Brockenhurst is a large village in the New Forest National Park, a large area of heathland and ancient woodland with native ponies wandering freely everywhere including the village (cattle grids protect the station area). Brockenhurst is the junction for trains to Lymington and makes a good base for exploring the New Forest by public transport.
In summer (early July to early September) the New Forest Tour buses stop at the station and they are a good way to see and explore the New Forest.
Cycling is another good way to explore the New Forest and cycle hire is available from the car park at Brockenhurst station: www.cyclex.co.uk
For walking and cycling in the New Forest I recommend the Ordnance Survey 1:25000 Explorer map: OS map New Forest.
You can also subscribe to OS Maps Online to view and print detailed maps covering all of England, Scotland and Wales, excellent value if you plan to explore several areas.
A large reserve with ancient woodland, heathland, pastures, ponds and the Lymington River.
The wide variety of habitats supports many species - highlights are deer, woodland birds, butterflies and dragonflies in summer and
wildflowers (including bluebells in some woodland and heather on the heathland), plus autumn colour and fungi in the woodland.
A trail guide and map can be downloaded from the website. Some paths will be muddy after wet weather.
Open at all times.
www.hiwwt.org.uk
A large village at the heart of the New Forest National Park,
known as the 'Capital of the New Forest'.
In summer (early July to early September) the New Forest Tour
buses pass through Lyndhurst.
TI New Forest Centre, tel. 023 8028 3444.
www.thenewforest.co.uk | www.thenewforesttour.info
Bus 6 from station to Lyndhurst, 10 minutes journey. M-S mostly hourly, Sun & BH 2-hourly. Operated by Bluestar. In summer (early July to early September) also New Forest Tour buses. Buses also operate from Ashurst New Forest.
The Museum covers the history, traditions and wildlife of the New Forest, including the famous ponies.
Highlights include a traditional cob cottage and a long embroidery of the New Forest. Introductory film show.
Gallery with exhibitions and events (see website).
Open Daily 1000-1700 (1600 Nov-Mar).
www.newforestheritage.org.uk
Bus to Lyndhurst, see above.
Beaulieu is famous for the National Motor Museum with over 250 vehicles including F1 cars, land speed record breakers
and early cars from the pioneering days of motoring. Victorian Beaulieu Palace House, the Montagu family home. Flower and kitchen gardens, topiary.
Beaulieu Abbey ruins. Monorail and open-top veteran bus rides. Secret Army Exhibition about the SOE of the Second World War.
Restaurant and picnic areas. Beaulieu is pronounced 'Bewley'.
Open Daily 1000-1700 (1800 Jun-Aug).
www.beaulieu.co.uk
Bus from early July to early September
New Forest Tour buses daily from station to entrance.
Buses also operate from Lymington for a shorter journey.
Beaulieu is 3¼ miles from Beaulieu Road station.
The Gardens are famous for rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias. Other highlights include herbaceous borders,
rare trees and shrubs, irises and water gardens. Riverside walk with views of Beaulieu River. 12¼" gauge steam railway.
Adventure play area. Tearoom.
Open Apr-Oct, Daily 1000-1730.
www.exbury.co.uk
Bus from early July to early September
New Forest Tour buses daily from station to entrance.
Buses also operate from Lymington for a shorter journey.
Buses operate all year from Totton and Southampton
to Blackfield then 1¾ miles walk to Exbury Gardens.
