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Things to do in the New Forest
Uncover the allure of the New Forest's picturesque landscapes as you embark on a journey of exploration, where each step unveils the stunning beauty of this captivating area.
Local attractions near Sandy Balls
The New Forest National Park is undoubtedly one of the UK’s most beautiful and unique regions for outdoor activities. It’s an area celebrated for its biodiversity and untouched landscapes, making it the perfect place to visit if you love the great outdoors.
Alongside the natural scenery, there’s a whole host of places to visit in the New Forest, with New Forest attractions including everything from theme parks to zoos, art galleries and beaches.
After your incredible day out, you’ll want an equally exciting and beautifully-set base to unwind in and Sandy Balls Holiday Village is just that! It sits among the woodland pines and offers even more activities to enhance your holiday, such as swimming and cycling.
Places to visit
Across the New Forest
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Family attractions
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Peppa Pig World
Over 60 wonderful rides and attractions. The home of Peppa Pig, Paulton’s now also features a dinosaur theme land called the Lost Kingdom, so you will find something new even if you have visited before.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
![A male enjoying some watersports at the New Forest Water Park.]()
New Forest Water Park
Enjoy family friendly activities for all ages that include wakeboarding, inflatable aqua park, kayaking and SUPing!
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Shopping
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Ringwood
A market town, located on the River Avon. Oh and be sure to visit the brewery!
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
![A young boy and female enjoying a day at Go Ape.]()
Go Ape Moors Valley
Nestled between the New Forest and the south coast beaches, Moors Valley Country Park is a picture-perfect location for an active day out near Bournemouth.
Drive time: Between 20 - 45 minutes
Dog Friendly: Certain areas are dog friendly
For further information, please visit website.
Outdoor adventures/walks
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Furzey Gardens
The charming and whimsical Furzey Gardens and its tea rooms are run by the patrons of a local autism and learning disability charity.
Drive time: Between 10 and 20 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Outdoor adventures/walks
![A family walking across a bridge at the Moors Valley Country Park in Hampshire.]()
Moors Valley Country Park
Lining the lush green border of Hampshire and Dorset, Moors Valley Country Park promises an action-packed adventure among the pines. From tranquil walks to energetic cycle rides, steam-train journeys and a tree-top assault course!
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
History & Culture
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Hurst Castle
Discover this artillery fortress built by Henry VIII, offering one of the best views in England. Plenty of open space for children to explore and a short ferry ride to get there, makes it an adventurous day out for the family.
Drive time: Less than an hour
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Outdoor adventures/walks
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Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary
If you’re looking to spot some of these amazing animals, you stand the best possible chance by visiting Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, situated at the heart of the New Forest.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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New Forest Wildlife Park
A small zoo that helps conserve some of Britain and Europe’s most endangered native species. With a rare opportunity to see some of Britain’s most fascinating animals in their natural habitats, it’s an experience quite unlike any other.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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New Forest Reptile Centre
A small animal park that’s home to every species of reptile native to the British Isles. The spectacular New Forest is home to many incredible creatures, not least one of the most diverse reptile populations!
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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Adventure Wonderland
Just to the west of the famous New Forest National Park, Adventure Wonderland promises an unforgettable day out for children of all ages.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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Oceanarium Bournemouth
Explore marine ecosystems at a waterside aquarium, plus feeding sessions and an underwater tunnel. The Oceanarium is home to some of the most intriguing animals living in the world’s oceans!
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: No
For further information, please visit website.
History & Culture
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Highcliffe Castle
A centuries old estate perched above the Dorset coast. With a fascinating guided tour, a variety of intriguing exhibitions, and some fun and educational activities for kids thrown in the mix, Highcliffe castle is a great day out!
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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Longdown Activity Farm
Get close to furry friends at this fantastic family farm. Bottle feed kid goats, cuddle with a baby rabbit or explore their farmyard buildings!
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Outdoor adventures/walks
![A photo of a body of water situated within densly-packed woodland near our holiday park of Sandy Balls, Hampshire.]()
Exbury Gardens
Sitting on the lush green shores of The Solent, Exbury Gardens offers a quintessentially English escape with a beautiful maintained garden, country home and miniature railway.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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Beaulieu
A great family day out for everyone the famous National Motor Museum and TopGear World, a beautiful Victorian-style country house and a Monorail.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
Family attractions
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Marwell Zoo
Set across 140 acres of beautiful South Downs countryside, Marwell Zoo offers an incredible range of exotic and endangered species, where you can get up close and personal to the wonders of the natural world.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Assistance dogs only
For further information, please visit website.
Beaches
![A young family playing in the sea at one of the many beaches in St Ives.]()
Lepe's Beach
One of the region’s most revered sandy stretches, with a state-of-the-art café and viewing area.
Drive time: Less than an hour
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.
History & Culture
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Buckler's Hard
Situated on the beautiful Beaulieu River, the 18th century ship building village features a maritime museum, river cruises along with living history characters.
Drive time: Between 20 and 45 minutes
Dog friendly: Yes
For further information, please visit website.