Whichever Premier Cottage you choose in the New Forest, you’re never too far from superb scenery and a host of natural attractions and places to keep everyone happy!
Here are 8 fabulous things to do during a cottage holiday in the New Forest this autumn:
1. GREET THE ANIMALS AT NEW FOREST WILDLIFE PARK AND OTHER INDOOR ATTRACTIONS
Located in the heart of the New Forest National Park, the beautiful New Forest Wildlife Park has friendly and is a fabulous day out for the whole family, with knowledgeable keepers who will introduce you to the variety of fantastic animals! There's also adventure playgrounds for the kids to enjoy, and wonderful woodland trails. If want to stay indoors, why not explore the many local museums and galleries that are fun for all the family? Beaulieu Motor Museum, Athelhampton House and Highcliffe Castle are also well worth a visit.
2. NEW FOREST FOOD & DRINKS FESTIVAL
The New Forest Food & Drinks Festival/fortnight is currently running until Sunday the 16th of November, where you can taste and buy the best of local produce, from local wines and ales to fresh veg from the farmer, as well as be entertained by top chefs.
3. ADMIRE THE AMAZING AUTUMNAL LANDSCAPE
At this time of year, the forest glows with spectacular autumnal colours that just cannot be missed. Each morning is beautifully crisp, and the heather spread across the forest is breathtaking. Walking is one of the best ways to see the New Forest National Park in all its glory, and a plethora of autumnal walking routes will entice you to go explore the great outdoors and admire the vibrant landscape, whether that's via the woods, by sea, over heath or by rivers and streams.
4. PANNAGE PIGS
During the autumn months, the New Forest’s unique Pannage pigs roam the forest floor in search for fallen acorns. Pannage is the practice of releasing domestic pigs into a forest (also known as ‘Common of mast’), and goes back to the time of William the Conqueror, who founded The New Forest in 1079. This ancient practice lasts for around 60 days or so, and it's the only place it happens in the whole of the UK! The pigs are released into the forest to eat fallen acorns, beech mast, chestnuts and other nuts; green acorns, in particular, are poisonous to the New Forest ponies and cattle which roam the forest the majority of the year. Pigs, however, are believed to spit out the toxic skins and enjoy eating the acorns!!
5. ENJOY THE CALMNESS OF THE COAST
A brisk autumn along Milford-on-sea, a stunning stony beach with tranquil views of the Isle of Wight. There is a wonderful walk from the beach along Hurst Spit to Hurst Castle. Afterwards, you can indulge in a coffee in one of the many cafes. There's also an ice cream kiosk and a play area next to the beach for the kids to enjoy.
6. REMEMBER TO RELAX
If you want to add a bit more luxury to your New Forest cottage holiday, why not treat yourself to a spa treatment in the comfort of your own cottage? Premier Cottages has over 400 gorgeous holiday cottages with spa treatments available onsite, just waiting for you to relax and unwind in a tranquil environment.
Switch off and enjoy serenity at a holiday cottage with onsite spa treatments available.
7. GO SHOPPING
Lymington is a charming Georgian market town that offers an excellent shopping experience, from national chains to quaint independent boutiques and traders. A visit to the Chaster Market which takes place every Saturday is a must if you're out and about in Lymington! Head to the old town quay for lunch or take the ferry to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight from Lymington.
Catch the ferry from Lymington to Yarmouth, IoW. Photo copyright of Andy F and licensed for reuse under this Creative Commons Licence.
8. DISCOVER WONDERFUL CYCLING ROUTES
The New Forest hosts a vast number of cycling trails, all of varying difficulty and terrain. These carefully thought out routes are designed to allow you to spot some incredible wildlife. Bring your own bike or Forest Leisure Cycling can even deliver bikes to your door, with maps and even emergency packs for unwanted flat tyres.
If you love the idea of being surrounded by beautiful scenery and a variety of things to do, as well as having the freedom to do your own thing, than a holiday cottage in the New Forest is the perfect choice for you!
Premier Cottages has some gorgeous luxury holiday cottages in the New Forest, which provide the perfect base for autumn adventures with your favourites.