The New Forest is an area of unenclosed pasture, heathland and forest, the southern tip of which is bordered by coastline. Named by William the Conqueror as his 'new hunting forest' in 1079, the ways and traditions of the forest have remained largely unchanged since that time. The mystery and beauty of The New Forest, together with its pretty towns and villages like Beaulieu, Lymington and Milford-on-Sea, attract streams of visitors from all over.
The forest is teaming with wildlife, from the ponies and cattle that roam freely and the wild deer that graze deeper into the undergrowth. With miles of footpath and trails through the varied landscape, The New Forest is a walker's paradise and there are year-round guided walks informing on the history, wildlife and folklore of the forest. It's also a perfect place to explore by bike or on horseback.
Throughout the year, The New Forest hosts a wide range of events from farmer's markets and craft fairs to carnivals and exhibitions. There are also many attractions and points of interest within The New Forest. Beaulieu is the home of the National Motor Museum as well as Palace House and the Abbey Ruins, which contains an exhibition of monastic life. The final resting place for Sherlock Holmes author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle is at the church in Minstead and the grave of Alice Liddell, said to be Lewis Carroll's inspiration for Alice in Wonderland, is in churchyard at Lyndhurst. A visit to the New Forest Centre is a must, as it holds all you need to know about the area and includes a visitor information centre, museum, library and exhibition gallery.