Introducing: The New Forest

In celebration of beautiful, natural areas in the UK, we've published a Green Traveller Guide to the New Forest with tips on eco-friendly places to stay, organic restaurants and cafes, low impact activities and family days out. Throughout this week, we'll also be celebrating the best of the New Forest in our blog....

Today's blogpost includes a Q&A with Anthony Climpson, tourism manager of the New Forest.

Exploring rolling hillsides on horseback

Here's a taste of what you'll find in the guide:

Where to stay

The Montagu Arms Hotel, New ForestMontagu Arms
A 17th century country house overlooking the beautiful Beaulieu Palace. With 22 elegant bedrooms and suites and a Michelin-starred restaurant serving up fantastic local dishes, Montagu is a truly luxurious base from which to explore the forest.
Find the Montagu Arms in Hotels in the New Forest

Cottage Lodge
This 5* former hotel offers a wide range of comfortable rooms, tasty Snug Bar and, as of May this year, three new 'eco rooms' boasting pedal-power televisions and sustainable four-poster beds.
Find Cottage Lodge in Bed and Breakfasts in the New Forest

Where to eat

The Royal Oak's roaring log fireHotel TerraVina
A chic, Californian-styled restaurant with a dining room opening out onto a veranda for al fresco dining and delicious Sunday roasts cooked straight from the kitchen's wood-burner oven. 
Find the Hotel TerraVina in Restaurants in the New Forest 

The Royal Oak
A real rural gem in Lyndhurst boasting thatched roof, roaring log fire and real cask ales. Traditional dishes are locally sourced, depending on seasonal availability, while the eggs and bacon come courtesy of animals raised on site.
Find the Royal Oak in Pubs in the New Forest 

Where to visit

Reflections of the Azalea Bowl, Exbury GardensExbury Gardens
200 acres of glorious flora and fauna await you at Exbury, including an unrivalled collection of rhododendrons, azaleas and rare trees - explore using the steam railway line or browse a number of interesting exhibits.
Find Exbury Gardens in Gardens in the New Forest 

New Forest Centre
Learn about everything from the New Forest's geology and history to its commitment to local wildlife via the centre's magnificent range of exhibitions and galleries. Children will love the hands-on family tree fun exhibition.
Find the New Forest Centre in Family Breaks in the New Forest 

What to do

Pausing to study the New Forest cycle mapHop on a bike
With over 100 miles of waymarked cycle routes dotted around the New Forest, it couldn't be easier to rent a bike, choose a trailand head off, either on your own, with your family or in the company of a licensed instructor.

Find much more information in Cycling in the New Forest 

Explore on horseback 
Ancient woodlands, trickling streams and rolling hillsides make the forest a true haven for horse riders. Head on over to one of the stables or riding schools or ride your own horse over one of the forest's spectacular covered beaches.
Find much more information in Horse riding in the New Forest 

>> See also: Q&A with Anthony Climpson, tourism manager of the New Forest.