Discover Brockenhurst | A Visitor's Introduction to Brockenhurst

Why is Brockenhurst Worth a Visit?

Brockenhurst’s appeal lies in its ability to transport visitors to a peaceful rural setting while still offering plenty of things to see and do. It is one of the largest villages in the New Forest and uniquely positioned to give visitors easy access to the park’s diverse landscapes. What makes Brockenhurst special is its blend of natural scenery, free-roaming animals, historic landmarks, and proximity to both the coast and other popular destinations like Lyndhurst and Lymington.

The village is also known for its wild ponies, donkeys, and cattle that roam freely through the streets and surrounding areas. This typically New Forest experience, combined with the serenity of the woodlands and heaths, makes Brockenhurst a perfect destination for a relaxing getaway.

Brockenhurst Highlights: Things to See and Do in and Around Brockenhurst

1. Explore the New Forest National Park: Brockenhurst sits right in the heart of the New Forest, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the park's ancient woodlands, open heaths, and wetlands. The New Forest is famous for its free-roaming ponies, and you’ll likely encounter these gentle creatures as you stroll or cycle through the area. Popular walking and cycling routes include the Ornamental Drive and the Rhinefield Walk, which lead you through towering trees, clearings filled with heather, and abundant wildlife.

The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary, located just a short drive from Brockenhurst, offers visitors the chance to observe wild deer in their natural habitat. There are several easy walking trails here, as well as a viewing platform where deer are regularly fed.

2. Visit St. Nicholas’ Church: One of the most historic sites in Brockenhurst is St. Nicholas’ Church, which dates back to the 11th century. This picturesque church is the oldest in the New Forest and features beautiful stained-glass windows and a peaceful churchyard. It’s particularly notable for its links to World War I history, as there is a Commonwealth War Graves site that commemorates Indian soldiers who were treated in local hospitals.

3. Brockenhurst Village Centre: The village itself is a delight to explore. Stroll through the High Street to find cosy tea rooms, traditional pubs, and independent shops offering local produce, arts, and crafts. The Snakecatcher, one of the village’s most well-known pubs, is a great place to relax and sample local beers or enjoy a hearty meal. Be sure to stop by The Pig, a charming country house hotel and restaurant known for its ‘garden-to-table’ philosophy, with ingredients sourced from their own kitchen garden or the surrounding area.

4. Visit Beaulieu: Just a short drive from Brockenhurst, the village of Beaulieu is a must-visit for history buffs and car enthusiasts. It’s home to the world-famous Beaulieu National Motor Museum, which boasts a vast collection of over 250 vehicles, from classic cars to Formula 1 racers. Beaulieu is also known for Beaulieu Abbey, founded in the 13th century, where you can explore the peaceful ruins and the tranquil gardens that surround it. Another highlight is Palace House, the ancestral home of the Montagu family, which offers a fascinating glimpse into stately home life with beautifully preserved rooms and scenic views over the Beaulieu River.

5. Cycle the New Forest: Brockenhurst is one of the best places in the New Forest for cyclists, with a range of easy to moderate trails that weave through the woodlands and heaths. Cyclexperience, a local bike hire shop, offers a wide selection of bikes and maps to help you plan your routes. The village is the starting point for several popular cycling routes, including the Brockenhurst to Beaulieu loop, which takes you through peaceful woods and open fields, or the Ornamental Woods ride, which passes through scenic groves and beautifully landscaped areas of the New Forest.

6. New Forest Wildlife Park: Located about 20 minutes from Brockenhurst, the New Forest Wildlife Park is perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to native species such as otters, deer, wild boar, and wolves. With a strong focus on conservation, it offers a great opportunity to learn about the wildlife of the New Forest while supporting important preservation efforts.

7. Exbury Gardens & Steam Railway: Just a short drive from Brockenhurst, Exbury Gardens is a stunning 200-acre garden famed for its vibrant displays of rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias. This botanical gem is complemented by a popular steam railway that runs through the estate, offering a unique way to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. A visit in spring or early summer is particularly rewarding, as the gardens burst into a riot of colour.

8. Day Trip to Lymington: If you fancy a trip to the coast, the Georgian market town of Lymington is only a 10-minute drive from Brockenhurst. Famous for its marinas and saltwater baths, Lymington is a great place to spend a sunny afternoon. The town hosts a lively Saturday market, perfect for browsing antiques, local produce, and artisan goods.

Practical Advice for Visitors to Brockenhurst

1. Getting There: Brockenhurst is easily accessible by road and rail. By train, it’s just 1.5 hours from London Waterloo, making it an excellent weekend escape for those based in the capital. The village has its own railway station, which is well connected to major destinations such as Bournemouth, Southampton, and Winchester. If you’re driving, Brockenhurst is close to the M27, with plenty of parking available in the village and at nearby attractions.

2. Getting Around: One of the best ways to explore Brockenhurst and the surrounding New Forest is on foot or by bike. The village is relatively small and easy to navigate, with several local businesses offering bike hire services. Public transport options are available, but to truly appreciate the natural beauty of the area, a car or bike will give you more flexibility. The New Forest’s flat terrain and traffic-free cycling routes are ideal for families with children.

3. When to Visit: The best time to visit Brockenhurst is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, and the New Forest is at its most vibrant. During these months, wildflowers are in bloom, and you’ll have the best chance of spotting wildlife. Summer is the busiest time, especially during school holidays, so if you prefer a quieter visit, consider coming in late spring or early autumn. Winter can also be a magical time to visit, with crisp walks through frosty woodlands and cosy pub fires to warm up by.

4. Wildlife Etiquette: One of the highlights of visiting Brockenhurst is encountering the New Forest’s free-roaming ponies and other wildlife. However, it’s important to remember that these animals are wild and should not be fed or approached too closely. Always keep a safe distance and be mindful when driving, as animals can often wander into the roads.

5. Accommodation: Brockenhurst offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels like Careys Manor and Balmer Lawn, to cosy bed and breakfasts, self-catering cottages, and family-friendly campsites. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in one of the New Forest’s glamping sites, where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside while sleeping under the stars.

6. Local Delicacies: The New Forest is known for its excellent local produce, and Brockenhurst is no exception. Be sure to sample some of the region’s specialities, such as New Forest cider, freshly caught seafood from the coast, and traditional cream teas served in one of the village’s many tea rooms. The New Forest Show in late July is a great opportunity to try local foods and see traditional rural crafts and competitions.