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The Canine guide to the New Forest holiday cottages

Destinations

The Canine guide to the New Forest

Kate Williams 09 October 2019

The wild New Forest ponies that you’ll see trotting about are just a small part of what makes this beautiful area of England so unique and intriguing.

Every corner of this National Park in Hampshire offers something a bit different, whether that’s a dense ancient woodland ripe for exploration and adventure or a river cruise where guests can expect serenity amongst tranquil surroundings. Take dogs for a walk along shingle beaches backed by dramatic fossil-rich cliffs or clamber around a Go Ape course while your canine companion watches from the grassy forest floor below.

Warming country pubs can be found offering dog bowls and treats for keen adventurers, while there’s a whole range of dog-friendly attractions available throughout this region as well. Canine companions will have a great time and their owners will no doubt love it too! We’ve put together this guide to ensure you have everything you need to start planning a fantastic dog-friendly holiday to the New Forest. Read on and get inspired for your next UK trip, and take a peek through our collection for pups and find your ideal dog-friendly cottage in the New Forest.


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Top dog walks in the New Forest

Put your best paw forward on the wide variety of woodland dog walks and secret trails that criss-cross the beautiful New Forest. It’s a unique place to go walking with your canine companion as you never quite know what you might find around the next corner, be it a free-roaming New Forest pony, snuffling pig or lop-eared donkey.


Sea Air Trail, Lymington – best coastal walk for salty sea dogs

Waterside view with two rows of moored sailing boats.

Part of the waterside footpath – the Solent Way, which stretches from Milford on Sea to Emsworth Harbour – the Sea Air Trail allows you to stroll past magnificent tall yachts and watch boats sailing in and out of Lymington Marina. Keyhaven is a beautiful nature reserve you’ll take in on your way and there’s a sandy spit too, complete with a sea fort called Hurst Castle where your dog can race about and splash through the lapping waves.

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Wilverley Inclosure, Brockenhurst – best forested walk

A pony eating grass at Wilverley Inclosure.

A wide, winding path that passes through beautiful dense woodland, this trail at Wilverley Inclosure is great for walkers or cyclists to go exploring. Here and there, footpaths lead off into the trees and near the car park you’ll find the dog activity trail which is a great obstacle course for you and your canine to attempt to conquer.

Good to know

  • Distance: 2.6 miles, circular
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Starting point: Wilverley Plain Car Park | what3words ///motivate.method.ghosts
  • Stay nearby: Holmans | sleeps 8 + 3 dogs

Parish Walk, Lyndhurst – best New Forest walk with a pub

A bucolic view near Lyndhurst.

We all know how important it is to have a hearty plate of pub grub to tuck into after a long walk. Refuel and refresh at one of the warm and welcoming dog-friendly pubs in Lyndhurst after you and your canine companion have enjoyed stretching your legs on a ramble around the village and through the surrounding countryside on the Parish Walk.

Stroll your way across the county along some of the best walks that the New Forest has to offer. Visit scenic Buckler’s Hard (where you and Fido could also hop aboard a river cruise!), wind your way through beautiful Burley or walk by bustling Southampton. Your puppy pal is sure to love discovering the New Forest by your side.

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Top dog-friendly beaches in the New Forest

Every pup adores digging in the sand, meeting other doggos and chasing driftwood in a game of fetch. While in the New Forest, head to the beautiful coast where you and your partner can enjoy windswept walks with your dog by your side.


Lepe Country Park and Beach, Beaulieu – best for active families

Sunset at Lepe Country Park and Beach.

At Lepe Country Park there’s a nature trail to explore, play areas for children, and meadow where your pup can race through the long grass; all before you even reach the sea! Down on the shingly seafront you and the canine companion will enjoy a walk out to the spit and can take a dip in the water. This is also a great option for any pet parents with limited mobility as an all-terrain wheelchair can be hired for use on grass, sand, pebble beach – call ahead to book.

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Hordle Cliff, Milford on Sea – best for an off-peak beach ramble

A dog running along a pebbly beach, backlit by the sun.

Splash through waves, take in views from the cliff top, and pop into a dog-friendly café in town while on a trip to this seaside gem. Hordle Cliff can get busy during the summer, but the rest of the year this place is a bit of a local secret. The popular seaside spots of Highcliffe Beach, Hengistbury Head and Avon Beach draw the bigger crowds, leaving this beauty often overlooked. Don’t make the same mistake, the views and the atmosphere of this place ensure it’s a wonderful choice for a seaside stroll with your dog.

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Barton-on-Sea Beach, Christchurch – best for seaside fun

Sun glinting off the sea at Barton-on-Sea with the backs of colourful beach huts in the foreground.

Another scenic spot especially loved by dog-walkers, Barton-on-Sea Beach is backed by 30-metre-high cliffs and with steep shingle leading down to flat shallow flats when the tide is out, it’s a rather dramatic beach for your morning stroll with the pup. There are beach huts and fossil beds along this beach offering variety for holidaymakers and, after your canine companion has enjoyed a dip in the waves, you can walk into Barton-on-Sea or New Milton and head into a dog-friendly café.

Discover more unique and lesser-known sandy spots bordering the New Forest in our guide to dog-friendly beaches

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Top dog-friendly attractions in the New Forest

Do you think you’ll have to leave the dog at home when you visit an attraction? Think again. The New Forest has plenty of things to do for both you, your human guests and your canine companion. Four-pawed friends will love adventures out on the water, intrigue in the forest with Gruffalo sculptures and dog paddling areas and strolling around ancient heritage sights where the pup can be king of the castle. 


Beaulieu River Cruise, Buckler's Hard – best for water-loving dogs

Moored boats on the river at Buckler's Hard.

If you’re hoping for a relaxing day out, look no further as you and your puppy pal will have a wonderful time on the Beaulieu River Cruise. The perfect activity for a warm summer’s day (not too hot, mind you, we all know pups don’t like the heat!), with the breeze and lapping water adding to that wonderful atmosphere, you and your canine companion can enjoy a half-hour meander down the scenic Beaulieu River before returning to the pretty village of Bucker’s Hard. 

The village itself can be a fun place to visit but the museum is not dog-friendly, so if you plan to explore after your boat trip, ensure you’re happy to take turns outside holding the lead.

Good to know

  • Parking: Buckler's Hard Car Park | what3words ///vandalism.fence.sectors
  • Price: Adult £7.50, senior £7, child (5–16) £5.50, family £21.50
  • Sailing times: 11am, 11.45am, 12.45pm, 1.30pm, 2.15pm, 3pm, 3.45pm, 4.30pm, April–November
  • Stay nearby: Duke's Bath House – Beaulieu | sleeps 2 + 1

Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, Ringwood – best for energetic families

Young boy stepping along a wooden rope bridge on an aerial treetop course.

Take them to Moors Valley Country Park and Forest where there are lots of things to do for both humans and hounds. Let the dog off the leash in the dedicated dog parks in this beautiful forested park where there are also dog bowls offering much-needed refreshment after all that exercise. Families and groups of mates will have a wonderful time too as there’s a Go Ape course, ideal for human adventurers to get a thrill on the high ropes, a Gruffalo trail for youngsters, and a railway to hop aboard to see the sights.

Good to know

  • Parking: Moors Valley Country Park Car Park | what3words ///growth.processor.unfounded
  • Parking charges: Weekends, school holidays and bank holidays 1 hour £4.90, 2 hours £9.70, 4 hours £13.50, 5 hours £14.50, all day £16.50 (reduced rates available off peak)
  • Stay nearby: The Annexe at Avon Glen | sleeps 2 + 1 dog

Dogstival, Lymington – best for treating the dog

Two dog owners with a group of dogs on leads meet in the park.

Try tasty treats, see shows and meet other mutts on this dog-centric day out. Dogstival is an annual event that takes place in the spring so ensure you time your holiday right in order to make this wonderful festival about all things dog.

Take them to meet reptiles, wander to the end of a shingle spit, and enjoy a seafood festival together: the New Forest is teeming with dog-friendly events and activities to entertain you and your furry friend.

Good to know

  • Date: 31 May and 1 June
  • Location: Burley Park, New Forest | what3words ///dustbin.roof.typist
  • Price: Adult day ticket £18, child (6–16) day ticket £10, family day ticket £46, adult weekend ticket £32, child (6–16) weekend ticket £15, family weekend ticket £75 | all tickets incur an additional £0.60 booking fee per person
  • Stay nearby: Bumble Bee Cottage | sleeps 4 + 2 dogs

Top dog-friendly places to eat in the New Forest

After all the excitement of a day out, whether it was racing around the beach, exploring forest paths and trails, or sailing around on a river cruise – good food will be at the top of everyone’s list! Stop at a café or pub that welcomes dogs to dine alongside their human pals and enjoy an evening out.


Beachcomber Café, Barton-on-Sea – best pet-friendly coastal eatery

A colourful slice of cake on a plate on a wooden table.

A cool café set on a cliff overlooking dog-friendly Barton-on-Sea Beach, Beachcomber Café is the perfect spot for a cuppa and slice of cake after a walk along the seafront. There’s a lovely beer garden where you can sit and enjoy the sea air when stopping here, while the front is lined with windows so you can enjoy the sea views even on chilly days.

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The New Forest Inn, Lyndhurst – best for big dog packs

Group of friends enjoying a pub lunch.

This beautiful eatery claims to be a VERY dog-friendly pub in the New Forest, and we love that motto! At The New Forest Inn dogs are welcomed and allowed anywhere in the bar, restaurant and garden. Head to this stylish country pub with pups in tow for a delicious Sunday roast with the whole family.

Good to know

  • Address: 2 Boult Bee Cottages, Emery Down, Lyndhurst SO43 7DY | what3words ///jolly.costumed.clearly
  • Why not try: Pan-fried sea bass fillet, with chorizo hash cake, sauteed spinach, garlic king prawns finished with a tarragon hollandaise
  • Stay nearby: Bench Cottage | sleeps 7 + 1 dog

The Drift Inn, Brockenhurst – best family-friendly pub

Family enjoying a pub lunch; the mum is holding a fork with food on for her daughter to try.

With a play area great for youngsters needing to burn off energy before their tea, colouring packs to keep them entertained while at the table and a children’s menu ensuring child-friendly dishes, The Drift Inn is just the place for young families looking for a stylish place to dine out. Acres of open heathland surround the inn, great for playful pups to enjoy a pre-dinner walk, and there are often treats and water bowls so your dog can enjoy refreshments too.

With wonderful beer gardens, tasty dog biscuits and bowls of refreshing water on offer, your pup will be well cared for at these establishments. Keep looking and find a dog-friendly pub near you.

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Top dog-friendly cottages in the New Forest

Uncover luxurious holiday getaways and welcoming country cottages across this region, perfect for a paw-friendly holiday with your furry four-legged friend. Humans and pups can curl up in front of warming wood burners after days out and about traversing the fantastic landscape. You’ve seen just how much there is to do throughout this country, now take a look at the cosy cottages where you can relax and do absolutely nothing at all.


Woodgreen Old Chapel, Woodgreen – best holiday cottage for two mutts

Exterior of Woodgreen Old Chapel, with a colourful dining set and a planted border.

Get everyone together for a big pack holiday to Woodgreen Old Chapel, an ultra-stylish former chapel combining modern chic with cosy countryside vibes that sleeps two dogs. Your four-legged friends are welcome to bring four humans along with them for a fantastic family holiday to beautiful Woodgreen in the heart of the New Forest. A suntrap patio and BBQ and a very cosy interior will make this a break to remember in the New Forest.

Cottage profile

  • Sleeps: 4 guests + 3 dogs
  • Bedrooms: 1 king-size, 1 twin
  • Why guests love it: "A lovely warm and cosy space in a sympathetically converted chapel. The village is very friendly, with ponies, donkeys and cattle wandering around and theres a local pub that is dog friendly. The location is within easy reach of many places to visit in The New Forest." – Ruth

Old Telephone Exchange, Beaulieu – best paw-friendly romantic couples’ retreat

Neutral and green decor of the lounge/kitchen/diner in The Old Telephone Exchange.

The Old Telephone Exchange is a romantic retreat for two plus a playful pup, whisk your partner away to this lakeside country escape in beautiful Beaulieu. It’s another of our five-star properties with a luxury open-plan interior offering sleek furniture, wooden flooring and delightful views, filling this retreat with true country cottage charm. This is a tranquil escape with wonderful walks nearby and a terrace for sitting out to enjoy the serenity of this lakeside setting.

Cottage profile

  • Sleeps: 2 guests + 1 dog
  • Bedrooms: 1 king-size
  • Why guests love it: "This was a magical place to stay, so peaceful. The cottage was equipped to the highest standard and the welcome hamper was a real treat, even included treats for the dog. We found some lovely New Forest walks that were accessible to me in my wheelchair, as was Bucklers Hard." – Tracey

Sheldrake, Mudeford – best coastal cottage for pups

Sheldrake, a pale brick bungalow with a neat curve of lawn and an outdoor dining table.

The fully enclosed garden of Sheldrake is a playground for your outdoor-loving pup. With the beach of Mudeford Sandbank less than a mile from the doorstep, morning walkies are sure to be scenic, with the local woods providing an alternative stomping ground. The bright bungalow is perfect for dogs who love sticking close to their owners, and the delightful summerhouse in the garden helps make the most of sunny days. Sleeping five guests across three bedrooms, Sheldrake is a top choice for a family or group of friends wanting to be based close to the New Forest coast.

Cottage profile

  • Sleeps: 5 guests + 1 dog
  • Bedrooms: 1 king-size, 1 twin, 1 single
  • Why guests love it: "A lovely one-storey home within walking distance of the beach and restaurants. Ideal for couples or families. Plenty to do further afield and long walks depending upon your fitness. We would book again." – Sue

Plan your next adventure in the New Forest

Dogs deserve amazing holidays with their pup parents, and we won’t let anyone miss out on a great trip. The New Forest is overflowing with top dog places to visit and we put together a few of our favourite pit stops for you and your pack while you are here. Pick out the perfect cottage and enjoy your dog-friendly holiday to the New Forest.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing, please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.

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