A Day in Brockenhurst: From Bournemouth to the New Forest

If you are looking to escape Bournemouth for a day, Brockenhurst is a straightforward and incredibly peaceful option. Located in the heart of the New Forest National Park in Hampshire, this village was recently highlighted by Sotheby's International Realty as one of the UK's best remote places to live. It has also been named Britain's Most Beautiful Place to Live by Leaders Estate Agent. One of the first things you notice upon arrival is how horses, deer, donkeys, and cows roam freely right through the area. Getting there from Bournemouth is very simple, as the village is located just 15 miles (24 km) southwest of our town, with regular South Western Railway services connecting Bournemouth directly to Brockenhurst station, making it an easy day trip.

The village has a deep history that dates back to the Bronze Age, with ancient burial mounds found nearby. William the Conqueror traditionally created the New Forest in 1079 as a royal hunting ground, and the Domesday Book of 1086 recorded four Saxon manors here, including Broceste, from which the village gets its name. During the First World War, the village hosted the Lady Hardinge Hospital for Wounded Indian Soldiers and the No. 1 New Zealand General Hospital. In the Second World War, the Balmer Lawn Hotel served as a divisional headquarters where Generals Montgomery and Eisenhower planned the D-Day Landings, using the ancient oaks of the area to conceal military vehicles.

There is plenty to see and do during a day visit. You can start by visiting St Nicholas' Church, the oldest church in the New Forest and the only one mentioned in the Domesday Book, which features a churchyard containing the graves of 92 New Zealand soldiers from the First World War. Afterwards, you can head to the Watersplash, a scenic meeting point of the North and South Weirs where New Forest ponies often stop to drink. If you want to explore the forest on two wheels, Cyclexperience, located right at the station car park, offers bicycle hire. For those who prefer equestrian activities, Brockenhurst Riding Stables and Ford Farm Stables offer horse riding experiences, while Brockenhurst Donkey Walks offers walks with their resident donkeys.

When it comes to food and drink, Brookley Road serves as the main high street with plenty of independent spots. For a relaxed pub lunch, The Snakecatcher near the station is a great option featuring a garden bar and a menu with wild boar burgers. Other notable local spots include The Huntsman, The Foresters Arms, and The Pig at Brockenhurst, which is well-known for its locally sourced ingredients. If you prefer a classic tea room experience, you can stop by The Brock Tearoom or Esme's Tea Rooms. If you plan your visit around local events, the New Forest & Hampshire County Show is coming up from 28–30 July 2026, and the New Forest Food Festival will take place on 15 August 2026.