The New Forest
The New Forest, England's most famous woodland covering
90,000 acres, is within a 10 minute drive of the caravan. There are
numerous car parks throughout the Forest, maintained by the Forestry
Commission, many of them the start of marked woodland or heathland
walks. Horse-riding
is available from various stables throughout the area including Burley,
Bashley and Brockenhurst. Cycling can be enjoyed on any road, gravelled
path or one of the many routes which have been planned and are available
from bookshops and cycle hire centres. There are lovely country inns
throughout the New Forest serving local food and drink.
While the New Forest is famous for its ponies who wander freely, its wild
deer and its scenic beauty, it is also the people, both past and present
and the area's rich history and traditions which make the New Forest
such a unique and interesting place.
For any visitor to the New Forest, a visit to the New Forest Museum and
Visitor Centre at Lyndhurst is a must. See the "Impressions of the New
Forest" film and explore the exhibition that brings
to life the Forest's history, traditions, characters and wildlife.
Find out who is responsible for the welfare of the familiar ponies,
who actually owns them and why they are allowed to roam the Forest
as they please.
Milford-On-Sea
A lovely walk from the caravan, either following the stream-side path through the
woods or out and along the cliff top, Milford-on-Sea is a pretty village with shops, restaurants
and banks.
A comfortable walk or short drive from the village centre will bring
you to the seafront with ample car parks close to the quiet shingle
beach. The spectacular views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight
and the Needles are among the finest along this part of the coast.
Lymington
Lymington, the closest town to Downton Holiday Park, is noted for its sailing
connections and has a street market each Saturday. The ferry crossing
to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight sails from here and you can take
your own car or travel as a foot passenger.
Christchurch
Christchurch, a historic town with its Priory, shopping area and
scenic boat trips on the River Avon. Close by at Mudeford, fishermen
unload their catch on the picturesque quay.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth, with its 'Blue Flag' beaches, pier and gardens retains its elegant
charm. There's an excellent choice of shops and Bournemoth is also
a favourite centre for nightlife and general entertainment, especially
in the summer.
Poole
Poole has a magnificent harbour, where ferries leave for
the Channel Islands and France.
Take in the atmosphere of the old
town quay at night or visit the Nature Reserve on famous Brownsea
Island. The chain-link ferry will take you to the lovely beach at
Sandbanks and just a short drive away are the Purbeck Hills with marvellous
beaches at Swanage and Weymouth, wonderful Corfe Castle, Old Harry
Rocks and the beautiful cliffs at Durdle Door.
Other Attractions
There are many other local attractions such as the New Forest Museum at Lyndhurst,
the National Motor Museum at Beulieu, Monkey
World at Wareham to name a few.
A folder containing information and brochures on these and many other
local attractions is kept up to date at the caravan for your use. Further brochures
and tourist information are available from the site office.
