Discover Our Top 5 Summer Activities in the New Forest
Are you planning your next summer getaway?
A short drive down the road from Balmer Lawn, you’ll discover the New Forest, offering a range of summer activities for the whole family.
In our blog, we’ll guide you through our top 5 family-friendly summer activities in the New Forest.
Horse Riding | Summer Activities
Experience the beauty of the New Forest on horseback.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just looking to start, there are plenty of horse riding opportunities nearby during your stay in the New Forest.
Visitors can take horse riding lessons; Burley Villa School of Riding provides English riding, livery, and riding breaks, making it easy to find something you’ll like.
Several equestrian shops in the New Forest include Bearhouse Saddlery and Chelsea Equestrian, where you can pick up a saddle or helmet you might’ve left at home.
Watersports | Summer Activities
During your stay at Balmer Lawn, why not get stuck into something new and try out a couple of watersports?
With 43 miles of serene coastline to explore, try a gentle kayaking experience, or, for the adrenaline junkies, we recommend giving extreme abseiling a go.
Alternatively, you can jump in a canoe and paddle along the Beaulieu River Nature Reserve, a perfect day out for the whole family.
To make a day of it, head over to Calshot Activities Centre; they offer a range of summer activities, including:
Dinghy sailing
Kayaking
Windsurfing
Powerboating
Watersports are a great way to cool off in the summer. Remember to read up on water safety before diving into the action!
Golf | Summer Activities
New Forest golf courses are the perfect place to enjoy if you’re looking for a game of family-crazy golf before dinner or more of a competitive match alongside seasoned pros.
Ten New Forest courses include Dibden Golf Centre, Bramshaw Golf Club, and Paultons Golf Centre.
Remember, you can always leave any beginners in the safe hands of an instructor, who can teach them a few golfing tips while on the green.
Or, if you’re eager to explore more of the local area but want to keep the kids engaged, why not visit New Forest Adventure Golf?
Situated in Lymington Golf Club, it offers an 18-hole course themed on the New Forest, with holes named after towns, villages, and significant places in the Forest — so you can learn while you play!
Cycling | Summer Activities
Whether you prefer to ride mountain, road, or electric bikes, there are plenty of options available in the New Forest for you to rent or buy.
Get up close and personal with nature by trying one of our top 5 favourite cycling trails:
The Old Railway (9 miles)
Hawkhill Trail (9.1 miles)
Looping Lepy and Exbury (9.3 miles)
Ashurst to Lyndhurst Loop (14 miles)
Northern Forest Circular (17 miles)
Fishing | Summer Activities
If you enjoy fishing during the summer, the New Forest is a great spot to kick back and cast a line.
Have a go at catching mackerel and sea bass in the clear waters there, which are teeming with over twenty species, from eels to pike and brown trout.
All you need is your gear and some nice weather, and you’re ready to go!
After a long day of summer activities, unwind and relax at Balmer Lawn, sleep in luxury comfort in our superior rooms or have a bite to eat in either The Lodge Restaurant and Bar or Beresfords.
If you’d like to learn more about summer activities you can enjoy during your stay at Balmer Lawn, please don’t hesitate to contact us by calling 01590 623 116, and we’ll be happy to help.
Alternatively, check out our previous blog on indoor activities for rainy days. It’s perfect for those moments when you face typical British weather this summer!