Top things to do on a spa break in New Forest

The New Forest is one of the most beautiful parts of the UK, famed for its superb food, beautiful landscapes and wild ponies, there are so many reasons to visit on a spa break, and such a lot of activities and entertainment to enjoy.

Famous for being William the Conqueror's 'new hunting forest’, the national park has its name because it was created at the expense of more than 20 small hamlets and isolated farmsteads; hence it was then 'new' as a single compact area.

So what can you look forward to on a spa break in New Forest?

Things to see and do in the New Forest

Walking

There are so many wonderful walking routes marked out in the New Forest, and hiking is a wonderful way to explore the natural landscapes, keeping an eagle eye out for the wildlife. From woodland to heathland, pretty villages to the 40-mile coast, avid walkers delight in more than 140 miles of tracks and footpath to venture out onto. The area is also known for its free-roaming ponies, donkeys, cattle, deer, and pigs, which certainly adds a little variety into the mix.

Horse riding

If venturing out on foot doesn’t quite cut it, perhaps horse riding is more your speed? It’s one of the finest ways to experience the natural beauty of the National Park with bridleways and tracks crossing the open heathland - what could be more idyllic?

Water sports

With 43 miles of glorious coastline, it would be remiss not to get out onto the water. Salt Marshes, sand and seabirds are one of the beauties of the area - something that is often overshadowed by the 193,000 acres of woodland. Whether you fancy water-skiing and wakeboarding, Rib rides or luxury sunset cruises, it’s a whole new dimension to explore.

Visit Brockenhurst

Officially declared 'Britain's Most Beautiful Place to Live' by Leaders Estate Agent, the village of Brockenhurst is a popular place to visit. It’s filled with friendly inns and pubs as well as attractions such as the Beaulieu National Motor Museum and Beaulieu Palace House. You can even go canoeing on the privately-owned Beaulieu River. Brockenhurst is a destination in its own right, so you might have to make more than one trip to the New Forest?

Historic sites

There’s lots of history to explore in the New Forest. For example, you can travel back in time at Buckler’s Hard - an 18th-century naval village where Nelson’s fleet was built. It’s been preserved exactly as it was more than 200 years ago, with its own Maritime Museum and a series of period homes. 

Spas to visit in the New Forest

Chewton Glen

Set in 130 acres of Hampshire countryside on the edge of the New Forest National Park, Chewton Glen is part of the Relais & Châteaux collection. A five-star luxury hotel, it is a Three Star Sustainability Champion and has both an award-winning spa and an award-winning restaurant.

Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa

Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa offers a lavish hotel as well as a uniquely beautiful spa that takes its inspiration from Thailand. The spa’s attention to detail, particularly when it comes to their in-house therapist training, unique facilities and their own signature tea all contribute to it being a favourite New Forest spa. 

New Park Manor Hotel & Spa

Surrounded by woodland, New Park Manor Hotel & Spa brings together historic architecture with an ultra modern spa, where the views bring the outside in and add to the sense of wellbeing. Roaring fires in original fireplaces, afternoon teas, snug zones and a cinema room set the scene for relaxation immediately you enter this historic manor house, while the New Forest countryside views offer a deep sense of tranquillity. The views are carried through to the spa, which includes a hot tub overlooking the forest and an indoor pool with a garden vista.