Self-catering cottage holidays in the New Forest in Hampshire, southern England

Created by William the Conqueror in 1079 as a royal playground, the 145 square miles of the New Forest with its woods, heaths and marshes are now enjoyed by all.   William the 1st protected the royal deer for the hunt - although commoners could be executed for killing a deer.  There are still several species of deer in the forest, but it is probably better known for the free roaming forest ponies that graze at will. Commoners retain some of their medieval rights - they can graze their domestic animals like cows, pigs, horses and donkeys if they wish.  So, if you have your own donkey or pony, and you're a Commoner - feel free to take it on holiday to the New Forest. Also, when visiting, remember that these animals have right of way on the roads.

The New Forest is about half conifer and half deciduous trees, mainly beech and oak. There are 15 well-known walks, over 100 miles of off-road tracks suitable for cycling.  Cycle hire is available in nearby towns.

Self-catering accommodation in and around the New Forest

Sleeps 2 in a romantic Hampshire retreat Sunny Upper Floor Apartment of the Old Boathouse in the grounds of Newlands Manor (a 200 year old Gothic Mansion) with a Log Fire, Exposed Rafters, Window Seats and Beautiful Views over the Garden and Extensive Wooded Grounds. Own Entrance leading from an External Staircase and Verandah to the Large Bright Modern Kitchen with Dining Area, Pretty Sitting Room with a Log Fire and a Picturesque Outlook. Cosy Double Bedroom and En-Suite Bathroom with a Bath and a Separate Shower. Central Heating and Double Glazing throughout. The Old Boathouse is situated in 30 acres of Private Woodland with access down a half-mile private drive. There are easy walks of about one mile via the back drive to Everton Village and the front drive to Milford-on-Sea for local shops, picturesque pubs, public transport and the sea. The New Forest is 5 miles away.
Contact: for availability and bookings,  Telephone: 01590 645 941
Sleep 5-6,  4 stars Wiltshire - self-catering country cottages   The Old Stables  A smart 19th Century converted stable block, the Old Stables are open all year round. They're an ideal touring base for the south of England and are close to the New Forest and Stonehenge.  The cottages are fully equipped and furnished for your comfort. All have a washing machine, TV, video etc. Children are welcome. Pets are welcome by arrangement. Wifi Internet. Old Stables cottages are suited for the elderly or disabled. Non-smoking throughout please.  Telephone: +44(0)1722 349 002
Contact: for availability and bookings  Telephone:  +44(0)1722 349 002

Points of interest:

• Adders are common in the new forest 
• Commoners are those who own land with certain rights in and around the New Forest.   
• The Court of the Verderers still makes decisions about the forest.

Tourist attractions and places to visit for a day out with families

• Beaulieu Palace House, Gardens. Motor Museum and Abbey in the Heart of the New Forest
• New Forest Otter and Owl Conservation Park at Longdown, near Ashurst
• Never far from seaside resorts like Bournemouth or the ferry for the Isle of Wight
• Salisbury
• Stonehenge
• Lymington and Ringwood Market Towns
• Lyndhurst Visitor Information Centre
• Broadlands at Romsey, and Romsey Marshes
• Paulton's Park
• Alice in Wonderland Family Park
• Sammy Miller's Motorcycle Museum
• Long Down Dairy Farm for a family day out on the farm
• Burley Villa School of Riding in the New Forest for the whole family
• New Forest Riding and Watersports Centre