the New Forest...
... a magical place where ponies, cattle, donkeys and deer roam free. Where you can just pick a direction and walk through ancient woodland, open moors and heathland.
At Flaxfield House you have the Forest at your doorstep, whilst being close to the amenities of Fordingbridge. Borrow our bikes and explore!
We are lucky to have a choice of three pubs within walking distance - The Royal Oak, The Foresters and The Three Lions - and a delightful cafe, The Potting Shed.
We are only around half an hour's drive from the coast and some wonderful beaches.
Here are a few of our favourite places and things to do...
Walking!
Simply walking on the open Forest has to be top of the list. Enjoy thousands of acres of open access to heather-filled heathland and ancient woodland. Enjoy spotting the free ranging ponies, donkeys and cattle - and the odd pig or sheep.
Please do take care on Forest roads - animals can be on the road day or night, and they have no road sense! Please keep your distance, and don't touch or feed them.
Blackwater Arboretum
Free to visit, this stunning collection of giant redwoods are a real sight to behold. Several nice walks in the area, including the 'Tall Trees Trail'. Why not pop into Rhinefield House for afternoon tea afterwards?
Beaches
We are around half an hour away from the coast, and some wonderful beaches. There is the ever popular Bournemouth Beach, but it can get busy in the summer - why not try Mudeford beach and the scenic Hengistbury Head; Avon beach; or a little further on, Sandbanks.
Cycling!
Make use of our bikes and explore the many cycle routes through the Forest.
Bringing your own bikes? We are happy to find a secure spot for them to be stored.
There is a great circular cycle trail over to Fritham (stopping off at the Royal Oak at Fritham for refreshments)
Fordingbridge
Less than 10 minutes cycle away are the facilities of Fordingbridge - here you will find many independent gift and specialist shops including The Gormet Grocer, a lovely deli. There is a Co-Op and Tesco Express, pharmacy and several pubs, restaurants and cafes including The George, La Lambretta and The Ship Inn.
The Royal Oak
Our favourite local pub. Just a short level walk away is this former Royal Hunting Lodge. We love the friendly staff and locals, and the extensive gin selection! This 17th Century Inn serves fantastic food, real ales and has a lovely beer garden.
Not to be confused with the Royal Oak in Fritham (also lovely)
Burley
One of the most visited villages in the Forest. Witches, smuggling and dragons also play a part in its unique character, with quirky gift shops to match. There are also plenty of pubs and tea rooms to enjoy.
Salisbury
The cathedral city of Salisbury is 10 miles away and has a wonderful selection of shops as well as plenty of cafes and restaurants surrounding the impressive cathedral which is well worth a visit.
Stonehenge
One of the great wonders of the world, and the best known prehistoric monument in Europe. Great to combine with a visit to Salisbury or Wilton House.
Horse Riding
What better way to explore the New Forest than by saddleback! There are several stables offering lessons and hacks. Two close by include Arniss Equestrian and Fir Tree Farm.
New Forest Water Park
Less than a mile away, they have a cable wakeboard system, aqua park, kayak, paddle boarding and more. Closed in Winter months.
Beaulieu and Bucklers Hard
Beaulieu is a small but very beautiful village. Home of the National Mortor Museum, set in the grounds of a manor hourse and abbey, this is a great place to visit and not just for car enthusiasts.
Nearby Buckler's Hard is a unique village with an interesting history. There is a lovely walk from Bucker's Hard to Beaulieu, along the river.
