Dog-Friendly Activities & Accommodations In The New Forest

The New Forest in Hampshire is a beautiful area known for its ponies, deer, ancient woodlands and open heaths. It also has a reputation as being an extremely dog-friendly destination, with ample dog-friendly accommodation, pubs, cafes and shops available. Let’s explore the best New Forest offers for dog owners - from dog-friendly hotels and holiday cottages to suggested walks, activities and places to eat and drink with your four-legged friend in tow. Whether you want action-packed adventures or relaxed rambles, the New Forest caters for all. Read on to discover the best dog-friendly days out in the New Forest National Park area.

Finding the right dog-friendly accommodation is key to an enjoyable New Forest break with your pet. There are various options available, from dog-friendly hotels and B&Bs through to self-catering cottages, cabins and even campsites.

Hotels

The New Forest contains a myriad of pet-friendly hotels where dogs large and small are welcome, from boutique inns to 5-star grandeur. Many provide speciality dog beds, bowls, meals and walking services to ensure beloved pets feel equally at home.

Take Burley Manor, for example, a prestigious country house hotel set in a fairy tale Forest village, renowned for first-class dog facilities. Visiting hounds receive a doggy welcome pack containing blankets, tasty snacks and feeding bowls. The expansive grounds allow ample space for walkies whilst socialising with other four-legged guests. There's even a resident hotel dog who leads stayover pups on complimentary walks thrice daily. From dog beer on the bar menu to drying robes after muddy walks, Burley Manor caters wonderfully for pets. Fellow 5-star hotel Chewton Glen plays host with its luxuriously appointed dog suites, each comfortably housing two pampered pooches. Guests can request bespoke dog beds, bowls and placemats plus menus of gourmet pet treats. Daily walks explore the extensive manicured grounds and woodlands with other amiable hounds and new human friends made. Boutique hotels like The Montagu Arms in Beaulieu Village supply stylish accommodations for visiting furry friends. Its opulent dog suites feature sumptuous beds, an in-room feeding station and views of the picturesque Palace House grounds. The hotel's characterful Oak Bar serves up pup cakes, dog beer and water bowls. Wherever in the New Forest you choose to stay, hotels can rival and even exceed facilities at home so both owner and beloved dog can unwind. Check individual hotel pet policies but expect the warmest of welcomes.

Holiday Cottages

When visiting the New Forest with dogs, staying in a pet-friendly cottage can prove more relaxing than hotels. Self-catering gives that homely feel with the freedom of coming and going as needed - ideal for muddy-pawed walkers. fortunately, local companies offer an extensive range of cottages accepting dogs. New Forest Escapes has over 150 dog-friendly properties, from quintessential thatched cob cottages to modern barn conversions with secure gardens - both perfect backgrounds for holiday photos featuring your pampered pooch. Cottage welcome packs often include dog treats and thoughtful extras like throws to protect furniture from wet, sandy pets fresh from the beach. Original Cottages also list gorgeous dog-friendly cottages styled with luxury fittings yet hardy enough to withstand messy paws. Expect enclosed gardens, surrounding woodlands walks directly from the doorstep and amenities like dog wash stations. Some cottages welcome up to three dogs so suitable for multi-pet families. Choose anywhere within the New Forest and a pet-friendly cottage exists to suit. If your dog is used to home comforts, companies like New Forest Cottages provide cottages matching usual standards but in idyllic Forest surroundings. Enjoy a choice of characteristics from free-standing romantic hideaways to traditional country piles with pony paddocks and duck ponds, always with a menagerie of Furness wildlife to sniff!

Glamping & Camping

For full immersion into New Forest life alongside your faithful hound, camping and glamping options allow just that. Fortunately, there are pet-friendly sites and cabins where dogs are as well catered for as humans! Setthorns Campsite welcomes dogs to its tents and touring pitches. As an adult-only site, it's peaceful and spacious for play. Many pitches back onto woodland for quick walkies and being small, has a community feel where dog lovers mingle. Grazedown Campsite is beautifully situated next to Longdown Heath with a specific dog exercise field - an area dedicated solely for pets to roam off lead. In terms of glamping, Furzey Gardens offers cosy yurts cleverly designed to be pet-friendly, with washable rugs, throws and ground sheets. The yurts are set in pretty woodland so very peaceful with birdsong to wake to. A concierge service arranges extras like dog walking. For luxury camping, Forest Holidays Golden Oak cabins are gorgeous hideaways located across the Forest. Each has a fully enclosed decking veranda - perfect for pets to snooze while you relax on the outdoor sofas with a glass of wine after adventures exploring the magical Forest together.

The New Forest offers over 150,000 acres of open countryside criss-crossed by trails - dog walking paradise! Here are 5 of the best New Forest dog walks to consider.

1. Bolton's Bench

This one-hour circular walk takes in classic New Forest scenery that will delight both you and your dog. Following forest tracks from Boltons Bench car park in Burley, the trail leads through open grazing meadows where New Forest ponies and cattle roam freely - prime play territory for dogs off lead if they have good recall. There's the chance to practise obedience training as livestock wander past unfased. The latter half of the walk enters woodland beside trickling streams. The scent of wild garlic fills the air in spring. It's the quintessential New Forest stroll with plenty of sights and smells to keep canine companions occupied. Reward them afterwards with water or a puppicino at nearby cafes.

2. Fritham and Eyeworth Pond

This 5-mile walk links one of the prettiest Forest villages with a serene pond fringed by birch and pine. Leaving thatched cottages behind, the trail meanders downhill on pine-needled paths perfect for scampering spaniels seeking squirrels. Leafy glades under mighty oak boughs lead to reed-wrapped Eyeworth Pond where New Forest ponies drink side by side with inquisitive hounds. Most of the route has open access for dogs to wander safely off the lead. Owners should practice recall cues as free-roaming ponies and cattle graze. Chance too for dogs to show off newly mastered tricks like 'paw' for approving audience of wild deer. The return leg follows the Former Railway path - a wide bark trail along an old track route now colonised by silver birch and colourful shrubs like purple willow. Ideal terrain to race ahead revitalised after a pond swim then curl up snoozing later by the Original Forest Hounds Inn's roaring fire.

3. Ocknell Plain and Longbeech Inclosure

This route encapsulates the New Forest at its most quintessentially English, from wide open plains grazed by cattle and ponies through broadleaf woodland enclosed for centuries. Dogs will discover terrain perfectly crafted for exhilarating adventures. Ocknell Plain offers purple-hued heather meadows stretching as far as the eye can see. Let lively dogs dash amidst the sweet-scented shrubs while grazing livestock meander past. Practice obedience cues like 'stay' as ponies curiously approach for pats. sections allow dogs off lead when not foaling season but good recall is essential. The path dips into Longbeech Inclosure, entering a leafy world of gnarled oaks and pine-scented glades. Spot squirrels scampering high on boughs, keeping beady eyes on passing hounds below. Glimpse deer disappear into the ancient woodland's nooks and dens to excite curious canines. Bark mulch trails make for gentle terrain under paws. Emerge again onto Ocknell Plain, this time overlooking slopes dotted with gorse bushes and signature yellow flowers. Watchdogs locate lizards and field mice drawn by the terrain's enticing smells. Reward with treats for effort after an unforgettable adventure on this spectacular walk encapsulating New Forest diversity.

4. Hampton Ridge

Bearing its name proudly, Hampton Ridge trails deliver vistas showcasing the very best of the New Forest for both adoring owner and enchanted hound. Sweeping seaside panoramas contrast spectacularly with woodland and heathland. From Newlands Manor Park, a gravel path winds uphill through dappled shade, Certified one of England's finest bluebell woods in spring. Dogs relishleaf piles to shuffle through and overturned oak roots exposing nests of ants and beetles. Practice waits as runners bound ahead then regroup for love and treats. Close to the summit, bracken slopes tempt chasing dogs to race each other giggling to the top. Hampton Ridge viewpoint rewards with views stretching to the Solent's sparkling expanse. Watch contented pets gaze out, breathing scents of salt and forest fusion. The descent follows deep fern-lined paths guiding back, tired and rejuvenated after a soul-soothing Forest adventure.

5. Roydon Woods

Comprising some of Europe's rarest woodland, Roydon Woods delightfully both in scale and intricacy on this peaceful walk. Majestic oak trees have spread their knotted boughs for centuries across an azure carpet of bluebells each spring, continuing a legacy over 3000 years old. Dogs roam freely revelling beneath the leafy giants surrounded by birdsong. Sandy tracks guide through sun-speckled clearings up to brooks hosting dragonflies and darting fish. Lakes reflect immense fir trees and fluffy clouds floating by. Its terrain is crafted for meandering, stopping frequently for dogs to forage amid flora and fascinating woodland relics. Extend walks by joining Brockenhurst's scenic village where equally dog-friendly pubs and cafés with waterside gardens await for cake, puppuccinos and resting tired legs under the table. Roydon Woods offers magical adventures where both owner and beloved doggo dwell for hours, emerging refreshed having discovered forest delights.

After all that fresh air and exercise you and your pooch will have worked up an appetite! Here are the best dog-friendly places to refuel in the New Forest.

1. The Oak Inn

The Oak Inn heralds tradition from ceiling to floor offering spectacular hospitality for humans and hounds alike. Hand pulls pour locally brewed cask ales whilst stone hearths crackle warmth across snug bars perfect to relax within after woodland wanders. Hearty gastro pub favourites line menus including specials for loyal doggy diners. Outside dog-centric details continue. Water bowls refresh thirsty pets after playing in beer gardens dotted with blanketed benches under shady parasols. Every corner exudes character from resident pub dogs and cats awaiting fusses to jars of complementary sausage treats replenished frequently atop counters. For New Forest visitors craving classic country pubs where dogs blend as part of the family, the Oak Inn reputably ranks amongst the finest. Beloved pets snooze blissfully by masters' feet as tales are exchanged with new friends. When only the best will do, this gastro pub haven delivers.

2. The Royal Oak at Fritham

Deep in one of the Forest's quaintest corners lies a tavern humble in looks but colossal in canine character and ripe for discovery. The Royal Oak oozes explorative charm under its lopsided thatched roof and timbered walls blackened by centuries of smokey sighs. Dogs sniff keenly outside wheelmarked doors catching scents of hearty food awaiting. Inside crackling fires beckon soggy walkers to drape jackets upon ancient chairs and relax. Hand-pulled ales stand on oak bars often outnumbered by lapping local hounds greeting newcomers. Dedicated dog menus include gravy bones heaped with meat scraps and Bonio beer lined up in bowls. Minor to the welcoming barkeep every customer matters, human or retreating animal. For wayfarers craving authentic charm within an unfussy rural pub combining sublime ales and admiration regardless of species, seek out the Royal Oak. New friends await behind its warped doors in a uniquely dog-euphoric hideaway deep in traditional New Forest country.

3. The Barn Lyndhurst

Lyndhurst Village packs great eateries into its bustling heart yet the Barn still stands out for scrumptious dining in relaxed rural opulence paired with premium pet pampering. Originally an open-fronted pottery barn, today it hosts families and furry friends within contemporary country environments brimming with laidback Forest charm. Menus majestically balance gastro-pub classics like burgers and stone-baked pizzas with upmarket hallway creations showcasing local produce. Summer heralds al fresco courtyard dining under twinkling festoon lights where pets wander freely between diners lingering late as music plays. Separate kids and dog menus ensure all members feel equally spoiled. Inside crackling log burners heat cosy corners and cushioned window nooks for two; perfect to sink into with wine and plates of tapas sharing holiday tales or tomorrow's Forest explorations. Attentive staff deliver small gestures that make sizable differences for loyal four-legged visitors like chilled water in branded bowls and gravy bone treats. When only relaxed refinement combined with Michelin star food alongside beloved beagle will suffice, the Barn in Lyndhurst excels. Friendly rural sophistication melding family dining with dog-centric devotion makes this a New Forest gem cracking any occasion.

4.The Pig Shed Cafe

Great coffee. Homemade cake. Locally sourced fayre. And dogs ... lots of them! This sums up Lyndhurst's funky Pig Shed Cafe - a quaint coffeehouse fused with animal eccentricity yet oozing charm in spades. Outside colourful picnic benches line walls adorned by vibrant planters. Inside mismatched china competes for fawn attention alongside dangling chicken toys and scribbled chalkboards. And the dogs... they simply fit right amongst the wacky personality. Dogs lounge anywhere not nailed down inside and out with bowls of water or steaming meat scraps appearing almost telepathically. Humans also fare well from granary doorstop sandwiches crammed with fillings to sweet indulgent baked goods demanding seconds. It's the type of place you sit down intending a brief pitstop yet still occupy the same creaking chair hours later. For an informal meeting spot epitomising that easygoing cafe all communities need, discover Lyndhurst's Pig Shed. Strong lattes, homemade cakes, people watching and plenty of pampered pooches in a setting exuding oddball charm. Perfect to while away hours chattering with new friends made furry or otherwise.

5. The Huntsman Inn

Nestled within Brook Village neighbouring England’s oldest continuous stretch of woodland, the Huntsman Inn presents a gastro retreat with proud pedigree in catering canines. Hand pulls pour locally crafted cask ales inside ambient bars where crackling fires frame mounted silverware honouring decades as the mecca for field sports enthusiasts. Vast swathes of seasonal game line menus attract palates from far and wide. Yet it’s outdoors where dogs truly rule the roost. Enclosed pub gardens host regular barbecues under canopies garlanded by twinkling lights where pets and owners mingle seamlessly over hampers brimming with flame-grilled meats and celebratory bubbly. Dedicated doggy menus feature bonio beer with pulled chicken pancakes for pups whilst humans devour hearty pub classics. When only rambling country pub fayre in bucolic surroundings will pacify your appetite after blustery Forest walks, seek out the Huntsman Inn. Pheasant plucker's preferences and playful pack members relax equally in this New Forest gem meshing rural tradition with pet-friendly cosiness amongst Brook’s timeless natural wonders.

As well as forest walks, it's great to give dogs a chance to splash in the sea and race across sandy beaches. Here are 3 top dog-friendly beaches easily reached from the New Forest.

1. Milford-on-Sea

Flanked by vibrant marshes abundant in birdlife on one side and views stretching out across the Needles intricate chalk formations on the other, Milford-on-Sea’s pretty coastline offers copious exploring for dogs unleashed along pebbly shores. When tides fully retreat, vast sandy flats reveal a treasure trove of rock pools lined with waving forests of emerald seaweed - providing hours of canine excitement splashing and snuffling within the shallows. The village itself paints a charming backdrop with pastel-hued beach houses commanding the promenade gazing wistfully out to sea. Independent boutiques fill the quaint high street interspersed by bijou tea rooms and patisseries serving speciality pupcakes ordered frequently to the amusement of passing shoppers. From beachside, a mizzly walk links The Marine neighborhood where an expanding collection of eateries like the popular Beach House Cafe reside. Book prime waterfront tables allowing pooches to survey buzzy esplanades whilst tucking into platters of fresh lobster and crab washed down with zesty local wines as yachts gracefully sail by. When only laidback coastal pursuits will pacify your beloved cocker spaniel, seek out Milford-on-Sea. With pretty promenades, enticing bays to explore offlead and a friendly charm, it encapsulates the English seaside at its toe paddling, fish and chip munching best alongside frolicking four-legged friends.

2. Highcliffe Beach

Fringed by vibrant cliff-top gardens yet quietly nestled below soaring chalk headlands lies Highcliffe Beach, a gorgeous sandy inlet perfect for seaside rambles with your four-legged friend. Whilst smaller than close-by cousins, few visitor numbers make it feel spacious for playful pooches racing unleashed along golden sands intermingled with millions of tiny sea shells. Reached from steep paths winding down from cliff tops through coastal foliage, the beach remains relatively undisturbed save for passing yachts drifting offshore. When tides fully recede, sand ripples stretch far out revealing rock pools lined with red seaweed forests - hours of canine snuffling guaranteed! Lively dogs bound through swirling waters chasing waves then shake sodden beside owners to giggleing delight. Picnic on cliff terraces watching contented pets zigzagging below, seeking scents and ssea-tossedballs glinting in the sunshine. For less frequented shores allowing memorable moments frolicking together this precisely sculpted inlet truly impresses. The lush cliff-top tearoom with pup-friendly al fresco garden makes for a welcome finale after blustery beachside walks in either howling gales or balmy breezes.

3. Lepe Country Park Beach

Beyond its grassy expanse pocketed with ponds and pretty coastline vistas, Lepe Country Park conceals a gorgeous stretch of pebble beach lapped by the Solent’s twinkling waters. Backed by flower-sprinkled cliffs coloured vivid yellow from lichen it feels a world away from nearby bustling towns. Being dog-friendly year-round makes it a peaceful haven for pets too. Near beach access points, areas are fenced off expressly for active dogs to dash freely chasing balls lobbed by laughing owners. Ponds en route host kingfishers and herons eyeing up passing hounds ambling the pretty nature trail. Extend walks easily along the beach indulging explorative pups sniffing rock pools lined with seaweed forests filled with tiny crabs. The beachside Windows cafe serves up stacks of sausages for worn-out four-legged ramblers along with steaming mugs of tea on its sheltered deck outside overlooking sand and sea. With unspoiled views matching any coastal destination yet deliciously void of summertime crowds, Lepe Beach makes an attractive retreat after meandering the country park or just watching contented dogs revelling beachside.

As well as exploring the New Forest countryside, there's scope for trying fun activities with your dog from Segway tours to photography sessions.

1. Dog-Friendly Segway Tours

For adventures exploring the New Forest's nooks and crannies not reachable on foot, book an Actual New Forest segway tour trip where dogs ride too! Custom-built trailers with safety harnesses clip onto each futuristic-looking two-wheeler keeping precious pets ultra secure whilst trundling along off-road trails normally prohibited to visitors. Tours pass right by wild grazing ponies and darting deer in areas only Segways can access with visitors getting insider commentary from friendly local guides. Routes encompass everything from ancient gnarled oak woodlands speckled with sunlight to windswept heathland plains with purple-hued heather as far as the eye can see. It's a bucket list tour providing your dog with amazing forest smells and scenery with secure comfort. Back on terra firma, cuddle happy hounds muddily leaping back into vehicles after an unforgettable forest adventure together seeing more of the New Forest's breathtaking landscapes in two hours than previously unimaginable.

2. Forest Photography Sessions

Immortalise fond holiday memories exploring the wondrous New Forest landscapes with a professional photoshoot from local snappers New Forest Photoshoots. Opt for private sessions with your photographer guiding both yourselves and your dogs to secret beauty spots matching desired poses, backdrops and personalities. Take fun group shots playing beside tranquil ponds fringed by reeds then pose individually nestled under ancient oaks with wispy beards of lichen. Most dogs relish the one-to-one attention, skipping, smiling and tonguing at lenses capturing their spirit and the landscapes they adore roaming deep down forever. Opt for black and white packages conveying sophistication or sepia hues emphasising soothing Forest tones. Photoshop can insert missing loved ones unable to attend or superimpose favourite portraits with passed pets not physically there yet deep in owner's hearts. You'll leave with professional keepsake albums and framed prints capturing joyful Forest friendships standing the test of time. Plus digital copies are easily shared letting absent friends and families admire your fearless furry explorer striking a pose in their paradise playground.

3. Dog Training Experiences

Holidays present prime time for actively training dogs with a consistency impossible during busy daily routines back home. New Forest Dog School runs private training workshops and experiences with professional coaches aimed at all abilities from basics like sit and stay through to dancing or complex scent games. Forest locations add exciting dimensions with more realistic distractions to challenge dogs unlike boring back gardens. Lessons take place in idyllic woodland glades using surroundings imaginatively to ignite innate talents for eager students. Owners also gain deeper insight into their dogs' psyche forging stronger lifelong bonds built on clearer mutual understanding and trust. Take private nosework classes allowing dogs to channel heritage tracking deer through the forests. Or book award-winning Paws in Motion Dance workshops teaching previously unimaginable moves like balancing treats on noses and then catching mid mid-pirouette finale! Confidence building, socialisation and better manner skills also feature highly with puppy pre-schools nurturing youngsters. Spend mornings actively training beloved dogs then celebrate successes by trying local dog-friendly restaurants and country pubs. Reward new stars of the forest with gifts from boutiques filled with artisan treats and handmade collars to continue proudly wearing back home. New Forest Dog School presents professional coaching in a picture-perfect setting with lasting benefits beyond any holiday.

As well as exploring the New Forest proper, there are plenty of dog-friendly days out easily accessed from the region's key towns and villages.

Isle of Wight

A swift ferry crossing from Lymington pier transports explorers to the Isle of Wight, a jewel floating off England’s southern shores boasting over 60 beaches and bountiful countryside roaming opportunities. From sheer white cliffs at Freshwater Bay to marshy woodlands abundant in wildlife, dogs bound blissfully unleashed across terrain ringing new scents and exciting discoveries. Nearby Tapnell Farm delights visiting hounds with open grassy fields to dash freely amongst the animal enclosures. Pause for photos interacting with friendly goats and ponies or sheltered al fresco dining on tapas platters heaving with local produce. For more adventures try activities like sailing tours feeling the bracing sea breeze ruffle fur or woodland Segway trips balancing aboard the revolutionary two-wheelers. Venture east uncovering dinosaur footprints imprinted along Compton Bay’s rippled sands then roam freely unleashed scampering up the coloured sandstone cliffs at Alum Bay. Discover why Queen Victoria adored holidaying here with regal residences Osborne House and Appuldurcombe House both set in sublime grounds with gardens and lakes to explore on balmy afternoons. With ample ferries shuttling frequently each day and endless countryside just waiting to be discovered, the Isle of Wight presents an alluring prospect easily paired with the New Forest. Bring along your dog to create lasting memories amidst the island’s myriad treasures.

Peppa Pig World

Located at Paultons Family Theme Park just 20 minutes drive from Lyndhurst lies Peppa Pig World - a colourful haven for pre-school children and a delightful day-out destination with dogs warmly welcomed too. Nine rides like Grandpa Pig’s boat trip, George’s dinosaur adventure and playgrounds themed around the loveable TV characters bring the cartoon to life in vivid reality. Dogs can't ride the attractions but complimentary kennels mean they stay safely nearby whilst owners whizz around and then reunite for mooching the pretty park grounds together afterwards. The dedicated VIP disabled and dogs cabin presents a tranquil indoor air-conditioned space for guide dogs and nervous pets if sounds prove overwhelming. Many eateries possess outdoor seating for bites like Heffalump ice creams brought to share under umbrellas dotting well-manicured lawns. Peppa Pig World succeeds equally as a miniature wonderland for toddlers yet a relaxing rural retreat for their faithful hounds guarding pushchairs to enjoy stress-free. It warrants adding to any New Forest itinerary appealing to families seeking smiles from all generations...and loyal four-legged members too!

Moors Valley Country Park & Forest

Just beyond the cusp of the official New Forest borders, Moors Valley Country Park presents a smorgasbord of family-friendly activities woven between miles of scenic walking and cycling trails explorable with dogs in tow. Follow winding paths around connifer fringed ponds passing play areas and crazy golf links or meander gentle gravel tracks through wildflower meadows and pine forests. The steam railway allows pups to poke eager heads from carriage windows as miniature trains trundle by log cabins and over trickling brooks carrying happy passengers between stations Decked With hanging baskets. Extend walks over bridges crossing bogs lined with waving bullrushes then pause by the dog-centric Parkview Cafe terrace for restorative bacon sandwiches and refreshing bowls of water. With enchanting wildlife, countless hiking routes and smiling staff who warmly greet each dog by name, Moors Valley Country Park makes an attractive easygoing day-out option when looking to entertain both energetic kids and exhilarated hounds. The lack of entry fees simply seals the appeal.

We've covered the best New Forest dog-friendly accommodation, attractions, walks and activities. Here's some advice for ease of travel while exploring the region with your faithful four-legged companion.

Getting There

The New Forest is within easy reach of the main motorway networks. Junction 1 and 2 on M27 gives access from the west and London while M3 via Winchester or Southampton takes you into the Forest from the north. Brockenhurst station has direct fast services from London Waterloo making the New Forest very accessible for train travellers.

Getting Around

While most of the New Forest is open access on foot, some areas are restricted or require dogs to be on leads, especially during bird nesting seasons. Pick up a dog walking map from local Forestry England offices showing areas dogs can and can't access. Exploring by bike or horseback is another good option and see more of the Forest with less effort. cycle hire is available in Burley and Brockenhurst while stables in Burley, Brockenhurst and Lyndhurst offer guided trail rides. When travelling by car, take supplies of drinking water and use boot covers or old blankets to keep vehicles clean from muddy paws!