drive. Whether you're after romantic breaks for 2 or large family getaways there's accommodation to match.
Sightseeing in New Forest
The forest has transformed from royal hunting preserve into a protected landscape where commoners still exercise ancient grazing rights. You'll spot around 3000 ponies wandering freely alongside cattle and pigs during pannage season. Picturesque villages like Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst offer traditional pubs and independent shops whilst the coast provides sandy beaches at Milford-on-Sea.
Top 5 attractions you have to see in New Forest
From wildlife encounters to historic houses the area packs in attractions for every interest. Here are five you shouldn't miss during your cottage breaks.
Beaulieu National Motor Museum
This world-famous collection houses over 280 vehicles including legendary Formula 1 cars and iconic British motors. The 13th-century Beaulieu Abbey ruins and Palace House add historical depth. Kids love the interactive displays whilst car enthusiasts can easily spend half a day here.
Paultons Park and Peppa Pig World
Britain's best family theme park sits on the forest edge with over 70 rides and attractions. Peppa Pig World draws families with young children whilst thrill-seekers tackle rides like Storm Chaser. The park opens seasonally so check dates when booking your holiday cottages.
Exbury Gardens
These 200-acre gardens burst with colour from spring azaleas through to autumn foliage. The Rothschild family created this horticultural masterpiece in the 1920s. A steam railway runs through the grounds and the riverside location provides peaceful walks between vibrant plant collections.
Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
Free to visit and perfect for wildlife watching this forest location offers guaranteed deer sightings during feeding times at 12:30pm and 2:30pm daily in summer. Three marked walking trails let you explore ancient woodland. The Knightwood Oak nearby is the forest's most famous tree at over 500 years old.
Hurst Castle
This coastal fortress juts into the Solent on a mile-long shingle spit. Built by Henry VIII in the 1540s it played key roles in English history including imprisoning King Charles I. You can walk the spit or take a ferry from Keyhurst. The views across to the Isle of Wight are spectacular.
Don't Miss These...
| Attraction | What you'll experience | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Beaulieu Motor Museum | World-class vehicle collection plus historic abbey and stately home | Everyone |
| Paultons Park | Theme park thrills and Peppa Pig World for little ones | Families |
| Exbury Gardens | Stunning seasonal displays across 200 acres with steam railway | Couples |
| Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary | Wild deer feeding and ancient woodland walks | Everyone |
| Hurst Castle | Tudor fortress with dramatic coastal setting and island views | Everyone |
Visitor FAQs
How do I get around New Forest without a car?
The New Forest Tour operates open-top buses connecting major villages and attractions from April to October. Cycling works brilliantly with over 100 miles of traffic-free routes. Many holiday lets and lodges offer bike hire or sit near cycle paths.
What family activities work best in New Forest?
Pony spotting tops the list alongside forest walks and beach days. The New Forest Wildlife Park in Ashurst shows native species up close. Go Ape at Moors Valley offers treetop adventures whilst numerous farms welcome visitors for animal encounters.
Where should couples go for romantic breaks?
Rhinefield Ornamental Drive delivers stunning tree-lined scenery perfect for walks. Book dinner at boutique restaurants in Lymington's Georgian streets. Coastal walks at Milford-on-Sea provide sunset views whilst your private hot tub back at your retreat offers evening relaxation.
What shopping options exist near holiday homes?
Lyndhurst serves as the forest capital with independent shops and galleries. Lymington's Saturday market has run for 800 years. Ringwood offers high street chains whilst Christchurch and Bournemouth provide larger shopping centres within 30 minutes drive.
Are cottages with hot tubs in New Forest suitable year-round?
Absolutely. Winter brings cosy log cabin appeal with fewer crowds and atmospheric forest walks. Spring showcases bluebells and new foals. Summer offers long days and coastal trips. Autumn delivers stunning colours. Your hot tub works perfectly in every season especially after chilly winter hikes.
Choosing self catering accommodation with a hot tub gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Whether you're after cheap cottages for last minute deals or luxury villas with swimming pools the New Forest delivers. Dog friendly options mean your pets can join forest adventures. Large cottages suit group getaways whilst isolated chalets offer secluded escapes.
From 1 bedroom retreats for romantic weekends to big cottages sleeping large family groups there's something for every visit. Book your cottage with hot tub and discover why this ancient forest remains one of Britain's most loved destinations for country breaks and hot tub breaks alike.