Welcome to the New Forest
Covering 145 square miles the New Forest is a place of ancient history, fascinating wildlife and stunning beauty. Originally a royal hunting preserve, the thriving working forest that you see today has survived for nearly 1000 years.
Whether you live locally and want to know more about the area you live in, or you're coming to visit us from further afield, this website will tell you all you need to know about the cultural history, fascinating wildlife and stunning beauty of the New Forest. So read on, and make your visit to this beautiful area even more enjoyable!
Visiting the New Forest
Public Transport
The New Forest lies to the west of Southampton Water in south-west Hampshire. You can travel here by train, arriving at Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Sway or New Milton, or by bus. Visit transport for more information.
By Car
If you're driving from Southampton, London or the east, exit the M27 at Junction 1, signed Cadnam and head southwards into the New Forest. If you are travelling from the west, you can use the A31 from Dorset. From the north, take either the A338 from Salisbury to Ringwood in the west of the Forest, or the A36 to Totton in the east.
There are many car parks across the forest, including 134 which are managed and maintained by the Forestry Commission. Please use these car parks rather than parking on the verges or in front of gateways, as parking in the these areas not only causes damage to the landscape but can restrict access for emergency and official Forestry Commission vehicles.
Please click here to download a map of the Forestry Commission car park or download a map of the forest (PDF 298K) to help you find your way
During the winter months a small proportion of car parks are closed to reduce wear and tear during the summer months. Further details of the car parks affected can be found by clicking here or downloading car park map above.
Documents of Interest
Forest Design Plans
Phytophthora ramorum in the New Forest
