Local Activities for the Summer Holidays

Looking for free family adventures this summer holiday? Fortunately, families living around the edges of the New Forest are surrounded by some of Hampshire's best outdoor spaces. From wildlife-rich lakes and ancient woodland to coastal nature reserves and heathland full of New Forest ponies, there are plenty of opportunities for children to explore nature without spending a penny. Whether you're searching for butterflies, watching birds, building dens or simply enjoying a picnic in the fresh air, these local destinations offer memorable summer days out within a short drive of home. 

Woodland & Heathland

The New Forest is the standout destination for free (and some paid) outdoor adventures. Children can spot free-roaming ponies, cattle, donkeys and deer while exploring woodland, heathland and streams.

Great family-friendly areas include:

Ashurst

Known is ‘the gateway to the New Forest’, this is a great place if you have younger children because there are toilets on the campsite. If you walk through the back of the campsite, you have the option of walking towards the Butterfly farm, across the heathland towards the Beaulieu Road pub (with a train station for quick travel back), or walking in a short circle back to Ashurst via the gravel tracks. Although there is a busy road through the middle of the village, this can entirely avoided by using the forest tracks/paths and the car park next to the Happy Cheese pub. 

Longdown Dairy Farm

This is a very popular spot for young children. It is a location that has an entry fee however is an excellent day out. It can get very busy so arrive early if you want to avoid long queues. 

Blackwater Arboretum 

An easy, accessible walk among some of the tallest and oldest trees in the New Forest. Perfect for younger children and buggy users.

The Blackwater Arboretum was established in 1859 during the Victorian era when planting exotic, non-native trees was highly fashionable. It was originally designed to test how well American conifers would adapt to the English climate, resulting in an impressive collection of towering coast redwoods, giant sequoias, and Douglas firs.

Some activity ideas while you visit these sights include:

• Wildlife bingo 

• Tree identification 

• Mini-beast hunts 

• Nature photography 

Lakes and Nature Reserves

Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve

One of the best local wildlife reserves, with lakes, woodland and wetlands attracting birds, dragonflies and butterflies. This gem is hidden away behind an ugly industrial estate. Don’t let the initial drive put you off, the reserve is beautiful in the height of summer. Please note that this area is not suitable for swimming/padding because of the bacterial growth produced by the local ecosystem.  

Ideal for:

• Pond-life spotting 

• Family picnics 

• Gentle walks 

Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve

Around 15–20 miles from Totton, this reserve is one of Hampshire's premier birdwatching sites. Several hides overlook the lakes, making it easy for children to observe wildlife without disturbing it.

Look out for:

• Kingfishers 

• Herons 

• Dragonflies 

• Birds of prey 

Coastal Wildlife and Beach Exploration

Lepe Country Park

A wonderful combination of beach, woodland and coastal habitats. Lepe has a huge carpark that has a BBQ area that can be rented for an afternoon. An old café was recently renovated, providing tasty (though expensive) food. Whilst this is an amazing location, be warned that the car parking charges can be steep. 

Children can:

• Search for crabs and shells 

• Observe seabirds 

• Explore the shoreline 

• Learn about coastal habitats 

Calshot Beach

A shingle beach at the end of Southampton Water offering opportunities to spot shorebirds, boats and marine life. Calshot is well known for its beach huts, adventure centre and fishing scene. This is also a great spot for looking at various ships coming into harbour, from large container vessels to small pleasure craft. 

With so many fantastic outdoor spaces right on our doorstep, there is no need to travel far or spend a fortune to keep children entertained this summer. Whether your family enjoys spotting wildlife in the New Forest, exploring the shoreline at Lepe, watching birds at Blashford Lakes or simply enjoying a picnic beside a local nature reserve, these free destinations offer countless opportunities for adventure, learning and fresh air. Summer is the perfect time to encourage children to connect with nature, discover new wildlife and create lasting family memories. Why not challenge your child to see how many different animals, birds and insects they can spot before the holidays are over?