Our Bench Accessible Self Catering Cottages in the New Forest

Discover just some of the magic the New Forest offers

Embark on a journey through the enchanting New Forest with our curated gallery of photos. Discover picturesque locations and diverse activities—from tranquil lavender fields to historic bombing ranges, serene birdwatching to vibrant local events, and outdoor adventures in every season. Let these images inspire your next visit and help you plan unforgettable experiences in this unique region.

Lavender in bloom at New Forest Lavender — New Forest Lavender in summer.

Ashley Walk heathland — Ashley Walk was a bombing range during the Second World War.

Goslings at Cadman’s Pool — Cadman’s Pool is a favourite spot for birdwatching.

Traction engines at a steam rally — New Forest & Hampshire Show, or Netley Marsh Steam Rally.

Sunrise over Hatchet Pond — Sunrise at Hatchet Pond near Beaulieu.

Cycling near Ladycross Estate, Brockenhurst.

Reading a map in the New Forest — We provide a map for you to use during your stay.

Horse-drawn carriage ride — A carriage ride through the New Forest in winter.

Sailing near Hurst Castle — Watersports on the Keyhaven River near Hurst Castle.

Something for every season

The New Forest offers a wealth of exploration throughout the year: frosty mornings at Hatchet Pond, fishing boats on Lymington Quay, horse riding across open heath, and tranquil scenes of cattle grazing the forest lawns. There’s always something to enjoy.

Cattle grazing — Cattle graze the forest lawns.

Thatched tea room at Furzey Gardens — Furzey Gardens—fairy doors and a thatched tea room.

Sea wall walk in Lymington — Walk the sea wall near Lymington’s Sea Water Baths.

New Forest pony with foal — New Forest ponies with foals in spring.

Clifftop walk at Milford on Sea in winter sunshine.

Children’s play area at New Forest Wildlife Park — Family fun at New Forest Wildlife Park.

Kitesurfing at Hurst Spit — Kitesurfing along Hurst Spit.

Deer near Ober Corner — Fallow deer near Ober Corner in autumn.

We’d love to inspire you to explore the area

Living in the New Forest is a delight, and we’re excited to share photos of places we’ve explored and moments we’ve enjoyed with friends over the years. While some places change, we hope these images inspire you to discover their evolving beauty.

Wildlife Park close encounter — Close encounters at New Forest Wildlife Park.

Lymington Bandstand at Bath Road has a regular programme.

Sunset at Milford — Milford on Sea sunset.

Standing Hat forest walk — Autumn walks from Standing Hat car park.

Testwood Lake picnic — Summer picnics at Testwood Lakes.

Iron Age house Testwood — Iron Age house at Testwood Lake Nature Reserve.

Lepe beach view — Lepe beach—views of the Solent.

Open Spaces, Forest and Sea views

Explore the diverse beauty of the South Coast, where open spaces, forests, and sea views await. Whether you seek peaceful retreats or bustling activities, there are countless spots to enjoy year-round.

Romsey Show in September, New Forest Show in July.

Boscombe Pier sunset — Sunset on Boscombe Pier.

Accessible cycling — Pedall New Forest—accessible bike rides.

Liberty’s Owl Centre — Close encounters at Liberty’s.

Knightwood Oak walk — Forest walk near Knightwood Oak.

Bird watching on Lymington reserve — Birdwatching on the Lymington to Keyhaven coastal path.

Artist painting — Artist at work near Castle Hill.

Secret garden Lymington URC — Secret garden behind Lymington URC.

Walk Keyhaven to Lymington — Walk Keyhaven back to Lymington along the reserve.

Donkey foal Beaulieu — Local foal photographed at Beaulieu.

Young visitor at Keyhaven — Young guest enjoying spring sunshine at Keyhaven.

Solent coastal walk — Just 8km walk from your holiday cottage.

Variety with every season

Each season brings unique charm: wildlife changes, migrating birds, and the ever-changing sea. The forest always has something new to experience.

Milford cafe — Milford on Sea has a lovely café.

Ponies grazing East Boldre — Ponies grazing roadside at East Boldre.

Sandy Avon Beach — Avon Beach—sandy shore and promenade.

Accessible cycling again — Pedall New Forest accessible bikes.

Wilverley walk — Wilverley Enclosure—dog walking routes.

Free activities and paid attractions

The New Forest offers free forest and coast access alongside memorable paid attractions—something for every budget.

Tadpole spotting Janesmoor Pond — Tadpole spotting at Janesmoor Pond.

Coffee at Hengistbury Head—some arrive by air!

Dragonflies at Hatchet Moor — Watch dragonflies at Hatchet Moor.

Dog walking at dusk — Evening walks with dogs at dusk.

Longdown Farm — Meeting animals at Longdown Activity Farm.

Capturing Memories

Capturing holiday memories is precious. Share your favourite moments with us, or book a complimentary photo shoot with Helen to capture professional-quality memories during your stay.