Exploring the New Forest National Park and its pretty coastline on a budget is absolutely doable! Whether you’re here visiting The Lymington Seafood Festival or a local with time to get out and explore, there’s a treasure trove of free activities that’ll give you the best of this wonderful region without spending a penny.

Dinghy Delights down at Keyhaven and Christchurch Harbour for hours of aquatic fun. Away from the hustle and bustle, you’ll encounter fascinating wildlife and beautiful views.

Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is the place to go to see a herd of Fallow Deer gather on the meadow, enticed by daily feeds from April to September. A viewing platform offers prime photo opportunities.

Embark on a journey through Mother Nature’s playground and explore the New Forest’s vast expanse. With over 143 miles of cycle tracks and countless unmarked trails, there’s no shortage of adventures. Grab your comfy shoes, pack a picnic and head out to find your perfect spot.

Craving sun, sand, and sea? The New Forest and the surrounding coastline boast stunning sandy, golden beaches like Avon and Highcliffe—perfect for leisurely swims and old-fashioned days spent building sandcastles.

Delve into the past with some fossil hunting and uncover ancient treasures along the coastline. Barton on Sea is a prime spot for fossil hunting, offering glimpses of prehistoric marine life from millions of years ago waiting to be found.

Unleash your inner adventurer with geocaching—a modern-day treasure hunt using GPS. Register on the Geocaching website, then navigate your way through the forest and coastline, hunting for hidden caches. It’s a fantastic way to explore the area while having a blast.

Lose yourself in history and natural beauty at Lepe Country Park. Stroll along scenic trails, take in the fab views across the Isle of Wight, and discover WWII landmarks. With a play area for children and expansive lawns for picnics, it’s the perfect spot for a day out.

Adults and kids alike love the thrill of crabbing! Prime spots include Lymington Quay, Keyhaven Harbour, and Mudeford Quay. Spend hours watching the boats go by while trying your luck at catching these pesky crustacean critters.

Pay homage to one of the New Forest’s oldest residents—the mighty Knightwood Oak, which is thought to be up to 600 years old. This towering, majestic tree is simply awesome and worth the pleasant walk to visit and take some photos.

Seafood Festival Accommodations

Are you planning to attend the Lymington Seafood Festival and looking for somewhere great to stay? Look no further than New Forest Cottages. They have over 170 properties in the area and over 60 in Lymington alone.

Choose from cute cottages for two, Luxury townhouses, spacious apartments and large luxury homes in Lymington’s historic centre. There’s something for every taste, size and budget.

Find holiday cottages in Lymington.

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