Tall trees, peaceful glades, wandering ponies – there's nowhere quite like the New Forest. Anyone who enjoys getting out and about, being close to wildlife, or just listening to the breeze rustling the leaves will love the unspoilt tranquillity of this National Park.
But while the beauty of the countryside and those famous ponies are both great reasons to visit the area, there's more to the New Forest than meets the eye. The forest packed with attractions for visitors of all ages. Children will love the theme parks, steam trains and animal sanctuaries, while a trip to the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu is a must. Adults will enjoy learning more about the forest's past as a royal playground and a centre of 1800s naval shipbuilding.
If you're feeling more active, there's plenty to see on foot. The miles of forest trails are perfect for mountain biking and, since the terrain is fairly flat, you don't have to be super-fit to enjoy a spin on two wheels. What's more, while you might not associate the area with beaches, you're only ever a few miles from the sea.
It's no wonder the New Forest is such a popular destination. There's also plenty of variety for caravanners, from peaceful CLs and Forest Holiday sites to big commercial parks with swimming pools and golf courses.
With so many places to go, things to see and places to stay, you'll need help planning your break. Turn over for our guide to the very best the New Forest has to offer.

SEE ALSO IN THE NOV 2006 ISSUE OF PRACTICAL CARAVAN
The Great Outdoors, Holiday Hints, Nature Notes, Contacts, History and Culture, Foodies' Corner, Holiday Souvenirs, Family Fun, Festivals & Events

To enable you to pick and choose from our comprehensive range of Great Escapes, we have collected them all here for you.
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