The New Forest, located in Hampshire, England, is a magical destination where the wonders of nature meet the joys of family fun. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an extended stay, this area provides a myriad of activities that cater specifically to toddlers, ensuring that your little ones can engage in a variety of safe and enjoyable experiences.
Exploring Paultons Park: Home of Peppa Pig World
When it comes to entertaining toddlers, Paultons Park is a must-visit destination. This popular theme park in the New Forest is famed for its Peppa Pig World, a dedicated area themed around the beloved children’s character.
Peppa Pig World offers an array of rides and attractions that are perfectly suited for the youngest members of the family. From George’s Dinosaur Adventure to the Peppa’s Big Balloon Ride, these rides are designed with safety and enjoyment in mind. The vibrant colors, cheerful music, and interactive play areas make it an entertaining haven for toddlers.
Additionally, Paultons Park is home to various other themed zones, including the Tornado Springs and the Lost Kingdom, where older children and adults can find thrilling rides and attractions. The park also features beautiful gardens and numerous animal enclosures, providing a well-rounded day of fun for the entire family.
For your convenience, Paultons Park offers on-site facilities such as baby changing rooms and numerous dining options catering to the tastes and needs of young children. Parking is abundant, with a large car park ensuring ease of access.
Discover Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway
For a more relaxed yet equally engaging experience, Exbury Gardens and its famous Steam Railway offer a delightful outing for families with toddlers. These world-renowned gardens, nestled in the heart of the New Forest, feature over 200 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, including colorful flower beds, tranquil lakes, and enchanting woodland walks.
The highlight for many families is the Exbury Steam Railway. This miniature railway takes you on a picturesque journey through the gardens, providing an exciting adventure for young children. The train ride is not too long, making it perfect for toddlers who may have shorter attention spans.
Exbury Gardens also offers dedicated play areas where children can expend their energy in a safe environment. Seasonal events and activities, such as Easter egg hunts and Christmas-themed train rides, add an extra layer of magic to your visit.
Facilities at Exbury are family-friendly, with accessible paths for strollers, baby changing stations, and a charming tearoom that offers child-friendly menus. This destination allows families to experience the natural beauty of the New Forest while ensuring that even the youngest visitors remain entertained.
Fun at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest
Moors Valley Country Park and Forest is another fantastic destination for families with toddlers. Located on the edge of the New Forest, this park offers a range of activities that encourage children to explore the great outdoors.
One of the standout features of Moors Valley is its extensive play areas. The Play Trail is particularly popular with families. This trail features a series of wooden play structures, including balance beams, climbing frames, and rope swings, all designed to challenge and entertain young children. The Enchanted Woods area adds a touch of magic, with fairy houses and other whimsical features that spark the imagination.
For those who wish to explore further, Moors Valley offers a variety of walking and cycling trails suitable for families. The Tree Top Trail provides a more adventurous option, allowing older children and adults to experience the thrill of navigating through the treetops.
Additionally, Moors Valley is home to the Narrow-Gauge Railway, a favorite among young train enthusiasts. This charming railway offers rides through the scenic park, providing a unique perspective on the natural surroundings.
Facilities at Moors Valley are comprehensive, with ample parking, picnic areas, and on-site cafes. The park also offers regular events and workshops, ranging from nature walks to seasonal celebrations, ensuring there is always something new and exciting for families to enjoy.
A Day at Beaulieu and Hurst Castle
Combining history with adventure, a visit to Beaulieu and Hurst Castle offers a unique outing for families with toddlers. Located in the heart of the New Forest, Beaulieu is home to the National Motor Museum, the historic Beaulieu Abbey, and the stunning Palace House.
The National Motor Museum is particularly engaging for toddlers, with its collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and even vehicles from famous films and television shows. Interactive exhibits and themed displays ensure that little ones remain entertained while learning about the history of motoring.
Beaulieu also offers beautiful gardens and open spaces where children can run and play. The Monorail provides an exciting ride around the grounds, offering panoramic views of the estate. Seasonal events, such as classic car shows and historical reenactments, add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.
A short drive from Beaulieu brings you to Hurst Castle, a historic fortress that offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. The castle is accessible by a scenic ferry ride, which in itself is an adventure for young children. Once at the castle, families can explore the various rooms and ramparts, enjoy the views across the Solent, and indulge in a picnic within the castle grounds.
Both Beaulieu and Hurst Castle provide family-friendly facilities, including baby changing areas, on-site cafes, and parking. These destinations offer a perfect blend of education and entertainment, ensuring a memorable day out for families with toddlers.
Wildlife Adventures at New Forest Wildlife Park
For a more nature-oriented experience, the New Forest Wildlife Park offers an opportunity to introduce toddlers to a variety of animals in a safe and engaging environment. This wildlife park is home to a range of native and exotic species, including otters, owls, wolves, and bison.
The park is designed with young children in mind, featuring spacious enclosures and viewing areas that allow for close-up encounters with the animals. Regular feeding sessions and keeper talks provide educational insights, making your visit both fun and informative.
The adventure playgrounds at the wildlife park are another highlight, offering a variety of equipment for children to climb, swing, and slide on. The Go Wild! and Little Rangers play areas are specifically designed for younger children, ensuring they can play safely.
In addition to the animal exhibits and play areas, the New Forest Wildlife Park offers beautiful woodland walks, where families can explore the natural habitat and spot native wildlife. The park’s layout is stroller-friendly, with well-maintained paths and plenty of resting spots.
Facilities at the wildlife park include ample parking, baby changing facilities, and a café that offers a variety of child-friendly meals and snacks. The gift shop provides a range of souvenirs, ensuring that your little ones can take a piece of their adventure home with them.
The New Forest in Hampshire is a treasure trove of activities that cater to families with toddlers. From the magical world of Peppa Pig at Paultons Park to the serene beauty of Exbury Gardens and the historical charm of Beaulieu and Hurst Castle, there is something for every family to enjoy.
Whether your little ones are mesmerized by animals at the New Forest Wildlife Park or are scaling the play structures at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, the New Forest offers a wealth of experiences that combine fun, education, and adventure. So pack your bags, gather your family, and embark on an unforgettable journey to discover the top-rated activities for toddlers in the New Forest.