Like it or not, the effects of Brexit could mean a significant change in the way we Brits will holiday. The cost of overseas holidays could rise significantly, meaning staycations become even more popular and ultimately more expensive. But that hasn’t happened… yet.
If you need to holiday at a certain time, have school age children, or your job has restricted holiday periods, then booking early really pays off. To do so will mean you have the pick of the crop in terms of location, property type and most importantly, dates. Booking early will mean you won’t have to compromise. As an early-booker, every available option is laid out before you. You’ll get to cherry pick exactly what you want and when.
If you are completely flexible about when you can travel and happy to play ‘holiday roulette’ you can win with some discounted rates. But do bear in mind that you’ll rarely find lots of last-minute bargains during peak dates. Take in to account that any New Forest self-catering cottage selection will be limited during the main holiday periods. Remember too, that there are millions of tourists pouring in to the UK from all over the world. With the New Forest featuring on overseas tourists’ tick list of historical and beautiful places to visit, there’s an additional pressure of availability, which can lead to a limited supply of accommodation.
Booking a holiday early means the whole process is much more enjoyable without the clock ticking to click NOW. And let’s face it, once booked, you’ll have plenty of time to sit back and relax, smug in the knowledge that you’ve got something to look forward to. You’ll also have time to explore all the things to do in the New Forest, what’s on and attractions to visit.
Whether it’s your main break or a quick weekend away, the New Forest and surrounding area is packed with so many ideas of what to see and easy day trips. Here are some of our favourites.
Things to Do in the New Forest
Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway -Set in over 200 acres of beautifully planted gardens and grounds. Vibrant landscapes of flowers, magnificent flowering and historic trees, and gardens within gardens.
Beaulieu National Motor Museum, Beaulieu Abbey and Palace House – A great day out for each generation. The famous Motor Museum houses an incredible selection of vehicles, from those which are historically important to well-known TV and film cars and World of Top Gear exhibition.
Highcliffe Castle – The magnificent former home of department store owning legend, Mr Selfridge, which featured in the TV series of the same name.
Marwell Zoo – A fabulous day out at this wonderful zoo, home to hundreds of animals set in 140 acres.
Paultons Park – Home to Peppa Pig World, this family theme park is perfect for youngsters who love the rides and was named the number one amusement park within the UK by TripAdvisor.
Stonehenge – The world-famous UNESCO heritage site, one of the seven wonders of the world… need we say more?
Monkey World – It’s a lovely drive to the Isle of Purbeck and once there, go and see the stars of TV’s Monkey Life and enjoy a great day out at the renowned ape rescue centre.
Salisbury Cathedral – The beautiful city of Salisbury with its markets and boutique shopping is worth visiting in its own right. But don’t miss the majestic cathedral, an architecturally stunningly building which houses the Magna Carta from 1215.
Take a look at our collection of New Forest Cottages here.