Unique landscape of ancient woodland, heather-covered heath and saltmarsh. The New Forest Centre tells the story of the forest, which has a rich diversity of wildlife.
Dogs are welcome as long as they are kept under control. To help birds rear their young safely, keep dogs on the walking tracks from the beginning of March to the end of July. Dogs are banned on some beaches in the summer, look out for local restrictions. Dogs are welcome on leads throughout the museum.
New Forest Reptile Centre
2 miles west of Lyndhurst on the A35 (Christchurch) road, Hampshire
Small conservation centre where you can see all of Britain's reptiles, including smooth snakes and sand lizards. Visit on a sunny day for the best chance of seeing the reptiles. There is also a picnic area and a 1.5 mile reptile trail through woodland.
200 acre woodland garden with a famous collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias and rare trees and shrubs. There is dazzling display of autumn foliage. There are also picnic areas, a steam railway and ponds.
Dogs are welcome on a short lead in the gardens and on the steam railway. Dog waste bins are provided. Dogs are not allowed in the restaurant but bowls of water are available outside.
The ruins of a 13th-century abbey, later converted into a Tudor mansion. The church was rebuilt as a turreted gatehouse. Information panels tell the story of the site.
Country park with a narrow gauge steam train, several walking trails, cycle hire, go ape high wire forest adventure and fishing. The park has an attractive beamed restaurant.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control and on a lead in some areas. Please clear up after your dog.
Peaceful garden overlooking the River Test with a combination of formal and informal planting. Highlights include river walks, a topiary dragon, walled kitchen garden and an orchid house. There are 15 acres of beautiful parkland grazed by the resident alpacas.
Country park with a narrow gauge steam train, several walking trails, cycle hire, go ape high wire forest adventure and fishing. The park has an attractive beamed restaurant.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept under close control and on a lead in some areas. Please clear up after your dog.