Living / 30 September, 2024 / Ellie Thompson
As the late September sun casts a golden glow over the countryside, what better place to enjoy the New Forest and local beaches than The New Forest Cabin? This is our first staycation since losing our four-year-old son, Billy, to a brain tumour earlier this year and my first review since returning to work. While his absence is felt deeply in every “first” we face—the empty bed, the empty chair at the table—we were grateful to simply step away and take a breath.
There’s something about this time of year that calls for a different kind of adventure, one steeped in nature and tranquility. And that’s exactly what The New Forest Cabin offers—a serene woodland haven nestled in the heart of Hampshire. As New Forest staycations go, this one was pretty special.
It was Friday afternoon. We packed up our two dogs, Paddy the cockapoo and Bowser the black lab puppy, picked up our seven-year-old daughter, Maddie from school and made our way down to the New Forest. Tucked away in the enchanting New Forest National Park, The New Forest Cabin is a three-bedroom retreat that promises an off-grid experience in a world of beauty and calm. Set within 12 acres of private woodland, it’s a haven for nature lovers and families wanting a rural escape from daily life. From the cabin, you’re just steps away from lakes and streams, and, in springtime, we’re told the legendary bluebell fields that blanket the forest floor in a sea of purple are a sight to be held.
Whether you’re seeking leisurely woodland strolls or exploring the many nearby trails, The New Forest Cabin immerses you in the magic of nature. Towering trees, wild ponies, and the peaceful hum of the forest surround you, offering a rare opportunity to truly switch off from the demands of modern life. The bonus was being able to take the dogs along, and they had the best time.
A Home Away from Home
The cabin itself is designed with both comfort and style in mind. It accommodates up to six guests and boasts three cosy bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms. Blending rustic charm with modern amenities, it features luxury sofas, plush Egyptian cotton bedding, and an open-plan living and dining area that feels like a warm embrace after a day of outdoor adventures. Two sets of double doors lead out to a sun-soaked deck, where uninterrupted woodland views stretch down to the iconic Old Harry Rocks. The sun set just outside the windows as we watched the many birds on the feeders, seeing woodpeckers, sparrows, and robins enjoying the golden glow of autumn.
On cool evenings, you can gather around the fire pit for a BBQ and enjoy the crackling warmth as the stars twinkle overhead. Maddie pointed out how many we could see, being away from street lights. We arrived at around 6pm to a herd of deer roaming free outside our digs. Once we’d dropped our bags off, we headed out to the nearest pub, The Three Tuns, where the locals made a fuss of the dogs while we tucked into hearty pub dinners.
Explore the Best of the New Forest and Beyond
Though The New Forest Cabin feels like a secluded escape, it’s perfectly located for exploring the local area. Just 10 minutes away by car is the charming village of Burley, known for its quirky shops and tea rooms. A bit further, the market town of Christchurch and the sandy stretches of Bournemouth Beach are within a half-hour’s drive. If you’re feeling more adventurous, the Isle of Purbeck, Corfe Castle and the dramatic Dorset Jurassic Coast are all just an hour away.
For those who appreciate a slower pace, the cabin’s proximity to local pubs and hundreds of walking and cycling trails means there’s no shortage of ways to explore the forest at your leisure.
We started our Saturday early, making our way to High Cliffs, the nearest beach just ten minutes away. With its pebbled shore and crashing waves, it was the perfect morning escape—until a surprise wave swept up past Maddie’s feet, leaving her trainers and jeans completely soaked! After a quick dash back to the cabin for a change of clothes, we set off for a sunny and warm day in Bournemouth, just a scenic half-hour drive through stunning woodland roads. The cabin was a true gem, offering easy access to so many beautiful destinations right on our doorstep.
Priced from £275 per night, The New Forest Cabin is the must-go autumn retreat for families and couples alike. A chance to reconnect with nature, unwind and make lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether it’s a peaceful family holiday or a romantic getaway, this woodland haven in the heart of the New Forest National Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. And I’d like to believe that somehow, Billy was there with us too.
If you’re looking for a magical, off-the-beaten-path escape this season, The New Forest Cabin should be at the top of your list.
For more details, visit: www.thenewforestcabin.co.uk.
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