As the summer season gets underway and our booking calendar fills up, we look to September and October when the busy season is over and the days start getting a little shorter.

An Indian summer, in recent years, has been the holidaymaker’s paradise in the New Forest, with warm beach days a plenty and balmy BBQ evenings all round.

Once the school holidays are over and the tourist hotspots quieten down, our holiday properties in and around the New Forest area are open to short breaks for a midweek or weekend booking. Aside from the more obvious activities of walking and cycling across the Forest, many attractions are open year-round for people to explore during their cottage short break in the New Forest. Key hotspots include the Motor Museum in the beautiful village of Beaulieu, Hurst Castle, and its long walk back to the beach at Milford on Sea and Paultons Park, which is home to Peppa Pig World – one for the children to enjoy!

Visitors can make the most of the visit down south to explore the larger local town of Bournemouth or even hop on the Wightlink ferry to visit the Isle of Wight.

And even if you’re not one to fill the calendar with activities, be like the locals and spend days playing in the forest or whiling away evenings at the beach with fish and chips…

Relax in the New Forest

The seaside town of Lymington is a hub for sailors and nature enthusiasts alike, there’s some excellent bars and restaurants to explore too. Needles View sleeps 10 and is just a stones throw from Lymington Yacht haven – the property boasts a lovely garden and outdoor seating area, plus a hot tub to enjoy at your leisure.

Lymington is also home to Silverton Cottage – a beautifully decorated property which really feels like a home away from home. Nestled in the town centre, guests can enjoy a stroll into town or down to the local sailing clubs within minutes. The cottage sleeps 6, with two double bedrooms and a sofa bed option downstairs. The wonderful converted property connects two original cottages with a new extension bridging the two in an open-plan family friendly kitchen / dining area.

Explore in the New Forest

Japonica is a quintessential chocolate box thatched cottage that is incredibly popular year-round. It has a large garden and patio area, great for summer BBQ’s and drinks on the terrace. When the weather isn’t onside its conveniently located just a two-minute walk from the cosy forest pub, The Oak at Bank. Its other hidden secret is that its location lends itself to a hotspot for the more daring types – the mountain bikers. With off road trails a plenty, bike storage and a downstairs shower room – if you’re looking for a chance to get muddy on two wheels, then this one might be one for you.

Nearer the coast, you’ll find Bumble Cottage in the small village of Hordle. This property is perfect for holidaymakers wanting a little bit of peace and quiet. Bike storage and BBQ areas available, and dramatic views on offer when out for a woodland walk or coastal bike ride. The property sleeps 6 and has a lovely open plan kitchen / living area for all the family to be together at once.

Pub lunch spots

Brockenhurst, at the centre of the New Forest is currently famed for its long list of eateries and quaint village shops. If you stay at either Chamberlains Cottage or Woodland Cottage, you’re in walking distance of some of the best. To name a few, there’s The Pig, Balmer Lawn Hotel, The Huntsman, The Foresters Inn, The Commoners plus some Italian options – Albero and Enzee. Brockenhurst is known for its regular visits from the roaming ponies, donkeys, and cows and if you’re here in September – the pigs too!

And if you’re really looking for somewhere off the beaten track – somewhere where kids, pets and every family member is welcome, then Meadow Lodge is a must! The property is found down a gravel track and within minutes you’re out on the open forest. It sleeps 10 and is accessible for wheelchairs users on the ground floor. The property has an enclosed garden which is great for our four-legged visitors and a spacious kitchen for those big family meals.

Whether you’re looking for a fabulous location for a family get-together or a quiet, romantic weekend escape – we have the perfect holiday cottage for your needs. Short breaks are welcome, and we’d love to provide more information about the beautiful New Forest if you’re planning to come down and stay.