New Forest Local Information

There is so much to do in and around Bashley you will be spoilt for choice.  

The coast is just a 10 minute drive away and has something to offer everyone, from cliff top walks with panoramic views of the Isle of Wight, or relaxing on sandy beaches.   

Sandy beaches at  Mudeford and  the Avon Beach offerering  good facilities. A little further afield there are also sandy beaches at Southbourne, Bournemouth and the Blue Flag beach at Sandbanks, Poole.

The park is situated on the edge of the New Forest, a stay at Bashley is not complete without spending some time in the Forest.  Here the horses, cattle and pigs roam free. There is a wealth of history to explore in this living thriving forest landscape. The New Forest offers superb walks or cycle routes, or take a stroll around one of the many quaint villages and towns situated in the New Forest. 

Here are just a few places to visit whilst during your stay with more  information in your accomodation.

Coastal Towns and Villages close by 

Lymington is a quaint harbour town about 20 minutes away. There are numerous shops here and a bustling market every Saturday. The Isle of Wight ferry and local boat trips are located in the harbour.  The town offers several good restaurants and pubs.

Milford On Sea & Keyhaven. 

Milford is a tranquil coastal village with a variety of gift shops and tea rooms with a village green.

Close by is Keyhaven where you explore the Keyhaven Marshes Nature Reserve.

From here you can either take a small ferry ride (subject to weather conditions and timetable) or walk the shingle spit (approximately 1.5 miles) to Hurst Castle.

Hurst Castle built by Henry VIII as a coastal fortress is steeped in history with many exhibits showing the changes of defences through the years.  The Tower in which King Charles was imprisoned, history of the lighthouse and the Garrison Theatre.  Also a small tea house in the ground for refreshment.

Christchurch is a busy market town with a street market held on a Monday. Good variety of shops including M & S Food Hall and Waitrose.  Christchurch Quay is a popular location with an Anglo-Saxon watermill, now an Art Gallery.  Visit the Christchurch Castle ruins,  The Priory, Red House Museum and park with children's playground and paddling pool.

New Forests Towns and Villages

Lyndhurst  is the capital of the New Forest, a busy small town with many, shops, cafes and various themed restuarants along it's High Street.  The Tourist Information Centre for the New Forest is located in the main car park.

Beaulieu - a picturesque village where  ponies arefree to roam.  Here you can visit the British National Motor Museum with it's collection of cars and other attractions.  Close by is Bucklers Yard where you step back in time and visit the georgian cottages and maritime museum.

Burley a traditional village surrounded by outstanding natural beauty.  Steeped in history of witches and smuggling. A good selection of shops including gifts, ice-creams, and tea houses plus the famous gift shop "ACovern of Witches".

Bolderwood is where you can get close to the herd of Fallow deer which live in and around Bolderwood.

Larger Towns such as Bournemouth, Southampton, Portsmouth and Poole are in easy reach offering a variety of shops and entertainment.