The New Forest has a wealth of activities, focal points of interest, restaurants, pubs and shops. From your base at the Cloud Hotel in Brockenhurst, we have composed a list of the top local attractions to visit. We have also listed several useful links to websites containing information about Brockenhurst and the New Forest.
The official New Forest visitor website
A fantastic website to visit, full of information, maps and attractions is the official New Forest visitors' website: http://www.thenewforest.co.uk
Things to do in Brockenhurst
Brockenhurst is best described as a beautiful New Forest village. Horses, donkeys and cows wander freely around the village and surrounding forests and can often be seen outside the front door of the Cloud Hotel.
Walking - There are several pre-determined walking routes provided by the New Forest National Park and Forestry Commission and routes vary in length. It is not essential to follow the pre-planned routes although it is advised to avoid getting lost. Visit the National Park Authority website for extended information on routes in the area at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk
Cycling - The Cloud Hotel offers secure bike storage to the rear of our hotel in our bike shed. Exploring the New Forest by bike is a great way to see more and get up close to the wildlife. Based in Brockenhurst, "Cyclex" offers bike hire, all accessories and maps for a successful exploration of the area. You can pre-arrange bike hire, to get in touch visit their website at www.cyclex.co.uk.
The official New Forest visitor website has maps for downloading, a useful resource worth printing off before you arrive. Go to: www.thenewforest.co.uk or visit the www.newforestnpa.gov.uk website for extended routes and information.
Shopping in Brockenhurst - Brockenhurst has a small high-street with gift shops, newsagents, bakeries and a small supermarket. A full list of shops can be seen on the brockenhurst-newforest.org.uk website.
Shopping in Lymington - The nearest larger town for shopping is the picturesque bustling harbour town of Lymington where you will find a comprehensive range of shops and larger supermarkets. Whilst in Lymington, a short walk from the high-street is the beautiful cobbled streets leading down to the waters' edge, lined with various shops including gift shops. Visit www.lymington.org for more information on Lymington, its' shops and attractions. Each Saturday there is a large market on the main high-street, a very popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Beaches - The nearest beaches are around 20 minutes' drive from the Cloud Hotel with many picturesque walks to choose from. The nearest sandy beach is Highcliffe with the award winning Bournemouth beach around 35 minutes' drive away.
Local Attractions
Exbury Gardens - Exbury, Southampton, SO45 1AZ, Tel: 023 8089 1203
Exbury Gardens is a famous garden in Hampshire, England, which belongs to a branch of the Rothschild family. It is situated in the village of Exbury, just to the east of Beaulieu across the river from Bucklers Hard.
Furzey Gardens - Minstead, Lyndhurst, SO43 7GL, Tel: 023 8081 2464
Set in the heart of The New Forest at Minstead in Hampshire this delightful, informal garden was established in 1922 and is renowned for its all year round beauty.
Beaulieu National Motor Museum - Beaulieu, Hampshire, SO42 7ZN, Tel: 01590 612123
Come to Beaulieu in the heart of the New Forest and discover the many delights that one of the UK's leading Tourist Attractions has to offer. It's a guaranteed great family day out with many attractions to discover
Buckler's Hard - Beaulieu, SO42 7XB, Tel: 01590 616203
Step back in time on the banks of the Beaulieu River at the peaceful haven of Buckler's Hard. Discover what it was like to live and work in an 18th century shipbuilding village; home to the ships built for Nelson's fleet at Trafalgar.
New Forest Centre - High Street, Lyndhurst, SO43 7NY, Tel: 023 8028 3444
Find out what makes the Forest so special at the New Forest Centre. The Museum is great for families and there's a Gallery, Library, Visitor Information Centre and Gift Shop too!
Sammy Miller Motorcycle Museum - Bashley Cross Road, New Milton, BH25 5SZ, Tel: 01425 620777
The Museum is situated around wonderful farmland in a courtyard complex and houses over 350 rare and classic motorcycles, many being the only remaining examples in the world, displayed in four galleries.
St Barbe Museum and Gallery - New Street, Lymington, SO41 9BH, Tel: 01590 676969
St. Barbe Museum explores the unique history of Lymington and the New Forest Coast. The colourful, hands-on displays provide a fascinating journey of discovery for all ages.
Mottisfont Abbey and Garden - Romsey
An abbey was built here in 1201 and you can still see some of its remains. Have a peek in the dark and atmospheric vaulted Cellarium! The house boasts an impressive art collection and the garden is home to the National Collection of Historic Roses.
Winchester Cathedral - Winchester
For over a thousand years, people have come to seek inspiration in this magnificent Cathedral. Today, they welcome 300,000 visitors a year to share their worship, explore their heritage and attend their many events.
Solent Boat Charters - Southampton, www.solentboatcharters.co.uk
A Solent Boat Charter is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, parties & special events. We own 3 charter yachts all based in Southampton`s Ocean Village marina, these fantastic yachts are available to private and corporate guests for relaxed days on the English Solent with a professional skipper and crew there to make your day extremely special.