Covering 150 square miles of protected forest, the New Forest is the perfect place to escape from it all and has everything to offer.

Boat building, motor racing, medieval abbeys, private gardens, sumptuous spas and theme parks all feature in among the endless opportunities to get outdoors and immerse yourself in nature.

While you’re here, why not pay a visit to the 1,000-year-old Yew tree in Brockenhurst Church Yard or stand in awe at the foot of the 55-metre Wellingtonia tree on Rhinefield Drive?

You can take your New Forest short break as fast or slow-paced as you like. But you’ll leave feeling refreshed and invigorated after spending time in one of the UK’s most-loved National Parks.

What makes a New Forest short break so special?

The opportunity to get outside is one of the biggest pulls of the New Forest. There is an endless supply of walks that are suitable for all ages and abilities. From accessible routes with toilet facilities and cafes, to remote and more challenging trails where you won’t see another soul – there’s something for everyone here.

Whether you fancy roaming through rivers, exploring the stunning coastline of its beaches or rambling across an ever-changing backdrop of heather-strewn heaths and disused railway lines, you’ll find it all right here in the New Forest. The New Forest National Park has plenty of routes for you to choose from on its website.

On your New Forest short break, you won’t just get to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery that surrounds you, but you’ll also be immersed in the wildlife that calls the New Forest home. Wild ponies aren’t hard to spot while you’re here, along with cattle that graze on the open land. Slightly more special is a glimpse of a New Forest pig – with the Autumn Pannage season being the best time to see them snuffling around the forest eating acorns, chestnuts and other fallen nuts.

Deer remains a spectacular sight, with various viewing platforms dotted around the forest if you’re keen to see them during your visit. The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is your best bet to catch a glimpse of these shy animals.

Bird watching is a sedate but exciting activity in the New Forest – you’ll be able to spot Buzzards, Kingfishers and Woodpeckers among the hundreds of different species that call the forest home. Booking on to a guided walk is a great option if there’s a particular bird you want to spot or an area you’d like to explore for its rich and diverse birds. Alternatively, the Hampshire Ornithological Society has a handy guide for where to find the different species across the forest.

Just down the road from Fordingbridge is Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve with several bird hides situated around the lakes.

Indulge yourself with a New Forest short break

It’s not all about spending time outdoors when you come to the New Forest for a short break. There’s time for you to spoil yourself too.

The New Forest is home to one of the best spas in the south-east of England. Voted ‘Best Spa in the South-East’ at the Good Spa Guide Awards, SenSpa at Careys Manor is the ideal place to unwind, relax and indulge in some serious self-care.

Hydrotherapy pools, thermal rooms, jacuzzis, a swimming pool and various treatments are all available alongside a menu that’s carefully crafted for health and wellbeing. A day here is a day well spent on your New Forest short break.

Rosie Lea House in Lymington is well worth a stop for an afternoon tea or a filling brunch before you embark on a long walk. With a locally-inspired menu, using local ingredients, its Trip Advisor reviews rave about how good the food is – there’s even a savoury afternoon tea if you don’t have a sweet tooth.

As for pubs, restaurants and cafes? You are truly spoiled for choice in the New Forest – you can find hearty home-cooked grub, a warm welcome by a roaring fire and sweet treats galore during your New Forest short break.

The Railway Hotel here in Fordingbridge offers a unique twist on a traditional pub, you can have lunch inside a railway carriage, or the Royal Oak at Gorley gives you an authentic thatched-roof pub with home-cooked food and a stunning setting.

Wherever you’re staying, a good pub is never far from your doorstep. You’ll get the chance to sample local beers and ciders and have a drink outside as the ponies walk past.

Find the action in the New Forest

Finding things to do on your New Forest short break isn’t hard. If walking and nature watching aren’t really your interests, then there are plenty of other activities and attractions to visit during your time here.

Motor enthusiasts can spend the day at the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu. This is a day out for all ages and abilities, and the Beaulieu team have made every effort to ensure all can enjoy their attractions. See cars from the BBC’s Top Gear challenges, Only Fools and Horses, the Bond films and Doctor Who.

This year, small kids and big kids alike can enjoy a ride on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang or Mr Toad’s Car from Wind in the Willows. There’s a play area, beautiful gardens and Beaulieu Abbey to explore in addition to the motor museum.

If you’re after a gentler experience, then don’t miss Furzey Gardens and Exbury Gardens. Furzey Gardens has stunning scenery and plants for you to enjoy, but there are also 40 fairy doors hidden around the grounds for you to find. Exbury Gardens was the playground for Lionel Nathan De Rothschild. Acres of landscaped gardens and waterfalls, on the banks of the River Beaulieu, are stunning during any season (although the gardens are closed during Winter) with a play area, café and restaurant and a narrow-gauge steam railway that winds its way around the gardens. It’s accessible for all and carers are admitted for free.

Buckler’s Hard is another place to stop for a quick drink and bite to eat while exploring the ship-building village where boats for Nelson’s Navy were built. You can take a leisurely stroll around the site or take a gentle river cruise along the Beaulieu River to see the site from the water.

If you want more from your New Forest short break, then there are plenty of activities you can do to pick up the pace. You can try your hand at paddle boarding, kayaking, horse riding or rent bikes to get you out and about in the forest and fill your lungs with fresh air.

If you’re looking for a short break in the New Forest, then why not stay with us at Chevrons B&B? Email us to enquire about our short-stay packages at info@chevronsliving.com or call on 01425 200 428.

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Our brand-new accommodation in the New Forest is the perfect place for a short or long break.

Here’s what to expect when you come to stay:

Modern & bright bedrooms

There are 8 beautiful bedrooms at Chevrons, each with their own en-suite bathroom.

We have one family room with a double bedroom and en-suite bathroom and an adjoining room with two single beds and a kitchenette.

If you’re looking for a room with more space, then we have one large suite, with a living room, kitchenette, double bedroom and en-suite bathroom.

The other rooms are double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms.

Towels and toiletries are provided for your stay, along with sumptuous bedding, so you’ll get a great rest at the end of each day.

Indulgent, locally-sourced food

Our on-site restaurant makes hearty, locally sourced breakfasts every day.

The New Forest is abundant with local produce and we try to cook with regional food whenever possible at our B&B in Fordingbridge.

Chill out in Fordingbridge

We have a light and bright lounge area here at Chevrons Living, which is ideal for curling up with a cuppa and a book in the afternoon or for playing a board game (we’ve got lots to choose from) in the evening with a tipple of your choice. It’s a nice way to relax after a day’s walking in the New Forest or as a place to grab an aperitif before dinner.

Soak up the sun in our garden

In the summer months, we often stoke up the BBQ and host drinks and meals outside in our landscaped gardens. It’s a great way to mingle with other guests and enjoy our wonderful surroundings.

The garden at Chevrons has a sheltered area with chairs and tables, so you can escape the glare of the sun and sit back to read the paper after breakfast or have a cup of tea in the afternoon.

There is a dedicated smoking and vaping area outside in our garden as smoking isn’t allowed indoors.

Parking

Bringing your car is not a problem at Chevrons Living. We have limited free parking for your stay with a first come first served basis, allowing you the freedom to explore the New Forest at your own pace.

We have charging points for electric vehicles too, so you won’t have to worry about finding somewhere to charge your car.

Additional extras

Every room comes with a flat-screen TV, hairdryer and tea and coffee facilities are available included in your room rate.

Want to find out more about Fordingbridge and the surrounding area before you book? Take a look at the official tourism site for the New Forest.

If you’re looking for your next short (or long) break in the New Forest, then we’d love to welcome you to Chevrons Living in Fordingbridge.

Contact us for availability and rates today by emailing reservations@chevronsliving.com or call 01425 200 428.

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First Impressions Matter

From the moment you step into Chevrons Living, the atmosphere feels welcoming. Barry said: “The décor is excellent and refurbished to an extremely high standard.” Walking into the property, the warmth of the environment sets the tone for a comfortable stay, making you feel right at home. It’s a space that lets you escape the busy world, while still feeling connected with others.

Spaces for Relaxation

Chevrons Living offers ample space for relaxation. Barry pointed out areas like the Elizabeth Lounge is perfect for reading or enjoying a quiet moment with a drink. The property allows guests to enjoy different zones, whether you want to socialise or retreat for some peace and quiet.

The Beautiful Garden

Barry couldn’t help but admire the garden, describing it as “picture-perfect” and “well-maintained.” With plenty of seating and outdoor furniture, the garden is an inviting spot to relax or even host a BBQ. It’s a serene space where guests can unwind and soak in the beauty of the outdoors.

Bedrooms and Comfort

When it comes to the bedrooms, Chevrons Living doesn’t disappoint. Barry mentioned that the rooms are a reasonable size and all ensuite, furnished with upmarket items that exude class. He said: “The bed was very comfortable ensuring a restful night”. Barry appreciated the extra amenities in his room like a microwave, TV and mini fridge provided added convenience. He also though the walk-in shower was a good size.

Breakfast and Hospitality

One standout feature that Barry highlighted was the breakfast, particularly chef Renee’s role in ensuring guests’ satisfaction. Whether it’s preparing a perfect breakfast or attending to the guests’ needs, Barry was impressed with her warm and helpful attitude. It’s clear that she brings a special energy to the place, going above and beyond to make sure guests feel at home.

Final thoughts

Barry’s feedback highlights the attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction that Chevrons Living offers. From the beautifully designed rooms to the serene garden and warm hospitality, Chevrons Living is a place where you can truly relax and feel at home – for both short and longer stays.

Interested in staying with us? Click here for more information on our rooms and our availability.

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Whether you want to take gentle strolls among nature or do something a little more intense, autumn is a fantastic time of year to visit the New Forest

Here are some of the best things to do in the New Forest during autumn.

Autumn Walking in the New Forest

Bolderwood Arboretum

Bolderwood Arboretum offers plenty of walking trails through ancient woodlands. In autumn, the trees are ablaze with colour, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk with stunning backdrops. The Bolderwood Deer Sanctuary is well worth a visit. You can often spot fallow deer grazing in the early morning or late afternoon.

Blackwater Arboretum

Another gem for walking is the Blackwater Arboretum. This area is renowned for its impressive collection of trees from around the world. The Tall Trees Trail is an awe-inspiring walk, featuring giant redwoods and other towering species that look majestic against the autumn sky.

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive

Rhinefield Ornamental Drive is famous for its scenic beauty and becomes even more magical during autumn. This drive offers several pull-over spots where you can park and explore on foot. The walk through the Arboretum takes you past some of the tallest and oldest trees in the forest, making for some impressive photos and acting as a reminder of the age of the forest.

Cycling in Autumn in the New Forest

The Old Railway

If you want to add some pedal power to your New Forest autumn break, the Old Railway, also known as the Castleman’s Corkscrew, is a flat, family-friendly cycle route that’s perfect in autumn. The trail stretches from Brockenhurst to Burley, passing through picturesque villages and serene woodlands. The autumn leaves create a vibrant tunnel of colour, making it one of the most picturesque cycle trails.

Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard

Another popular cycling route in autumn in the New Forest, is from Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard. This scenic path takes you along the Beaulieu River, where you’ll see the riverbank lined with autumn colours and the odd peak at the wildlife on the river. Buckler’s Hard, a historic shipbuilding village, is a great place to stop, explore, and enjoy a riverside picnic or a well-earned pint in the pub by the water’s edge.

New Forest Historical Sites

Beaulieu

The village of Beaulieu is home to the renowned Beaulieu Estate, which includes Beaulieu Abbey, the Palace House, and the National Motor Museum – complete with a newly refurbished (and stunning) restaurant and coffee shop. The abbey ruins and the gardens are particularly beautiful in autumn. The National Motor Museum is a treat for car enthusiasts, featuring a vast collection of vehicles.

Hurst Castle

Hurst Castle, located on a spit of land that juts into the Solent, is a fascinating historical site. Originally built by Henry VIII, the castle offers panoramic views of the Isle of Wight on a clear day and the Needles. The surrounding coastal walks give you the chance to explore the coastline on foot.

Exbury Gardens

Exbury Gardens in autumn is a riot of colour. Bought in 1919 by Lionel Nathan de Rothschild, Exbury has become home to an incredible display of woodland preservation and planting spread across 200 acres. Nestled in amongst the huge fir and yew trees are cascading waterfalls, ponds, glimpses of the Beaulieu river and plenty of native wildlife to spot. And when you get tired, you can hop on the narrow-gauge steam railway for a tour around the Summer Lane Garden and the Rock Garden.

Autumn Wildlife in the New Forest

Autumn Wildlife

Autumn in the New Forest is a fantastic time for wildlife spotting. The changing season brings a variety of birds, including migratory species and resident raptors. Keep an eye out for red deer and fallow deer, which are more active during this time as they prepare for the rutting season.

Fungi Forays

The damp, cool conditions of autumn are perfect for fungi growth, and the New Forest is known for its diverse array of mushrooms. Join a guided fungi foray to learn about the different species, from the edible to the poisonous. It’s a fascinating way to explore the forest floor and discover the hidden world of mushrooms.

Ponies and Pigs

The iconic New Forest ponies are a delight to see at any time of year, but in autumn, you might also spot pigs roaming freely by the side of the road. This practice, known as pannage, allows pigs to eat fallen acorns, which are toxic to ponies. It’s a unique sight that adds to the charm of the New Forest in autumn.

New Forest Culture and Cuisine

Farmers’ Markets and Local Produce

Autumn in the New Forest is harvest time, and the New Forest’s farmers’ markets are brimming with fresh, local produce. Visit the markets in towns like Lymington and Ringwood to sample seasonal fruits, vegetables, and artisanal goods. Try a sip of New Forest Cider, made from locally grown apples, to get your tastebuds tingling.

Cosy Pubs and Tearooms

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a cosy pub such as The Royal Oak in Gorley or taking afternoon tea at a tearoom or the train themed The Railway Hotel in Fordingbridge. Many of the New Forest’s inns and cafes offer roaring fires, hearty meals, and a warm welcome. Try traditional dishes like a ploughman’s lunch or a cream tea, and don’t miss the opportunity to taste game dishes, which are in season during autumn.

Arts and Crafts

The New Forest is home to a vibrant arts and crafts community. Autumn is a great time to visit local galleries and studios as they are quieter than during peak holiday season, where you can find unique handmade items and artwork inspired by the natural beauty of the area.

Autumn Adventures in the New Forest

Kayaking and Canoeing

For a different perspective on the autumn landscape, consider kayaking or canoeing on one of the New Forest’s many rivers and lakes. The Beaulieu River is particularly scenic, and paddling through the calm waters surrounded by autumnal colours is a serene experience.

Wildlife Cruises

Wildlife cruises on the Solent and the Beaulieu River offer you the chance to see marine life, including seals and various seabirds. Autumn in the New Foreset can be a good time for birdwatching, as migratory species often pass through the area.

New Forest Wildlife Park

The New Forest Wildlife Park is a fantastic place to glimpse both native and non-native wildlife. It’s home to a variety of animals, including otters, wolves, and lynx. The park’s woodland setting is beautiful in autumn, and the educational talks and feeding sessions give you the chance to get up close to the animals.

If you’re looking to spend autumn in the New Forest, take a look at our comfortable rooms and apartments. Or give us a call on 01425 200 428 or email info@chevronsliving.com

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A fundraising street party held in Fordingbridge has brought together several generations to honour the D-Day landings. The event, held at Chevrons Living and attended by Mayor Cllr Peter White, invited members of the public to come together for a lunchtime street party with a traditional buffet served by the land girl army and live music performed by Simon Morgan, who had a career in the Royal Marines Band Service. Proceeds from the event went directly to the Royal British Legion, which provides financial, social, and emotional support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces, their families, and dependants.

During the day, guests observed a traditional flag-raising ceremony, conducted by Cllr White, followed by an emotional rendition of the Last Post, performed by Tom Denis from Hyde Band.

The event also welcomed Year 6 pupils from Fordingbridge Federation, who arrived with their teachers and Headteacher Mrs Robertson to enjoy lunch with the other guests, including several veterans. The children also helped in planting a beautiful rose, named ‘Remember Me’, in Chevrons Living’s picturesque gardens, poignantly highlighting the crossover of generations and the future given to the world thanks to those who had served.

Barry Robbins, CEO of Chevrons Living, said: “Our D-Day Street Party was a relaxed and enjoyable affair with a meaningful message – that this event was not just about remembering history but also about building community and showing gratitude across all ages.

“Seeing different generations come together to honour the bravery and sacrifices of those who were involved in D-Day was truly inspiring. The mix of our older guests and children was perfect in highlighting the lasting impact of those who served and the bright future they’ve helped secure.”

In addition to the D-Day Street Party, Chevrons Living continues to strengthen its support to the Armed Forces by running its monthly ‘Veterans Hub’. The free brunch event, which will next be held on 20 June from 10 am to 12 pm, invites all veterans and their families aged 18 and over. The popular social gathering strives to provide a safe and positive environment to socialise, make new friends, and enjoy a bacon or sausage bap cooked by Chevrons Living’s friendly staff.

Barry added: “Space may be limited, so if you’re interested in attending or have any questions, please contact us.”

To book your space, please call 01425 200 428 or email info@chevronsliving.com. 

 

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Chevrons Living in Fordingbridge is to host a special D-Day event to raise funds for the Royal British Legion. The event is being held between 11am and 2pm on the 6th of June, the 80th anniversary of D:Day. Tickets will be priced at an affordable £5 per person, with 50% of the money raised going to the Royal British Legion, which provides financial, social, and emotional support to members and veterans of the British Armed Forces, their families, and dependents.

On the day, guests are invited to enjoy a traditional buffet lunch, listen to live music played by Simon Morgan who had a career in the Royal Marines Band Service, and socialise with friends as they commemorate the Allied invasion of Normandy during World War II. This significant event marked the beginning of the liberation of Nazi-occupied France and became a turning point in the war in Europe.

Barry Robbins, CEO of Chevrons Living, said: “Our D-Day Street Party will be a relaxed affair where our guests can enjoy each other’s company, make new friends, and enjoy our wonderful facilities. We look forward to welcoming everyone to this special event, where ticket prices will help raise funds for the Royal British Legion, supporting its vital work with veterans and their families.

“We are deeply committed to supporting our veterans and creating a community where they can feel at home. The D-Day Street Party is just one of the many ways we aim to give back to the community, and we can’t wait to hold more events like this in the future.”

To book your space, please call 01425 200 428 or email info@chevronsliving.com. For more information on Chevrons Living, please visit chevronsliving.com

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But for many people, it can be a more complex decision than it seems at first thought.

You may have strong roots in the area you live in now, stable social connections and you might really love the place that you live. These aren’t easy things to leave behind.

Deciding whether it’s right to move closer to family is a decision that you need to give careful thought and consideration to.

We’ve outlined some of the things you might want to think about.

Can you afford to move to the area?

Moving closer to your family may seem idyllic, but what sort of house or flat would you be able to buy or rent? Property and rent prices can vary hugely between areas so take some time to consider whether you can afford to maintain your current lifestyle where your family lives.

Is there affordable accommodation for retired people? Would you have to downsize in order to move there? How far would your budget stretch and what might you have to compromise on?

Things like Council Tax and utility bills can also vary from region to region so it’s worthwhile comparing prices and plans well in advance to give you an accurate picture of what it will cost to live there.

Even prices of food and meals out can be different depending on the local area, so a little research will help give you an informed picture.

Will it affect your quality of life?

You may have established strong social connections and have stable access to clubs and groups that you regularly attend where you currently live. In fact, according to research by AgeUK, creative and cultural participation is the biggest factor in wellness later in life. So it’s understandable if you’re reluctant to leave this behind to be closer to family.

Start investigating whether the clubs or activities you enjoy are available in the area that your family lives in. If they do run, find out how far you’d need to travel to get to them or if they’re on an accessible bus route.

There are, however, some huge positives to moving closer to your family for a better quality of life. Even back in 2017, researchers were beginning to discover that close family connections helped older people avoid loneliness and live longer. Being closer to your family can have a hugely positive effect on your social life and your connection with them.

There’s also a benefit to having family close at hand if you need help getting to hospital or medical appointments, or out and about to do shopping or errands.

Can you maintain your independence?

You might still want to live a full and independent life, so moving closer to your family needs to be able to blend connection and community with independence and flourishing.

How you maintain your independence is up to you. You might want to look at renting a room in a retirement community, giving you plenty of opportunities to connect and have a full social life while removing the hassle of maintaining a property.

Or you might want to buy and live somewhere by yourself, that is central to shops and amenities and on convenient bus routes for getting you out and about.

Independence might look slightly different now from how it did in the past, but it’s important that you consider what you want from moving closer to family. Any compromises you make need to be ones that you’re happy with in the long run.

How do your family feel?

This might seem like an unusual question, but it’s important to factor in how your family feel about your move. Are you hoping to move closer to them and see them every day? Will they have time for that, or will they want to see you regularly? Are you hoping that they will care for you as you get older? Have you had this discussion? Do they want you to move closer so that you can look after your grandchildren, and is this something you want to commit to?

It’s vital that you both understand what you’re hoping to achieve from the move so there’s no confusion or hidden expectations.

It may be a difficult conversation to have, but it will save potential disruption and disappointment further down the road if you’re all clear on what moving closer to your family will look like and how it might work.

Before you take the plunge and move closer to your family, it’s important that you ask yourself all these important questions. It’s a big decision and one that has to be right for you.

If you’re considering moving to the New Forest to be closer to your family, then why not come and take a look around our retirement community to see if it’s a good fit for you? Email us info@chevronsliving.com or call on 01425 200 428.

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