Can you think of a better adventure than an exciting getaway in the New Forest? We think not! The New Forest is enchanting and the perfect place to share fantastic experiences with your beloved canine companion. Within this magical part of the UK, you can expect lovely strolls through wonderful woodlands, heathlands, and even down coastal paths. The New Forest truly ticks every box, there’s no wonder why it’s so popular with dog owners, furry friends, and their families all year round!
If you’re planning a trip to the New Forest then you have come to the right place. Within this article, we share our top tips for dog-friendly holidays in the New Forest.
1. Bring your walking shoes for a dog walking paradise!
There are endless walking routes to explore during your getaway in the New Forest. Therefore, you’ll be wanting comfortable walking shoes to wear that are suitable for all weather conditions. You will especially want to avoid open-toe shoes as you won’t want to be getting any pesky tick bites on your feet – or anywhere else for that matter. We recommend tucking your shirt in, as well as your trousers into your socks. Also, spray yourself with an insect repellent and avoid hiking in long grass as biting insects are prone to lurk here.
Four-legged friends are affected by ticks just like us humans. While there is no full-proof method to prevent your dog getting ticks, there are some things you can do to minimise the chances. For example, avoiding long grass and stick to paths, always checking your pup’s fur after walks (around the head, ears, armpits, tummy, and groin). You can also use a parasite treatment or a tick repellent collar during your holiday.
2. Embark on amazing walking trails with your dog
There are over 140 miles of walking trails to enjoy with your pooch in the New Forest. Can you explore all off them? The New Forest National Park Authority estimate there are 25,000 dog walks to be had per day here…Challenge accepted!
One of the most popular trails has to be the Tall Trees Trail. A short and easy stroll that starts at Blackwater car park in the New Forest National Park. Along the way, you will be surrounded by mighty Douglas fir trees and redwoods planted during Queen Victoria’s reign. Another easy trail is the Beaulieu to Bucklers Hard walk. A 4-mile round trip with a dog-friendly pub stop on route. This beautiful stroll leads along the river banks, and through pretty villages, woodlands, and marshes.
Does your coastal canine like their paws sandy? Then they will love the Sea Air Trail in Lymington. This easy walking trail starts at the Lymington Marina and will take you to Milford-on-Sea. We challenge you to count the fascinating birds that you’ll spot as you pass through the Keyhaven Nature Reserve on your journey! If you have an energetic pup, the 9-mile easy to moderate Abbotswell to Fritham walk is sure to tire them out. There’s plenty to see during the long stroll including the Millennium Monument and a bomb crater!
3. Visit the Dogstival!
Have you heard of the brand-new festival especially for dogs? The Dogstival takes place between the 18th-19th May, so if you are visiting the dog-friendly New Forest with your furry friend during this time – then why not drop by!? Set within the beautiful Pylewell Park Estate, there couldn’t be a better spot to host the feel-good Dogstival event. Plus, there’s even a dog-friendly beach here. Undeniably, a major win-win for most dogs! The festival features plenty of fun activities to entertain your four-legged friend and the whole family.
4. Don’t forget about the dog-friendly beaches!
While the dog-friendly New Forest is best known for its woods – many may forget there are some stunning dog-friendly beaches nearby too. There’s the seaside village of Milford-on-Sea with its colourful beach huts dotted along the shingles and Hurst Split near Keyhaven. Both of which welcome furry friends all year without any restrictions!
What to take with you to a dog-friendly beach?
If you’re planning on visiting a dog-friendly beach during your holiday – whether it be just for a stroll or a long relax on the sand or shingle – you’ll be wanting to take the following items with you:
- Bottled water for your dog – we don’t want our fluffy friends dehydrating!
- An umbrella for some much-needed shade
- A blanket to cosy up together on
- Your dog’s towel
- Dog-safe sun cream – yes, dogs can get a sunburn too if it’s hot outside! (Especially those with pink skin or light-coloured fur.) Apply the sun cream to their most vulnerable areas like belly, thighs, nose, and ears.
- Life Vest: Like humans, some dogs can swim and others can’t…. but even if your pup is a confident swimmer, a life vest is still a good idea to ensure they are safe when swimming in the sea.
- A frisbee, ball or toy: What dog doesn’t love chasing after a frisbee or ball? Or perhaps a waterproof dog toy that can float! This will keep your four-legged friends entertained for hours.
5. Explore the museums and castles of the New Forest
When you visit Milford on Sea, you simply cannot miss the dog-friendly Hurst Castle. A historic fort built by Henry VIII in 1541, the castle was part of the King’s Device programme to protect England from invasion. As you wander around this historic coastal fort, you will learn all about its history and the lives of soldiers who served here. Plus, good news, your dog is allowed in all of the rooms and exhibits.
As for museums, car fanatics will adore the Beaulieu National Motor Museum where you can marvel at the 250 cars on display, from vintage vehicles to the latest super models on the market. Unfortunately, our furry friends are not allowed inside the building of this one, so will have to wait outside as you take it in turns to look around the cars.
Understandably, if you’re not keen on leaving your pooch outside or having to go around the museum separately, the dog-friendly New Forest Heritage Centre in Lyndhurst is a museum and gallery that welcomes dogs inside! Within this delightful building, you will learn all about the New Forest’s rich history. Whilst in Lyndhurst, its worth dropping by the Reptile Centre too. Dogs are welcome here as long as they are kept on leads.
6. Discover dog-friendly hotels and pet-friendly holiday cottages in the New Forest
Nobody wants to leave their four-legged friend behind when going on holiday. Luckily, when you book through PetsPyjamas, you don’t have to! All of our dog-friendly hotels and holiday cottages warmly welcome four-legged friends. We even feature dog-friendly pubs with rooms for a warmly welcoming atmosphere. Here, you can mingle with the locals and enjoy delicious food, before retreating upstairs to your dog-friendly room.
No matter which dog-friendly accommodation you choose, you’re bound to have an adventure to remember with PetsPyjamas. Many of our properties include exclusive packages you won’t find anywhere else – these will ensure your holiday is made extra special!
Are you looking for the perfect dog-friendly hotel or cottage to stay in for your New Forest retreat?
Dog-Friendly Hotels and Cottages:
- The Bell Inn, Lyndhurst: A charming 18th century coaching inn, the dog-friendly The Bell Inn is located in the heart of the New Forest, so you couldn’t find a more pawfect base. With miles of open heathland, walking trails, and gorgeous countryside on your doorstep, you and your trusty hound are sure to have an adventure to remember here.
- Balmer Lawn Hotel, Brockenhurst: Balmer Lawn is a pet-friendly haven and ideal for both romantic retreats and family getaways. The hotel’s spa and leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, sauna, a fully-equipped gym, tennis courts and croquet lawns! Plus, each room is beautifully designed, creating an oasis of calm.
- Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa, Barton-on-Sea: Set in 130 acres of glorious grounds, dog-friendly Chewton Glen is regarded as one of the UK’s finest boutique luxury hotels. Located on the edge of the New Forest National Park and within walking distance to the sea, you and your canine companion will have the ideal base to explore.
- Four Oaks, Bransgore: This chocolate box thatched cottage offers a relaxing retreat with its very own hot tub. Just a few miles from the Dorset coast and on the edge of the New Forest National Park, Four Oaks cottage features plenty of thoughtful extras. This makes it the ideal getaway for families.
- Starboard Light, Lymington: A quaint terraced cottage full of maritime charm, Starboard Light is a cosy contemporary home away from home. With an open-plan living room, a spacious and airy bedroom with a king-sized bed, and beautiful views to wake up to, Starboard Light is a heavenly romantic retreat.
Remember if none of these tickle your fancy, there are plenty more over on our website!
Dog-Friendly Holidays to the New Forest with PetsPyjamas
As you can see, the dog-friendly New Forest National Park is a dog’s paradise. We hope this article has helped fuel your holiday inspiration! If so, you can secure your perfect New Forest holiday today via our website.