Outdoor Activities in the New Forest: The Heart of Wilder Discoveries
From ancient woodland trails and winding rivers to open heathland and dramatic coastline, the New Forest is one of the UK's most exciting destinations for outdoor adventure. Whether you're planning an active weekend break, a summer escape or simply looking for the best outdoor activities in the New Forest, you'll find countless opportunities to explore, connect with nature and make unforgettable memories.
At Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa, we're proud to be at the heart of these wilder discoveries. From cycling and paddleboarding to horse riding and coastal adventures, here's how to experience the New Forest through movement, exploration and adventure.
Discover Hidden Forest Trails
Cycling in the New Forest is one of the most popular ways to experience the National Park. With over 140 miles of traffic-free tracks and scenic routes, there are cycling trails suitable for casual riders and experienced cyclists alike.
Pedal beneath ancient woodland canopies, explore open heathland and discover hidden corners of the Forest that many visitors never see. Along the way, you may encounter the New Forest’s famous free-roaming ponies, grazing deer and wandering donkeys.
For those who prefer to explore on foot, the New Forest also offers some of the best walking trails and trail-running routes in southern England, making it a fantastic destination for active breaks and outdoor adventures.
Local tip: Head out early to enjoy quieter trails and the best opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Discover Life on the Water
The New Forest isn’t just woodland and heathland. Its rivers, coastline and sheltered inlets offer a completely different perspective on the landscape.
Just 5.6 miles from Careys Manor, New Forest Activities offers exciting and safe family-friendly adventures on the beautiful Beaulieu River. Whether you’re inspired to try kayaking or canoeing, their guided tours and rental experiences provide a fantastic way to explore the water while taking in the area’s stunning scenery and wildlife.
Stand Up Paddleboarding is another fantastic way to experience the area’s waterways. Just a 15-minute drive from the hotel, Lymington based SUP Styles offers excellent opportunities to get out on the water and enjoy this increasingly popular activity. Paddle along the town’s picturesque coastline and harbour, taking in views of the Solent while enjoying a fun and accessible adventure suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
If you’d rather stay on dry land, New Forest Activities also offers a range of outdoor pursuits including archery, battle zones, rope courses, bushcraft experiences and scenic cycle rides, making it easy for every member of the family to find their perfect adventure.
Careys Manor Hotel residents can also enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on bookings with New Forest Activities, making it even easier to embrace your next wilder discovery!
Local tip: A sunset paddle on a warm summer evening offers some of the most memorable views in the New Forest.
Discover New Perspectives on Horseback
Horse riding in the New Forest offers a truly immersive way to explore the National Park and experience its landscapes much as they have been enjoyed for centuries.
Guided rides take visitors through woodland trails, open heathland and scenic countryside, revealing parts of the Forest that can only be fully appreciated from the saddle. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner, horse riding provides a memorable way to connect with the landscape and discover the quieter side of the New Forest.
The New Forest is home to several highly regarded riding centres offering lessons, guided hacks and bespoke experiences for riders of all abilities. Exploring on horseback allows you to venture deeper into the Forest, taking in sweeping views, spotting free-roaming ponies and wildlife, and enjoying a unique perspective on this protected landscape.
Burley Villa School of Riding is 5.7 Miles from Careys Manor Hotel and offers both Western and English riding caters to everyone, from beginners to advanced riders.
Local Tip: Choose an early morning or late afternoon ride during the summer months to enjoy cooler temperatures, quieter trails and some of the best opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Discover Your Competitive Side
Just a short drive from Careys Manor in Brockenhurst, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to add a little friendly competition to your New Forest adventure.
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at nearby courses such as Brokenhurst Manor Golf Club, one of Hampshire’s most highly regarded courses, or enjoy a round at New Forest Golf Club in Lyndhurst, where free-roaming ponies are often part of the scenery.
A Wilder Discoveries Weekend in the New Forest
Looking for inspiration for your next adventure holiday in the New Forest?
Day One
- Morning cycle ride through New Forest trails
- Enjoy chilled drinks and relaxed dining with lunch at The Neigh Bar
- Afternoon on the water with stand up paddleboarding in Lymington
- Seasonal dining at Careys Manor’s relaxed, British restaurant Cambium
- Enjoy a restful night’s sleep in your chosen room and dream of the wilder discoveries that await tomorrow
Day Two
- An early morning New Forest walk followed by a hearty breakfast back at Cambium
- Explore the New Forest on horseback and encounter free-roaming ponies, deer and other wildlife along the way
- An afternoon relaxation at SenSpa, why not try an Essential Relaxation Massage to ease tired muscles?
- Spend the evening enjoying delicious, authentic Thai cuisine at Zen Garden
- Return to your room knowing you’ve experienced the very best of the New Forest, with Careys Manor perfectly placed at the heart of every adventure
Plan your summer escape at Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa and uncover the beauty, adventure and tranquillity that await in the heart of the New Forest. From woodland trails and waterside adventures to moments of relaxation at SenSpa, your next wilder discovery starts here.
