Love is most definitely in the air on 14th February, and there’s nowhere better to be than the New Forest when cupid and her bow comes around. Nothing says romance like walks through frosty dappled woods in hazy sunshine, long lunches in a gastro pub by a roaring log fire, or sea-salty walks along the seashore, plus endless New Forest attractions and activities to keep you occupied – see our 10 tips for a romantic Valentine’s weekend away! But we all know the best present you can give the one you love is quality time, so amp up your plans this year and book this Valentine’s break in a romantic New Forest cottage just for two. Here are some of our favourites.
The one with a log burner – The Old Barn in Exbury
Who doesn’t love cuddling up in front of the fire when you’ve come back, rsy-cheeked from a walk across heather-laden heathlands, jumping across streams and cooing at the free-roaming fluffy donkeys? The Old Barn in Exbury is full of romance for couples with squishy sofas, a big tub for bubble baths and a seriously pretty bedroom. Find out more
The one with great views of the harbour – 10 Admirals Court in Lymington
Overlooking Lymington Quay and the harbour, this funky apartment is in the heart of the New Forest’s chic and historic coastal town of Lymington. There are loads of truly great restaurants and foodie pubs on your doorstep and a Saturday street market selling delicious dishes and sweet treats. Inside, the apartment is bright and beautifully furnished with a huge picture window to watch the world go by. Find out more
The one with ponies outside – Oakview in Godshill near Fordingbridge
You can’t get more romantic than a cute log cabin for two with wild ponies grazing outside your window on the village green! Set in the tiny village of Woodgreen, you can stock up on supplies from the community shop selling everything from freshly-baked bread to stamps. A quick stroll down the lane brings you to a very popular gastro pub, The Horse and Groom – but be warned, you’ll need to navigate past the famous ponies and donkeys who hang about outside. They are great at posing for your social media posts – but please don’t feed or stroke them. Find out more
The one close to the beach – Figtree Cottage in Milford on Sea
With the New Forest National Park boundary just a couple of miles away, staying in a New Forest Cottages’ holiday home means you can easily enjoy mornings in the forest and the afternoons on the coast. Figtree Cottage is a real gem and wins lots of rave reviews. It’s an easy-going wander to Milford on Sea’s village centre, which has some of the best restaurants and eateries in the area, and a similar distance to the cliff top for beach walks with views over to the Isle of Wight. Find out more
The one that’s dog-friendly – Meadow View in Wootton
You don’t need to leave fur babies at home, especially when visiting the New Forest. It is one of the most dog-friendly destinations in the country, with acres and acres of land to roam and play. This Valentine’s bolthole is a large and luxurious studio apartment (check out all the photos) with an outdoor hot-wash shower for your pup if they have muddy paws. There’s also a lovely dog-friendly pub just up the road that’s well worth a visit called The Rising Sun. Find out more
Take a look at the New Forest Cottages portfolio of more than 180 places to stay, and have a read of our blog, Reasons to take a romantic break in the New Forest, which is packed full of suggestions of what to see, where to eat and what to do.