What’s Going on in the New Forest This Autumn?
With 140,000 acres of stunning landscape, it’s no wonder that the New Forest has a wealth of wildlife, walking trails, activities and places of interest to keep you busy during your time here.
But what about those autumn months when the days get shorter and the nights get considerably colder?
There are still some great things to see and experience in the New Forest this autumn, before you decide to head into hibernation; some places for the fact that they’re great to see all year round, and others are exceptionally better or have something different to see during the autumn.
That’s why we have put together a few suggestions to get you out and about in the New forest as the summer starts to become a distant memory…
Autumn Walks
The New Forest is well known for its many different walking trails that are great all year round. But there are particular walks in the New Forest that are exceptionally better than others in autumn.
You will be able to encounter bewildering autumn colours and wildlife in the New Forest with one (or all) of these walking routes:
Ibsley to Rockford Common – the Huff Duff
An area full of military history and beautiful landscapes. The heathland combines purple heather, golden foliage of oak and beech trees, and greens from the hollies and pine.
You can visit the Huff Duff (an old directional station) and associated bunker to make your autumn walk a little bit more exciting.
Hale Purlieu – figure of eight walk
With this route, you will come across some streams, and wonderful views of the Commons valleys and mires. So, you won’t want to forget your wellies on this walk.
Hightown Hill
Discover grazed lawns, dark ancient woods and hidden wetlands in the New Forest’s smallest heathland being Hightown Hill. This short walk is around 30 minutes, but it won’t disappoint.
(Find out more about these autumn walks in the New Forest)
Osborne House
Although not actually in the New Forest, Osborne House (located on the Isle of Wight) is only a short ferry trip away, and worth mentioning. The remarkable Osborne Estate was bought by Queen Victoria as the private home for her family.
There’s plenty to see at Osborne house, including the beautiful and spacious state rooms and family rooms, Queen Victoria’s beach, and the gardens and grounds of the estate.
The gardens are especially interesting in the autumn months, boasting beautiful colours that last until the end of the year and rare and unusual species of fungi that come out. You will also have the chance to see how Osborne House’s seasonal displays are achieved as this is when the team are preparing the garden for the coming season.
Sharing a connection with Osborne House, our hotel (Passford House) was home to Queen Victoria’s private secretary Lord Arthur Cecil.
(Find out more about Osborne House)
Beaulieu
Beaulieu is an award-winning visitor attraction in the New Forest that tends to be great all year round. With an abundance of activities, events and features of the estate itself to explore, there’s something for every type of traveller.
So, what’s going on at Beaulieu this autumn?
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang – 50 Years (20th October – 3rd November)
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the family favourite Chitty Chitty Bang Bang this October. With lots on during the exhibition including; exploring Coggin’s Garage to see some of the original inventions from the film, weird and wonderful costumes on display as well as original artwork and memorabilia. Not to mention, a Chitty Chitty Bang Bang reconstruction being driven around the motor museum… Which, if you’re lucky enough, you can go for a ride in! Find out more here
Fireworks Spectacular (27th October)
As the name suggests, Beaulieu’s fireworks display is a bit more extravagant than the usual fireworks display you would come across, in fact, it’s one of the largest displays in the south, and it’s choreographed with music to give it that extra wow factor.
As well as the fireworks display itself, there is also live entertainment and an old-time fairground to keep you amused whilst feeling nostalgic.
Paranormal investigations (19th October & 2nd November)
Beaulieu Abbey is the historic 13th century church ruin with connections to King John (who founded the church and donated the land to monks) and King Henry VIII (who launched a dissolution of the monasteries).
The historic site offers visitors a feel of medieval England and the remains are of an incredible beauty. But that’s not all…
You may be surprised to learn that Beaulieu Abbey has been the site of many paranormal sightings. Staff and visitors alike have reported the sightings of ghosts, as well as strange sounds and smells from the past.
Now you can join the Hampshire Ghost Club on a paranormal investigation of some of the most haunted areas of the Beaulieu Abbey ruins, from late night to early morning.
(Find out about other events and activities at Beaulieu here)
Your New Forest Visit
As you now know, there is a wealth of places to see and things to do in the New Forest this autumn, no matter what your interests are.
Passford House Hotel is located in the New Forest, making it the perfect location for these activities this autumn. If you are planning to stay in the New Forest, take a look at our offers or book one of our rooms.
