How to Plan the Best Valentine’s Day in the New Forest

Riverside-Lodge

Make your partner’s heart beat faster with a day (or two) dedicated to showing them just how much you love them and book a romantic cottage in the New Forest.

Riverside-Lodge

In your own little cottage, you won’t be at the mercy of a hotel timetable and you’ll have plenty of space to sprawl out. We also have a collection of dog-friendly cottages, so you don’t have to worry about putting your pooch in the kennels.

Forget Netflix and a takeaway, Valentines in the New Forest is dedicated to celebrating love….

First things first, book a romantic cottage

Imagine it’s late afternoon, you’re both watching wildlife from your cottage window as the hazy glow of winter sun slowly sets through the trees. One of you lights some candles, there’s a beautiful bouquet of flowers on the table, and the log fire crackles as you both curl up on a squishy sofa, smile and reminisce on your day’s adventure.

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Breakfast in bed

Start the day as you mean to go on with a delectable breakfast in bed. If donning an apron and frying pan is too much first thing in the morning, heat the oven and pop in some delicious flakey pastries.

Give a coupon book

Who wouldn’t want something that invests time, thoughtfulness and appreciation of your partner that will last all year? Ideas for your coupon book could include breakfast in bed, a massage, a ‘MasterChef’ home-cooked meal, and a surprise day out.

Go outdoors and explore!

Spend your days exploring the New Forest. Spot deer in the undergrowth and walk through unspoilt woods and heathlands dotted with free-roaming ponies and donkeys. For something a little different, don warm clothes and set out on a two-seat Canadian canoe tour of the forest’s Beaulieu river, or how about a tandem bike ride?

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Take pictures for a photobook

Create a sentimental memory of your trip with lots of photos for a personalised photo book, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. The forest and coastal scenery make enchanting backdrops.

Go antique shopping

Make your stay extra special and bring home a keepsake. The New Forest is teeming with independent boutiques and antique shops. Seek out romantic pieces like a book of love poems, an antique map of the New Forest, a beautiful trinket or pretty set of wine glasses.

Make dinner together

Cooking together can be so romantic if you have delicious ingredients to start with. New Forest Cottages kitchens are well equipped with everything you’ll need to prepare a lovely meal. Start by visiting one of the local farm shops selling fresh, local products and part-cooked dishes from artisan chefs. And don’t forget to stop by Setley Ridge Vineyard near Brockenhurst for free cheese and wine tasting and buy one of their award-winning wines.

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Dine in amazing restaurants

If you fancy eating out, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The New Forest is fast becoming a foodie destination with a collection of impressive, award-winning restaurants and eateries. For fine dining take a look at The Jetty in Christchurch, The Elderflower in Lymington and Verveine in Milford on Sea. More relaxed restaurants with terrific food include Hartnett and Holder at Limewood, The Oak at Bank and The Three Tuns in Bransgore.

Take a look at our portfolio and book your romantic cottage today!