Autumn and winter are tranquil, serene seasons in the New Forest National Park. Mother nature and her animals embrace a very different vibe from the riot of spring and summer’s explosion of colours and birth.
Autumn hails the heady scent of damp woodland, soggy leaves, rotting berries and cracking twigs underfoot. As winter draws closer, hazy sunshine and frosty mornings make beautiful vistas for photos and walks amongst wildlife and the famous New Forest ponies, donkeys, cattle and the odd pig or two!
There are some awesome calendar dates and festivities you can celebrate in the months of November and December in addition to Guy Fawkes, Christmas and New Year.
The Ramblers Festival of Winter Walks throughout November and December have some fabulous walks planned in the New Forest, with options for lunch at some of the areas fantastic pubs.
5th November – 9th is International Stress Awareness Week. We all know keeping active out in the fresh air is good for us – and the antidote to stress could be in the trees! Reports from Japanese researchers suggest forest trees emit essential oils and phytoncides which boost your immune system and claim to have calming effects and improved sleep.
It’s National Tree Week 24th November – 2nd December. The Tree Council have run this week-long celebration since 1975. Volunteers, community groups, local authorities and schools join forces to create events, tree decorating with natural materials, talks and the all-important planting of trees. Click here to see what’s on in the New Forest.
5th December is International Volunteer Day – Whether you are lucky enough to live in the forest, a frequent or first time visitor, a day or more volunteering is a great way to see the forest, have fun, make friends and learn all about the flora, fauna, heritage and history of the amazing forest. Take a look at the New Forest National Park volunteer page for more details.
Take a look at our holiday cottages in the New Forest in the New Forest